Binoculars for hunting and outdoor activities – how to choose the right pair of binoculars

A good pair of hunting binoculars is one of the most important tools in your hunting gear. In many forms of hunting, you actually use your binoculars far more than your rifle scope. They are used to scan the terrain, detect movement, identify game, and study animals from a distance, long before a potential shot is even considered.

The same applies outside of hunting. Binoculars are ideal for birdwatching, hiking, wildlife observation, and general outdoor activities where you want to see details from a distance without having to carry heavy or complicated equipment.

But which binoculars should you choose?

Terms like 10x42, 10x50, BAK-4, exit pupil, nitrogen filling, and IPX7 can make it difficult to discern the differences. At the same time, the largest and brightest binoculars are not necessarily the best choice for everyone.

In this guide, we review the most important features of hunting binoculars and look closer at the difference between 10x42 and 10x50, which are two popular sizes for hunting and outdoor use.

At HuntersMarket, you will find both types: a compact 10x42 hunting binocular and a larger 10x50 binocular, which is particularly interesting when long-distance observation and good light conditions through the optics are a high priority.

Why are binoculars important for hunting?

Binoculars have one crucial function: they allow you to observe game without first pointing a weapon at it.

This is important both practically and for safety.

For rifle hunting, binoculars can be used to scan a field, forest edge, or clearing, identify animals, and study them more closely. For example, you can examine size, gender, antlers, or movement patterns before deciding if the situation is even relevant.

For stalking, binoculars can help you spot game long before the animal spots you.

When stand hunting, you can systematically scan the terrain again and again without having to move much.

And even on a hunting day when the rifle is never used, the binoculars may have been out numerous times.

Therefore, it makes good sense to consider binoculars as a fundamental hunting tool rather than extra equipment.

What do the numbers 10x42 and 10x50 mean?

Binoculars are almost always described with two numbers.

For example:

10x42

or

10x50

The first number indicates the magnification.

The second number indicates the diameter of the objective lenses at the front of the binoculars in millimeters.

A 10x42 binocular therefore has:

• 10 times magnification
• 42 mm objective lenses.

A 10x50 binocular has:

• 10 times magnification
• 50 mm objective lenses.

Both models therefore magnify equally. The difference lies, among other things, in the size of the objective lenses and thus in the physical dimensions of the binoculars and their ability to gather light.

This is an important point because some mistakenly assume that a 10x50 automatically "zooms more" than a 10x42.

It does not.

Both have 10x magnification.

What does 10x magnification mean?

10x magnification means that the subject viewed through the binoculars appears approximately ten times closer than with the naked eye.

An animal at 200 meters distance will therefore visually appear approximately as a similar subject at about 20 meters distance without magnification.

This does not, of course, mean that you get the same level of detail, atmospheric conditions, or perspective as by actually standing 20 meters away, but it illustrates the scale.

10x is a popular magnification for hunting because it allows for studying relatively small details from a significant distance.

However, hand tremors are also magnified.

The higher the magnification, the more important it is to hold the binoculars steady.

Is 10x a good magnification for hunting?

Yes, especially if you often observe over open areas or at longer distances.

In fields, moors, meadows, and larger forest clearings, 10x can be extremely useful because you can study game in more detail.

High magnification is also relevant for outdoor activities and nature studies, where you, for example, want to see birds or other animals from a distance.

For hunting in very dense forest, some may prefer less magnification and thus typically a wider field of view, but for versatile Danish and Scandinavian hunting, 10x is a well-known and useful solution.

HuntersMarket's two binoculars both use 10x magnification, so the choice between them is more about objective lens size, physical format, and the type of use you prioritize.

10x42 or 10x50 – what's the difference?

This is probably the most important question if you are choosing between these two sizes.

A 10x42 binocular is typically a good compromise between optical performance and portable size.

A 10x50 binocular has larger objective lenses and can therefore gather more light, but the larger optics also mean a larger physical format.

