Binoculars and Telescopes

Binoculars:

• The most important piece of kit for a birder. This causes more confusion than anything else among new birders. To birdwatch you must be able to see the birds. However while you will see other experienced birders with very expensive models, the beginner needs only a basic pair to get going. The Wings shop of BirdWatch Ireland stocks a range of binoculars suitable for beginners and there will always be someone there to advise. When on an outing, ask around and try out different models.

• The right pair for you will depend on a number of factors like cost, size, weight, magnification and eye comfort. The most important considerations (apart from cost) are optical quality and magnification power. The lower the magnification, the shorter the range of the binoculars. However, as a payoff, lower magnification gives a brighter image and wider field of view. Also the higher the magnification, the harder it is to hold the image steady in your hands. For binoculars, common magnification levels are 7x, 8x, and 10x. However, 7x and 8x powers are more popular and advisable as 10x can produce a shakier image and be heavier and harder to hold still. Also, the field of view with 10x magnification can be quite narrow. 7x and 8x binoculars generally offer better "eye relief" which is essential for those who wear glasses. Most birders go for 7x or 8x power - 7x42 or 8x42 are common and good choices.

• For more information on choosing binoculars, ask around at a BirdWatch Ireland meeting or outing and if possible, try before you buy. A good source of online information and product reviews can be found at the Optics For Birding website. There is also an excellent "Frequently asked Questions" about Optics document at the same site.

What about a Telescope ?

• Do not rush into this one ! A telescope is an expensive piece of kit and you should spend some time getting used to birdwatching and seeing if it is right for you before buying a scope. Make sure to ask around and try out lots of different models and eyepieces before buying. At every outing there will be plenty of scopes available and lots of people to talk to. Remember also that a good and sturdy tripod is just as important as the scope ! A good source of online information on scopes is the Optics for Birding website.

• The Wings shop of BirdWatch Ireland stocks a range of telescopes and tripods and there will always be someone there to advise.