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When buying binoculars, you’ll notice the product name includes numbers within the name such as Leupold’s BX-4 Pro Guide HD Gen 2 10×42 Binoculars. The “10×42” represents the magnification power and objective lens diameter.

  • The magnification power is represented by the first number. This number indicates how zoomed-in your view will be when using the binoculars. For 10×42 binoculars, the magnification is 10 times what it would be with the naked eye.
  • The objective lens diameter is represented by the second number. This number indicates the size of the front lenses in millimeters. The larger the objective lens diameter, the more light the lenses will capture, creating a clearer image.

Magnification Power’s Impact on Field of View

The field of view indicates the width of an area that you see when looking through binoculars, typically measured in feet at a distance of 1,000 yards. Lower magnification powers (i.e. 8x or 10x) offer a wider field of view compared to higher-powered binoculars (i.e. 12x or 15x). This makes it easier to scan landscapes or track animals. For most users, an 8x to 10x binocular will provide the right amount of magnification to see their targets.

Prism Type

Aside from magnification power and objective lens diameter, you’ll also want to consider the prism type. Binoculars use prisms to correct the orientation of the image, so it appears right-side-up and properly aligned when viewed. There are two common types of binocular prisms: Porro prisms and roof prisms.

  • Porro prism systems use offset glass elements to quickly move light providing a clear 3D image with a wider field of view. They’re great in situations that prioritize depth perception and clarity, like sporting events or short-range scouting.
  • Roof prism systems use parallel glass elements and straight tubes to reflect light from the objective lens to the eyepiece. This design supports higher magnification and brighter images but offers a narrower field of view, making them best suited for long-range use or those looking for a compact binocular.

Additional Features to Consider

Lens Coatings

Lens coatings are films applied to the surface of binocular lenses designed to reduce glare and reflection. This affects the amount of light transmission and contrast and helps create a vivid and clear image.

  • Single-coated lenses have a single layer applied to one lens surface and don’t add much extra illumination.
  • Fully coated lenses have a single layer applied to all lens surfaces, adding low-to-mid illumination.
  • Multi-coated lenses have multiple layers of coating applied to at least one lens surface and provide mid-to-high illumination.
  • Fully multi-coated lenses have multiple layers applied to all lens surfaces, resulting in a brighter, clearer image with the least amount of glare.

Whether you’re scouting the area while hunting or taking in the scenery, having binoculars suited for your hobby will give you the best viewing experience. If you have any questions about choosing the right binoculars, contact your local SCHEELS and talk to one of our Optics Experts.