For the average hunter, the choice can therefore be simplified as follows:

10x42: Versatile, compact, and practical to carry.

10x50: Larger optics and particularly interesting for observation at very long distances and under more demanding light conditions.

HuntersMarket's 10x42 hunting binoculars are therefore particularly suitable for hunters who want binoculars that can easily accompany them on stalks, stand hunting, and general hunting trips.

HuntersMarket's 10x50 binoculars, on the other hand, are developed with a focus on observation at very long distances and have larger 50 mm objective lenses.

Why does objective lens size matter?

The objective lenses are the large lenses on the side of the binoculars that point towards the subject.

Their size determines how much light the binoculars can gather.

A larger objective lens can fundamentally let in more light than a smaller objective lens, all else being equal.

This is especially relevant under the lighting conditions hunters often find themselves in.

Much game is most active around sunrise and sunset. This is precisely when light levels drop, and the optics' ability to deliver a clear image becomes more important.

This is why binoculars with larger objective lenses are often associated with better capabilities in low light.

But larger objective lenses also mean larger and typically heavier optics.

Therefore, one should not automatically choose the largest objective lens.

The best hunting binoculars are the ones you actually want to take with you.

Exit pupil – what does it mean?

The exit pupil is another term often encountered in connection with binoculars.

It can be calculated by dividing the objective lens diameter by the magnification.

For a 10x50 binocular, the result is:

50 / 10 = 5 mm

HuntersMarket's 10x50 model therefore has an exit pupil of 5 mm.

A larger exit pupil can be an advantage in low light conditions because more of the available light can be delivered to the eye, provided the rest of the optics are also of appropriate quality.

For a 10x42, the corresponding geometric exit pupil will be 4.2 mm.

This illustrates well the difference between the models: 10x50 prioritizes, among other things, a larger aperture, while 10x42 offers a more compact format.

What are BAK-4 prisms?

Both HuntersMarket's binoculars use BAK-4 prisms.

Inside binoculars, there are prisms that guide the light through the optics and ensure that the image you see is correctly oriented.

BAK-4 denotes a type of optical glass often used in quality binoculars.

In practical use, the goal is to achieve a clear, sharp, and uniform image.

HuntersMarket's 10x50 binoculars combine BAK-4 prisms with advanced lens coatings designed for good light transmission, contrast, and reduced reflections.

The 10x42 model also uses BAK-4 prisms and is designed as versatile hunting binoculars for observing animals and terrain.

Lens coating also matters

Objective lens size is not the whole story.

Light must pass through several optical elements before reaching your eye.

At each surface, some light can be lost through reflection. Therefore, various types of optical coatings are applied to the lenses.

The purpose is, among other things, to reduce reflections and improve the amount of usable light that passes through the system.

This means that one should not evaluate binoculars solely based on objective lens diameter.

Glass quality, prisms, and coating also play a role in the image one actually perceives.

Binoculars for stand hunting

When stand hunting, you often have the opportunity to prioritize optical performance over low weight.

You might walk a relatively short distance to a shooting stand or a fixed position and then stay there for several hours.

Here, larger binoculars can be interesting.

HuntersMarket's 10x50 binoculars are particularly well-suited for observation at very long distances, and the large 50 mm objective lenses make the model especially interesting when light becomes more limited.

From a fixed position, you can use the binoculars to systematically scan field edges, hedgerows, and forest fringes.

It is often the small details that reveal an animal.

An ear.

An antler tip.

A minor movement between two trees.

With binoculars, the area can be thoroughly examined without having to move around your position.

Binoculars for stalking

For stalking, the requirements change slightly.

Here, you carry all your equipment with you.

Rifle, ammunition, possibly a shooting stick, rangefinder, clothing, and perhaps a backpack.

Therefore, a more compact pair of binoculars can be attractive.

HuntersMarket's 10x42 hunting binoculars are specifically designed as a combination of 10x magnification, 42 mm objective lenses, and a format that is still practical to carry.

