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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.

FI eye relief

All about eye relief: choosing binoculars and spotting scopes for glasses wearers

July 28, 2022

Spectacles or sun glasses wearers need long eye relief when using binoculars or spotting scopes. Not sure what it is or why it counts? >>>

Featured image shiny binoculars

What does exit pupil mean in binoculars?

July 27, 2022

Want to make sure you always see a bright, clear image through your binoculars? Choosing a pair with the right size exit pupil is crucial.

Featured image - close-up of a peacock feather

When do I need to use a tripod with my birding binoculars?

July 27, 2022

Is it worth carrying a tripod along with your birding binoculars? We explain when and why mounting binoculars on a tripod is a good idea >>>

Featured image - duck standing on one leg

How to stabilize a tripod for birding

July 26, 2022

Even heavy duty tripods can benefit from extra stability. Using these tricks will help your tripod remain rock solid even in windy conditions

Featured image - little bird on red flowers

Tripod vs monopod: which is better for binoculars?

July 25, 2022

If you’ve decided to use support for your binoculars but can’t decide on a monopod or tripod, take a look at the pros and cons of each here >

Featured image - birds flying in a V shape formation

Can I use a monopod for a spotting scope?

July 25, 2022

Using a monopod for a spotting scope is a compromise between stability and mobility. Here we’ll help you weigh up which is most important.

Featured image - a tripod

How to choose a tripod for a spotting scope

July 15, 2022

Need a sturdy and light tripod, but not sure how to choose the best one for your spotting scope? Find out what features to look for here >>>

FI how to choose tripod head

How to choose a tripod head for a spotting scope

July 15, 2022

Need to narrow down the choice of tripod heads? We can help you work out which kind best suits your spotting scope for birding.

Featured image - man using binoculars in rain

Everything you need to know about using binoculars in the rain

July 13, 2022

Do you want to stop raindrops obscuring your lenses? We look at how to get the best view through your binoculars, even when it’s pouring.

Featured image - boy looking through binoculars

Adjusting new binoculars: how to set up and focus binoculars for bird watching

July 13, 2022

All about diopters and focus wheels: how to adjust binoculars to fit the width of your face and the tiny variations between each eye.

FI wide angle lens scope

Is a wide angle lens better for a spotting scope?

July 13, 2022

Looking to choose a new eyepiece for your spotting scope? A wide angle lens can increase your view and enhance your birding. Find out how >>>

Featured image - goofy looking owl with binoculars

Binoculars for dummies: the best way to use binoculars properly

July 13, 2022

The best way to hold and use binoculars may not be obvious. We address common queries so you can fully enjoy your bird watching experience.

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