Best marine binoculars

Marine binoculars are an indispensable tool for sea-faring activities. Whether you are a professional sailor, a recreational boat owner or an avid bird watcher, marine binoculars provide an essential tool to help you enjoy the wonders of nature. With so many different types, sizes, and styles of marine binoculars available, it can be overwhelming to find the right pair. This buying guide will provide an overview of the main features of marine binoculars and the different types available to help you find the perfect pair for your needs.

The two key factors that define the performance of marine binoculars are the magnification and the objective lens size. The magnification of marine binoculars is typically 7x, 8x or 10x, and refers to how much larger an object appears when seen through the binoculars. The objective lens size is the diameter of the front lens of the binoculars and is typically either 40mm or 50mm. The larger the objective lens, the more light is collected and the brighter the image. This is an important factor when using binoculars in low light conditions.

The field of view of a binocular is the size of the area that can be seen through the binoculars. The field of view is measured in feet at 1000 yards and varies depending on the magnification and the size of the objective lens. Generally, the higher the magnification, the narrower the field of view. The field of view is an important factor to consider when using binoculars for activities such as bird watching or whale watching, where you need to be able to scan a wide area quickly.

The type of prism used in marine binoculars is an important factor in determining the quality of the image. Most marine binoculars use either a Porro prism or a Roof prism. Porro prisms are the most common type and provide a wide field of view and good depth perception. Roof prisms are more compact and provide a more accurate image, but they usually have a narrower field of view. Both types of prisms provide clear images, so it comes down to personal preference.

Marine binoculars must be waterproof and fog proof to be usable in wet and humid conditions. Marine binoculars should be rated to a minimum of IPX7, which means the binoculars can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without damage. Marine binoculars should also be nitrogen-purged to prevent fogging in humid conditions.

Marine binoculars may also include other features such as rubber armor for shock protection, long eye relief for eyeglass wearers, and multi-coatings for enhanced image clarity. Many marine binoculars also include a compass and rangefinder to help you navigate the seas. Depending on what type of marine activities you are engaging in, these features may be useful or unnecessary. It is important to consider the features that are important to you before making a purchase.