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Product FAQ's
Q:What does 8x42 mean?
A:The first number is always going to be the magnification. This will tell you how close the image will appear when viewing thru the binocular (e.g. 8 times closer). The second number is the diameter of the objective lens in millimeters (mm)
Q:What is the best way to keep my scope lenses clean?
A:With proper care, your scope should last you a lifetime. When cleaning the lenses, reasonable precautions are necessary. Dry dirt and dust can be removed by air blast or with a soft brush. Fingerprints and lubricants can be wiped off with an eyeglass tissue or a cotton swab and a mild soap solution. Use the lens covers supplied with your scope whenever convenient.
Q:Is it safe to store my mounted scope in my vehicle?
A:As convenient as vehicle storage may be, it can also be detrimental to your scope. Closed vehicles retain very high levels of heat. This intense heat could adversely affect the lubricants and sealants in your scope. Another danger comes from the constant vibration of a traveling vehicle as it can loosen your mounts and affect the zero point of your rifle.
Q:Do you have any other simple tips that I can use to improve my odds?
A:The following tips can help even the best hunters odds.
- A variable power scope should be set to its lowest power for fast target acquisition. High powers should be reserved for long range, controlled shots.
- Lens caps provide good protection in foul weather by should be removed when stalking or still shooting to save time in snap shooting situations. Take off transparent or tinted covers to avoid image distortion. Bushnell optics are recessed to avoid lens - Using a Bushnell Bore Sighter is recommended after any fall or mishap to assure the zero point of your rifle.
- A variable power scope should be set to its lowest power for fast target acquisition. High powers should be reserved for long range, controlled shots.
- Lens caps provide good protection in foul weather by should be removed when stalking or still shooting to save time in snap shooting situations. Take off transparent or tinted covers to avoid image distortion. Bushnell optics are recessed to avoid lens - Using a Bushnell Bore Sighter is recommended after any fall or mishap to assure the zero point of your rifle.
Q:I cannot see as well through one eye as the other when looking through my binoculars.
A:Individual eye strengths vary as do fingerprints. Please refer to the instructions below:
1. Adjust the interpupillary distance, using the binocular’s hinge, until you see a single circular image.
2. Set the 'diopter setting' (normally on the right lens eyepiece) to zero and view a distant object.
3. Keep both eyes open at all times.
4. Using a lens cover or your hand, cover the objective (front) lens of the side with the diopter setting ring.
5. Using the focus adjustment, focus on the distant object being viewed.
6. Cover the other objective lens, then view the same object as above.
7. Turn the diopter setting adjustment ring, until the distant object appears in sharp focus.
8. Your binocular should now be adjusted for your eyes. Make a note of the diopter setting for future use.
- Notes: Zoom Binoculars should be set to their highest power first, then follow the instructions above.
Q:I see two 'tunnels' when using my binoculars, is this normal?
A:No. The distance between the eyes, called 'interpupillary distance' (IPD), varies from person to person and your binocular must be adjusted accordingly.
1. Hold your binoculars in the normal viewing position.
2. Grasp each barrel firmly. Move the barrels closer together of or further apart until you see a single circular field. Always re-set your binoculars to this position before using.
Q:What is the best way to care for and clean my binoculars?
A:When handled with care, your binoculars will provide years of trouble free service. Like any precision instrument, your binocular should be given reasonable protection.
1. If your binoculars feature rubber "fold-down" eyecups, store them with the eyecups up. This avoids excessive stress and wear placed on the rubber eyecups in the down position. Twist-up and pop-up eyecups can be stored in either position.
2. Avoid banging and dropping.
3. Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing in your vehicle as temperature fluctuations and prolonged vibration can damage any optical instrument.
4. Never look directly at the sun with your binocular. Even a brief exposure can cause permanent damage.
5. Keep your lenses clean with the following instructions.
- Blow away any dust or debris on the lens (or use a soft lens brush).
- Remove dirt or fingerprints with a soft cotton cloth by rubbing in a circular motion.
Using a coarse cloth or unnecessary rubbing may scratch the lens surface causing permanent damage.
6. For a more thorough cleaning, you may use photographic quality lens tissue and cleaner. Always apply the fluid to the paper or the cloth, not directly on the lens. The new microfiber cleaning cloths and "lens pens" are also highly recommended. They do not require cleaning fluid.
Q:I am an eyeglass wearer, how can I see better through my binoculars?
A:Most Simmons binoculars are fitted with rubber eyecups that can be 'rolled down' to permit viewing the entire image with glasses.
Q:What does close focus mean?
A:It is the minimum distance an object must be for it to be brought into focus.
Q:I am having difficulty seeing through my scope, all images seem blurry. How can I properly focus my scope?
A:Your riflescope needs to be focused only once-for YOUR eyes. If another shooter uses your scope, it must be refocused for their eyes. The following steps will assist in proper focusing of your riflescope with a traditional style focus ring. If you have a scope with a fast focus eyepiece, skip steps 1, 2 and 9.
1. Grasp the knurled eyepiece lock ring and loosen by turning the eyepiece counter clockwise.
2. Turn the lock ring clockwise about five turns.
3. Look through the scope at a bright background such as the sky or a well lighted wall. (Never look at the sun!) Focusing is easier with the scope mounted on a rifle or some firm object.
4. Turn the eyepiece, counter clockwise, until the reticle appears slightly blurred.
5. Turn the eyepiece, clockwise, until the reticle comes into focus.
6. Look away from the scope for a few seconds. Then look back quickly through the scope. If the reticle appears sharp and clear the instant you place your eye to the scope, the focus has been properly set for your eyes. Try this several times. 7. If the reticle appears fuzzy, or requires a little time to come into sharp focus, further adjustment is needed. Turn the eyepiece clockwise another full turn and repeat STEP 8.
8. Keep doing this until the reticle is sharp the instant you put your eye to the scope.
9. When satisfied with your focus, tighten the lock ring against the eyepiece firmly.
1. Grasp the knurled eyepiece lock ring and loosen by turning the eyepiece counter clockwise.
2. Turn the lock ring clockwise about five turns.
3. Look through the scope at a bright background such as the sky or a well lighted wall. (Never look at the sun!) Focusing is easier with the scope mounted on a rifle or some firm object.
4. Turn the eyepiece, counter clockwise, until the reticle appears slightly blurred.
5. Turn the eyepiece, clockwise, until the reticle comes into focus.
6. Look away from the scope for a few seconds. Then look back quickly through the scope. If the reticle appears sharp and clear the instant you place your eye to the scope, the focus has been properly set for your eyes. Try this several times. 7. If the reticle appears fuzzy, or requires a little time to come into sharp focus, further adjustment is needed. Turn the eyepiece clockwise another full turn and repeat STEP 8.
8. Keep doing this until the reticle is sharp the instant you put your eye to the scope.
9. When satisfied with your focus, tighten the lock ring against the eyepiece firmly.
