Your hiking equipment is your best friend, especially if you’re hiking for many hours. So, if you have just bought a new pair of hiking boots and all the other essential things, now it’s time to find out about that special product which can be a real companion on your trips – a good monocular. Well, if you don’t know what a monocular is, don’t worry.
A monocular is a small device that can magnify objects when looking through it. So, with this device, you will be able to examine distant objects in great detail.
So, in this article, I will review the 6 best monocular for backpacking and even provide a buying guide. So, let’s get started! for you folks that would like to jump directly to the suggested monocular, you can do so by clicking HERE!
Buying Guide to the Best Monocular for Backpacking
When you’re hiking, you want to be able to see the landscape. But you also want the kind of magnification that lets you see things up close. A monocular is the perfect way to do both at once.
Monoculars are small, lightweight binoculars that offer a wide range of uses. They can be used for birdwatching, hunting, and even for stargazing! The best ones have high-quality lenses and offer clear views at any distance.
So how do you pick the best monocular for hiking? Here are some characteristics to look for!
1. The Objective Diameter
The objective diameter is the size of the lens at the front of the scope. This affects the amount of light that gets into the scope and how much magnification you’ll be able to get out of it. A bigger diameter means more light and more magnification, but it also means a heavier monocular.
2. The Magnification
The magnification is how much you can zoom in or out with your monocular. If you have high magnification, you can see things more clearly from farther away, but if you have low magnification, then you’ll need to move closer in order to see anything clearly.
3. Field of View
Field of View refers to how wide of an angle you can see at once through the scope. You should choose a monocular with as wide a field of view as possible if you want to be able to see lots of things at once.
4. Eye Relief
Monoculars come with different eye reliefs, which means the distance between your eyes and the eyepiece. The greater the eye relief, the easier it will be to look through it without straining your eyes or nose. If you have very large or small eyes, or if you wear glasses, look for a model with a large eye relief so that you can use it comfortably while wearing your glasses.
5. The Dimensions
You want a monocular that’s compact enough to carry around but large enough that it can offer high-quality images. For example, if you’re looking for something that’s easy to pack along on hikes with your family and friends, then look for something smaller.
If you’re looking for something more powerful for birdwatching or hunting game, then get one that has higher magnification capability, like 10x zoom or more, and is therefore larger than smaller models (which typically only offer 8x zoom).
6. Weight
You should also consider how much weight you want your monocular to add to your bag when deciding which one to buy, especially if you plan to carry it around for long periods of time! The heavier ones tend to be more durable, but they are also heavier overall; lightweight versions are lighter but less durable and may not last as long as their heavier counterparts.
7. Durability
The most important thing when choosing a monocular is durability. You want something that is going to last through all kinds of weather conditions so that you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged while hiking or camping.
It’s also important that the monocular is waterproof because rain can cause damage if it gets inside the body of the device; this means that it should have an O-ring seal around its lens barrel which prevents moisture from entering its interior chamber where light passes through before reaching your eye lens (also known as objective lens).
8. Price
The price of your monocular for hiking should depend on how much money you are willing to spend on one. If this is going to be an investment piece for you, then you should spend more money on one that comes with higher quality lenses as well as other features like waterproofing and fog resistance technology built into its housing unit itself!
My 6 Recommendations of the Best Hiking Monocular
1. Gosky 12×55 High Definition Monocular
When you’re out on an adventure, you want to make sure that you’re prepared for anything. That’s why it’s so important to have a high-quality monocular in your pack.
The Gosky 12×55 High Definition Monocular is the perfect companion for hiking, hunting, bird watching, any activity where you might need a clear view of your surroundings. We know that when you’re out there having fun and enjoying nature, it’s not always easy to find time to stop and take a look around.
This monocular is light and easy to use, it weighs less than 1 pound and has an ergonomic design that makes grabbing it from your pack simple and quick.
The Gosky 12×55 High Definition Monocular also comes with all of the features that make it perfect for outdoor adventures: its waterproof, dustproof, fog proof, shock proof and even has a Lon Eye-relief system for comfort during use. It even comes with rubber armoured body for extreme durability!
Pros:
- 12X Magnification with a 55mm Objective Wide Lens
- Perfectly suited for Hiking, hunting, bird watching, etc.
