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The best equipment for bird watching

The best gear and optical instruments will help you to enjoy bird watching at whatever level, whether it is amateur or professional. There is so much great birding equipment available.

If you need help to narrow down your choices you have come to the right place. We sum up the features to look for when shopping for bird-watching gear.

Our buying guides will help you to pinpoint exactly which models are best for your birding requirements and why.

Binoculars

Here is all you need to know about how to choose and use binoculars.

Our buying guides and reviews of binoculars and accessories will help you make informed purchase decisions.

Plus, learn how to make the most of your binoculars to have the best birding experiences.

Spotting scopes

A spotting scope is an invaluable tool for long-distance viewing. Most birders love the increased magnification for close-up images.

If you are considering the upgrade to a spotting scope, our clear and straightforward guides can help.

Find out what to consider when choosing a scope and how to pick the best one for you.

Tripods

We talk about why tripods are an important part of your bird watching equipment.

Our guides and in-depth reviews cover which features are most important.

Here you can work out which one is best for your birding habits and circumstances

Clothing

What’s the best clothing for successful, comfortable birdwatching adventures?

Find recommendations on the functional apparel and gear for any birding activity.

Birding journals

Keeping a birdwatching journal is a great way to document your birding experiences.

Our articles provide tips on starting and enriching a journal.

Featured image - lenses

How to maintain, clean and store your birding spotting scope

July 13, 2022

Knowing how to clean a spotting scope without damaging it is a priority. For the best tips on what to use and how to do it, read on >>>

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Top tips on choosing the best compact spotting scope for birding

July 12, 2022

Considering the purchase of a compact spotting scope? What are the most important aspects to look for? We list them here >>>

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How to choose the best binoculars for bird watching

June 11, 2022

Are you bewildered by the array of binoculars on the market? No idea whether you need an 8x or 10x magnification?

Find out more here >>

Featured image - spotting scope

How to choose a spotting scope for birding

February 9, 2022

Trying to understand the most important features in spotting scopes for birding? Make an informed decision with the help of our guide >>>

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Which is better for birding: monocular or binoculars?

January 26, 2022

Wondering if a monocular is any good for birding? We look at their pros and cons in comparison to binoculars. The results here may surprise you >>>

FI how to carry spotting scope + tripod

Top tips on how to carry a spotting scope and tripod

January 26, 2022

Carrying your spotting scope and tripod together is tricky. We have tried and tested methods to save effort while changing locations >>>

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Changing eyepieces on a scope: how to increase magnification

January 26, 2022

Many people wish to upgrade their spotting scope’s power to enjoy even closer views. Discover different ways to increase magnification >>>

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Should I get a fixed or zoom eyepiece for my spotting scope?

January 26, 2022

Overwhelmed by the sheer range of fixed and zoom eyepieces? Let’s take a close look at which is best for your spotting scope >>>

FI How far spotting scope distance

Different distances: How far can I see with a spotting scope?

January 26, 2022

Curious about what distance a spotting scope can see? We explain the best range of magnification for your bird watching here >>>

FI spotting scope vs monocular

Best option for birding: spotting scope or monocular?

January 25, 2022

Yes, they each have one set of lenses, but there are big differences between monoculars and spotting scopes. What you really need to know >>>

All about Porro and roof prisms: how spotting scopes work

January 25, 2022

Need to understand what prisms do in spotting scopes? Wondering if Porro scopes are better than roof ones? Here’s what you need to know >>>

Featured image - a pair of spotting scopes

Angled vs straight spotting scopes: which is best for birding?

December 14, 2021

Angled or straight, that is the question. Each type of spotting scope has different use cases in birding. Here’s how to pick between them…

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