Binoculars For Deer
It has been my observation over the years that many hunters fail to take advantage of a wide selection of tools that can be used for hunting. An example of this is the use of binoculars for deer hunting. We have all seen those so called professional hunting programs that show the hunter taking out a pair of compact binoculars and glassing around in search of that monster buck.
But how many hunters actually use this technique. Most of the hunters that I have made contact with over the years don’t. They may have a pair of binoculars that stay inside a case for years without use. In talking with them, in many cases they don’t have an answer as to why they’re not used. Its just not part of their equipment list.
I started using binoculars many years ago before the compact versions were a hot commodity. Although I do now possess a compact pair. Although I spend plenty of time in a stand, a majority of the deer that I take each year is from the ground. I enjoy still hunting or stalking as some folks call it. So it is important to me to make sure the binoculars are in the backpack.
The prices on binoculars can vary depending on manufacturer and field of view. The reality is that you can get a nice pair for around a hundred dollars that will be more than adequate for the average deer hunting set up. Most compact versions are suitable out to about one hundred yards. Larger more open areas will need the full sized longer ranged versions. In either case, make sure they are waterproof.
The use of binoculars is relatively simple by following the manufacturers directions. Just adjust them to your face and eyesight and you’re good to go. Any other adjustments that need to be made in the field are easy as well.
While deer hunting, whether on stand or on the ground, a good approach for using binoculars is to break the area to be glassed down to small sections. Thoroughly glass each section slowly. I generally start my glassing up close about twenty five yards or so and slowly move out further as far as I can see. I then move over slightly to the right, overlapping my previous field of view and repeat, and repeat the process until each section is covered.
Make sure to identify any objects that may resemble deer before continuing. Look for antlers, tails, white hairs, ears, as well as the whole deer. Pay extra attention to clumps that may be bedded deer. Also look for any horizontal movements across the vertical terrain. When you are satisfied, move on to another section.
It is also a good idea to give yourself breaks from extended binocular use. I normally glass for a minute or so and then watch with the naked eye for a few minutes. This will help reduce eye fatigue. Once I have completed all sections, after a brief break, I start again.
I have had good success with the use of binoculars while deer hunting. I have been able to locate many deer that I never knew were nearby. This early detection tool has provided a great advantage on many occasions. So if you haven’t added the binoculars to your accessory list yet, maybe you should give them a try.
As always be safe and good luck.
