An eye on monoculars

I've been trying out Monoculars - here's what I learned.
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[@dcflake5645]

Between no sense of smell and blind in one eye I think techmoan is trying to become a cyborg through 80s Japanese tech with these videos.

[@bethaltair812]

"sadly since the last video i've lost my voice, but luckily I was looking on my Japanese eBay and found every English phoneme recorded on to 2.5" inch vinyl records., let's see if we can get this wrist mounted record player working again"

[@HunterKiotori]

We can rebuild him

[@workonesabs]

Resistance is futile...

[@liquidsonly]

He'll never be as sexy as Noami Wu though.

[@eekee6034]

I clicked on this hoping it would be something like military HUDs. ;) But never mind Japanese tech, you could buy a speech synthesizer chip in 80s Britain -- retail! :) Maplin was pretty awesome in those days.

[@davidmoore5925]

As you were going on a cruise you could have worn a pirate eye patch and just got a telescope, yo ho ho me hearties.

[@grilnam9945]

I was thinking Captain Birdseye

[@SpeedLockedNZ]

With a Seeing eye parrot

​@@SpeedLockedNZ One squawk for left, two for right.

[@jochenstacker7448]

And an old Pirates of the Caribbean style telescope.

[@AndreaFrancoise]

Three for ABANDON SHIP....?

[@personstandingup]

Mr Techmoan, I used to watch your videos religiously when I was younger, and for some reason just stopped, this was about 6 years ago. I'm so excited to have found your channel again, looks like I have 6 years of videos to catch up on!

[@Techmoan]

Welcome back!

[@TimelessGamingUK]

I love the idea of a vicar looking out a church window and seeing a man sitting in a car with an assortment of telescopic equipment pointing straight at him and thinking he was the target of some sort of espionage plot.

[@PaulG.x]

The vicar , of course , would have to be a former intelligence agent with a very particular set of skills, skills he has acquired over a very long career. Skills that make him a nightmare for Mr Tech Moan.

[@7000fps]

FATHER BROWN !

[@drworm5007]

"Those disestablishmentarians; will they stop at nothing?"

[@FlyingShotsman]

...or PC Plod tapping his nightstick on the window and saying, "Right, sir, would you care to explain just exactly what you're up to 'ere?"

[@technoman9000]

@@7000fps More like Father Ted

[@JippaJ]

Dude, first the Smart car, then the Toyota IQ and now the Honda E. You have an incredible taste in cars, love it!

[@kash748]

Aaah,I wondered if it was the E or the new ny1,you seemed to have answered my question!

[@TechIOwn]

Yes was wondering whether it was the E, didn't he used to do his dashcam vids in a Mini? Probably when I discovered Techmoan.

[@gentle285]

Lovely colour on it too!

[@sporkafife]

The Honda E might not be the best option logically with it's low range and high price, but it honestly resonates with me emotionally in a way that "better value" cars don't. I think it's nailed on to become a classic in the future

[@Lumibear.]

Ah, and thus the weekend begins… That first one reminded me mostly of Star Wars and Luke’s desert binoculars.

[@Stoney3K]

I wouldn't be surprised if they used that as the actual movie prop.

[@Lumibear.]

@@Stoney3K me neither, they did do a lot of that, a few bits of lathed aluminium and a smattering of greeblies and tah-dah!

[@vhfgamer]

Hey Matt, sorry to hear about your eye issues. I know how you feel. Ever since I got an infection in my left eye, I've had all sorts of junk floating around in my vision. And it gave me astigmatism. I used to be able to use binoculars just fine, but not so much anymore. This was really helpful. Thanks for making a video about it.

[@eadweard.]

As of a week ago, I've had a grey smudge in the vision of my left eye. Still not sure what caused it.

[@vhfgamer]

@@eadweard. Go get checked out for glaucoma. Trust me, don't wait. Go now. If not glaucoma, you might have a detached retina.

[@kenmore01]

​@@eadweard. You should probably see an opthalmologist. I had something similar a decade and a half ago. Turns out I had hypertension and had a stroke in my eye. It could be serious.

[@ecopennylife]

​@@eadweard. Yeah, get it looked at, some eye conditions can be treated.

[@eadweard.]

@@vhfgamer Many thanks for the advice. I will do so.

