Are you an outdoor explorer? If yes, you know the importance of a good pair of binoculars. It’s an incredible tool for those who have an eye for detail. But just owning a good pair of binoculars is not enough. If you do not know the correct way to use it, you will only end up underutilising it.

 

Moreover, the correct procedure can help you have a clear and sharper picture, improving the viewing experience. Therefore, getting the best image out of your binoculars is just a few tips and tricks away. Here are some top ones to help you make the most of your pair of binoculars.

Just like your mobile phones or other devices, setting up your binoculars will be the first step to starting right. In order to do so, follow the steps given below:

Most binoculars come with adjustable eyecups on each piece that can be adjusted upwards or downwards. If you do not wear glasses while using these, keep the eyecups fully extended. On the other hand, if you wear glasses while birdwatching, the eyecups of your binoculars should be adjusted all the way down. However, note that neither fully up nor fully down will work, depending on your facial structure. In this case, go for trial and error with different positions.

A centre hinge connects the two eyepieces of a pair of binoculars. These can further move in and out to adjust how far apart they need to be. Ideally, the eyepieces should match your eyes. To ensure the same, start spreading these as far as they can go and then place the binoculars up to your eyes. Post that, move the eyepieces until the two circles in your view merge into one. 

Look for the focus wheel - usually found in the middle of the binoculars. This will help change the focus setting of both eyepieces at once. Also, most binoculars have a diopter ring to make smaller adjustments to a single eyepiece. One can use the same to adjust the tool to meet your viewing requirements. 

 

The focus wheel and the diopter must be turned counter-clockwise until they stop. Next, cover the right eyepiece and look through the left with your left eye. Keep turning the focus wheel until the sign is set into focus, giving you the sharpest image output.

Going further, cover the left eyepiece and find the focus sign using the right one. It may be a bit blurry. Therefore, keep turning the diopter adjustment ring until focus is achieved. Once this is done, the diopter is adjusted once and for all. Now, whenever you want to focus on something, you only need to use the focus wheel.

Generally, binoculars are described with a combination of two numbers. The former denotes the magnification of an object when looking at it, and the second number represents the diameter of the objective lens. Ideally, for birding or other medium-far-sighted experiences, a magnification of 7 or 8 with a diameter within the range of 25-40 is ideal.

This point is very critical for spotting and efficient viewing. While most people hold binoculars with their elbows extended outwards, there are better ways. This posture gives very little support and leads to jiggling. Alternatively, try cocking your wrists and letting the binoculars rest on the heels of your thumb and palms. As a result, you will build a solid platform for the binoculars. 

This method starts with getting a grip on the binoculars, as described above. Then, place and hook your middle finger over the brim of your cap or hat. Doing so will provide more support for your arms and ensure a convenient longer-duration viewing experience. As the name suggests, this technique works with many cats and hats with short brims.

Here, you wrap a long strap or harness of the binoculars around your arms above the elbows and extend them outward. Do this until the strap takes a tight, triangular shape across your chest. The rifle sling technique is a proven method taught at Nikon School by experienced professionals. 

Beginners usually start by wearing the binoculars strap around their necks. However, even with a wider strap, the tool's weight usually lingers on the back of the neck, which eventually gets tiring. Therefore, a binocular harness comes to the rescue. These are made of a leather patch with two adjustable elastic straps. Each of these straps also gets a plastic snap hook which enables the lifting of the binoculars. 

 

Comparing these harnesses with a basic neck strap, there are various advantages. First, it helps distribute the binoculars’ weight evenly over both shoulders and keeps them closer to your body. Some binocular manufacturers also offer more elaborate harnesses that include a case with a full enclosure and other parts open options. These help keep your binoculars protected and ever-ready for deployment. 

Aiming becomes a real challenge when you first start using a pair of binoculars. But do not worry; it comes around with proper practice and method. First, in order to find an object you want to see through the binoculars, you need to start by locking your eyes on it and paying attention to other nearby things.

Doing so will help you with better orientation and focus. Secondly, using the lowest possible magnification is recommended to catch detailed views. Increased magnification will lead to shaky hands while holding the binoculars. 

 

Therefore, if you come across an unstable view, try switching to a lower magnification or try leaning against something for better stability. If you are using a larger model, get support from a tripod. 

Using binoculars is easier than it might seem at first. With time and practice, you will know better about the different adjustments that work well for you. So use these handy tips, adapt to trial and error and embark on a great viewing experience with your binoculars.