Binoculars for a Safari
How to Choose Binoculars for use on a safari
There are several important factors to consider when choosing a set of binoculars and the information below will help you to narrow down your search:
Our binoculars are suitable for a wide range of activities, safaris included, in fact any of our models would enhance your safari.
WHAT LEVEL OF MAGNIFICATION DO YOU NEED?
Our founder, Ian, has some great advice:
"Binoculars are usually referred to by two numbers, for example 8x42, 10x42. The first of these numbers is the actual magnification of the binoculars: the size to which the subject is enlarged. There may be a temptation to buy more powerful binoculars, however, bigger magnifications are difficult to hold steady (unless fitted to a strong tripod), offer a narrow field of view and give an image that is less bright. For optimum safari viewing, based on personal experience, I would recommend an 8x magnification".
HOW BRIGHT WILL THE ENVIRONMENT BE THAT YOU ARE GOING TO USE THE BINOCULARS IN?
"The second figure in the binocular number is the size, in millimetres, of the objective (front) lens. For the same given magnification the bigger the objective lens the brighter the object will appear. Therefore an 8x42 will have the same magnification as an 8x25, but the image will appear brighter. (This is especially so in poor lighting conditions).
The majority of our binoculars will work well in normal light, however for low-level light or night time you would want to purchase a binocular with a larger objective lens such as an 8x42".
HOW IMPORTANT IS WEIGHT TO YOU?
"This is obviously a very personal decision. In poor lighting conditions, an 8x42 binocular will offer a brighter image than an 8x25 but will weigh about twice as much. Our 8x32 models, which fit neatly between these have proved very popular for safari users and would be my personal choice, offering the perfect compromise between weight and performance"
HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT TO SPEND?
As with most things, the more you spend the better the binoculars will be. Generally the more expensive binoculars employ higher quality materials and can therefore produce higher quality images. The images are usually sharper and brighter.
