Binoculars for Safari
 

I will be a first timer on safari in South Africa and Botswana. I have never owned binoculars and I have started to research what's available. I would be interested in the advice of our safari experts. I am considering 10x35, 10x50, 12x50 and 2 zoom models 7-15x35 and 10-22x50. All Nikon models and in my price range. I really don't have a clue what's best for game drives. Any advice???

these are many threads here on binoculars, just do a search. just went to Kenya and really enjoyed Canon 10-30 image stabilization binoculars but also plain Bushnell 10x42's were good.

Kevin

Hello,

I'd advise against the zoom versions -- the zoom mechanism is not very robust and doesn't stand up well to the sort of bouncing around they will sustain on safari. Having just replaced my own set last year and gone through the same decision-making process, I'd recommend 10x42 or 10x50. The 12s are too heavy to hold steady for long periods of time (for most people, anyhow) and the 10x35s will not be much use when the light starts to fade, which is right about when nocturnal animals become active.

Cheers,
Julian

I would add that it would be best to try them out at a local sporting goods store. One brand may feel better to you than another. They really are different, as I found out for myself. I bought the Nikon Monarch 10x42s, and found them to be excellent. Got them from an ebay store for around $250. Good luck!

Thank you. Exactly the info I was looking for.

I bought the Nikon Monarch 10x42s a couple months ago to take on our safari in July. They were perfect for us.

Just picked up a new pair of Nikon Monarch 10x42's on Friday. The Bushnell's 10x42's were on sale at half the price but the Nikons seemed to be 1/4 the weight. Thanks for the input.

I own binoculars by all of the major manufacturers and probably one or two you have never heard mentioned on this forum. This is the result of being an avid sailor as well as a birder and naturalist. Each activity is best suited to a particular type. Also, individual preferences (and even physical strength) are factors in choosing the right binocular. All things considered I find the image stabilized Canon 10X30 to be the best by far for safari use. As Stakerk mentions, there are others that work O.K., but once you have used these image stabilized binos all of the others will just seem old fashioned. The 10X30 model is not that much more than a good pair of similar standard binos and you will only have to buy them once. If you are in the U.S., look at B & H or at Adorama on the internet. Both are highly regarded photo shops (in New York) and both discount these models. Canon also runs frequent rebate offers that make these even more reasonable. Good Luck

Another Nikon Monarch user here.....i just got mine recently. However, i keep forgetting to take it with me on my drives....

Hari

I agree with the other post about zoom binoculars on safari. I have some fairly cheap 8 x 40's and a more expensive 8-24 x 25 Nikon zoom. The Nikon zoom is too senitive to use on a safari vehicle - almost need a tripod !

Phil