They can be used to scan the terrain in front of you, check for movements along forest edges, and identify animals before you move further.

When stalking, it is often a good habit to use binoculars frequently.

It is significantly better to spot the animal from a distance than to first see it when you have already approached too closely.

Binoculars and rangefinder complement each other

Hunting binoculars tell you a lot.

But usually not the precise distance.

Therefore, binoculars and a laser rangefinder are two tools that go well together.

First, use binoculars to find and identify the animal.

Then, a rangefinder can be used to check the distance.

This is better than using a rifle scope for general observation, and it provides a clear division:

Binoculars: Find and identify.

Rangefinder: Measure.

Rifle scope: Used only when there is an actual relevant and safe shooting situation.

This creates a more natural workflow for rifle hunting.

Waterproof binoculars for Danish weather

Hunting binoculars live a tougher life than many other optics.

They are exposed to rain, fog, frost, and damp forests.

They are taken from a warm car into winter cold and back again.

Therefore, weather tolerance should be an important feature.

HuntersMarket's 10x42 binoculars are IPX7 rated and nitrogen-filled.

Nitrogen filling helps prevent internal fogging and condensation during temperature changes.

It is important to distinguish between fog on the outside and fog inside the optics.

External moisture can be wiped away.

Internal condensation is far more problematic and can make the binoculars difficult or impossible to use, precisely when they are needed.

HuntersMarket's 10x50 model is also stated as waterproof and nitrogen-filled, and is thus designed for use in rain, fog, and damp conditions.

How important is ergonomics?

Binoculars can have excellent optics and still be irritating to use if they don't fit well in the hand.

This is especially true with 10x magnification.

All small hand movements are also magnified.

Therefore, a stable grip is important.

HuntersMarket's 10x50 binoculars are designed with a focus on ergonomics and stable handling, even during extended observation.

Additionally, the model is tripod-compatible, which can be interesting for very long observations from a fixed position.

With the binoculars stably mounted, a large part of the small hand movements that would otherwise be visible at high magnification can be eliminated.

Centre focus makes it quick to sharpen

When looking through binoculars, the subject is not necessarily at the same distance all the time.

One moment you are following an animal at 80 meters.

The next, you are examining a forest edge several hundred meters away.

Therefore, quick focusing is important.

HuntersMarket's 10x42 binoculars have a central focus wheel, so the sharpness can be quickly adjusted while you observe.

This is a very common and intuitive solution on hunting binoculars.

Once the binoculars are adapted to the user, it quickly becomes natural to adjust the focus with a finger while following the terrain.

What if you wear glasses?

For spectacle wearers, eye relief is particularly relevant.

Eye relief indicates how far from the eyepiece the eye can be and still see the full image.

HuntersMarket's 10x50 model has a stated eye relief of 18.2 mm and is indicated as suitable for spectacle wearers.

If you wear glasses while hunting, this is a specification that may be worth keeping an eye on when choosing binoculars.

Minimum focus distance

Binoculars are naturally associated with distant objects.

However, some users also use binoculars for nature studies closer up.

HuntersMarket's 10x50 binoculars have a stated minimum focus distance of approximately 5 meters.

For hunting, this is rarely a crucial feature, as observation typically occurs at significantly longer distances.

For nature and wildlife observation, however, minimum focus distance can be relevant.

Binoculars for outdoor and recreational use

Of course, binoculars don't have to stay at home when the hunting season is over.

For outdoor life, the possibilities are many.

On hikes, you can explore mountainsides, forests, and open landscapes. By the coast, you can observe birds and animals far out. On vacation, binoculars can be used for landscapes and nature. And for birdwatching, a good pair of binoculars can quickly become a permanent piece of equipment.

Here, the choice between 10x42 and 10x50 again becomes relevant.

If the binoculars are to be carried all day, a more compact format will often be practical.

If they are primarily to be used from fixed observation points, the larger 10x50 may be interesting.

How to hold your binoculars more steadily

Even an excellent 10x binocular gives a poor image if it shakes violently.

