We’re always being told that certain hunting items will make us better hunters; that we’ll kill bigger animals if we use a certain product. This product is one that has literally changed the method and duration of my glassing sessions. Introducing the binocular  tripod adapter. There are several companies making these small devices. My product recommendations will be listed at the end of this article (click here to jump right to them).

The bino adapter simply allows your binoculars to be mounted securely on a tripod. It’s popular among hunters to use oversized binoculars, with magnifications of 15x or 20x with 56mm objectives and larger. In order to effectively use these larger binoculars, you need to set them on a tripod, or a rest of some kind. These high magnification binoculars are awesome. They reduce eye strain, allow you to keep both eyes open, and stay behind the glass for longer periods vs. using a traditional spotting scope. However, you don’t need a pair of high magnification binoculars to reap the benefits of a tripod mount.

A few years ago, I started mounting my Vortex Viper 10x50s on a tripod and have been very impressed with the results. I didn’t realize how shaky I was. Even if I was leaning up against a tree, or sitting with my elbows propped up on my knees, I still shake and move. Setting these binos on the tripod quiets everything down. Movement is much more easily detected, and I was able to trophy judge animals much more effectively because I removed all of my movement from the equation. I also was a much more thorough glasser. If I got tired of looking through the glass, my binos stayed in that spot while I pulled my face away from the lens and took a little break. When I was ready to glass again, I was able to start from where I left off, and not miss an inch of the country I wanted to cover with the glass.

Do yourself a favor this season and pick up a bino adapter. You’ll be able to stay behind the glass longer, and in turn, turn up some more critters.

Recommended Adapters:

Uni-Dapter from Vortex Optics: This unit is reasonably priced at $30. There are two drawbacks to this design — the first being that the post stays on your binoculars, adding some weight. The second is that the post simply sits down in two grooves on the base so it could get bumped off, causing your expensive glass to fall to the ground. I didn’t have too much issue with it though and recommend this product from Vortex Optics. Retails for $34.00 on Amazon.com.

Field Optics Research Rapid Release Tripod Adapter: This unit does weight slightly more than the Vortex Uni-Dapter, however the reciever nut that stays attached to the binoculars is much smaller. This unit also snaps on, so your binoculars will not fall off of your tripod. Retail price: $24.95 on Amazon.com.

Outdoorsmans Binocular Adapter: This unit also uses a quick release that locks the unit in place.  The Outdoorsman’s adapter is available in 2 heights. I haven’t had a chance to weigh this unit. Retail price: $59.99 from Outdoorsmans.com.