Varieties and selection of binoculars

The topic of varieties and choice of binoculars, what it is, in general, is interesting to a much larger circle of people than is usually considered. To figure out how to choose the right binoculars for observation in various situations, you need to take into account the advice of professionals and practical characteristics. And also it is worth understanding the peculiarities of using the technique and its adjustment.

To put it as simply as possible, binoculars are a hand-held device for observing various objects and processes in the form of two optical tubes connected to each other and placed in housings made of different materials. The advantage over telescopes and other single tubes is the appearance of a stereoscopic image. Taking into account the scope of use, binoculars are divided into a large number of varieties, differing in optical and practical characteristics.

Binoculars were invented in the distant 17th century. And the famous Kepler played an important role in its creation. However, a more convenient and useful design was suggested a few decades later by a certain Shirl from Bohemia (now the Czech Republic). In the 18th century, a major improvement was made by the British, Dollond, who proposed a colorless lens. The improvement of optical systems continued in the next 19th century, but these were more engineering improvements than new inventions.

Even this seemingly well-established device has been transformed by electronics. The scope of digital technology is the same as that of analog binoculars. Here, not so much the optical part in the usual sense is already working, but a special miniature video camera.However, the magnification and inlet size of the lens are still important characteristics.

This is the general name for modifications with inverting lenses. One or 2 of these lenses are placed between the eyepiece and the objective. The distance separating the center points of the lenses coincides with the gap between the pupils. Because of this reason, it is not possible to install lenses larger than 6.5 cm. However, an even more significant problem is their considerable length; aprismatic binoculars are designed in such a way that they cannot be small and compact, which creates serious problems in practical use, especially on long trips.

This solution implies the rejection of the turnaround system. Instead, prisms are placed. Classic devices, including professional ones, contain Porro prismatic complexes. And also newer designs can be used:

• Abbe;

• Pehana;

• Schmidt-Pehan.

From the point of view of optical technology, this is a very simple solution. A negative lens is placed in the eyepiece. The lens already contains a positive lens. A construction of this kind is comparatively short and lightweight.

This design is distinguished by the collecting type of both the eyepiece and the objective. This solution increases the field of view and provides a decent resolution. However, color distortion - or, to put it professionally, chromatic aberration, pretty much spoils the impression. Due to the flipping of the image, it is almost impossible to observe terrestrial objects. But for astronomical and meteorological needs, the Kepler tube is very useful.

The division of binoculars into types does not end there. The infrared device originally appeared for military purposes. It perfectly detects heat sources, even those that for some reason cannot be detected in the optical range. A thermal imaging apparatus is a "night vision binocular with a thermal imager". A characteristic feature is that the device only picks up external heat flows and identifies them. It does not waste energy, which simplifies the design and at the same time does not allow the observers themselves to be detected, examining, say, a certain object or a detachment of troops.

As for the classic type night vision binoculars, they are much worse at detecting hidden objects. It is enough for an animal or a person to hide behind the vegetation, and it will be almost impossible to identify them. The presence of thermal imagers increases the efficiency of observation at night. But because of it, the total cost of the model immediately increases 3-5 times. And that is why even experienced hunters prefer to use the "classics".

Stabilized binoculars will prove to be very useful for high magnification enthusiasts. Compensating for shaking hands and other vibrations is extremely valuable in astronomical observations. A similar result is demonstrated by the equipment of the most advanced manufacturers. Devices with video recording are pleasant for everyday purposes (you can then reproduce the observations). And for the operators, for the authors of documentaries and videos about wildlife, this is a gift from heaven.

Zoom models allow you to quickly aim at any subject and trace even its smallest details. Naturalists are also willing to take this technique. A monocular is not binoculars, in general, but only one tube. It is compact and convenient. But counting on a high-quality image is no longer particularly successful.

Tactical binoculars, contrary to the name, are useful not only to the military and security guards. It is actively used by fishermen and hunters. You can work with confidence in almost any weather.

Key advice from professionals involves, first of all, the choice of multiplicity. If we take a 10-fold model, then at a distance of 25 m it will be possible to confidently identify small details of animals or inanimate objects. However, this is only sufficient in the zoo, circus and theater. But for observing distant (2 km or more) objects in an open area, such a device is not enough. For the most difficult cases, only 70x or more powerful binoculars will be good enough to achieve the required image quality.

But it is not possible to limit ourselves to selection by range. For bird watching, ease of focus is critical. The more difficult and longer it takes, the less convenient it is to keep track of living beings. Water resistance is also a useful option. Raising its level helps to protect the device from dust, moisture and dirt.

This circumstance is important for any observation of nature - including for tourism in various localities. The rubberized coating does not just increase the water resistance (which also depends on other technological nuances). The main role of such a coating is to protect against impact and scratching. It also provides the convenience and softness of the grip.

