VIKING Peregrine ED from £340

A good pair of binoculars turbocharges your powers of observation. Viking makes fantastic entry-level models, from beginner-friendly compacts like the Badger (from £27.50) up to the all-singing Osprey ED (from £499). Towards the top end of the range there’s the Peregrine ED, pictured here. I have the 8x42 version (£340). This Goldilocks level of magnification offers ample optical oomph for serious wildlife watching without being so heavy (600g) or cumbersome as to be impractical for long walks. Boasting Extra Low Dispersion lenses and coated prisms, the smooth-focusing Peregrines give a bright, sharp image, even in low light. They are solidly built and waterproof, too. vikingoptical.com