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Finnstick

Finnstick is the name given by birdwatchers to a stick used to support binoculars. The other end of the stick is steadily attached to the binoculars while the other end rests against the belly (some say, the bigger the better).

Finnstick helps to keep the binoculars steady, especially when they are used for a prolonged time. In addition to keeping the image steady (allowing finer details of the object to be discerned), the use of the stick reduces muscle strain thus enabling longer viewing with less sore muscles afterwards. Some birdwatchers feel that the use of a finnstick does not markedly improve the viewer's ability to resolve detail, but rather improves viewing comfort and prevents premature fatigue.

The finnstick is especially useful when watching migration (e.g. seabirds, raptors) when the horizon may be scanned literally for hours to find migrant birds.

As the name implies the stick was invented by the Finns but is now also used in other countries, mainly in Europe. The use of the finnstick has spread surprisingly slowly considering the its benefits. Alternative strategies for steadying the binoculars include supporting the arms against the body.

Some birdwatchers has extended the idea by using a telescope type of stick either as a Finnstick or a monopod depending on the situation (this is, however, rare or unexisting in Finland).

Next Page: How to get a Finnstick

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