The necessary information about the binoculars can be obtained by decoding the marking. The first parameter is the magnification, and the second is the lens section, or otherwise, the aperture. An aperture value of less than 30 mm is suitable for tracking terrestrial objects in good lighting conditions. For twilight conditions and cloudy days (which is important for hiking and fishing), you need to choose models with a 40-60 mm lens. Special attention should be paid to the models for observing the stars.

Most often, prism devices are used for this purpose. The general appearance of the starry sky can be seen with an aperture of 40-50 mm. But serious astronomy buffs can use more advanced techniques. Antimicrobial technologies are also very useful. Eyepieces with rubber pads are better protected from ambient light.

The multi-layer antireflection coating significantly improves the performance of the binoculars. But its cost will also increase noticeably. Plastic lenses are slightly worse than glass lenses, but they are more durable. VAK-4 prisms are better than VK-7.

Choosing Belarusian 8x30 binoculars, you should pay attention to model KOMZ BPC6... By default, this version has a ruby ​​finish. Other important characteristics:

• lens nets;

• rubberized structures;

• goniometric grid;

• traditional Porro optics.

B8x30 device also produced at the KOMZ enterprise, but back in the 1970s; The B6x30 is an old version - production was discontinued in 1954. Important features of such designs are:

• spare eyecups;

• neck wear straps made of genuine leather;

• excellent level of balancing and reliability.

But with all the quality of antiques, mostly more modern samples are acquired. Among the products of Japanese manufacturers, it is confidently in the top PENTAX 10x50 PCF-WPII... The company provides a 30-year warranty. The device weighs 1.42 kg. But there is still a large selection of other useful samples.

For example, noteworthy is model Navigator 20x50 Profi... This Chinese binocular weighs 0.97 kg when packed. Its lenses are coated. The distance between the pupils is from 5.7 to 7.2 cm. Splash protection is provided.

Russia makes one of the best binoculars in the world - BKS 20x50... It comes with a stabilization function. The special Pehan prism has a 64-degree field of view. The split type focusing greatly assists the normal use of the device. Additional benefits are:

• rubberized body made of sturdy plastic;

• correction of body vibrations ± 6 degrees;

• suitability for work at temperatures from –40 to +50 degrees;

• relative brightness 6.25 units.

Among the German samples stands out favorably Touring binoculars Steiner BluHorizons 8x22... It weighs only 0.5 kg, which is quite convenient. The optics are fully coated. It is pleasant to use such a device not only when crossing rough terrain, but also on the stadium tribune. Small dimensions and lightness are due to the use of roof prisms by constructors, and the proprietary warranty is up to 10 years.

Choosing modern 70x70 binoculars, you need to immediately understand that a model of this kind offered under the Canon brand has nothing to do with real Canon products. This manufacturer does not produce such powerful optics, and the most advanced models in its range are significantly more expensive. That's why Canon 70x70 is nothing more than a banal fake... We need to look for other products, for example, "Bresser". It is better not to chase such a level at all in the consumer segment of optics.

A relatively worthy solution is Norin 7x50 C2... This model will appeal to tourists and sailing enthusiasts. The designers have provided for multilayer coating of optics. The body is made primarily of a sturdy aluminum-based alloy. The package includes a cover.

Completing the review is appropriate with an example Pentax AP 8x30 WP... These professional grade binoculars are made on the basis of rubberized plastic. Water resistance is sufficient even for very harsh environments. The weight of the device is only 0.458 kg. The distance between the axes of the eyepieces varies within 6-7 cm.

A case is supplied with most binoculars by default. But even if it is not there, it is better to buy this accessory on purpose. Then there will be less risk that the optical device will be broken; along with simple cases, there are bags and wardrobe trunks on sale. A tripod is needed for those who make the most accurate observations and / or have to use the device for a long time in order to reduce fatigue and vibrational effects on the device. Glasses are bought individually if the observer's vision is worse than normal, or if you need to protect yourself from too bright sun.

You need to adjust the binoculars at the very beginning of their use. In what follows, such a procedure, called alignment, must be done every time the image is doubled. Rapid visual fatigue is also a reason for tuning. Simple models based on Porro prisms are self-aligning. More advanced optical devices need to be tuned much more carefully.

Gas-filled binoculars shouldn't even be attempted with your own hands. In general, the procedure is as follows:

• aiming at a remote completely stationary object (from stationary pipes and trees to the Pole Star to choose from);

• sharpness adjustment;

• rotation of the adjusting screws to create the ideal image;

• if necessary, repeat this setting several times until an acceptable result is achieved.

The eyepiece should be brought close to the eye. This improves visibility, eliminates glare from sunlight and ensures that the binoculars are positioned accurately. By expanding the field of view, you can more efficiently scan open areas. In areas with dense vegetation and a large number of other obstacles, you will have to select the narrowed field of view mode. They also resort to it if it is necessary to track a small-sized object.

Whenever possible, observation is carried out from the highest place. This rule is useful for naturalists with hunters, tourists, and astronomers. When the binoculars are mounted on a tripod, they are aligned to the eye level of the observer.