r/Binoculars

I have to use the binoculars with the hinge in its most closed position, almost all the way (I have a narrow interpupillary distance). Does this affect the binoculars performance?

Any problem?

reddit.com
u/Doc_438 — 12 hours ago

Can there be differences in pincushion distortion between two pairs of binoculars of the same brand, model, and magnification? (In mid-range binoculars)

In mid range binoculars?

reddit.com
u/Doc_438 — 12 hours ago

Is this distortion normal?

Is nomal this distortion, for example of the white fence when it's in the circle of vision zone where it is?

(Maybe it looks a bit exaggerated in the photo because I used the phone quickly)

Isn't the distortion of the horizontal white fence too much when it's so close to the center of the circle of vision? (If you place it a bit up right in the middle, it looks perfectly straight)

u/Doc_438 — 1 day ago

Vortex Triumph HD vs. Nikon Prostaff P3 10x42

Going on a cruise to Alaska and am in charge of getting binoculars for my family. My family wants binoculars but doesn't understand that good ones are more than $20, so I'm looking at budget friendly options that will do the job without leaving us fogged up when we're trying to see wildlife.

I think I've settled on 10x42's for more portability after also originally considering 10x50's. Torn between the Vortex Triumph HD vs. Nikon Prostaff P3. Does anyone have any insights or details on these models that might be a deciding factor?

I'm not an expert on binoculars by any means, so if there's anything I am not considering (features or other models), I am all ears.

reddit.com
u/grabngo4000 — 1 day ago

New Diamondback HD 8x32s

I am currently on a cruise and wasn’t looking to add these to my collection, especially with the optics junk they sell on most cruise ships, but I had more than enough provided onboard cruise credit to cover the cost (which was on par with Optics Planet and others) so, score! 😄

These are actually smaller and lighter than my 8x32 Vipers and will probably serve as traveling bins, replacing my compact Wingspan 8x28s but giving me a much bigger view.
With my glasses on they are not bad already but glasses off and 1/2 eyecup turn and wow, they are way better than what I was expecting in view quality, sharpness, and FOV.
Net: net a real travel gift and if you’re looking for a travel pair of bins for under $210, these are very a good choice at that price point.

u/Califrisco — 1 day ago

100 Years Old vs. New - Side by Side Comparison

I love looking at cool sh*t through binoculars. In 2025, I scored these 8x32 SF Victory binoculars and they are awesome. These Carl Zeiss Jena DELTRENTIS 8x30 binoculars were given to me about a decade ago, I kind of forgot about them until recently I found them again in the back of my gun safe. I was like, Carl Zeiss?? Of Zeiss?? That has to be the same dude!! So I asked by chatbot, and its telling me the serial number indicates it was made in 1925 in Jena, Germany. Here's an iphone-grade visual comparison between them! Can you tell the difference? Pretty cool how even seemingly simple technology, such as binocular optics, just keep getting better.

p.s. reddit filters are so bad.

u/Zen_Ocean — 2 days ago

These ED binoculars are ridiculous for the price

I got these on clearance for just over 100 bucks and they put my vortex hd binoculars to shame . They were apparently made by armasight a military optics contractor has anyone else purchased and compared them to any high end binos , I am very impressed with the performance of these .

u/bman198080 — 4 days ago

Should I return it?

I accidentally deleted the other post—sorry.

I bought a Svbony SV202; I know they aren't high-end and I can't expect too much, but should I return them? I placed a metal ruler against them, and the right eyecup extends a bit further than the left one in all positions.

Is this normal, or should I exchange them?

I was looking on YouTube and saw a video where the thumbnail makes them look just like mine... What should I do? Thanks.

u/Doc_438 — 3 days ago

Help Identifying inherited Binoculars

Hello folks. I was hoping to get some help identifying a pair of binoculars I’ve recently inherited.

They were inherited by my partner's grandad at some point.

They're Lindermann Coated Optics Supervue 12x50 and came with an English made Homa leather case.

I've heard of Lieberman & Gortz but these aren't that and Lindemann (no R) seem to be a German sailing accessory manufacturer.

I'm guessing they're ex military given where they've come from and the serial number that's engraved.

Any help identifying where and when they were made would be greatly appreciated.

u/Spoondoggydogg — 3 days ago

Appreciating Binocular

Recently got this and it’s my first Binocular. I underestimated the use of this, I was so focused on using it solely camping. But it has definitely has more use cases than I thought.

I live in a condo and it’s holiday today. There are tons of fireworks in my area and I’m glad I have a Binocular to enjoy those magnificent fireworks. I’m amazed on how clear and vivid the details are and being able to enjoy fireworks far away.

Like those fireworks that I can see like a dot from my naked eye, when I use the binos it looks good and close to me. Too bad the phone adapter got delayed delivery so I wasn’t able to capture some picture and videos. Overall I’m so happy with my purchase. I hope I can use this more and more.

To all my fellow Canadians Happy Canada day! Cheers!

u/International-Table1 — 4 days ago

Gifted a pair of “Zenit” USSR binoculars

Hi there:

I’ve been given a pair of binoculars by a loved one.

They are “Zenit” brand 7x50, say “made in the USSR”, and have a serial number of n7421925.

