Hunting binoculars – how to choose the right pair (guide)

Q: 9. Which binoculars suit your type of hunting?

For hunting from a stand and woodland hunting , 8x42 is a natural choice, offering a good field of view and a steady image. For slow driven hunts , 8x32 or 8x42 are often used, as the wide field of view makes it easy to locate game quickly. For hunting in open terrain , 10x42 or 10x50 are well suited, with 10x50 in particular providing extra brightness at dusk. For mountain hunting , the typical choice is 10x42 or 10x50 . If you want binoculars with a rangefinder , 10x42 or 10x50 are the most commonly used options.

A good pair of binoculars is one of the most important tools for any hunter. Whether you are hunting from a stand, stalking or taking part in a slow driven hunt, binoculars are essential for spotting game, judging distance, sex and age, and making the right decision.

But which binoculars should you choose? There are many models, sizes and price ranges on the market. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose the right binoculars for hunting.

1. Magnification – what is best for hunting?

Magnification is indicated by the first number, for example 8x42, 10x42 or 10x50.

8x provides a steady image and is easy to hold still. It is well suited to woodland hunting, hunting from a stand and slow driven hunts.
10x reveals more detail at longer distances and is well suited to open terrain and mountain hunting.

The most widely used options for hunting are 8x, 10x42 and 10x50, with the choice depending on the terrain and personal preference.

2. Objective lens diameter – light and clarity

The objective lens diameter is the second number in the specification and has a major influence on image brightness.

32 mm models are light and compact, but gather less light and are best suited to daylight use.
42 mm models offer a good balance of brightness, weight and size, making them the most versatile choice.
50 mm models gather plenty of light and are ideal for hunting at dusk and dawn, but are also heavier.

For hunting in low light, 8x42, 10x42 and 10x50 are among the most commonly used combinations, with 10x50 gathering the most light.

3. Brightness and twilight performance

As hunting often takes place early in the morning and late in the evening, good light transmission is essential. Glass quality, lens coatings and construction all play a part.

Look for:

fully multi-coated optics
ED or HD glass
a good twilight factor

Binoculars with larger objective lenses generally perform better in poor light, but also weigh more.

4. Field of view – seeing more of your surroundings

Field of view is expressed in metres at 1,000 metres. A wide field of view makes it easier to find game quickly, follow movement and keep an eye on the surrounding terrain.

Binoculars with 8x magnification typically have a wider field of view than 10x models, making them popular for both slow driven hunts and driven hunts.

5. Ergonomics and weight

Binoculars should be comfortable to use, even for extended periods.

Things to consider include:

weight and balance
grip and rubber armour
the quality of the focusing mechanism
how easy they are to operate with gloves on

Models with 50 mm objective lenses are often heavier, so comfort should be a factor in your choice.

6. Waterproof and fog-free – essential for hunting

Hunting binoculars should always be waterproof and filled with nitrogen or argon. This prevents internal fogging and ensures that they work in rain, cold and damp conditions.

7. Price – how much do good binoculars cost?

Binocular prices vary considerably and are closely linked to build quality and optical performance.

Budget models (around DKK 800–2,000) are suitable for beginners or as a spare pair.
Mid-range models (around DKK 2,000–6,000) offer the best balance of price and quality for most hunters.
Premium models (DKK 6,000 and above) offer the highest optical quality, brightness and durability.

A good pair of binoculars is a long-term investment that can last for many years.

8. Binoculars with a rangefinder – useful, but not essential

Some binoculars come with a built-in rangefinder, which can be an advantage when rifle hunting in open terrain.

Advantages:

fast, accurate distance measurement
no additional equipment needed

Disadvantages:

higher price
extra weight

For the vast majority of hunters, standard binoculars without a rangefinder are perfectly adequate.

9. Which binoculars suit your type of hunting?

For hunting from a stand and woodland hunting, 8x42 is a natural choice, offering a good field of view and a steady image.
For slow driven hunts, 8x32 or 8x42 are often used, as the wide field of view makes it easy to locate game quickly.
For hunting in open terrain, 10x42 or 10x50 are well suited, with 10x50 in particular providing extra brightness at dusk.
For mountain hunting, the typical choice is 10x42 or 10x50.
If you want binoculars with a rangefinder, 10x42 or 10x50 are the most commonly used options.

Conclusion

The right binoculars make hunting safer, more effective and more rewarding. For most hunters, 8x42, 10x42 or 10x50 are the most sensible choices. Choose binoculars with good optics, suitable brightness and ergonomics that suit your type of hunting. A rangefinder can be an advantage, but it is not essential.