Defense forces and intelligence agencies use binoculars to observe the enemy from a safe distance. I've been using my Nikon Monarch Binoculars for a few years now, and I am extremely happy with them.
Most binoculars are lightweight, portable, and very easy to carry. Law enforcement agencies prefer to use second-generation binoculars. The first is the number of times magnification, and the second is the diameter of the objective lens.
A good rule of thumb is, unless you are a private investigator or international spy, avoid buying a pair of binoculars with a magnification/zoom greater then 10x's. Phase correction is a coating on the lenses that increases the sharpness, contrast and color saturation. One should consider the ergonomics of one's choice.
The lower the light situation is, the more powerful night binocular you will need. If you are going on a long trip, binoculars will be excellent entertainment for kids.
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