8x42 or 10x42? Choosing Your First Good Binocular

A good binocular is the optic you will use most, whether you hunt, shoot or just watch wildlife. The numbers on the barrel tell you a lot.

What the numbers mean

In "8x42," the 8 is magnification and the 42 is the objective lens diameter in millimeters. Divide the second number by the first to get the exit pupil: 42 ÷ 8 = 5.25mm. A bigger exit pupil means a brighter image in low light and an easier view to hold steady.

8x: the all-rounder

An 8x42 gives a wide field of view, a steady image by hand, and good low-light performance. It is the right choice for timber, brush and most whitetail hunting, and for anyone who will use the binocular for many things.

10x: more reach

A 10x42 shows more detail at distance. It suits open country, scouting across fields and glassing hillsides. The trade-offs are a narrower field of view and more visible hand shake. A tripod adapter or bracing on a pack helps.

Glass and coatings

Look for "fully multi-coated" lenses and phase-corrected roof prisms. ED or HD glass reduces color fringing and makes the image sharper at the edges. Budget models have improved a lot, so a mid-priced binocular now often beats a premium one from ten years ago.

Build

• Waterproof and fogproof (nitrogen or argon purged) is a must.
• Eye relief of 15mm or more helps if you wear glasses.
• Close focus matters if you watch birds or insects.

Carry it

A chest harness keeps the binocular protected and ready, and stops it from swinging. You will glass more if it is right there.

Our pick for most people: a good 8x42 with a strong warranty. Watch our daily deals for price drops.