Wide angle binoculars are defined as thous that have more than a sixty degree apparent viewing angle. This is the area beyond which viewing becomes a lot more natural and comfortable for many people, making use of our peripheral vision. Binoculars that offer this angle of viewing often have extended eye relief (the distance from the eyepiece to the eye), and may be subject to distortion. The best wide angle binoculars correct well for distortion, but it's not possible to correct fully. That's because there are two kinds – rectilinear and angular. Correcting for one removes our ability to correct for the other. Fortunately, low levels of each are more conducive to certain kinds of viewing, and don't interrupt others.
For instance, having a low rectilinear distortion is best if you're viewing animals, landmarks, or other terrestrial objects. Too much of this kind of distortion can cause viewing problems while panning around the landscape. On the other hand, if you want to look at the stars, find binoculars that have low rectilinear distortion, instead. Ideally, you'll find a pair that have as little of both types as possible, but choosing the right one can make terrestrial or night sky viewing a bit easier.
Despite their engineering challenges, wide angle binoculars have been around for a long time. The first wide angle eye pieces were created in Germany, in 1917. Today, there are few models made, since compactness is more of a consumer concern than wide angle viewing. However, some high quality wide angle models are still available. With technological improvements currently available in other types of binoculars, it may be possible to get phase corrected and anti-reflective coatings, and designs optimized by computer that will improve efficiency.
More accurate machinery to produce the unusually shaped lenses that are needed to reduce distortion in wide angle binoculars may make them even more accurate and easier to use.
If you're looking for a set of these uncommon binoculars, you may have to spend some time shopping. However, there are a few available that still offer high quality. Alternatively, consider buying a classic pair of wide angle binoculars made by one of the better brands. Just because something's old, doesn't mean it's not still useful. This applies to binoculars as much as any other device. Just be sure that the classic or antique binoculars you get are in good shape, and the real deal. Shop around, and talk to your local sports store to find out more about wide angle binoculars. If field of vision is more important to you than a compact set, they could be just the thing you've been looking for.
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