Why should telescopic sights not be used as binoculars?

Telescopic sights should not be used as binoculars primarily because they require precise adjustments for shooting. Telescopic sights are designed to help shooters focus on distant targets with clarity and precision. This focus often necessitates specific alignment and calibration to ensure accuracy. In contrast, binoculars are built for general viewing and are designed to provide a wider field of view and depth perception without the need for such specific adjustments.

Using a telescopic sight casually for viewing could lead to difficulties in tracking multiple objects, as the narrow field of view makes it challenging to quickly locate and observe subjects. Furthermore, if not set for a particular distance, the view could be unclear or improperly focused, making them ineffective for casual observation like binoculars. While other factors, such as potential eye strain and obstructions, also play a role, the necessity for precise adjustments is the fundamental reason telescopic sights are not suitable substitutes for binoculars.