[@ironspike171]

Biologist here: Binoculars and Monoculars in perticular are great „in the field/wild microscopes“. You just turn them around under look the other way through them. The specimen. e.g. your finger with a stuck thorn, has the be very! close to the lens (as close as you would be with your eye). Your eye has to be close to the front lens as well. The close the better. This goves you a handy 6x to 8x magnifying lens.

[@D19051996]

I just got a pair of binoculars to take with me on trail runs today and have had a lot of fun with your trick while I wait for the morning! I can't wait to try it out on some leaves and things, using them the 'wrong' way around sure is fun! Thanks again

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

You can put a monocular on a phone camera lence, I did it once and took a photo of a train about 5 miles away. Crazy.

[@Whigu]

I did that too before I bought better camera many many many years ago :-D That is called digiscoping

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

This was 17 years ago, it wasn't an amazing image it was a crapy Samsung, however I could see the train on the phone screen, that I could not see with My naked eye.

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

@@Whigu I learned something new today, digiscoping.

[@Whigu]

@@HOLLASOUNDS Yep =) I used it to take photos of the moon before I bought Canon 20D and some lenses. You could get so much better photos taking photos thru even cheap telescope than just with phone camera about the moon that time.

[@woldemunster9244]

Many "real" telescopes have accessory adapters for mounting many kind of cameras and electronic rotating "platforms" for timelapse photography or object tracking. Phone camera lenses have shallow focal point so they are most suitable for jerryriggin', just get it centered on anything that is meant for your eye to focus. It's illegal to to record what happens outside your apartment, but you can put any old android phone on the peeping-hole-thing to have a diy-doorbell camera over wifi. (I live in Finland, here at least it's illegal to record, maybe those dedicated video-doorbells can't record the feed)

[@Jehty_]

Oh wow. They are a lot more affordable than I had feared. I always want to carry binoculars when hiking, but I never do because they are so bulky. These look like the perfect solution.

[@fabiosemino2214]

I got a Venturer II for the same purpose, it's a very old but compact model, this monos are very interesting for the same purpose.

[@firstlast446]

You are paying like twice and much for half the equivalent quality lenses, but the compactness can be worth that much to some

[@brandonha]

Just letting you know the algorithm is working on this one. Was suggested to me despite not looking up anything really related to this, but i liked the content and subscribed. It is oddly very relevant to my needs.Thanks

[@masaharumorimoto4761]

We used small hand held monoculars in Sea Cadets on the rifle range to spot our own targets, then once we got a team going we had the Navy send us proper tripoded spotting monoculars.

[@evobatman]

Greetings from the coast of Norway! You didn't even tell us you were stopping by!

[@modularcarpet]

Always wanted to go to Norway - Beautiful country! I'd like to visit Tromsø as my favourite artist Biosphere comes from there and I want to see what inspires his music and to see the land of the midnight sun, since reading about it in a book as a child.

[@SierraLimaOscar]

I've owned the Minox one for more than 15 years now and it is always with me when I travel. I love the quality of the optics and the build quality. I agree that the focusing mechanism is super sensitive, but during the years I developed a grip and method that works and I barely notice it anymore. However a less sensitive method of focusing, would be better and it is it's biggest fault. After all these years and many trips in different suitcases and pockets the quality of the optics is still as the day I purchased it new in Frankfurt airport and I really appreciate that.

[@chillstar]

Seems like they should add a second, lower geared slider for fine-tuning the focusing.

[@Stoic_Lizard]

I was low-key obsessed with Monoculars as a kid/teenager. Yeah I recognized that regular binoculars were objectively better, but something about having a much more compact little thing to carry around with me meant I'd get much more use out of it than a big set of proper binoculars.

[@michaelfranciotti3900]

What's the benefits of binoculars over monoculars?

[@aiocafea]

@@michaelfranciotti3900 yeah as i think about the video i realise binoculars are kind of strange as an idea seeing as stereoscopic vision is less and less effective the further away you are from the subject if we're adding a whole another telescope for comfort that feels a bit funny in any case

[@michaelfranciotti3900]

@aiocafea I've felt the same way. You basically get the same magnification with half the size and weight. My question was sincere though. Maybe there's some kind of benefit to binos I'm missing?

