To my knowledge the Field Tube is an updated version of the Zoom Tube with better waterproofing and some improved optics. Definitely reach out to NOCs for specifics on the optics though. Thanks for the comment!
I did some research on the 8x vs 10x because I was going back and forth on which to get. Here's what I found out from ChatGPT. 8x Magnification Pros: Wider field of view: Easier to locate and track moving objects, like wildlife or birds. Brighter image in low light: Allows for better visibility during dusk, dawn, or shaded environments. More stability: Less hand shake visible, making it easier to use without a tripod. Comfortable for long use: Great for general outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, or stargazing. Best for: Beginners, casual use, and activities where stability and ease of use are key. 10x Magnification Pros: Greater detail: Provides a closer view of distant objects, perfect for observing fine details. Better for long distances: Ideal for landscapes, star gazing, or wildlife in wide-open spaces. Cons: Narrower field of view: Harder to track moving objects. More visible hand shake: Requires a steady hand or a tripod for prolonged use. Slightly dimmer image: Less light gathers at higher magnifications, which can make images less bright in low light. Best for: Experienced users, specific long-distance viewing, or open landscapes. Which Should You Choose? 8x is better if you want versatility, comfort, and ease of use. 10x is great for advanced users who need the extra magnification and are comfortable dealing with the trade-offs. For most users, 8x is the sweet spot as it offers a balance between usability and performance, especially for handheld monoculars like the Nocs Zoom Tube or Field Tube. If you're planning to use the monocular for distant landscapes or more detailed observation, 10x could be worth considering.
I've been birding for almost 50 years now, and I just can't understand why anyone would use a monocular. They're really not that small, and you give up a ton of image quality. You can get decent compact binoculars from Nikon, Vortex, and others that will perform far better than any monocular, without taking up any more space. The Zeiss Terra might be another good mid-priced option. But if you want to shell out some money, my backpacking binoculars are Swarovski 8x25 CL Pockets. They cost me almost a grand, and they're worth every penny. If you're a birder or a hunter, want something lightweight and optics really matter to you, I don't think you can do any better.
![The Zoom Tube 8x32 Monoculars by Nocs Provisions [Review]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/TtP20wEC4ZI/mqdefault.jpg)
Crushed this one. Love the personality shining through! More please
Ayy thanks dude. Appreciate you 🤙
Thanks for the video! Can you explain the difference between this field tube and the zoom tube?
To my knowledge the Field Tube is an updated version of the Zoom Tube with better waterproofing and some improved optics. Definitely reach out to NOCs for specifics on the optics though.
Thanks for the comment!
Why did you choose a 10x vs 8x?
I just like to punch in a little more, especially living out west with the more vast landscapes. The 10x is nice for that.
I did some research on the 8x vs 10x because I was going back and forth on which to get. Here's what I found out from ChatGPT.
8x Magnification
Pros:
Wider field of view: Easier to locate and track moving objects, like wildlife or birds.
Brighter image in low light: Allows for better visibility during dusk, dawn, or shaded environments.
More stability: Less hand shake visible, making it easier to use without a tripod.
Comfortable for long use: Great for general outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, or stargazing.
Best for: Beginners, casual use, and activities where stability and ease of use are key.
10x Magnification
Pros:
Greater detail: Provides a closer view of distant objects, perfect for observing fine details.
Better for long distances: Ideal for landscapes, star gazing, or wildlife in wide-open spaces.
Cons:
Narrower field of view: Harder to track moving objects.
More visible hand shake: Requires a steady hand or a tripod for prolonged use.
Slightly dimmer image: Less light gathers at higher magnifications, which can make images less bright in low light.
Best for: Experienced users, specific long-distance viewing, or open landscapes.
Which Should You Choose?
8x is better if you want versatility, comfort, and ease of use.
10x is great for advanced users who need the extra magnification and are comfortable dealing with the trade-offs.
For most users, 8x is the sweet spot as it offers a balance between usability and performance, especially for handheld monoculars like the Nocs Zoom Tube or Field Tube. If you're planning to use the monocular for distant landscapes or more detailed observation, 10x could be worth considering.
I've been birding for almost 50 years now, and I just can't understand why anyone would use a monocular. They're really not that small, and you give up a ton of image quality. You can get decent compact binoculars from Nikon, Vortex, and others that will perform far better than any monocular, without taking up any more space. The Zeiss Terra might be another good mid-priced option. But if you want to shell out some money, my backpacking binoculars are Swarovski 8x25 CL Pockets. They cost me almost a grand, and they're worth every penny. If you're a birder or a hunter, want something lightweight and optics really matter to you, I don't think you can do any better.
Thanks for sharing your experience. I've heard good things about the Swarovski binoculars.