How to Disassemble Binoculars

Disassembling binoculars will likely result in the damage or even destruction of the field glasses; you should attempt this procedure only on inexpensive binoculars or those that are already damaged, so you can get the feel of how to do it properly. As you take apart the field glasses, label every part, including from which scope it came (left or right) to aid in the reassembly process. Binoculars include two scopes (or "optics," containing the lenses or "objectives" and prisms) held together by a mounting assembly. Disassemble one scope at a time.

Things You'll Need

  • Strap wrench
  • Spanner wrench
  • Jeweler's straight slot screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gently turn the external guard ring (the outermost ring on the forward-facing part of the binoculars) in a counterclockwise motion and remove it (all rings will come free in a counterclockwise motion). If the ring does not turn by hand, use a strap wrench (as you would to remove an oil filter from a car).

    • 2

      Unscrew the retaining ring from the front of the objective housing (the second ring behind the guard ring) using a spanner wrench.

    • 3

      Remove the objective ring (the notched ring located behind the retaining ring within the objective cell; this manages the motion of the forward lens) with a jeweler's straight slot screwdriver; this should free the objective cell (which is 1 1/2 to 2 inches long, depending on the power of the binoculars) so you can remove it as well.

    • 4

      Hold the objective cell in one hand and unscrew the objective bell housing from the front of the unit (this may also require the use of a strap wrench).

    • 5

      Repeat this process for the other scope.