[@aiocafea]

@@michaelfranciotti3900 from just a quick look on wikipedia, it seems like the sensation of depth thanks to stereoscopic vision is the main advantage, at least the only one listed ones using prisms are able to further separate the lenses of the binoculars, helping with perceiving things in 3d here i have to confess i haven't used binoculars much in my life, so i don't know how apparent the effect is, not to mention i've used a lot of cameras, so i've gotten used to seeing life through a single lens

[@erebostd]

I have a very similar „problem“ and love the Minox MD 7x42c - i would highly recommend it, because it’s not only a good magnification, it also has a markings to estimate the size of things (by triangulation) and a compass you can see while using it. Quite nifty! 😊

[@reidster87]

With 7x42, that would have a really nice field of view and good visibility in lower light! Sounds like it might be designed for marine use.

[@jjcoolaus]

I'm legally blind and before laptops and later smartphones come along, a monocular lens was how i viewer a presentation at school, university or work. First laptops bevoming common made it more acceptable for the PowerPoint slides to be shared with me, mostly. Even in 2024, printed copies of textbooks are some companies only form of copy protection which is just incredibke to me. Anyway, monocular lwnses were a big part of my life

[@RKingis]

You ever use Specwel monoculars? Getting a monocular in 7th grade was more of a curse than blessing, because I'm ADHD, but getting it forced me to sit, instead of walking up to the board.

[@MarioGoatse]

I’m illegally blind. Don’t tell anyone though

[@fizzy49cc]

Growing up with seafaring parents, binoculars were always a thing for holidays. So I bought a nice big marine spec binoculars but also got a compact set for the car glove box. They are good quality but not high magnification. BUT easy to grab & look at passing ships from the beach. So for me it was more of a easy access with reasonable magnification. Not something I had thought about but I ended up in a similar place to you. See you around (optical joke there).

[@user-rp8eh7gr5i]

Monoculars are so underrated. With the right advertising, these would sell much better than they do.

[@Ruinwyn]

Agreed. In most situations where people use small binoculars, monocular would work just as well or better. When I couch archery, I can literally keep one eye on the shooter and other on the target. And when I have multiple archers on multiple distances, I can easily scan their situation. So easy and fast to adjust.

[@stemdeckesupreme164]

You say that, but I bet similar things were said about spyglass telescopes by some guy right before he invented monoculars

[@futsuu]

The binoculars section of Japanese department stores are massive, and there are lots great binoculars still being made for the domestic market.

[@woldemunster9244]

JDM FTW BONSAI!

[@futsuu]

@@woldemunster9244 Bonsai is a tree, banzai is an exclamation. But if you like Japan I don't upload often, but my channel has some stuff. I have lived here for ten years. feel free to subscribe

[@Jhud69]

I kinda love how old tech still prevails in Japan. Even if its ridiculous sometimes (fax machines and floppy discs still being used in some companies…)

[@NiSE_Rafter]

@@Jhud69 Same. The mix of cutting edge tech and super basic simplicity both having presence has so much charm.

[@kaitlyn__L]

@@woldemunster9244that’d be banzai :) bonsai are the trees

[@SuperHyperExtra]

I just bought a Vortex Solo 8 x 36 today because of this video. Yes, because of YOU! Good quality, unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty. Minuses: close focus is not very good (16.4'), no lens caps. 200 CDN $.

[@LxRv]

I'm sure we've seen that Church before. Eventually it'll end up with a blue plaque, "Techmoan was here."

[@zebo-the-fat]

or "Techmoan was about 100 yards away in the car park"

[@TheShadow0515]

@@zebo-the-fatThat seems a little more realistic haha

[@abadenoughdude300]

"Church of Techmoan"

[@AttilaTheHun333333]

Saturday morning with Techmoan.

[@garryclelland4481]

All is well :)

[@uncled39]

I missed him not being here last week.

[@farhandoniepratama5813]

Nothing better. 🤝🏼

[@Konarcoffee]

its like saturday morning cartoons but for middle aged nerdy adults

[@NMN]

Saturday Moanin' 😅

[@MarioGoatse]

I wish you were my grandad lol. So many cool gadgets, very smart, loves to educate, and clearly a very nice bloke. Your own grandkids are very lucky!

[@dcpayne5264]

I’ve got a Leica monocular. It is incredible in terms of optics and build quality. I also have binoculars but I love my little mono!

[@Stuart_Cox1969]

9:52 Now thats a great shot, nice one.

[@ArtesianFalma]

That is the statue of Frithiof from Frithiof's Saga at Vangsnes.