There are a couple of simple techniques that help.

Hold the binoculars with both hands and tuck your elbows slightly towards your body. If possible, you can lean against a tree, a shooting stand, or another fixed object.

For longer periods of observation, it may be advantageous to sit down.

With a tripod-compatible model like HuntersMarket's 10x50, a tripod can be an even more stable solution.

The steadier the image, the easier it is to spot small details.

How to care for your hunting binoculars

Binoculars are made to be used, but optical surfaces should be treated with some care.

First and foremost, avoid rubbing sand, dirt, or larger dust particles across the lenses.

Gently remove loose particles before wiping the glass.

Use a suitable cleaning cloth for optics.

If the binoculars have gotten wet during the hunt, they should be dried before being put away in a closed bag for a long time.

HuntersMarket's 10x42 binoculars come with a carrying strap, storage bag, and cleaning cloth, so the basic components for transport and maintenance are included.

Which binoculars should I choose – 10x42 or 10x50?

There is no single correct choice.

The two sizes have different strengths.

If you want versatile hunting binoculars that are practical to carry, the 10x42 is a strong starting point. You get 10 times magnification and 42 mm objective lenses in a more compact format.

You can view HuntersMarket's 10x42 hunting binoculars with BAK-4 prisms and IPX7 here.

If, on the other hand, you prioritize observation at very long distances and larger 50 mm objective lenses, the 10x50 model is worth a closer look.

HuntersMarket's 10x50 binoculars also feature BAK-4 prisms, advanced lens coating, and are waterproof and nitrogen-filled.

The choice can therefore roughly be described as follows:

Frequently asked questions about binoculars for hunting

What does 10x42 on binoculars mean?

10 means the binoculars have 10 times magnification. 42 means the front objective lenses have a diameter of 42 mm.

What does 10x50 mean?

A 10x50 binocular also has 10 times magnification, but larger 50 mm objective lenses.

Which is best – 10x42 or 10x50?

It depends on the use. 10x42 is a good choice if you want versatile and relatively compact hunting binoculars. 10x50 is interesting if observation at very long distances and larger objective lenses are highly prioritized.

Is 10x magnification good for hunting?

Yes. 10x allows you to study details at longer distances and is particularly useful in open fields, larger forest clearings, and other places with long observation distances.

What does BAK-4 mean?

BAK-4 refers to a type of optical glass used for prisms in binoculars. Both HuntersMarket models use BAK-4 prisms for a clear and detailed image.

Why are hunting binoculars nitrogen-filled?

Nitrogen filling helps prevent internal condensation and fogging during temperature changes and humid conditions.

Which binoculars are good for stalking?

A compact model is often attractive for stalking because the binoculars must be carried with the rest of the hunting gear. HuntersMarket's 10x42 hunting binoculars are designed as a versatile model for stalking, stand hunting, and wildlife observation, among other things.

Which binoculars are good for long distances?

A 10x50 binocular combines 10 times magnification with large 50 mm objective lenses. HuntersMarket's 10x50 binoculars are specifically designed for observation at very long distances.

Can hunting binoculars be used for birdwatching?

Yes. Good hunting binoculars can also be used for birdwatching, wildlife observation, hiking, and general outdoor recreation.

The best binoculars are the ones you actually bring with you

It can be tempting to only look at technical specifications.

But the best hunting binoculars are ultimately the model that suits the way you hunt.

If you walk a lot and want to minimize the size of your equipment, a 10x42 binocular makes good sense.

If you often sit on a fixed stand and prioritize longer observations and larger objective lenses, 10x50 may be the better choice.

Common to both is that good binoculars allow you to spend more time observing and less time guessing.

You spot wildlife earlier. You can study the animal more thoroughly. And you get a much better overview of the terrain you are in.

At HuntersMarket, you will find both solutions:

See HuntersMarket's 10x42 hunting binoculars →

See HuntersMarket's 10x50 binoculars →