Meteorology - Optics - Precision

Binoculars for powerful

July 13, 2019
What binoculars should we use to observe at great distances?
What do we consider observing at a great distance?


We consider observation at a great distance when we want to see objects that are in margins greater than 1-2km. For observation at these distances we need binoculars with magnification greater than 10X. With this increase we overcome the first barrier to be able to see the desired objective at a distance that previously was impossible for us to see in detail, but we also earned certain inconveniences.

The increase in power has its cons, basically in 2 parameters, stability and luminosity. For stability we will have no choice but to get a tripod to avoid the fatigue of holding and wobbling. For luminosity, the solution is to increase the aperture of the binocular, normally above 50mm. We must always bear in mind that at higher magnification, the luminosity and the visual field decrease, and this must be countered with more aperture and better optical quality.

Binoculars Kowa BD 12X56 XD Prominar
Why do we need to observe at a great distance?


Normally we use this type of binoculars when we do not have the possibility of getting close to the target or when it passes or is at a greater distance and we cannot appreciate the details well.

In observation of nature, getting too close to the target often implies his flight and therefore failure. For this reason we must always keep enough distance so that the animal does not panic and does not leave. For example, this is very important in hunting, where very long waits are made with this type of binoculars and frequently in uncomfortable places.

Another type of observation is one made from a terrace, viewpoint, etc. to see details in the sea, city or landscape. This type of observation is much more relaxed, in a more stable place, where to hold the tripod better.

Swarovski EL 12x50 WB Swarovision Binoculars
Viewfinder binoculars and other powerful instruments


A particular case of binoculars for long distances are those used in viewpoints and terraces, usually in tourist places. These binoculars are fixed installation, as they are very bulky and heavy instruments. They can go coin or coinless and typically have more than 20X magnification and 80mm aperture.

They allow to see clearly the panoramas, and to reach greater distances than any conventional binocular. Some models may have a base to be able to get on it.

Other particular binoculars are the astronomical ones, mainly designed for night observation but which can also be used for daytime vision, along with a tripod that is stable enough. They are heavy binoculars, but very bright, generally greater than 15X.

Last tips


To summarize this type of binoculars we can conclude that they are binoculars of between 12X and 20X, with a weight close to or greater than 1kg and with objective apertures greater than 50mm in diameter.

Use of a tripod is mandatory and must be commensurate with the weight of the binocular. It must have sufficient carrying capacity and stability to support this type of binocular and ensure the best possible observation. We will observe "freehand" only with the 12X models and in a not very long period, since our arms will tire.

With them we will be able to observe objects and fauna at distances greater than 1km, and even being able to reach 2-3km. They will give us a good vision in low light conditions and will allow us to observe wildlife without having to get any closer.


Zeiss Conquest HD 15x56 binoculars

Other related articles

March 16, 2020

Raig in the face of the Covid-19 Coronavirus crisis

How does Raig deal with this crisis? What does it mean for …

Feb. 29, 2020

The weight of the binoculars, a key factor.

The weight of the binoculars is a primary factor in choosing a …

Nov. 2, 2019

Photo-trapping cameras

What is a phototrapping camera and what is it used for? What …

Oct. 26, 2019

Problems and errors in rain measurement

In torrential weather episodes, we often find differences between analog and manual …

Oct. 5, 2019

Observing planets with the naked eye

In recent days we have seen a very bright point or "star" …

Opinions of our clients

Receive our news

See details + -
By checking this option we will send you the best offers and exclusive promotions and discounts to your email address. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Set your cookies preferences
We use cookies and similar technologies to offer you a personalized, safe, reliable experience and to be able to measure page performance to continue improving our services. For more information or to edit your cookie preferences at any time, check the Cookies policy page
Go out