Carrying your spotting scope and tripod together is tricky. We have tried and tested methods to save effort while changing locations >>>
The best equipment for bird watching: guides and reviews
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, including binoculars, spotting scopes, monoculars, field guides, tripods and much more. Our buying guides will help you to pinpoint exactly which models are best for your birding requirements.
Changing eyepieces on a scope: how to increase magnification
Many people wish to upgrade their spotting scope’s power to enjoy even closer views. Discover different ways to increase magnification >>>
Should I get a fixed or zoom eyepiece for my spotting scope?
Overwhelmed by the sheer range of fixed and zoom eyepieces? Let’s take a close look at which is best for your spotting scope >>>
Different distances: How far can I see with a spotting scope?
Curious about what distance a spotting scope can see? We explain the best range of magnification for your bird watching here >>>
Best option for birding: spotting scope or monocular?
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
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 >>>
Angled vs straight spotting scopes: which is best for birding?
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…
How to choose the best lightweight binoculars for bird watching
Compact binoculars save both space and weight in your pack. But do they still offer quality viewing, despite their smaller size?
BaK-4 v BK-7: What is the best glass in binoculars?
Here we sum up of the pros and cons of BAK4 versus BK7 glass used in binoculars. Would you be able to tell the difference between them?
What is ED (extra low dispersion) glass in bird watching binoculars?
Extra low dispersion glass and high definition glass – do both features need to be on your wish list for binoculars for bird watching?
Why are prism and lens coatings important to birding binoculars?
Effective light transmission through the body of your binoculars results in a brighter image. How do prism and lens coatings achieve this?
Are zoom binoculars good for bird watching?
While zoom binoculars sound like a great idea for a close-up view, most bird watchers stick with fixed magnification binoculars. Why is that?