Binoculars, bins, whatever you call them, no self-respecting prepper would be without at least one pair constantly on hand.
When trying to cope with a SHTF scenario, better, longer vision could make or break a situation, and with the ability to greatly increase your reaction time and space, together with a reliable compass, a decent pair of binoculars is vital. For hunting, too, they can mean the difference between eating or starvation. It’s well worth getting several pairs, too – more eyes mean better patrols and increased security. Seeing better in the dark when you don’t know what’s out there is important as well, so make sure you stock up on durable, high-quality flashlights and headlamps, too.
Potentially crucial for your survival, then, picking, and learning to use, the right pair of binoculars is obviously important, so what do you look for when purchasing your binoculars?
How to Choose Binoculars
Magnification:
This is represented by the ‘x’, so, for example, the binoculars state 10x, then they can magnify by 10 – therefore the object will appear to be ten times closer to you. If there are two numbers, such as 10×30, the second number refers to the objective lens diameter. Most binoculars magnify between 7x and 12x – anything higher than that and you’re moving into tripod territory.
Objective Lens Diameter:
Light enters the binoculars through this lens, so the greater the number the larger the diameter and the brighter and more detailed the image. However, the larger the lens, the heavier the binoculars. Most standard binoculars have a 30mm lens diameter, with anything smaller generally being classed as compact.
Field of View:
Normally expressed in degrees, this is the area of vision afforded by the binoculars.
Exit Pupil:
When holding the binoculars approximately 30cms away from your eyes, you’ll see a bright spot in each eyepiece – this is the exit pupil. The larger it is, the lighter the view, and the easier it is to see in low light or for astronomical observations.
The exit pupil calculation is pretty simple:
Diameter of Objective Lens ÷ Magnification = Diameter of Exit Pupil
There are other added features to consider such as waterproofing, or added grips. These can add to the overall cost but are well worth it for peace of mind. The weight and size of the binoculars are also worth considering, and whether they come with well-fitting, attached lens covers?
Finally, do you wear glasses? Most pairs have rubber eyecups that can be rolled back allowing the lens to sit closer to the eye for non-glasses wearers, making one pair usable by several people.
1. Aurosports Folding Binoculars
Overview
Compact and lightweight, these neat little folding binoculars are fully waterproof, have multi-coated lenses and comfortable grips. Able to magnify up to 10x, they have a decently large exit pupil for low-level night vision, and are shock and skid-proof. They also come with straps, cleaning cloths and covers.
The Good
Instantly these binoculars felt comfortable to hold, the focus was easily adjustable, and they folded up nicely allowing pocket stashing. These binoculars come with low-level light vision which is impressively good, and the field of view was 362 ft at 1000 yds. Details showed up clearly, and all in all, this is a decent pair of binocs.
The Bad
The included strap didn’t have the same build quality that the binocs had. But this isn’t a deal breaker for us.
$24.85 in stock
2. Adorrgon Professional Binoculars
Overview
With a 12x magnification, a 367ft/1000yds field of view, and a 42 mm objective lens these super lightweight binoculars are satisfyingly durable. The shockproof rubber coating, anti-slip grip, and added extras, including lens covers and straps, give this set from Adorrgon a well-considered feel.
The Good
These binocs look deceptively sleek, but the rubber coating gives them a solid grip, whilst protecting them from knocks and drops. The focus is easily adjustable, producing wonderfully crisp images, even in low light conditions, and the flip-up eyecups mean that these aren’t just limited to those with 20/20 vision. All in all, an impressive set.
The Bad
Although lightweight, it would be nice is these binocs folded. They fit in the majority of pockets, however, so this isn’t a game-changer.
$33.92 in stock
1 used from $30.48
3. Bushnell Water/Fogproof Binoculars
Overview
Looking like they mean business, this pair of Bushnell binoculars feels great to hold – just the right size, foldable, and with comfortable Soft Texture grips. Water, fog and shockproof, these hard wearing binoculars offer 10x magnification and a 42 mm objective diameter.
The Good
These are super grippy no matter how wet they get, meaning a completely stable view whatever the weather. The light transmission offers optimal optics even in low light conditions, and with the twist- up eye cups, everyone can use these comfortably.
The Bad
For their size, this pair of Bushnell binoculars is a little heavy, but not enough to be a problem.
