Is it true....

[tarves57]

I was scanning the internet for digiscoping techniques and came across a site (unfortunately I don't remember which one), which suggested that it's best to keep both eyes open when looking through the scope.

Is that really possible? I tried it with a pair of binoculars but could not concentrate on the "lens" eye at all.

Apparently this is so that your non-lens eye does not tire. (Probably saves on wrinkles too 8-)

Do any of you use this technique?

Susan

[Andy Bright]

Yes, I use this method and it's generally recommended... I advised K.C. to do this with her new scope on another BF thread, she was getting eye-fatigue.
It's difficult to get used to, but it's worth it for when you're using the scope for an extended period.
Andy B

[IanF]

I'll second that !

I've just started digiscoping but had a scope previously for quite a while. Eye-relief is far greater if you keep both eyes open.

Likewise with the binocular use. Practice keeping both eyes open until you get the hang of it and pretty quickly, apart from the eye relief, you will appreciate how much clearer you can spot birds and see more details .

[stevo]

I was told by a doctor who also birds that keeping both eyes open when looking through a scope is a good idea.If you have ever noticed when you get home from a days birding & you`ve been keeping one eye shut when looking through your scope that it`s the eye that`s shut which hurts!!.Using the one eye shut method can lead to a contorted pupil.

[Andrew]

I get this tiredness and aches in the left eye so I will try keeping both open!