Binoculars bring the world closer to you in many ways. They are one of the handiest tools to have in the outdoors while traveling, hiking, boating, viewing wildlife, hunting or just watching a sporting event.

A Binocular is an optical instrument that helps make distant objects seem closer. It's like a telescope but more compact and easy to use. It is designed for use by both eyes. The two optical chambers are adjustable to create one visual field.

Developed over 100 years ago, they were first used by the military as an easy-to-carry magnifier. They're relatively lightweight and can be comfortably carried around the neck while walking through smooth and rough terrain. Soon, hobbyists of all sorts began buying binoculars for all reasons and all seasons. Many active outdoor enthusiasts use binoculars while hiking or bird watching. Many indoor enthusiasts use them for viewing theater, opera or sports games from the more affordable seats.

Every binocular has a two-number designation, such as 7 x 35, 10 x 50, 8 x 21. The first number (the eyepiece) is the magnifying power. The second is the diameter of the objective (front) lenses in millimeters. So a 7x35 means 7-times magnification with a 35mm objective. This means that it can bring objects closer by 7 times. A 35mm objective is relatively large and this means that a decent amount of light comes in. 7x35 is considered the standard binocular and is very popular among bird watchers. The drawback, however, especially among indoor users, is the size. 35mm objectives make the binocular a little large, but for outdoors, this size is quite popular.

To obtain image sharpness over various distance ranges, most binoculars use "center-focus," meaning you turn a knob in the center to focus both eyes at once. In rare cases, you might find models that will focus each side separately. The Center-Focus control is extremely convenient and easy to use.

The width of a person's face may differ. This is why the eyepieces may be adjusted inward and outward to customize the fit for each individual.

Price variance among binoculars with similar specifications seems large. Functionally, many are similar. Optically, some manufacturers may have more exacting standards for better color performance and image clarity. Others may also have special designs that are more ergonomic, easier to handle and use. Generally, how often you plan to use them, may help determine whether you wish to select a lower or higher prices model.

Indoor binoculars, designed for use in sports arenas and theaters, need to be smaller and lighter. Popular sizes for indoor models are 8x21 and 10x25. These are very powerful. A 10x25 means 10-times magnification power with a 25mm objective - relatively compact.

While you would suppose that power is extremely important, please realize that as power increases the width of your field-of-view decreases. And if your hand shakes, the tremor is more apparent. This is why, for the most part, 10-times magnification is considered the maximum for binoculars.

There are some models that exceed 10-times magnification but they are rare. These binoculars have integrated electronic circuits that can compensate for hand shaking - Image Stabilizer. There are also units that allow zoom magnification, sometimes from 10x up to 100x. Though 100x may be impractical for most general applications, some people use it for very special purposes.

Binoculars designed for outdoor use often have a rubberized body, usually water-resistant or waterproof. Virtually all binoculars come with a carrying case and a neck strap.

We strongly suggest using lint-free lens cloth to care for your lenses. It helps assure that your lenses are very clean for optimal pleasure as you enjoy any binocular that you've chosen from J&R™.