A close look at binoculars.(up front)

Anyone who relies on binoculars for close encounters needs to consider power, image quality, durability, and ease of use. The good news from our tests of 36 pairs is that they won't have to consider spending a lot. A $60 pair of binoculars scored higher than one costing $850.

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We tested 8- and 10-power models with objective lens diameters from 20 to 42mm. Power is the number of times the image is enlarged; diameter indicates how much light can enter. A larger diameter means more light, potentially clearer images, and usually more weight.

How we tested. We examined sharpness and brightness, how much stray light the binoculars reflected (too much results in a fuzzy image with lower contrast), and how well they could be focused. We checked instructions, grip, portability, and ease of adjustment. And we determined whether the binoculars could withstand a tough field trip: 10 hours at 13[degrees] F, 16 hours at 185[degrees] F, humidity, rain, and being swung against a hard surface. The Quick Ratings list the best under-$1,000 models from our tests.

How to choose. Try binoculars before you buy. If you're buying online, make sure you can return them. Also:

* Leave binoculars around your neck and hold them to your eyes for a couple of minutes to assess their weight.

* Be sure that you can turn the central focus control with one finger and that the hinge lets you easily adjust the size to fit your eyes. Avoid binoculars with controls that are stiff, tiny, or in an awkward location.