- Provides crystal clear view for outdoor adventures
- Has a Lon Eye-relief
- Waterproof, dust proof, fog proof and shockproof
- Extremely durable and comes in a rubber armoured body
Cons:
- The zoom power could have been a bit higher!
FAQ
1. Does the 12×55 model include both lens covers?
Yes, both the front and back lens covers are included.
2. Is a tripod adapter for this monocular available?
Yes. The monocular can be attached to the vast majority of standard tripods, tabletop tripods, and monopods using universal 1/4-inch screws.
3. Is it compatible with the iPhone X?
Yes. The iPhone X, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6S Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone SE, iPhone 5s, and iPhone 4 are all compatible with the smartphone mount.
So, if you are looking for a durable product that is not just water resistant or dust resistant, but also can resist fog, shock, and has a waterproof housing too, you should seriously consider Gosky.
It comes with a military grade eyepiece engineered for the best eye relief that reduces eye fatigue and the chance of damage to the eye to zero percent. The rubber armoured body makes this monocular durable enough to withstand any weather condition you will be using it in.
The overall experience is competent enough to make this one of the best monocular available in the market.
2. Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Monocular
If you’re looking for a spotting monocular that will help you see better and improve your ability to focus on subjects, the Celestron Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Monocular is the perfect choice. This monocular comes with an 80mm objective lens and a viewing angle of 45 degrees.
It also includes a tripod, a zoom eyepiece, and a T adapter in the box. The Celestron Ultima has anti-reflective coatings for better sharper images so you can enjoy your hobby without worrying about blurry images.
This monocular also offers several other features that make it stand out from other models on the market today. For example, its large focus dial helps in easy focus of the subject, so you don’t have to struggle with finding the right spot to look at. In addition, it comes with two years warranty and unlimited technical support from Celestron’s team of experts who are always happy to help if something goes wrong with your purchase!
So, if you’re ready to experience the world like never before with an amazing new device such as this one – then don’t wait another minute! Order yours today!
Pros:
- Comes with an 80mm Objective lens and a viewing angle of 45 degrees
- Includes a tripod, a zoom eyepiece, and a T adapter in the box
- Has anti-reflective coatings for better sharper images
- Its large focus dial helps in easy focus of the subject
- Comes with a 2 year warranty and unlimited technical support
Cons:
- The sharpness of images decrease a bit with an increase in zoom over 20x!
FAQ
1. Is the eyepiece rotating clockwise or counter-clockwise from the vertical position?
It does not! It has an adjustable ring in addition to the mounting ring. The eye piece remains stationary since they both spin around the centre axis.
2. Is it feasible to see a.223 bullet hole in a paper target from 300 yards away?
This level scope is unlikely to give you with the desired level of performance.
3. What is the total weight of this monocular, including all of its packaging?
To be honest, I’m not sure. I’ve only just lifted mine with the case connected, but including the shipping box, I’d think it weights between 3 and 4 pounds at most.
The Celestron Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Monocular is an exceptionally designed monocular that doesn’t come as too heavy on a user’s budget. The product can be said to be the perfect combination of exceptional design, portability, and quality.
All in all, it is an amazing and must have accessory for both amateur astronomers as well as hikers, campers, backpackers, hunters, etc… who love to gaze at nature. If you’re looking for a good portable monocular with a lot of advanced features, then this is surely going to be worth your investment.
3. Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Monocular
The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Monocular is a fantastic piece of equipment that will make your outdoor adventures even more enjoyable. The monocular comes with an ED Prime glass for better resolution, which will allow you to see your target clearly. It has an Ultra-Wide Band Coating for increasing brightness, which allows the lens to capture as much light as possible so you can see in low-light conditions.
The lens also has in-built PC-3 coating enhances colour contrast, which makes it easier to identify objects such as animals or plants that are camouflaged by their surroundings. With an IPX7 rating, you can rest assured that even if it rains or snows while you’re out exploring the outdoors, the lens will remain dry and fog-free for your viewing pleasure.
The lens come with a water-repellent coating for harsh weather conditions like rain and snow, so when you take this monocular out into the wild there won’t be any worries about getting caught in bad weather conditions. It also has O-ring sealed for moisture protection, which means it will keep dust out and keep its optical properties intact no matter what situation it encounters out in the wilderness.
