Optics

Our experienced, knowledgeable sales staff will give you personal service, helping you to choose the best binoculars or scope for your needs and budget.

We'll help you

• test optics that have been field tested by naturalists for naturalists
• get advice on fit, comfort and adjustment
• find a wide selection of quality models to fit every budget
• select from seven product lines
• receive individualized attention and service.

Pricing & Additional Information

Binoculars and scopes are available year-round. Car mounts, camera adapters and other accessories may be ordered.

All Nikon binoculars are covered by the Nikon $10.00 "No Questions Asked" repair policy.

There is no member discount on optics.

Which Optics are Right for You?

Magnification
Light Gathering Capacity
Field of View
"Fit"

Magnification is typically the first consideration when buying binoculars and scopes. For most purposes, binoculars that enlarge an object seven or eight times (printed as 7x or 8x on the instrument) are sufficient. However, if you are a serious birder with steady hands and need to see birds at a great distance such as raptors or ducks, you may want to consider a 10x glass. Any instrument over 10x requires a tripod for effective use. The standard magnification for field telescopes is 20x. Because of ground shimmer, magnifications over 40x are most useful for astronomical observations.

Light-gathering capacity of an instrument may also be an important consideration if you plan on using your optics in low-light conditions (such as looking for birds deep in the forest or star gazing). The larger the objective (front) lens, the greater the instrument's light-gathering capacity. Measured in millimeters, the diameter of the objective lens is also printed on all binoculars following the magnification power — 8x40, for example. The size of the exit pupil is another indication of an optical instrument's brightness. By dividing the objective lens size by the magnification you can determine the exit pupil and compare different binoculars. An 8x40mm glass, for instance, has a 5 mm exit pupil, which is considered ideal for general use.

Field of view, measured in feet, is the width of the area seen through the binoculars at 1000 yards. A wide-angle binocular's field of view can be helpful because it presents a larger area in which to find an object, especially those that move. If birding or butterfly watching is to be the primary use for a pair of binoculars, close-focusing capability is important, too. An instrument that can focus on an object as close as 10 feet or closer is very helpful.

"Fit" is very important when choosing optical equipment. The weight, size, and style of an instrument should be suited to your strength, hand-size, and needs. Compact binoculars are perfect for activities such as hiking, traveling, or skiing, for example but are of more limited value for serious nature study, astronomy, or sailing. Try them out before you buy!