Knowing the proper terminology and use will help you choose the binoculars that are best for you. Binoculars differ in three major areas: power, close focus and field of view.

• Power is the first number listed on a binocular and is the magnification capability of the binocular. Eight power, which means you will see an object eight times closer than you could with your eyes, is considered average for a full-size binocular. (The second number is the objective lens (front lens), which indicates how much light enters the binocular - in general, the larger the number, the brighter the image.)
• Close focus is the shortest distance that you'll be able to see in focus. If you are interested in birding in woods or your backyard, you'll want a binocular that has a short close focus.
• Field of view is the widest area you can see when you look through the binocular. If you plan to use the binoculars to scan fields or over water, consider a binocular with a large field of view.

How to Focus Binoculars

• As you focus, be sure to keep both eyes open
• Cover the right lens and look through the left side with the left eye
• Rotate the center focus to sharpen the image
• Next, cover the left lens and look through the right side with the right eye
• Adjust the diopter eyepiece until the image appears sharp
• Look through the binoculars with both eyes and adjust the center focus so the object is clear

Below you can find descriptions and videos of some of our bestselling binoculars. Please note Vortex and Zeiss have more models of binoculars than listed below and we can order in any model by any of these optics companies.

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ZEISS Terra ED 8x32: ZEISS Terra® ED binoculars are robust, reliable and easy to use. Their state-of-the-art and sleek design makes them not only light but comfortably compact. The highest optical precision and the hydrophobic multicoating guarantee brilliant images down to the very last detail. The Terra ED binoculars are waterproof and nitrogen-filled, making them rough and ready. Terra ED binoculars are excellent value for money, making them the perfect entry into the world of ZEISS.

The ZEISS Terra ED 8x32 guarantees razor-sharp images thanks to its precise focus mechanism and 8x magnification, even when the image is only fleeting. With its compact size and weighing just 510 g, it's a comfortable fit for your hand. With a nearly indestructible casing and its excellent ergonomics, the Terra ED 8x32 is the perfect all-round solution for every use.

Performance:

• Performance Magnification 8X
• Effective lens diameter 32 mm
• Exit pupil diameter 4.0 mm
• Twilight factor 16.0
• Field of view at 1,000 m 135 m (443 ft)
• Subjective viewing angle 61°
• Close focusing distance 1.6 m (5.3 ft)
• Diopter adjustment range − 3.0 | + 3.0 dpt
• Exit pupil distance 16.5 mm
• Pupil distance 56 – 74 mm
• Lens type ED
• Prism system Schmidt-Pechan

Features:

• LotuTec | Nitrogen filled + | +
• Water resistance 100 mbar

Physical:

• Physical Operating temperature − 15°C | + 60°C (+ 5°F | + 140°F)
• Length 125 mm (4.9 ")
• Width at an interpupillary distance of 65mm 117mm (4.6 ")
• Weight 510 g (18.0 oz)

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ZEISS Conquest HD 8x32: The well-balanced Conquest® HD binoculars provide outstanding performance for ambitious nature observation. Uncompromising design, ergonomics and optics at an unbelievably attractive price.

The Conquest HD 8x32 is a lightweight model that is ideal as lightweight binoculars for hiking, traveling and animal observations. Its compact size makes it a convenient companion in difficult terrain. The 8x magnification provides a good overview and shake-free images. The near setting of just 1.5 meters allows you to experience crisp images and clear colors up close. This is particularly beneficial when watching butterflies or other insects.

 Performance:

• Magnification 8X
• Effective lens diameter 32 mm
• Exit pupil diameter 4 mm
• Twilight factor 16
• Field of view at 1,000m 140 m (459 ft)
• Subjective viewing angle 64° Ww
• Close focusing distance 1.5 m (4.9 ft)
• Diopter adjustment range − 4.0 | + 4.0 dpt
• Exit pupil distance 16 mm
• Pupil distance 54 – 74 mm
• Lens type HD
• Prism system Schmidt-Pechan

 

Features:

• LotuTec | Nitrogen filled + | +
• Water resistance 400 mbar

Physical:

• Operating temperature − 30°C | + 63°C (− 22°F | + 145°F)
• Length 132 mm (5.2 ")
• Width at an interpupillary distance of 65mm 118 mm (4.6 ")
• Weight 630 g (22.2 oz)

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ZEISS Victory SF 8x32: Rediscover the world of birdwatching with the ZEISS Victory® SF. You can experience every spectacle nature has to offer with brilliant optics and an unparalleled wide-angle field of view. Thanks to its light weight, unique ergonomic design and dynamic fast-focus feature, the Victory SF allows for hours of relaxing birding without fatigue. The Victory SF is the new benchmark for birding and wildlife observation in the 125-year development of ZEISS binoculars.

The aim is to enable birders to find and observe even the best-hidden birds for periods long enough to allow clear identification backed up by unique plumage, colouring and other details, whether in dense reeds, bushes or woodland. The new ZEISS Victory SF 32 binoculars were created for these moments.

