what are the best binoculars for whale watching?

Answer 1

I was currious as to the answers you were receiving. I did not really like any of them. First, Swarovski are without a doubt one of the finest pair of binoculars on the market and the very most expensive. About $1500 a pair. I would doubt that someone unless they were avid birders would be interested in paying that much.

You need to know a little bit about binoculars in general. As the power of the binoculars increases, they become more subject of image shake. In general above 8 power the shake can become a problem. Some people can hold 10 power steady and some can not. Next as the power of binoculars increases generally the field of view decreases. That means as you look through them you see a narrower view. This can cause a real problem when you are trying to find something rapidly in the binoculars because you may not see it through the view. If a person wears glasses, the eye relief is important, at least 17 mm is required. Waterproofing is nice to have but not generally required unless the climate is very inclimate. Waterproof or not will not help if water splashes on the lens. You will not then be able to see squat until they are cleaned off. As one responder mention Eagle Optics is indeed a good place to buy a pair of binoculars. Binoculars.com is another.

The type I would suggest is 8x40 if you do not mind a bulky pair. They are bright, have a good field of view, and are not subject to shake. Binoculars with smaller objective lenses provide a less bright image but generally a very acceptable image.

One pair that you might wish to consider is Eagle Optics Denali 8x42 if you do not wear glasses. They are reasonably priced and have a reasonably wide field of view.

http://www.eagleoptics.com/index.asp?pid=4214


This is also a good pair and if you wear glasses this fits the bill. Bushnell H2O 8x40. Even if you do not wear glasses.

http://www.eagleoptics.com/index.asp?pid=3623


If you do not wish so much bulk, consider this pair of 8 x28. The field of view is actualy about 15% greater than the above pairs but not appropriate for eyeglass wearers.

http://www.eagleoptics.com/index.asp?pid=4487

This pair is small, light, and good for eyeglass wearers but the field of view is about 10% less than the 1st 2 models. This pair is not waterproof, but I doubt that will be a problem for you.

http://www.eagleoptics.com/index.asp?pid=3360


Among the 10 power binoculars

This is an acceptable pair but notice the field of view is somewhat limited though not too bad.

http://www.eagleoptics.com/index.asp?pid=3867

All of the above pairs are reasonably priced.

Answer 2

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
what are the best binoculars for whale watching?

Answer 3

I've looked through the Action Extreme series at a local store recently. I don't think it was the 8x40 though. I wasn't too impressed by the optics in that one. I believe it's only multi coated, rather than fully multi coated. Have a look at the bushnell Excursion series, or the Vortex binos. For a bit more, you can go for the Carson XM-HD. The Carson is really nice, it's about $250ish I think.

Answer 4

I use binoculars every day in my job and I have seen many makes. Without a doubt, Swarovski bino's are the best. They have a lifetime guarantee, are totally adjustable to each eye and user.Compare them with any other brand to just see the clarity. Swarovskis Rock!

Answer 5

I would recommend the Audobon Vortex 10x42.
They are water-proof and for around 140 bucks probably one of the best deals out there. Try EagleOptics.com they have free delivery.

Answer 6

1) Waterproof ones
2) Ones that float
3) Whatever you have with you at the time -:)

Answer 7

Depends on how far away you are

Answer 8

10X50 should be strong enough for the land.