...something beginning with B

[purplerabbits]

Probably not most people's area of expertise, but do any of youse know anything about binoculars? I'm looking for something I can use with my glasses on, under £50 and small enough that I will actually take them out with me. My Dad recommends no more than 8x and at least 24mm but the interwebs just confuse me with the illusion of choice...

Comments

[ibbs.livejournal.com]

I've no idea, but theres a very nice small binocular/birdwatching shop on rose street (about in the middle i think... near that big outdoor clothes shop) which i've popped into with my dad and the blokey there was very friendly and seemed to know his stuff so it might be worth going and asking him for advice?

[fizzyboot.livejournal.com]

Do you intend to use them in low light conditions? If so, you should get binos that give a bright picture. These are ones that havre the largest diameter of front lens, and the lowest magnification. Of course, the larger the front lens is, the bigger they will be.

[mr-purpleduck.livejournal.com]

Going into a shop and speaking with the staff and trying them out would be a good thing. I've found with my camera that with wearing glasses you may not get the full view without something to reduce the size of the image.

When you've gotten an idea of what you want from a shop I recommend checking the prices on the web. For some things places like Jessops can be a lot more expensive then other shops or online.

[chillies.livejournal.com]

I've got a set of Minolta 7x50s you could have a borrow & see whether they work for you. Low mag + large objective lens => good for astronomy, but they'll work for viewing landscapes etc.

Glad you asked. I was talking to my Dad yesterday and being quite defensive that my degree did have some value.

[skibbley.livejournal.com]

Depends what you want them for. Magnification isn't too critical for many uses. Big front lenses get more light in but are heavier. If 2nd hand check alligment and particuarly for any sign of mould on the lenses. A good wide strap will make them much more comfortable if carried.

[gingiber.livejournal.com]

My dad bought me some for my birthday, so I don't know how much they were but I really like the clearness of them and they are nice and light too, so not too much of a chore to carry around.

You are more than welcome to come and try them out some time.

They are made by Bushnell.