Binocular Accessories – What do I Need?

When you are deciding to spend a large chunk of your hard earned cash on a binocular, it is easy to get bogged down in comparing specifications, construction and performance between the myriad of models that are available. However, it is also a wise move to spend a little time considering what accessories your shortlisted binocular models are supplied with, and what optional accessories are available.

First and foremost, I always look at the quality of the strap that is supplied with a binocular. A full sized binocular, even one of the premium models, is still quite a weight to carry around with you all day. Does your chosen binocular come with a padded and adjustable neoprene strap? This is essential for all day comfort in the field as it spreads the load and prevents any undue chafing on your neck. If your binocular is supplied with a lower quality webbing strap, this is not the end of the world as there are plenty of after market straps that you can buy at not too great an expense. If you are buying a particularly heavy binocular model, or you have a history of neck or back problems, then there are even binocular harnesses available to further spread the load and increase your comfort.

The second thing I look out for are the lens covers that are supplied with the binocular. Can the objective lens covers be attached to the barrels to prevent them being lost? Is the ocular lens cover of a good design? You should be able to tether it to the strap, it should fit snugly, but not too tightly, and it should be easy to move aside quickly when you want to look through the binocular.

Finally, of the standard accessories, check what type of case is supplied and assess how practical it is for use in the field. A robust hard case might look great in the binocular store, but will not be very practical in the field. You really need to look out for a good quality soft leather or nylon case, preferably with a belt attachment. It should either have its own shoulder strap, or as I personally prefer, allow the use of the binocular strap itself whilst the binocular is cased.

For certain types of binocular usage, other accessories can come in handy. If you are a target shooter or astronomer, then a tripod mount can be very useful. If your binocular does not come fitted with a tripod adaptor, check if one is available as an option. Other more unusual accessories, are things like magnification boosters, which can raise the level of magnification in one eyepiece for those times when you can't get close enough to your subject.

Whatever, binocular you decide on, it always pays to spend a little time checking the binocular accessories it is supplied with. That way you can be just that little bit more certain you have made the optimum choice.

I hope you have enjoyed my article and found the information useful. If you would like to read more about binoculars, please visit my site: binoculars for birdwatching for more binocular information and binocular reviews all geared towards the bird watcher.