Field of view 1 km away
The diameter of the area visible through binoculars / monoculars from a distance of 1 km — in other words, the largest distance between two points at which they can be seen simultaneously from this distance. It is also called "linear field of view". Along with the angular field of view (see below), this parameter characterizes the space covered by the optics; at the same time, it describes the capabilities of a particular model more clearly than data on viewing angles. Models with magnification adjustment (see above) usually indicate the maximum field of view — at the lowest magnification and
the widest angle of view. This information is often supplemented by data on the minimum value.
Min. focus distance
The smallest distance to the observed object, at which it will be clearly visible through binoculars / monoculars. All such optical instruments were initially created for observing remote objects, therefore, not all of them are able to work at short distances. When choosing a model for this parameter, one should proceed from the expected observation conditions: ideally, the minimum focus distance should not be greater than the smallest possible distance to the observed object.
Eye relief
The offset is the distance between the eyepiece lens and the exit pupil of an optical instrument (see "Exit Pupil Diameter"). Optimum image quality is achieved when the exit pupil is projected directly into the observer's eye; so from a practical point of view, offset is the distance from the eye to the eyepiece lens that provides the best visibility and does not darken the edges (vignetting). A large offset is especially important if the binoculars / monoculars are planned to be used simultaneously with glasses — because in such cases it is not possible to bring the eyepiece close to the eye.
Prism material
Material used for prisms found in binoculars and monoculars.
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BK-7. A type of borosilicate optical glass (6LR61), a relatively inexpensive and at the same time quite functional material that provides, although not outstanding, quite acceptable image quality. Used in entry-level and mid-level models.
—BaK-4. Barium optical glass, noticeably superior to BK7 in brightness and image clarity, is however also more expensive. Accordingly, it is found mainly in the premium segment.
Range finder
The presence of a
rangefinder in the design of binoculars / monoculars. Rangefinder, as the name implies, allows you to measure the distance to a specific object; but the specific methods of such measurement may vary. The simplest and most common variant is the reticle visible in the eyepieces; such rangefinders are inexpensive and work without batteries. On the other hand, the very procedure for using them is not very convenient, because requires knowledge of the dimensions of the object being used for measurement, as well as the ability to apply certain formulas. Active laser rangefinders are more convenient: with such a device, it is enough to point the binoculars mark at the target and press the button — the automation will do the rest. Their main disadvantage is the high price; in addition, the laser requires a power source to operate.
Dustproof, water resistant
The body of the binocular / monocular
is protected from dust and moisture. You should pay attention to such models if you plan to use the device in nature — while hiking, hunting, fishing, etc. The degree of such protection can vary, from splash resistance to water immersion; this point should be clarified according to the official characteristics. Also note here that most of the "waterfowl" models usually have gas filling (see above), and the absence of such filling, usually, indicates low moisture resistance.