OPERATIONGIFT.COM

Get A Free LED Flashlight from Streamlight With Your OpticsPlanet Order!

2009-07-08T10:11:00.001-07:00

The closeouts and giveaways just keep on coming at OpticsPlanet! Now we are helping you get the most for your money by including a little gadget that will assist you more than you could ever imagine. With the purchase of any item over $300 from the following brands: Nikon, Leupold, ATN, Burris, Meade, Nightforce, Yukon, NC Star, Bianchi, Safariland, 511, Steiner, Leapers, Insight Technology, Simmons, Millet, Revision Eyewear (excluding prescription eyewear), Alpen, Kowa, Bushnell, and Vortex, receive one of the best keychain flashlights from Streamlight ever created!

The Streamlight Key-Mate Flashlight is a customer favorite for many reasons. Weighing in at 1 ounce, this LED flashlight is so compact that you will forget it is there. You will be quickly reminded of its presence as 400% more light brightens your path. 10 lumens of intense beaming light can be at your disposal clipped to your belt, pants, carrying bag, or key ring. Unlike everyday cheap flashlights, this Streamlight Flashlight runs up to 96 hours on 4 alkaline button cell batteries, making a marathon of illumination. Don’t plan on the Key-Mate breaking on you anytime soon either. Its virtually unbreakable machined aircraft aluminum body will hold up against the toughest of elements.

Imagine picking out a Bushnell binocular, and then getting this mammoth of a flashlite for free! OpticsPlanet is always offering the best gifts with qualified purchases. Just check out our clearance and deals of the week pages for the free gifts you are eligible for. Also, sign up for our newsletter to get OpticsPlanet.com coupon codes right to your inbox! OpticsPlanet has every angle covered so that you get the most bang for your buck.

The Swarovski ATM/STM: A Spotting Scope for the Ages

2009-07-02T11:02:00.001-07:00

Swarovski Optik is the benchmark holder for premium optics, and they have engineered yet a new prominent standard in the spotting scope industry. Combining the necessary components of a great scope, the light, precise, and rugged Swarovski spotting scope holds complete solutions for every application and purpose. Digiscoping is a growing field in which birders, hunters, and vacationers frequently partake. Holding Swarovski scopes has always given them the sensation of luxurious viewing, but they have something just over the horizon.

The new Swarovski STM spotting scope boasts the achievement of optical perfection, catering only to those that wish to see the unseen. The ATM80 HD features fluoride containing High Definition lenses which minimize color fringing (chromatic aberration) for high contrast images with razor-sharp outlines. Through SWARODUR-coated lenes, experience unimaginable hues and a palette that only a rainbow could reproduce. The SWAROCLEAN coated exteriors ensure that cleaning is a breeze and nothing can stick and damage the bounty inside. To further protect the HD lenses, a new magnesium technology has been infused into the already rugged body to bring a solid, lightweight performance to your eye. The spotting scope body provides uncompromising optical perfection for extreme crosshair-like detail, lifelike color reproduction and outstanding peripheral edge-to-edge sharpness.

It is no wonder that even travelers in Costa Rica can find a spotting scope like the Swarovski ATM or the Swarovski STM in the rainforest readily available. Vacationers will never be disappointed with a view as crisp and as clean as that granted by a Swarovski scope. Our customers rave and the consistent performance and dedication Swarovski puts into their optics. OpticsPlanet carries this heralded digiscope, along with other Swarovski products such as Swarovski spotting scope accessories and Swarovski binoculars. This is a name that cannot be tarnished; invest in a scope that will give back for a lifetime. You can find it here at OpticsPlanet.