Performance:

• Magnification 8X
• Effective lens diameter 32 mm
• Exit pupil diameter 4.0 mm
• Twilight factor 16.0
• Field of view at 1,000m 155 m (465 ft)
• Subjective viewing angle 67° Ww
• Close focusing distance 1.95 m (6.4 ft)
• Diopter adjustment range − 4.0 | + 4.0 dpt
• Exit pupil distance 19 mm
• Pupil distance 54 – 76 mm
• Lens type Ultra-FL
• Prism system Schmidt-Pechan

 Features:

• LotuTec | Nitrogen filled + | +
• Water resistance 400 mbar

Physical:

• Operating temperature − 30°C | + 63°C (− 22°F | + 145°F)
• Length 152 mm (5.9")
• Width at an interpupillary distance of 65mm 112 mm (4.4")
• Weight 600 g (21.2 oz)

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Vortex RAPTOR™ 8.5X32: Porro prism performance in a mid-size, wide-angle design, Raptor binoculars offer bright, crisp images with excellent color fidelity, even in low-light conditions. The design accommodates a wide range of interpupillary distances to fit everyone in the family.

Specifications for Raptor 8.5X32:

• Magnification 8.5x
• Objective Lens Diameter 32 mm
• Eye Relief 14 mm
• Exit Pupil 3.8 mm
• Linear Field of View 390 feet/1000 yards
• Angular Field of View 7.4 degrees
• Close Focus 15 feet
• Interpupillary Distance 50-70 mm
• Height 4.5 inches
• Width 5.7 inches
• Weight 17.3 oz

Vortex Raptor 8.5X32 Product Manual 

Optical Features:

• Fully Multi-Coated Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.

Construction Features:

• Porro Prism Valued for a rich depth of field, wide field of view, and three-dimensional image.
• Waterproof O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the binocular for reliable performance in all environments.
• Fogproof Nitrogen gas purging prevents internal fogging over a wide range of temperatures.
• Rubber Armor Provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection.

Convenience Features:

• Adjustable Eyecups Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
• Center Focus Wheel Adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time.
• Diopter Adjusts for differences in a user's eyes. Located on right eyepiece.

Included in the box:

• Rainguard Eyepiece Cover
• Tethered objective lens covers
• Comfort neck strap
• Soft carry case

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Vortex DIAMONDBACK® HD 8X32: The Diamondback® HD smashes the scale of price vs performance, delivering a rock-solid optic that optically punches high above its class.

Specifications for Diamondback HD 8X32:

• Magnification 8x
• Objective Lens Diameter 32 mm
• Eye Relief 16 mmExit Pupil 4 mm
• Linear Field of View 426 feet/1000 yards
• Angular Field of View 8.1 degrees
• Close Focus 5 feetInterpupillary
• Distance 57-73 mm
• Height 4.4 inches
• Width 4.6 inches
• Weight 15.9 oz

Vortex Diamondback D 8X32 Product Manual

Optical Features:

• HD Optical System Optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration and provide outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness and light transmission.
• Fully Multi-Coated Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
• Dielectric Coating Multi-layer prism coatings provide bright, clear, color-accurate images.
• ArmorTek ® Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt.
• Phase Correction Coating on roof prism models enhances resolution and contrast.

Construction Features:

• Rubber Armor Provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection.
• Waterproof O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the binocular for reliable performance in all environments.
• Shockproof Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact.
• Fogproof Argon gas purging prevents internal fogging over a wide range of temperatures.
• Roof Prism Valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
• Magnesium Chassis Decreases weight and increases strength.

Convenience Features:

• Adjustable Eyecups Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
• Center Focus Wheel Adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time.
• Diopter Adjusts for differences in a user's eyes. Located on right eyepiece.
• Tripod Adaptable Compatible with a tripod adapter, allowing use on a tripod or car window mount.

Included in the box:

• Deluxe carry case
• Deluxe carry case strap
• Comfort neck strap
• Tethered objective lens covers
• Rainguard Eyepiece Cover
• Lens Cloth

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Vortex VIPER® HD 8X42: Viper HD binoculars are an optical masterpiece, giving hunters, shooters and outdoor enthusiasts a premium option without the premium price tag. The HD optical system delivers stunning resolution, color fidelity and edge-to-edge clarity. These are one of the lightest, most compact, full-size binos on the market—a noteworthy attribute when gear consideration can be measured in grams. Includes GlassPak chest harness, keeping your binos at the ready while providing comfortable, protected, strain-free, all-day carry.

Specifications for Viper HD 8X42: 

• Magnification 8x
• Objective Lens Diameter 42 mm
• Eye Relief 18 mmExit Pupil 5.25 mm
• Linear Field of View 409 feet/1000 yards
• Angular Field of View 7.8 degrees
• Close Focus 6 feet
• Interpupillary Distance 55-74 mm
• Height 5.6 inches
• Width 4.9 inches
• Weight 24.5 oz

Vortex VIPER HD 8X42 Product Manual

Optical Features:

• HD Lens Elements Premium extra-low dispersion glass delivers the ultimate in resolution and color fidelity, resulting in high-definition images.
• XR™ Fully Multi-Coated Proprietary coatings increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
• Dielectric Coating Multi-layer prism coatings provide bright, clear, color-accurate images.
• Phase Correction Coating on roof prism models enhances resolution and contrast.

Construction Features:

• Roof Prism Valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
• Waterproof O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the binocular for reliable performance in all environments.
• Fogproof Argon gas purging prevents internal fogging over a wide range of temperatures.
• ArmorTek ® Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt.
• Rubber Armor Provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection.

Convenience Features:

• Adjustable Eyecups Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
• Center Focus Wheel Adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time.
• Locking Diopter Adjusts for differences in a user's eyes. Located on right eyepiece, locks at preferred setting.
• Tripod Adaptable Compatible with a tripod adapter, allowing use on a tripod or car window mount.

Included in the box:

• Rainguard Eyepiece Cover
• Tethered objective lens covers
• Comfort neck strap
• GlassPak Binocular Harness