Choosing birdwatching binoculars

Listen to this radio show (MP3 download) or read below.

Radio interview source: Steve Ingraham, birding and observation product specialist, Zeiss

I have a powerful set of binoculars that I keep by an upstairs bedroom window. I like to watch the occasional owl who sits on the barn roof. I also use the binoculars to watch the wildlife activity down at our pond.

Trying to figure out which set of binoculars will work for you will make you crazy if you just go from store to store. The best way to get a side-by-side comparison is to go to a birding festival or club and try out what other people are using. They come in various sizes, from compact to large.

Steve Ingraham is a birding and observation product specialist and says larger binoculars will produce brighter color and a larger image, especially in low-light situations. But it also depends on what you want to carry around.

"A lot of people today are opting for mid-size binoculars, the 8x30 or 8x32 binocular, which is a good compromise," Ingraham says. "Those who get really serious about it generally have an 8x40 or 8x42. Eight power is a good choice because it's easy to hand hold and gives you an adequate image size to make your identification."