Choosing Sunglasses and Designer Eyewear

2009-06-24T12:10:00.000-07:00

With all of the sunglasses and designer eyewear available, how does one choose the perfect pair? What makes golf sunglasses special for golf? What is the main difference between Ray Ban sunglasses, Bolle sunglasses, and Serengeti sunglasses? There are many different aspects to consider when shopping for a new sunglass. Features such as interchangeable lenses, frame shapes, and lens tints can have you investigating the right fashion sunglasses for hours. The most important part to learn about are the actual lenses, and here are a few suggestions that can make finding a great pair just a little easier.

The different types of materials that lenses come in vary greatly in strength and function. CR-39 lenses are basic plastic lenses, and the cheapest available to buy. Polycarbonate is a more advanced plastic lens that is a perfect fit for sports sunglasses or military sunglasses. They never break into pieces or scratch easily. Glass is by far the most scratch resistant and offers the highest visual quality. Rayban sunglasses and Serengeti sunglasses include glass lenses in most models.

It is possible to upgrade your sunglasses lenses to add more personal flair to your cool sunglasses. Photochromic lenses, which are also called transitions or light adjusting lenses, lighten or darken in direct proportion to the amount of UV radiation that hits the lenses. Polarized lenses selectively absorb light waves that hit the lenses, taking away the glare that is commonly seen while driving on a bright day. Many fashion brands utilize gradient lenses that are darker at the top and light on the bottom. They are both functional for reading, and look great!

OpticsPlanet is the leading online sun glasses retailer, and we pride ourselves in educating our customers on how to buy sunglasses and offering a vast variety of shades, prescription sunglasses, and prescription eyewear from men’s sunglasses and women’s sunglasses, all the way to kids’ sunglasses. Stay tuned to your sunglasses information resource at OpticsPlanet.net.

The Award Winning Bushnell Elite Binoculars

2009-06-16T07:59:00.000-07:00

When you think about Bushnell binoculars, many things come to mind. First off, Bushnell is a brand that has cemented itself into the minds of many outdoor enthusiasts with their continued success in the optics industry. Their collection of range finders, spotting scopes, telescopes, and of course binoculars, have amassed a large following in their 50+ years of existence. One line of binoculars has gathered much attention among several key communities. The Bushnell Elite is a powerful Bushnell binocular line that is hard to top.

Bushnell Elite binoculars started as an ingenious idea, and became the award winning Bushnell binocular series as it stands today: standing tall at the pinnacle of sport optic performance. Bushnell Elite stands for ultra-premium light transmission optics, boasting BaK-4 roof prisms with PC-3® phase coatings to produce outstanding image clarity and contrast. These binoculars were designed to turn heads, and have been very successful in doing so, as Elite binoculars were the winners of the Field & Stream Best of the Best Awards for 2005. Back in 1987, Elite binoculars toted a $1000 price tag, something very risky in the binocular industry. Bushnell was on to something, and won the support of many hunters and bird-watchers that demanded the high quality glass that a Bushnell Elite holds.

Not one to be content with excellence, Bushnell created the Elite e2 binoculars from the shadow of the already prominent Elite series. Elite e2 binoculars take it one step further, as shown by the Elite e2 10x42. It has caught the eyes of the product experts at OpticsPlanet, earning the Brilliance Award for Best Mid-Priced Birding Binoculars. With an advanced Fusion Hybrid lens system and a magnesium chassis, it is no question that these Bushnell Elite e2 binoculars are for serious applications.

Bushnell sought to set a new standard in optics by creating its Elite and Elite e2 binocular lines. The competition will remain a few steps behind the time tested craftsmanship from 50 years of Bushnell engineers. OpticsPlanet is the trusted, authorized dealer of every Bushnell binoculars series. Find your next pair of binoculars here.

The Steiner Merlin: Birding Binoculars on the Go

2009-06-11T10:26:00.001-07:00

Do not let Steiner’s broad array of binoculars deter you from seeing their niche specialization expertise. There are Steiner binoculars for every occasion and occupation, ranging from police binoculars, military binoculars, and even birding binos. Nothing escapes the eyes of a Steiner, and their world leading optical glass stands up to anything. If birding is your game, and you constantly need high performance and quick avian acquisition, the Merlin series binocular is the best way to capture birds the first time, every time.