The case is black leather with a chrome clasp, and inside are two sets of additional lenses — a yellow / amber pair, and a very dark pair (which I surmise might be for observing the sun or eclipses, but I haven’t tried yet!).

Initial googles suggest these are made in Japan, but this is not an area I have any expertise in, so happy to get feedback from folks here.

Image gallery here: https://imgur.com/gallery/zenit-7x50-ZPTlqSt

reddit.com
u/bobledrew — 3 days ago

Should I return this binos?

Hello I bought this Svbony SV202. On the side with the diopter adjustment ring (at the center mark, which is where I need it), the lens sits about 1 millimeter deeper than on the other side (with both eyecups in the same position). Is this normal, or should I return them?

Looking through them, the view seems normal.

Note: Looking at the thumbnail of a YouTube video about these same binoculars, it seems that the same thing happens as with mine?

Thanks.

u/Doc_438 — 3 days ago

Found at thrift store. Good find?

Only $3!!! What’s it worth? It’s my first pair, I always wanted a good pair or a monocular. Will be using it to enhance my birding and stargazing experiences. Thanks for any feedback.

u/gochi11 — 4 days ago

Going to Seattle and Hawaii this year and will be whale watching from land and boat. Between Nikon monarch 5 or 7, Nikon P7, and the vortex diamondback HD. All 8x42. Which one to choose?

We go to Hawaii at least once a year and whale watch and I’d like something good but not crazy that will hold up for our travels. Thanks!

reddit.com
u/justhereforagander — 5 days ago

Binocular Rolling ball/ Globe effect nausea?

I recently bought a pair of binoculars that give the rolling ball/globe effect when panning side to side (and vertically).
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Globe\\\_effect

I’ve read online by some users that anyone can overcome the nausea and eventually don’t see the effect when panning, but it’s a bit hard to believe.

Has anyone ever heard or have knowledge of people overcoming jarring optical illusions like this over time? Or have verified knowledge that it’s really possible to overcome this?

reddit.com
u/InsideExpression4620 — 5 days ago
▲ 1 r/Binoculars+1 crossposts

First binos

I’m planning on getting my first binos and just wanna check with yall if these stats for the price is good for a custom
30-30.6 SNR
FOM 1950+
No blems
Green phos
Thin film (I’m too broke for no film)
L3Harris tubes
RNVG housing
For 6500$ good or am I getting scammed

reddit.com
u/This_River_9103 — 5 days ago

FOR SALE: Zeiss 20x60 S Image Stabilized Binoculars — Like New — $4500 OBO

I'm selling my Zeiss 20x60 S stabilized binoculars. Lightly used and in excellent, like-new condition.

Details:

- Model: Zeiss 20x60 S (image stabilized)

- Condition: Like new, minimal use, no scratches or wear on lenses/coatings

- Image stabilization: Engages smoothly, works perfectly

- Includes: original aluminum case and strap

- Note: manual not included

These were left to me by my uncle, and I'm passing them on to someone who'll get good use out of them.

Asking price: $4500 + shipping, price negotiable.

Happy to provide additional photos or answer any questions. Will ship securely with tracking and insurance, or local pickup can be arranged in [your city/region].

Thanks for looking!

u/MasterVMC — 4 days ago

question on using binoculars

I bought a Nikon P7 8x30 recently. For context I wear glasses and I know this is not the best when it comes to eye relief.

But I tried it in the store and i was able to use it with glasses but I can see the whole black circle and I don't mind. I also can use it without glasses fine.

My question is is it normal that when you are using it and its good when you are focusing on the subject in the center, but when I shift my focus and look at the side or other area besides the center. I see like circle/blurred image or idk how do you call those. Is that normal or am I using it wrong?

reddit.com
u/International-Table1 — 5 days ago

Zeiss 20x60 S Image Stabilized Binoculars — Like New — Negotiable

I'm selling my Zeiss 20x60 S stabilized binoculars. Lightly used and in excellent, like-new condition.

Details:

- Model: Zeiss 20x60 S (image stabilized)

- Condition: Like new, minimal use, no scratches or wear on lenses/coatings

- Image stabilization: Engages smoothly, works perfectly

- Includes: original aluminum case and strap

- Note: manual not included

These were left to me by my uncle, and I'm passing them on to someone who'll get good use out of them.

Asking price; txt me.

Happy to provide additional photos or answer any questions. Will ship securely with tracking and insurance, or local pickup can be arranged in Los angeles, CA, USA

Thanks for looking!

u/MasterVMC — 5 days ago

Help with gift!

Hello! I want to get my boyfriend a pair of binoculars for his birthday. He really likes fishing and hiking, and loves spotting wildlife whether he's outdoors or in his house looking out the window. For that reason I want something for everyday use, but also easy to carry around if he is hiking or fishing. I also think they should be pretty tough and waterproof as he loves to drop things!

I've read good things about the Vortex brand and like their lifetime warranty. However, I want to stick with a budget around $150 CAD. Open to any suggestions! I am also wondering if I should get him 8x42 or 10x42, as I like the idea of a large field of view and good magnification, but am unsure if 10x is too unsteady for handheld use.

Thanks in advance!

reddit.com
u/Traditional-Exit6517 — 5 days ago