[@Polychrome1201]

@@ArtesianFalma Why does the mountain behind it look like it's moving? I thought it was clouds at first, then when it zoomed out a little I thought it was water, then zoomed out further, I saw that it's a mountain and it wasn't moving at all. Very bizarre.

[@Gigawamanamacon]

@@Polychrome1201 It's the parallax effect. He's on a boat that's moving.

[@braddl9442]

I remember when I used to look in old catalogues in the late 80s as a kid and see things like this and wish I could afford them.

[@cleffei]

Things like this are why I love your diverse range of topics covered - I would wager a guess a lot of people have used a monocular in the past, letalone even know they exist and yet here you are bringing a quality conversation on such a device :)

[@RussellRadio]

Your point about sharing binoculars hit home for me. My girlfriend has a pretty strong prescription, and I don't wear any glasses at all. Any time we use the binoculars, it's a dance of adjusting things before the squirrel runs away haha.

[@Dukefazon]

I just want to say that your 2 Densha de Go! videos turned me into a Densha de Go! and Japanese train fan in general! :D

[@brucemacdonald876]

As a long-standing binocular user, I'd say "Six by Fifteen". Those Olympus bins are beautiful, BTW. General advice: avoid zoom binoculars if possible; they are usually crap. Stick with fixed-magnification binos or monoculars. Most people have trouble hand-holding optics with 10x magnification or higher, so for casual viewing of landscapes or at gigs, 6x to 8x is fine. The Nikon HG range stands for "High Grade" so they would be better quality than bog-standard optics. Like most things, you get what you pay for with optics to a certain point so avoid ten-quid binoculars and go for something in the low hundreds; you will appreciate the extra expense.

[@IndigoDavei]

Thanks for this. I never knew I needed a monocular, but you may have convinced me otherwise! I do have an inherited pair of binoculars (of early '70s Soviet Russian manufacture). The optics aren't the best - the image is reasonably sharp, but the geometry seems a bit weird. To be honest, they're pretty much good enough for me. The big problem with them is I forget I've got them, and so they hardly ever leave the home. They're also a bit heavy to carry around and a bit bulky, although in fairness, hardly massive - but, if you're also carrying around a DSLR, another lens and other bits and pieces too... Something more compact, with a zoom function, and producing a sharp image (with good geometry!) suddenly seems very desirable!

[@trainsarecool190]

I found a pair of soviet binoculars in an antique store once, most beautiful glass I’ve ever looked through.

[@woldemunster9244]

Do you have a geiger counter? ;:D Please test before prolonged use. :D

[@markjames8664]

In Soviet Russia, binoculars zoom in on you!

[@bewilderbeestie]

My father's a monocular fan and has at least one Communist-era East German one. Superb glass and build quality, although not coated, of course.

[@paulmurgatroyd6372]

I have a small soviet monocular, it has two prisms and folds at 45 degrees to show the image correctly.

[@jcollins1305]

@markjames8664 😂😂😂😂🙌🏻

[@philipkern6774]

The very last model with Matt pointing directly at the camera reminded me of the kids show “Romper Room” when I was very young. I could almost hear Matt saying “Romper, bomper, stomper do, tell me, tell me, tell me true…” 😊

[@mikemike0000]

My years old Pixel 7 Pro telephone has a digital "30x zoom" feature that absolutely floored me when i got to testing it out. Apples to oranges against a dedicated camera/optic, but impressive none the less! Just found your channel and truly enjoy your take on things. New sub! Be well!!

[@mackpines]

Ah, so that’s where you were last week. What a gorgeous place Norway is. Definitely gotta visit in my lifetime.

[@mavfan1]

Good idea, you can’t visit outside of your lifetime.

[@perrybarton]

@@mavfan1Or can you? 🤔

[@markfergerson2145]

I’ve been looking at getting one of these since I went blind in my left eye (failed detached retina surgery). I’m not a fan of electronic zoom either, or of having to recharge an optical device. However being able to take images and videos is for me a definite plus. I haven’t made a choice yet but you’ve helped me refine my criteria.

[@woldemunster9244]

Im 85% certain that you can use your phone camera just by putting it against the ocular(?). :D

[@SocialRobot]

As an amateur birdwatcher I picked up the Vortex Solo 8x36, it’s bulkier than the monoculars you reviewed but still very portable and a much wider field of view, I often grab these instead of my binoculars on walks. Great video!