The new light weight alloy bodied Steiner Merlin is a surefire bet for your next set of birding binoculars. Steiner Merlin Binoculars feature their unique “Fast-Focus” system, allowing you to go from close zoom to an infinite view in only two full turns of the focus wheel. You won’t miss anything that is in front of you, no matter the distance. Gone are the worries about birds straying away from the bright reflection of some compact binoculars. Merlin Binoculars have a sleek brown matte finish, a unique choice that is almost unnoticed by birds.

With a dedication to providing the perfect binocular for every bird watcher, Steiner offers a variety of shapes and sizes. The Steiner Merlin 8x32 is the powerful portable binocular for birders on the move. These binos are great to have hanging around your neck while hiking, or even biking like our product expert Joanie K talks about in her birding blog. Weighing in at only twenty ounces, the compact Steiner binocular works wonders in its small package.

The Steiner Merlin 8x32 compact binocular is just the beginning of the extensive Merlin series specifically designed for birding. They may have been crafted with birds in mind, but the binoculars work well in all viewing situations. Stay tuned to the OpticsPlanet blog network for more detailed descriptions of the different Steiner binocular series such as the Peregrine, Nighthunter XP, and Predator series binoculars. Need more help choosing the right bino for you? Check out our informative article titled How To Buy Binoculars, and make the right decision! OpticsPlanet.com is your only online resource for the best optics around!

The Bushnell PinSeeker 1500, the perfect gift for Father's Day

2009-06-03T08:48:00.000-07:00

The venerable Bushnell PinSeeker 1500 has long been the industry standard of golf rangefinders. With Bushnell soon to introduce a new model in the Bushnell PinSeeker Rangefinder series that has a slightly longer range, the aptly named 1600 series, now is the time to find great deals on the Bushnell PinSeeker 1500 laser rangefinder and the Bushnell Pinseeker 1500 slope laser rangefinder. The Bushnell Pinseeker 1500 measures the distance from Dad's golf ball to the pin. The Bushnell Pinseeker 1500 with slope also measures distance to the pin, but has the additional ability to calculate and compensate for the incline of the course based on the ball trajectory and the type of club used. The PinSeeker 1500 w/ slope eliminates a lot of the guesswork of selecting the right club.

Its interesting to note that just a few years ago pinseeker rangefinders weren't even allowed on the golf course. Now that the rules have changed it seems that everyone has a Bushnell golf range finder. Even pros like Sergio Garcia use a Bushnell PinSeeker rangefinder now that they are legal for tournament play. We've got a cool video on the Bushnell PinSeeker rules for tournament play and a handy Bushnell laser rangefinder information page if you'd like to learn more about how a rangefinder works.

There are great deals to be had on these the two models, the Bushnell PinSeeker 1500 laser rangefinder and the Bushnell Pinseeker 1500 slope laser rangefinder while supplies last. Unless Dad is Superman or Tiger Woods, its unlikely he'll miss the additional 100 yards the new 1600 has over the Bushnell Pinseeker 1500 rangefinder's range. One thing is sure though, with fewer strokes and lower scores your dad will feel like Superman or Tiger Woods.

Bushnell Powerview Binoculars: Function Meets Affordability

2009-05-27T14:53:00.000-07:00

When you are looking for an affordable Bushnell binocular to optimize your viewing session, scout no further than the Bushnell PowerView Line. Bushnell asked their loyal customers as to what would constitute the perfect price-point binocular, and they listened. Every Powerview binocular is equipped with the same quality construction and prestige as their other superb lines, and is priced so that everyone can experience the crisp images and great colors that encapsulate Bushnell optics.

