Power measures the amount you magnify something. If you're observing a suspect who is 100 feet away with a 10 power binocular, you'll see an image as if he were 10 feet away.

Keep in mind, though, that as you get into higher power, simple things like hand and body movements are magnified, just like the object you are watching. Inhaling and exhaling, while attempting to hand-hold a high-power binocular, can disturb your view.

Ten power is considered the maximum most people can hold steady in their hand; and even that takes practice. The solution is to use a tripod or some other type of supporting device to ensure a clear, steady view through the binocular. Or drop down to a lower power you can manage more easily.

Learn even more about Binoculars. Continue on or click any of the links below to go directly to that topic.