[@benj1008]

I can see the appeal. Binocular vision does give you extra resolution though. The shaking of your hands undoes a lot of that again. I've been eyeing some stabilised Canon binoculars for this reason.

[@colin-halter]

I'm prepping for a backpacking trip and was just thinking how nice it would be to have a really nice monocular. Like always, your timing is impeccable.

[@bardo0007]

I own an Olympus ultrazoom camera since 2013 , 50x optical zoom lens, 24-1200mm equivalent. it's quite big in size to carry around. But it really works well for zoom pictures and even video. This model was ahead of it's time. Stylus SP-100EE.

[@storungz]

Omg I bought that cheap Carson too! I bought it to see if I actually liked using a monocular, which I do! There are actually two different models I am debating between: the Steiner 8x22 Miniscope and the Pentax VM 6x21 WP Monocular PREMIUM KIT which comes with a really cool macro attachment that you can connect your phone to for picture taking; something I would love to have as I do have a fascination with spiders and am always playing with them and looking at them via a loop.

[@seanrm]

Did you decide? I have the VM 6x21 WP (without the macro). It's a lovely little device (and about half the price of the Nikon HG 7×15D here in Japan) and would recommend it to anyone looking for a quality monocular.

[@sdrape4964]

I looked closely at the title, and now I see where you're going with this. 😀😀😀

[@tombundgaard]

Just bought a Nikon because of your review. Was looking for something small and handy for bird watching in the garden. Thanks

[@sambrown9494]

Just a shout out to the waves on the telly behind you. I know it's only a background thing but the effort (filming, playing back, potentially looping like the opening of an episode of Taxi etc) is appreciated. :) Nice video! Thx.

[@chillstar]

It's a wake.

[@Tactical_Hotdog]

Pining for the fjords?

[@fableagain]

Let's hope not!

[@herbcraven7146]

😂

[@myoldmate]

Hail fellow Python fan 😊

[@iandennis7836]

"Beautiful plumage the Norwegian Blue"......"😂

[@myleft9397]

He's going to party like it's 1999. I always have a lot of trouble using binoculars. Maybe I'll try a monocular

[@redpillnibbler4423]

Think about a larger monocular.I have the Viking Cygnus 8x42 ED which is excellent,they also do a 10x42 ED. A larger monocular will generally out perform a ‘pocket’ one of similar price/range.

[@Falungongshow]

I hadn't thought about using a monocular for everyday events and now I wish I had one when I was traveling! I might look into getting one now to go along with my birding binoculars.

[@rawpraisehorn]

I also cannot take advantage of binoculars because of a similar vision situation so I have used monoculars . Having had many models I have come to the conclusion that once in a while an inexpensive one ( $5 to $25 ) can actually be quite good , or not , just kind of the luck of the draw . 3 1/2 years ago I decided to move up what I was willing to pay and spent a whopping $129 on a VORTEX SOLO 10 x 36 MONOCULAR. My word the clarity is totally amazing , beyond what I thought was possible. I live in an area that has vast wheat fields interrupted by wild areas of interesting coulees ( a type of canyon ) , scablands ( kind of like cowboy movie terrain ) . High cliffs , lakes , and wildlife as well . Plus I like to explore , so lots to see . The first day I got it was looking down on a valley of mostly sagebrush , saw three different groups of deer where without it I didn’t see any. One day while scanning around with it I picked up some cattle , it turned out they were actually (without the monocular) so far away they looked like boulders or small bushes off in the distance . Tracking an eagle that started close to me, I was by its nest , after awhile I put down the monocular and could not believe how far away it had flown while I was still watching it clearly and easily .

[@bjornkeizers]

Aw man, those vintage Olympus binos look seeeeexy! Nice to see that you appreciate a nice bit of optics as well. I actually replaced my old bulky Nikon 7X50's with Zeiss Conquest HD 8X32's earlier this year. Binos really are a 'you get what you pay for' product in that good glass isn't cheap.

[@davidoshaughnessy493]

Something I have wanted for a long time . I really enjoyed your video . Thanks. long time viewer , first time commenter .

[@lisocampos8080]

Thank you so much for this video. I have a very dear friend that is blind in one eye and I've been wanting to get him something for his working eye. This will make him cry tears of joy!

