How to use binoculars

It’s funny how little has been actually written about how to use binoculars, either in articles about binoculars or the instruction manuals that come with binoculars. I’m referring, here, to advice on how to point a binocular and quickly capture the object you want to see in the field of view, not instructions on how to adjust a binocular. This binocular skill of getting on target and getting on target, fast, is very important for those who use birding binoculars, hunting binoculars, sport binoculars and so on. There is often no time to waste and many a frustrated beginner loses out on the action by failing to line up the binocular, quickly, on target.

The first thing you need to line up a binocular on target is a pointing device; the good news is that everyone comes pre-equipped with that pointing device, namely the nose. Your nose is a natural, instinctive pointer; it does not need any high tech help to point at a target; you use it this way, instinctively all the time. So, first step is to look at that target and then consciously point at it with your nose. Your nose makes a marvelous pointer and it doesn’t care if you are right-handed or left-handed.

Second step is to NOT move the face when your nose is pointing at a target and keep your eyes firmly on the object. ALWAYS bring the binocular UP to your eyes and the object will appear in the binocular. Only takes a little practice to become a habit. NEVER take your eyes off the target and drop or nod your face toward the binocular. This is a very common beginner’s mistake and one that is easily avoided, now that you know the secret of using a binocular. It’s that simple. Try it.

I agree. This is a great article for someone who has never used a binocular before. Sometimes, people are afraid of what they don't understand. Great article.

www.BinocularsNSite.com (Posted by  HEALTHY HIKER GEAR: 8:31 AM  )