Going on a backcountry hunting adventure? Here’s the gear you need for a successful trip

#4  BINOCULARS

When you’re not hiking during a backcountry hunt, you’re glassing, so you need a lightweight pair of compact or pocket-size binoculars. During long sessions of glassing, these diminutive binoculars are more difficult to steady, so optical quality is also essential.

Pocket-size binoculars, in either 8×25 or 10×25, are the lightest and smallest option. The 8x delivers a wider field of view and can be a bit easier to steady, but the extra magnification of a 10x is often crucial for determining whether an animal is legal to shoot. Most pocket binos are roughly five inches in length and weigh less than 12 ounces. They’re easy to carry, but not as steady to hold, or as bright, as the slightly larger compacts.

Sporting a larger objective lens, compacts are easier to hold and brighter, but they weigh more. A good all-around option is a compact 10×30/32 that weighs about a pound. If you’re not as concerned about weight, consider either an 8×42 or 10×42 instead; they weigh about 1½ pounds, but make for steadier and longer glassing without eye strain. No matter your choice, look for premium ED glass, armour coating, water- and fog-proofing, fully multi-coated lenses, excellent colour, edge-to-edge clarity and bright, crisp images. And if possible, try to forget what they cost.