[@jacobb6871]

Maybe its not as rare a combination as I am imagining, but I am actually ALSO about 80% blind in my right eye (since birth) and obsessed with old tech/Sony/Japanese consumer electronics since forever! lol Kindred spirits ;) Been watching you a long time so I felt oddly "seen" for a moment just now. Cheers :)

[@FixitAde]

Never miss a video made by Matt

[@caddelworth]

18:01 Interesting that Nikon made a single manual to cover all three monocular models, including the "metallic" one Mat featured for most of this video!

[@cocotoni1977]

I have myself a Minox 8x25 for years, and while it's a bulkier affair than that pocket Minox, extra brightness from 25mm optic does wonders. Also that one has closes focus at a foot or so, I use it as a magnifier sometimes when I need to read small text.

[@ME-ci8zi]

I remember being impressed with what might've been the same model Eschenbach monocular I handled in a pawn shop that was with the golf equipment.

[@seymourclearly]

I have a little eschenbach monocular as well, great piece of kit

[@effess8698]

I like the slightly retro styling of the Minox one. It looks like something a secret agent from the 1960s would use, like the man from UNCLE or The Saint or Danger Man. I can imagine using it to spy on a top secret nuclear installation or something.

[@tissuepaper9962]

You're not far off. One of Minox's most famous products is an ultra compact subminiature film camera that was almost certainly used for Cold War espionage at some point.

[@artphotodude]

Another place to look for good quality Monoculars is in the Golf world. Lots of good quality spotting scopes for locating a golf ball or watching them fly are available.

[@patrickpaganini]

I like the six million dollar man references, especially in the last few seconds after the credits!

[@user-uz1yv2oc9v]

I have the nikon 7x15 and the 5x15. Both are pinsharp. great for all sorts of things, reading far away signs, licence plates, baseball game or concert. easy to carry unlike binoculars.

[@PC49_lives]

Re: Your mention of Sony cameras. I have had a Sony DSC HX60 for about 9 years. The 30 x optical zoom is very useful. Use it every week for close up macro photos and sometimes take photos of a full moon or birds of prey circling high up over head. It's still available, although it costs a lot more than it did 9 years ago! Doesn't have the flip up/out screen though.

[@njharper1983]

Please do a video about the Honda E 😊

[@SBBUK]

I was thinking that watching this - would love a review of this car or his experience of EVs in general really. It's a gorgeous thing and an absolute crime it got discontinued, the WLTP wasn't great but I dont understand why they couldn't keep the amazing design and upgrade the guts

[@raiftadehara9218]

As a person will only one working eye a video about monocular is awesome seeing something besides the the minox spy camera is just a bonus thank you for the upload

[@jonyellis]

I have a Minnox almost the same as the one you have here, except mine features a digital display with timers as well as a barometer (weirdly), which I find pretty cool. With respect to your comments on the sensitivity of the focus slider, I find it much easier to use with my thumb while holding it upside down.

[@Lachlant1984]

I've been a monocular user for a long time, maybe 31 years or so. As I'm legally blind I would use one in school and I used to use one when out and about. I got a new one a few years ago, but I can't remember the brand or the specifications. These days I use my iPhone as a video magnifier, however, the monocular would be useful in situations where I'm in bright sunshine where daylight might swamp my iPhone's screen, also, the camera's automatic exposure may cause trouble too.

[@OhioPeteS2k]

I’m a bit jealous that you have a Honda E. Can’t get them in America and was just talking to a friend that works for Honda about them.

[@reidster87]

I've not tried the Minox, but I used to sell other brands. Olympus had one with a similar form and focusing slider. The standout for me was from Pentax: Their 6x21 WP monocular. While it's larger than the other models you tried, I find the superior field of view worth the extra size. For viewing under lower light conditions, the exit pupil size becomes more important. Take the objective diameter and divide it by the magnification power. 21mm/6 gives a 3.5mm image. If your pupil dilates more than what this dimension can cover, it becomes difficult to see anything through the optic. The Nikon 6x15 and 7x15 have exit pupils of 2.5 and 2.1mm, respectively. A larger objective diameter at a given power also yields a greater field of view, significantly reducing the perception of shake.

[@zakofrx]

The Pentax one is great.. Love the field microscope adapter..

[@reidster87]

@@zakofrx Yeah that was super fun to try out!

