Buying Guide for the Best Monocular For Hunting
Choosing the right monocular for hunting can make a big difference in spotting game and enjoying your outdoor experience. Monoculars are a portable alternative to binoculars, offering one-eyed viewing in a compact size. When shopping, it's important to think about where and how you'll use your monocular—consider the terrain, typical shooting or spotting distances, lighting conditions, and whether you'll need to carry it over long distances. Focusing on the right key specifications will help you find a monocular that matches your needs for clarity, portability, and durability.MagnificationMagnification tells you how many times closer an object will appear compared to your naked eye, commonly found as a number like 8x or 10x. Higher magnification brings distant targets closer but can also make the image shakier and reduces your field of view. For hunting, 8x to 10x magnification is often a balanced range: enough to see game at a distance but still easy to use by hand. If you mostly hunt in open country and need to spot far-off animals, slightly higher magnification could be useful, while for dense woods, lower magnification offers a wider view and steadier image.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter (in millimeters) decides how much light the monocular gathers—a bigger diameter means a brighter, clearer image, especially at dawn or dusk. Common values are between 25mm and 42mm for hunting monoculars. Smaller diameters keep things light and compact for easy carrying but may be less effective in low light. Larger diameters are better for brightness but add bulk. If you expect to hunt in low light or thick cover, lean towards a larger lens, but if portability is key, a smaller lens may be preferable.
Field of ViewField of view is usually stated as the width of the area you see at a certain distance, often in feet at 1,000 yards or meters at 1,000 meters. A wide field of view helps you scan large areas quickly and track moving game, while a narrow field of view limits how much you can see at once. For hunting, a broad field of view is helpful in spotting animals, especially in wooded or fast-moving scenarios. Choose a monocular with a wide enough field of view if you tend to spot or follow game that's on the move.
Weight and SizeWeight and size are important for comfort, especially if you'll be carrying the monocular for long periods. Smaller, lighter monoculars are easier to pack and use one-handed but may sacrifice brightness or durability. Bigger, heavier units may offer better image quality and ruggedness but can become a burden over time. Consider your stamina and how you hunt: long treks and minimalist packing favor lighter designs, while hunting from a blind or vehicle means you can opt for a larger one.
Waterproof and Fogproof FeaturesWaterproof and fogproof ratings ensure your monocular can handle bad weather, heavy dew, or accidental drops in water. Waterproof monoculars are sealed to prevent water from getting in, while fogproof units are filled with gas to stop internal fogging. If you hunt in varied climates or early in the morning when condensation is common, look for both waterproof and fogproof features to protect your equipment and guarantee clear views.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance you can hold the monocular from your eye and still see the full image, measured in millimeters. Longer eye relief is especially important for eyeglass wearers. Typical values range from 10mm to over 18mm; the higher the number, the more comfortable it will be if you wear glasses, or you want to avoid pressing the monocular right against your face for quick looks.
Durability and GripHunting environments can be rough, so a monocular with a strong build and a non-slip grip is essential. Look for models with a rubberized or textured exterior, and some shock resistance to handle drops or knocks. If you hunt in particularly challenging conditions or dense brush, prioritize models built to withstand tough use.