Low light binoculars are not like the everyday gizmos we use. That’s why choosing the right set can be a tough call especially with so many brands with promises of high quality images. If you are going to need binoculars that perform well during low light conditions, here are things to look out for when shopping for a good pair.
Exit Pupil
Yes, you read that right. Binoculars have pupils too. For excellent views during low light conditions, go for binoculars with at least 7mm exit pupil. The exit pupil of a pair of binoculars can be calculated by dividing its objective lens diameter by the magnification. So a 50 mm magnification and an objective lens 7mm will give a 7.14 mm exit pupil which is okay. The exit pupil of your binoculars should be equal to or greater than your eye’s pupil.
Optical Quality
Good low light binoculars have excellent optical quality and are made with high quality glasses that enhance transmission with little or no reflection to give amazing images. When choosing low light binoculars opt for a pair with extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses. Extra-low dispersion glasses give bright and sharp images.
Objective Lens Size
This is one of the important parameters to consider when choosing low light binoculars. The size of a pair of binoculars’ objective lens will determine its ability or the ease with which it can gather image forming light. The objective lens size is determined by its diameter measured in millimetres (mm). A set of Binoculars with a large objective lens will be able to let more light into it than one with a small objective lens diameter. Binoculars with objective lens diameter of about 50 mm are recommended and will enable you to see images in low light conditions. A 7x50 binoculars means 7mm magnification power and 50 mm objective lens.
Waterproof and fogproof ability
You won’t always use your binoculars in good atmospheric conditions. Sometimes, you might want to get a glimpse of an important scene during rainy conditions. That is when you would appreciate getting yourself waterproof binoculars. The light transmission ability of your binoculars is limited by fogging too. Be sure to check that your pair of binoculars is waterproof and fogproof before spending your money.
Lens Coating
Make sure that the other surfaces of your binoculars’ objective lenses and ocular lenses are coated. However, top brands coat every part of their high-end binoculars. Coatings prevent reflection.
When shopping for low-light binoculars, always align yourself with brand names that produce high quality binoculars if you really want to get value for every penny spent. With binoculars, there is no substitute for quality.