[@baileysbritain]

Fantastic I always look forward to your videos coming out, love your 80s and 90s hifi tech vids the most, but all are good and very interesting.. 👍👍

[@tdata545]

Binoculars are where I learned I had an astigmatism, or an eye problem which wouldn't go named for another 5 or 6 years, but I always remember being frustrated with them always being out of focus for me, and not realizing that my eyes were at different focal levels. Which is common for most, but to a nominal degree. Also explains my double vision while reading. Double letters tend to become triple, and nothing more annoying than San Sarif fonts who treat "I" and "'l" (that's a lower case "L" for the second one), and then being from a state that really messes with one's astigmatism; "Illinois". REALLY? REALLY? Had to be adopted by a US couple from a state that wreaks havoc on my astigmatism. I'm from Romania, originally.

[@veneration1]

"It can record video but it is only 1080p HD, better than nothing though I suppose" People watching from 10 years ago = WHAT ?????

[@taffeylewis]

It's worth checking out Hawke. A british company. I've got some of their binoculars, and I'm very impressed with the optics. They do monoculars as well, but much cheaper that the big names.

[@SaibaKeiosu]

I've been looking for that Minox for the last 15 years. Monocular used by Jack O'Neill in Stargate SG1 Damn, you sure lucky

[@The_AntiVillain]

prefer monoculars, binoculars give me a headache

[@cjh0751]

Seems like Matt is "Pining for the fjords” and needs a monocular.😂

[@Shishou_Shi]

I have an old 7x50 Monocular and it's been pretty great. I actually prefer it over binoculars for size and less adjustments and at a distance you won't be able to discern 3D anyway so two eyes are really not needed.

[@scottschoen3362]

When I buy a binocular I purchase one with independent focus eyepieces. If I knock it out of align I cut it in half to get 2 monoculars. At thrift stores out of alignment binoculars are readily found. Cut apart so the focusing mechanism is included on the side you want to save. It's one handed focusing. For manufactured monoculars I carry a small Jizmo 8x25mm. Supeer close focusing, sharp and gathers enough light to be bright. For more adventurous, extended trips I use a 8-24X42mm, focuses to 5ft.

[@ellipticalsoul]

it's a sad state of affairs when you know a product is about to be discontinued because it's built to a very high standard and intended to last a long time

[@RandomJunk99]

Vortex make some nice monoculars

[@jlars972]

Big 10-4 on that. I've had an 8x going on 10 years now. Huge objective, graduated reticle for optically estimating distances tough as nails, waterproof AND a lifetime warranty. I'd replace it with the same if I ever had to.

[@brennyn]

Love my Vortex 8x25. Really nicely built for the price point and doesn't fog up when I go out into really cold weather like other brands I've tried.

[@ndaniel80]

Owning older but similarly looking and working FullHD Sony HX-80 - fully agree with its purpose of pocket zoom device with electronic view finder which is very handy.

[@Fl0xtpvnk]

I was born way after the 80s but I'm pretty sure my parents gave me a pair of opera glass type binoculars, cool seeing those again

[@gerrys1]

On the topic have a pair of Casio binoculars with real time image stabilisation. So any natural movements are smoothed out. It's a pretty incredible game changing product Edit: Canon, not Casio

[@johnrobinson4445]

Casio? Canon?

[@gerrys1]

@@johnrobinson4445 My Apologies, yes Cannon! Stupid brain. Canon 12x36 IS III Image Stabilised Binoculars - ~ £800

[@gerrys1]

@@johnrobinson4445 yes apologies. Cannon!

[@Mr35000000]

Had 3 pairs of Canon IS binoculars... Currently have the 14x32, they are not as bulky as the older 15x I had and the image along with the stabilisation are amazing.

[@woldemunster9244]

@@gerrys1 Cannon? Are you sure?

[@obroni]

This just in: Local man arrested in lay-by with copious amounts of surveillance equipment. He claims he is a "KZbinr". Police say their investigation is continuing.

[@prestonrenify]

Howdy, old friend. Glad to see you still share very thorough posts. Always enjoy them. Fingerprints on the Minox's lens see easy to create. I like the last one you mentioned. Regards...

[@jcollins1305]

Another fascinating video on stuff I never knew I needed!

[@am4793]

In America sitting in a car with cameras and monoculars will attract the police, they will ask for your drivers license and insurance details. Then they'll ask to search your car, but you refuse, then they detain you for a sniffer dog to arrive. The dog fails to detect anything until the dog officer orders it to make a signal, you challenge them, they demand you exit the car, you refuse and get tazed, you are rendered unconscious then dragged out. While unconscious, the cops order you to turn over but you can't because you are unconscious. While unconscious the cops will shout at you to not reach for their guns then shoot you dead.

