Whether for a safari, nature and animal observation or a cruise: Binoculars are an indispensable tool for experiencing the world up close . But many are unsure how to set them up and use them correctly to achieve the best results. In this article, we explain to you step by step how to use your binoculars optimally.
1. Choosing the right binoculars
Before you start using them, it is important to find the right binoculars. The choice depends largely on the intended use.
Pay attention to the magnification and the lens diameter. The larger the diameter, the more light the binoculars can capture, which is especially useful in low light conditions (e.g. at dusk).
You can read which binoculars we recommend for which activity here: Blog post
2. Preparation: Clean the lenses
Before using them for the first time, you should make sure that the lenses are clean. Dust or fingerprints can cloud the image. Use a special lens cleaning cloth or your glasses cleaning cloth and avoid aggressive cleaning agents to protect the sensitive lens coating. Of course, our rental binoculars are always sent to you in a perfectly clean condition.
3. Adjust the eye distance
Everyone has an individual eye distance. To see a clear, circular image without double contours, you can adjust the two halves of the binoculars. Slide them apart or together until the image is optimally adjusted.
4. Diopter compensation for sharp vision
Since sometimes both eyes do not have the same visual acuity, you can adjust the image to each eye using the diopter setting:
Close your right eye and use the focus wheel to focus on an object. The focus wheel is the large round wheel in the center of the binoculars .
Then close your left eye and use the diopter wheel to focus the image for your right eye. The diopter wheel is in the middle of our Victory binoculars and always has a '+' and '-' on it. With the Victory SF you have to pull it out slightly to adjust it and then push it back in after setting it. With the ZEISS SFL and Terra the diopter wheel is on the right eyepiece .
Open both eyes and check the focus. Repeat if necessary.
How do I reset the diopter wheel to zero :
You will find a small line on the diopter wheel between the '+' and '-'. You turn this until it is level with the point on the housing of the binoculars. This is the zero point. If you use your binoculars with contact lenses or glasses, or if you have no visual impairment, then the diopter adjustment must be at the zero point, as the correction is made by your glasses or contact lenses or is not necessary due to your perfect eyesight.
You can find more information about binoculars for glasses wearers in this blog post .
Once the diopter wheel is adjusted to your needs, it stays that way - that is basically your basic setting .
5. Focus on your goal
Use the focus wheel to get a clear image, especially when moving between objects at different distances. The focus wheel is the large wheel on the binoculars and is located in the center of the binoculars . Start with a medium-distance object and practice until you can quickly focus between different targets.
6. The right posture
Holding the binoculars correctly will help you get a steady image. Hold them firmly with both hands and, if possible, rest your elbows on your knees or a solid surface. Of course, you can also hold them freely. This is a bit more strenuous.
7. Relax your eye muscles
Looking through binoculars for long periods of time can tire your eyes. To prevent this, take regular breaks. Alternatively, you can relieve the strain on your eye muscles by consciously switching between near and far objects.
8. Care and storage
After use, you should protect your binoculars from dust and moisture. Store them in the bag provided and keep them dry. Protect the binoculars from direct sunlight to avoid damaging the lens coating.
Conclusion
Whether you are on safari, observing animals in nature or exploring the sea on a cruise: with the right binoculars and the correct use, you can experience the surroundings in fascinating detail. If you set up your binoculars correctly, they will become a valuable companion on all your adventures.
Have fun with your experiences!