A monocular is just like any small telescope and smaller and lighter than the binoculars combining the same power.  Monoculars are used with one eye and they are more portable than binoculars because of their lightweight and smaller size.

These also can be used in various frames for hands free use. Use Close focus monoculars to see objects and reading materials such as street signs, and books.

If you’ve bought one of the best monoculars but do not know how to use it, keep reading the whole article. We are going to discuss the basics of using your monocular.

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How to Use a Monocular?

Looking Through the Monocular

Use your dominant eye. If you get impaired vision, it is important to use the eye with the best vision. This may be helpful even if you have normal vision. Hold the monocular up against this eye while using it. Make sure to hold the monocular with the hand on the same side as the dominant eye.

If you are not sure about your dominant eye, do several tests to find out.

Wear your glasses. If you wear glasses to see, you will want to wear them while using the monocular. Let the monocular press lightly against your glasses. You may want to fold down the rubber end to help aid your field of view.

If you have glasses, you may want to choose a monocular that provides at least 14mm of eye relief. It refers that you can hold the monocular at least 14mm away from your eye and still see through it.

The eye relief of your monocular will be clearly stated on the box of your monocular.

Hold the monocular parallel to your eye. Raise the monocular parallel to your eye while gripping the barrel close to the lens near your eye.

Without actually touching it the lens should be as close to the eye as possible. Close the other eye for maintaining focus, and steady the monocular by resting your forefinger against your brow.

Keep the arm still by keeping your elbow against your body.

• Hold your wrist with your other hand still to steady the monocular.

• Lay on your stomach and rest your elbow on the ground is another way to get a stable view. It provides a stable anchor for the lens.

• Never touch the scope lances.

Adjust the focus. Different types of monoculars have different adjusting ways. Some monoculars are adjusted with one finger rotating a ridged dial on it.

Others require both hands to use. Rotate the dial in the other direction, if the scene is becoming blurrier instead of clearer

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Eying the Target

Face the target. Before using the monocular, you should have to locate the object that you want to see. Position yourself by pointing your nose and toes towards the target.  Keep your eyes on this object before you raise the monocular that can help you locate it more easily once the monocular is on your eye.

If you lose sight of the object when you place the monocular to your eye, open your other eye to try to point the monocular in the right direction again.

Turn your head to track the target. If you are trying to observe a moving target, you will have to follow this target with your sight.

Turn your head slowly and follow it. If your target has moved a great distance, you may slowly move your body as well. The monocular shouldn’t move from your eye.

Refocus as targets move. When your target moves closer or farther away, you should have to focus the lens as you go.

This can keep the target clear in your view as it moves. Try to focus the lens as you move your head and body to follow the target.

Stay still. It is not wise to move with the monocular pressed against your eye.

Always turn your body to track a moving object. 

Securing your monocular

Use the strap. If your monocular comes with a strap, you should prevent your monocular from dropping and breaking by keeping it wrapped around your wrist or neck while using it.

 This is more important if you are using it while on a boat or around water. If it falls into the water, it will sink.

 

Keep your monocular dry. You can buy waterproof monoculars but they are often more expensive. Keep your monocular in a zipped freezer bag if it is not in use when you are on a boat or a kayak.

Ensure the bag is completely sealed and water will not get inside. You may even double-bag the monocular for even more protection.

 

Use the lens cap. If your monocular came with a lens cap, whenever you are not using the lens, make sure you have this in place. It will protect the lens from damage as well as from dust, water, and other debris.

 

Clean your monocular. If you notice blurred vision or specks obstructing your view, you should have to clean your monocular.

You can use an eyeglass wipe to clean the lens. Toilet paper, tissue, and window cleaners are too harsh for delicate lenses and may be responsible for scratches.

Using your t-shirt may leave streaks if your clothing is treated with fabric softener.

General tips and warnings for using monocular

• Do not walk, run, paddle, or drive while using the monocular.

• Do not touch the lens

• Do not look into the light

• Carry it carefully

• Store it to the right place

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Conclusion

Hopefully this article helped you learning how to use a monocular. If you want to use it on water, you’re recommended to buy a waterproof monocular.