[@Mistahhuntah]

The really sad thing is you aren't far off.

[@Elberto71]

If you are black, skip steps 1-6 😂

[@ivac9075]

Yeah "bird" watching.

[@PhillipBell]

He is on the right track. Compact digital camera with mega zoom. Same price, better zoom, high quality video and photos. There is really no niche for monoculars with great compact cameras.

[@TrailBlazer5280]

A monocular is definitely more convenient in many ways, I love how small they can be for a hike or to always keep in a bag. I keep a very cheap monocular in my backpack from Wish and I regularly pull it out on a hike to scope the side of a mountain or enjoy the views. Its a little odd looking for long periods with only one eye, like looking through a camera, which is why I would love to get some proper binoculars OR a larger monocular I can mount to a tripod for easier viewing. BUT if the price is right these are great items

[@SkiBumMSP]

Nice. I have a set of Nikon field glasses that I've had for nearly 25 years that I use on the ski slopes. Being ski patrol, it is handy to be able to look down or up the mountain and see what is going on at times. I paid something l like $80 for that thing at the time. I'll have to dig it out as I cannot remember off hand what the zoom/power/size rating on that. It does have very nice optics, though.

[@ricjona1069]

I discovered the benefits of monoculars while in the service. Using night vision (starlight scopes), spotting scopes, and, of course, rifle scopes, I found them easier to use and more convenient. I've picked up binoculars along the way but keep going back to monoculars or scopes because of their simplicity and ease of use.

[@fargosnow994]

I used a monocular for years at work to read gages that I would have otherwise had to climb up to on a free standing 6 meter ladder to read. I couldn’t find it after I retired, so I had gone to a small set of binoculars made for visiting museums, the Pentax Papilio. They are amazing They focus from about 40 cm to about 2 kilometers. I used them on a recent trip to Italy, not caring if I looked strange studying small objects with what looked like just a pair of binoculars.

[@JimoftheSlim]

As long as you're getting a monocular, you might as well go for the fun factor and buy, if available in the UK, a Vortex, SIG Optics, or Swarovski laser rangefinder. The power you feel from looking at things far away and thinking "gee I wonder how far that is" and then immediately knowing that answer *rules*.

[@NineHellHeaven]

I have a Noblex 8x21 folding monocular. While watching this video, I expected it to be one of those tested. If you do another monocular video, I suggest you check it out. Because it folds and uses mirrors, it is incredibly compact and the optics are good.

[@MrSaNF]

The Turmon 8x21 is what my parents have been and are still bringing on hikes. I bought a slighty newer version of the system, Eschenbach 8x21. Both are 90° foldable monoculars, docter also made one some years ago.

[@sakthivelb5062]

Reading these comments makes my heart happy. Thank you all!

[@Fluteboy]

Whenever I see a monocular, it is usually in one of those suspect catalogues, alongside things like the Vivitar digital camera, the 6-in-1 "heritage" audio system with Skywin record player, the "super-bright law enforcement approved" hand held torch, and the battery charger that claims to be able to charge standard alkaline batteries.

[@swnorcraft7971]

Just an observation: A binocular is a one piece unit that features a lense assembly for each eye. Therefore a "pair" of binoculars implies the aforementioned apparatus to equip 2 people with a distance viewing glass. When I grab my binocular and a friend grabs a binocular to join me in distance viewing, he now has one of a pair and I have the other of that pair. The word "binocular" says "bi" or two monuculars mounted to a common frame for viewing with both eyes. Monoculars are quite handy being that they are naturally more compact and you only need focus for one eye instead of two.

[@eekee6034]

0:31 Ooh! I remember those Olympus binoculars. Their sleek minimalist design was amazing to my young mind. :) The binoculars I knew were all form over function and the function of binoculars made the form very old-fashioned to a kid born in the mid-70s. The Olympus binoculars couldn't have been more radical and futuristic. The Minox looks pretty cool too, but I would almost never be able to focus it. I'd have to be at my best, which is rare, and trying so very hard, I'd be worn out in a couple of minutes. I'd like the Nikon, and could use its magnifier too.

[@ozpain1]

Wow I remember my grandfather had those Olympus binoculars in the 80s. They were fun to use!

[@Alleroc]

My dad uses a monocular when golfing to see down the course. It's pretty neat.