In recent years optics have improved to deliver views that are sharper, crisper, and free from optical distortion. Outward cosmetic changes include a shift from big, blocky leatherette-covered tubes to "ergonomic" rubber-armored models that are easy to grip and small, sleek models that are compact to carry.

Electronic image stabilization (IS)--devised by Canon originally to help videographers steady their handheld camcorders--has turned up in a few pricier binoculars; it's useful for the most-powerful models, which would otherwise demand a tripod.

What's available

Bushnell and Tasco are the biggest manufacturers. Other brands include Swift and Celestron, and models are available from several camera makers such as Canon, Minolta, Nikon, Olympus, and Pentax.

Prices range from less than $20 to more than $1,500. Decent general-purpose models sell for about $100 to $300. More money usually buys greater magnification and finer optical quality (better lenses, prisms, and optical coatings).

Important features

The two key specifications are power (the "8" in 8x42 binoculars, say) and objective size (the "42"). Power is the magnification factor: 8X binoculars magnify the view eight times, making a football play 200 feet away seem just 25 feet away. The objective size is diameter, in millimeters, of the far lenses; bigger lenses gather more light, which won't matter in bright sunshine but could make a difference in dim places or at dusk.

A third key variable is the field width, or angle of view (expressed in degrees). A wider angle shows more on all sides, useful for observing wildlife or seeing a sports play develop in context.

Three basic designs are available in a range of optical specifications: the classic "wide-hipped" style (objective lenses stand farther apart than the eyepieces you look through); a narrow-set type (objective lenses are closer than the eyepieces); and an in-line design (straight tubes with a bridge). In-line binoculars use more costly internal prisms, which can raise their price; fewer seals and seams mean they're also easier to waterproof.

How to choose

The specifications. Eight power is a good general-purpose choice; more powerful models will be harder to hold still, so the greater acuity they provide to see fine detail will be lost to jittery hands. Bigger objectives add cost and weight, so avoid them if you really don't need to view dimly lit scenes.

Recommendations. Picking the right pair is a hands-on task: Binoculars should feel balanced, adjust properly to your face, be easy to focus, and not distort the world by bending straight lines or adding a color fringe around objects.

Eyeglass wearers can usually turn a "diopter" ring at the eyepieces, enabling many to use the binoculars without glasses. If glasses are a must, the cups around the eyepieces can usually be folded down or retracted, letting you bring the eyepieces up to your glasses. That, however, could cut off some of the view. With some binoculars you lose more of the view--you'll have to compare.