Pros:
- Comes with an ED Prime glass for better resolution
- The lens has an Ultra-Wide Band Coating for increasing brightness
- In-built PC-3 coating enhances colour contrast
- IPX7 rating for water and fog resistance
- The lens have a water-repellent coating for harsh weather conditions like rain and snow
- O-ring sealed for moisture protection
Cons:
- It’s a bit overpriced when compared to other cheap Chinese manufactured monoculars available in the market!
FAQ
1. Is the mil-hash reticle included with this monocular?
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Monocles are available in Black and Tan, however, only the Tan version has a reticle.
2. It appears that the item has a picatinny rail on the bottom?
You are correct; a length of rail measuring approximately 1 inch exists.
3. Can it focus on a distance of 20 inches?
The focal distance appears to be between three and four meters; any closer than that and you won’t be able to see a clear image at all.
I recommend this monocular to novice and experienced hikers and hunters alike. Especially for its price range, it includes more features and capabilities than you would expect. The prime lenses give it a clear edge when it comes to improving focus quality, resolution, and consistency of light transmission between both the centre and the edges of the field of view.
Thinking objectively, I believe that this monocular has all the necessary features available in one package. What’s more, it is user-friendly, portable, and lightweight. As long as you know how to effectively use a monocular, having one at your disposal should prove useful.
4. Vortex Optics Solo Monocular
The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular is a high-quality monocular that’s perfect for those who are looking for an extremely small and lightweight piece of equipment. It features 10x magnification and a 36mm objective lens, so you can see more at a distance than ever before.
The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular is made of a rugged body that’s been fully rubber armoured to keep it safe from the elements. It also comes with fully multi-coated lenses for better light transmission, making it easier for you to see in low light conditions.
The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular is easy to use because of its adjustable eye cups, which allow you to find a comfortable viewing angle no matter where you are or what position you’re in. Plus, this monocular is nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed to repel moisture and water so it can be used anywhere without fear of damage from exposure!
Pros:
- Features 10x magnification and a 36mm objective lens
- Is extremely small and light-weight
- Comes with fully multi-coated lens
- Extremely rugged because of a fully rubber armoured body
- Nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed to repel moisture and water
- Adjustable eye cups for a comfortable viewing
Cons:
- The rubber armoured body is not as durable when compared to other monoculars at this price range!
FAQ
1. Is this or any other vortex monocular’s optical design based on BaK prisms?
I’d bet a considerable sum of money against it. Vortex, on the other hand, makes no mention of the BaK on this page, on their website, or in the owner’s handbook for this monocular. This is rare for BaK-using optics, which generally advertise it everywhere.
2. Is the fold-down flared eye cup that comes with this model sold separately?
You should be able to find one, given that various companies manufacture scope covers.
3. What size objective lens cap and ocular lens cap are required for the Vortex Optics Solo 10×36 Monocular?
The eyepiece is 40 millimetres in diameter, but a cover will not fit over the objective.
If you’re looking for a monocular that can be taken on hikes, trips to the park or even hunting and fishing, you may want to compare some of the solo monoculars available. The Vortex Solo monocular is an exceptional piece of equipment. The entire package is compact, yet powerful.
It has an adjustable dioptre which enables you to magnify an object from 10x to 3-4x. If you have poor eyesight, then this makes it ideal as you would only require one eye to use this device. Additionally, the Vortex Optics Solo Monocular comes with rubber armour which gives it extra durability.
5. Fifimo 16×60 Monocular
The Fifimo 16×60 Monocular is the perfect choice for any outdoor enthusiast. It’s extremely suited for hiking, hunting, fishing, and any other outdoor activities. The high magnification lets you view objects at a distance that’s twice as far away as the naked eye can see. The BAK4 Prism ensures superior image quality with minimal distorted edge images at all magnifications.
The monocular comes with a universal phone adapter and tripod mount so you can use it with your phone or tablet for even more applications. It is nitrogen purged to repel moisture and water, so you won’t have to worry about getting caught in bad weather while using this monocular.
The Fifimo 16×60 Monocular has an adjustable eye-cup for comfortable viewing, making it easy to see what you’re looking at without having to strain your eyesight. There is a wide-range of application so no matter where your adventure takes you or what kind of hobby you enjoy, this monocular will make it more enjoyable!
