When you go out to buy a set of binoculars, it is always best to know what you are going to use them for because not all binoculars are the same. Hunting binoculars will have different features than a pair of birding binoculars, marine binoculars or ones for watching a ball game. You must choose wisely, know the features that will best suit your interests and know what your price range is. You usually get what you pay for.

Here are eight tips to remember when buying hunting binoculars.

1. Hunting binoculars should be rugged. You don't want a binocular that will break or be damaged by water. Try to get a pair that is armour coated with rubber, is waterproof and fog proof.

2. A good hunting binocular needs to have good light gathering ability. Many hunters hunt at the break of dawn or at sunset, when the light isn't as bright as it is during the day. A good pair of binoculars can help in this situation. The most popular binoculars for hunters are sizes 8 X 40 – 42 or 10X40 – 42, because of their good magnification power and light gathering ability.

3. The weight of the binocular should concern you. When hunting, you can carry around your binoculars for a few hours so you don't want your binoculars to weigh a ton. Choose lightweight binoculars whenever possible.

4. Cost is always a concern. You should always spend as much money on a pair of hunting binoculars as you can afford. The cheaper the binocular, the cheaper the manufacturing costs, the cheaper the overall product. You want your binoculars to last for years not days so spending a bit more will pay off in the long run.

5. Do you want a laser rangefinder? Some binoculars come with a laser range finder. This gadget makes it possible to shoot a laser at your target, and calculate the distance. Just remember, that a binocular equipped with a range finder, will probably cost much more than a binocular without it.

6. Make sure you check out some binocular reviews on the Internet. Try to know your stuff, before you purchase a pair of binoculars. Ask the salespeople questions and get answers to the questions you have.

7. Binocular accessories are always a plus. Make sure you know what binocular accessories you want, or need, before going to the store to buy. For example, if you know you'll need a binocular strap, make sure the binocular you buy comes with one.

8. Warranties are important. Make sure that you can bring the binoculars back, if they don't suit your needs. Testing your hunting binocular in the store is a lot different than testing them in the field. Also, try to buy binoculars that have a manufacturer's warranty.

Remember, that the best binoculars for hunting depend on what animal you will be hunting. Binoculars for deer hunting might not be the best for hunting rabbits or big game like moose.

Take the time to do the research; it could save you hundreds of dollars. Know what you want before you enter the binocular store. That way you will be able to ask very direct questions and the salespeople will be able to better help you.

Another way to find the perfect hunting binocular is to ask hunters what binoculars they use. Their insight can be invaluable. After all, they hunt all of the time!

I hope these suggestions help in your quest for finding the perfect hunting binocular.

About the Author
Scott Gray is a freelance writer and outdoor enthusiast who loves to provide useful information about the different types of binoculars including hunting and wholesale binoculars.