What should you look for when buying compact sport binoculars?

Are you a keen sporting events watcher, searching for a suitable pair of binoculars?

Then compact or pocket-sized binoculars offer numerous advantages …

For example, if the sporting event you plan to watch lasts any length of time, your hands and arms will become extremely tired holding and lifting mid- or full-sized binoculars.

On top of that, it’s definitely not much fun having larger models hanging round your neck too long.

Children also enjoy using compact binoculars, and this makes them a good choice for family sport-watching events.

But, as with everything, you will encounter a few disadvantages …

Field of View

Generally speaking, most sporting events are best viewed through binoculars that offer you a wide field of view.

Unfortunately, most compact sport binoculars tend to have a narrow field of view.
Magnification

Another disadvantage with compacts is that the ratio between magnification and objective lens size is usually lower, resulting in an image that is not quite so bright or sharp as it could be.

Also, the exit pupil tends to be on the low-side, adversely affecting image brightness and image quality during dawn and dusk, or any rather shadowy conditions.

As with any hand-held binocular, unless there’s a good reason, you probably won’t want to go higher than a magnification of 10, otherwise you risk a “shaky” image, as your hand movements will also be magnified.
Waterproof

Do you plan to go whale-watching … or view some other sport where your binoculars could become wet or covered in sea spray?

Not all compact sporting binoculars are waterproof, so do make sure you choose a model which is both waterproof and rubber-armored.
Warranty

Check also the warranty.

Planning to purchase an expensive pair? Then you’ll be after a lifetime warranty.

Going for a really economical model? … Then a lengthy warranty will not be so important to you.
Examples of Compact Sport Binoculars

In spite of any disadvantages they might have, compact binoculars are an increasingly popular choice for viewing sporting events.

You’ll also discover a terrific range of extremely affordable models that are small, light-weight, stylish, and which receive good reviews.

Here are just a few examples …

Carson Micro Compact Sport 6×16 Binoculars

These are the World’s smallest binoculars, with fully-coated optics, rubber grips, and a compact folding design, making them easy to slip them into your pocket or backpack.

Carson Tracker 8×21 Compact Sport Binoculars

This stylish-looking model boasts a center focus knob with independent right diopter to adjust focus for all types of vision, and their fully-coated lenses have special infra-red and ultra-violet protective coatings.

Bushnell Powerview 8×21 Compact Folding Roof Prism

Bushnell Binoculars are known for their affordable binoculars, and this model is ideal for watching sports or theater performances, the non-slip rubber offering good grip.

In spite of their low cost – or perhaps because of it – they’ve received many very positive reviews.

Pentax 10×25 UCF WP Binoculars

This model offers a more powerful magnification and, as well as being attractive, has a durable unibody construction, and is waterproof. Ideal for water-related sports.

Alpen Sport Compact 10×25 Binoculars

These economical binoculars from Alpen Binoculars come in both green and brown camouflage finish. Although not waterproof, they’re tough, lightweight, and come with a lifetime warranty.

With all the different makes and models available, yourmain problem is going to be deciding exactly which pair to choose, isn’t it?

Once you have decided & bought your favorite choice why not Submit a Review to us, our readers would love to get your feedback, before making their own decisions!.