Pros:
- Features a 16x Magnification
- Extremely suited for hiking, hunting, fishing, etc.
- Has a BAK4 Prism for better image quality
- Comes with a universal phone adapter and tripod mount
- Nitrogen purged to repel moisture and water
- Adjustable eye-cups for comfortable viewing
- Has a wide-range of application
Cons:
- The built quality could be a bit better!
FAQ
1. Is a tripod adapter for this monocular available?
Yes, as long as the tripod’s top has a standard 1/4-inch threaded rod for attaching a telescope or a camera.
2. I wear glasses; would this work with them?
Yes, I was able to use it while wearing glasses. Even when I’m not using my glasses, I can operate it correctly.
3. Is it possible for me to carry it about in my pocket?
Yes, because it is so little, this compact monocular is great for keeping in your pocket.
If you are looking for a monocular that is made with quality and can be used for long periods of time, the Fifimo 16×60 Monocular is a great choice. This product offers a wide range of application. The BAK4 prism of this monocular uses a dielectric coating to enhance its image quality.
Moreover, hunting, hiking, and fishing enthusiasts will find this monocular to be extremely useful as it has a 16x magnification. Its shockproof construction can withstand being dropped or bumped without resulting in damage to the optical components of the monocular.
In addition, its nitrogen purged feature makes it possible for you to use it in all weather conditions.
6. Scotar 12×50 Monocular
The Scotar 12×50 Monocular is a versatile and rugged monocular that can be used for any number of purposes. It features a 12x magnification and a 50mm objective wide lens, which gives you an expansive view of your surroundings. The IP67 rating means that it’s both dust-proof, waterproof and fog-proof, so it can withstand all kinds of weather conditions.
This monocular comes with a smartphone adaptor so you can use it with your phone or tablet, as well as a mini-tripod so you can mount it to something solid like a tree branch or fence post. It even comes with a carrying pouch so you can take it anywhere and everywhere!
The Scotar 12×50 Monocular is extremely ergonomic and easy to carry around thanks to its lightweight design and comfortable grip. The nitrogen purged body ensures that this monocular will survive extreme weather conditions, including rain or snow!
It’s extremely versatile too, it features a BAK4 Phase Prism and Dielectric Coated Prism for maximum clarity in any situation.
Pros:
- Features a 12x Magnification and a 50mm Objective Wide lens
- IP67 rating for dust, water, and fog protection
- Comes with a smartphone adaptor and mini-tripod
- Extremely versatile with a BAK4 Phase and Dielectric Coated
- Its ergonomic design makes it that it is extremely convenient and easy to carry
- Nitrogen purged body for extreme weather protection
- Has a lifetime warranty
Cons:
- The tripod included is not that sturdy
FAQ
1. What is the objective lens’s diameter?
The objective lens is actually a wide-angle lens and has a diameter of 50mm.
2. How many layers of coating does the lens have?
The lens has multiple layers of coating (up to 13, as mentioned by the manufacturer).
3. What is the field of view of this monocular?
This monocular has a field of view of up to 283 feet.
If you’re looking for a high-quality monocular that can withstand tough conditions, then the clearly designed Scotar 12×50 is the right choice. It is compact, with an ergonomic design that fits comfortably in the hand and even in the pocket of your hiking gear.
Plus, it comes with plenty of features to enhance your viewing experience, a smartphone adaptor, a mini-tripod that supports smartphones up to 6 inches wide, and BAK4 phase and dielectric coated prism lens elements. Though its weatherproofing may not be as strong as some other models, but it’s still one of the best on the market.
The Bottom Line
When deciding on a monocular for outdoor use it is important to consider your requirements. If you are planning to use your monocular for serious bird watching then you will need one with superior magnification, but if you only plan to use it for general sight-seeing then a lower cost model will do.
You should also consider extra features such as waterproofing and a shock resistant casing, as well as warranty information- especially when buying something of this nature. In short, each monocular has its advantages (and drawbacks) and it’s important that you know what your needs are before deciding which one is right for you.
However, you can opt for any one of the above six mentioned monocular. These are 6 of the best and most popular monocular on the market, simply choose the one that suits your needs. Be Safe And Happy Watching.!