Not all binocular tripods come with a mount when you buy them. Binocular mounts are important to ensure the binoculars are securely attached to tripods. If you plan on observing a still view for a long period of time, this one will be helpful to you. But not every mount will fit into every pair of binoculars. There can be situations where you are limited with the use of binoculars to view objects from a moving car.
Whether you are surveying a piece of land or making a trip to the safari, you should manage to set up your binoculars in places that will allow you to get an excellent view. Window mounts come in handy in these particular cases. In viewing the night sky, users should use mirror mounts to avoid body strains. Choosing the right type of mount primarily depends on the activity you usually engage in.
BRACKET MOUNT
A tripod screw socket allows users to conveniently attach binoculars to a tripod with the use of a mount. The plate of a mount has screws which attaches themselves into the tripod, keeping the binoculars fastened and steady. Located at the top of the mount is a screw which is joined to the binoculars through the tripod screw socket. Tightened with a large knob, this screw secures the binoculars in place. Majority of bracket tripods would fit onto most tripods and binoculars, even so, before purchasing, make sure that the mount is compatible with your brand of binoculars and tripod. Bracket mounts are regularly priced at $20 to $25.
There are some mounts by optics companies specially made to fit their own brand. An example is the Swarovski Tripod Adapter. It has the same functions of a regular bracket mount, except that it only fits with EL binoculars (42mm). If the brand concerns you, then these brand-specific mounts are for you.
WINDOW MOUNT
Window mounts have plates found on their tops, here you can attach an adapter to hold binoculars. Located at the bottom is an adjustable clamp which can be used to attach the mount to window sills, car windows, railings, and any other narrow surface that will fit between the clamp. The top of the mount can be easily turned so to follow objects moving.
MIRROR MOUNT
An excellent view of the night sky is a pleasurable sight. But astronomical binoculars can be very heavy and big. Carrying them with you arms for a long period of time can become pretty exhausting, and there’s a risk of straining your neck due to the tilted-back viewing. Worry no more because mirror mounts have the answers for a more enjoyable viewing experience. They have a mirrored panel on one end and the standard bracket mount on the other. It uses a 45° angle on the mirror, allowing users to view images by looking down into it. It can be tilted by controlling the lever at the base of the mount. The binoculars are held by the tripod, so you arms are not prone to fatigue. Also, by looking downwards instead of looking up, the neck experiences less stress and therefore, straining is avoided. Their price ranges from $150 to $250.
PARALLELOGRAM MOUNT
This mount offers easier viewing of objects whether the viewer is seated or standing. Parallelogram mount is also meant to carry large binoculars. They are attached to the center of the tripod, and swivel from that spot. The binoculars are attached to an end of the mount with a bracket, and for binoculars which have vertical mounting posts, a screw is used. There is also a counterweight at the other end of the mount. Users should secure that there is enough weight on the front end of the mount which can counter the binoculars’ weight, preventing the whole system from tipping over. You can view things while seated provided that you adjust the tilt of the assembly arm. There’s a little risk of suffering from muscle strains as users are no longer required to hold up bulky and overweight binoculars. These mounts cost around $200 to $600.
UNIVERSAL MOUNT
Universal mounts are the most “binocular-friendly”. They are built to accommodate every brand, type and size of binoculars available. A fabric cradle having adjustable Velcro straps is located at the top of the mount, making it possible to carry various models of binoculars. Still, it is always recommended to check measurements of the binoculars before purchasing a tripod mount. You can get a very good deal as low as $40.
