Best Monoculars For Birding - 42 to 50mm Lens Diameter

The main consideration when selecting a monocular are the magnification level and objective lens diameter, which determine the optical capabilities of the monocular. The bigger the objective lens diameters, the better the image quality and the heavier the monocular may get. Waterproofing and night vision (thermal or infrared) are also important factors to consider when selecting a monocular.

The main consideration when selecting a monocular are the magnification level and objective lens diameter, which determine the optical capabilities of the monocular. The bigger the objective lens diameters, the better the image quality and the heavier the monocular may get. Waterproofing and night vision (thermal or infrared) are also important factors to consider when selecting a monocular.

Monoculars for birding require magnification of 10x for professionals and 8x for beginners. 10x is harder to stabilize by hand; hence, to keep the size smaller, choose an objective lens diameter of less than 50mm. A good 8x42 monocular weighs about 1.5 lbs. (0.7 kg), which is good for birding and on the heavy side for hiking.

Monoculars for birding require magnification of 10x for professionals and 8x for beginners. 10x is harder to stabilize by hand; hence, to keep the size smaller, choose an objective lens diameter of less than 50mm. A good 8x42 monocular weighs about 1.5 lbs. (0.7 kg), which is good for birding and on the heavy side for hiking. Read More

A monocular with an objective length diameter of 42mm to 50mm is the most versatile monocular on the market. The most popular are 42mm monoculars, which are great for hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing, while the 50mm size is advised for stargazing.

A monocular with an objective length diameter of 42mm to 50mm is the most versatile monocular on the market. The most popular are 42mm monoculars, which are great for hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing, while the 50mm size is advised for stargazing. Read Less