Powerview binoculars work hard for your money by delivering multi-coated optics for superior light transmission and brightness, a non-slip rubber armor for maximum shock protection and gripping, and a new contemporary styling that is sure to make others wonder where you picked them up. No matter what your purpose, you'll find a variety of magnifications, sizes, styles, and fully-coated optics for bright, vivid images. The classic design of the Powerview porro prism binoculars allow for a wide field-of-view, as well as an ergonomic, comfortable grip. Bushnell Powerview roof prism binoculars are great to hold, and in the case of the Powerview 8x21 binocular, fold up to fit comfortably in your pocket! Never has there been such power possessed by such a compact binocular.

Bushnell powerview binoculars put mega quality into a portable package. See for yourself how a Bushnell powerview can make any sports outing or concert venue feel right in the palm of your hand. Look for these binoculars and more, on the pages of Opticsplanet.net.

Think Serengeti Sunglasses

2009-04-30T12:49:00.000-07:00

Serengeti sunglasses are one of the most popular and trendiest brands of sunglasses to date. Receiving them as a gift would make your eyes light up so bright that the person giving the sunglasses might need them back. Read on to see why Serengeti is leading the genre of designer sunglasses.

There are many reasons that avid sunglass fans flock to Serengeti for their shades and prescription sunglasses needs. One of the main reasons is the advanced design technology put into each frame. Along with the fatigue-fighting construction built into each and every Serengeti prescription sunglasses, they have developed different coatings and lens formulas to take their sunglasses to the apex of optics. Photochromic light adjusting technology allows the molecules within the lenses to brighten or darken depending on the lighting situation. Your eyes will not be getting tired when wearing a pair of Serengeti aviator sunglasses while driving. The clearer images seen through Serengeti polarized sunglasses are achieved by spectral control of visible light. Certain frequencies of light are filtered through the lenses, so blue light that causes blurriness is blocked.

If you are thinking about giving sunglasses as a gift, keep Serengeti in mind. Serengeti driver sunglasses are not only some of the best looking driving sunglasses out there, but the most useful in everyday lighting conditions. Great gift-giving requires research, and here at OperationGift, we have you covered. Serengetti sunglasses are just what you need, and OpticsPlanet.com has them.

The Gift of Nature: Birding with Cornell Laboratory

2009-04-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

The most precious gifts come from the heart. Many times they don’t cost a thing. Other times it isn’t even a thing at all. OpticsPlanet is big on gift-giving by its true definition: showing another that you care. What better way to show somebody that you care than giving them the gift of nature through birding?

Cornell Ornithology is a research institute that has been changing the lives of children, neighborhoods, and families for years by introducing wildlife and nature in the form of birdwatching. The Cornell Lab founded the program Celebrating Urban Birds which has changed the face of local conservation efforts. With technology advancing at an exponential rate and children finding electronic entertainment indoors, it has become a priority for the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to provide an outlet for our future to experience the wonders of birds and bird watching.

Imagine the feeling of a youngster seeing the ruffled feathers of a perched bluejay with a pair of birding binoculars. Those are the memories that are priceless in this world, and you can give them to children with a small, creative gift for birdwatching. Donate now to Cornell Ornithology and feel the light shine from within knowing that you are a part of a nature-driven future.

Give Sunglasses a New Thought

2009-04-17T09:49:00.000-07:00

Buying sunglasses seems like such a basic task at first. Go to OpticsPlanet.net, pick the pair you want, then purchase. Seems easy enough right? Well some people really are unfamiliar with the extra features of sunglasses and shades that can make them more practical for you. Have you thought about how much UV protection your eyes need? What about the shape of your head? Do you play sports? All of these questions are great to ask when considering a serious purchase of sunglasses; you never want to be left out of the loop.

Men traditionally wear larger frame styles that have a more geometrical, masculine shape and design. Many aviator sunglasses and sports sunglasses have wider options with bigger lenses to accommodate for wider temples. Women’s sunglasses are more tailored in a fashion sense and therefore are smaller and more petite. As of lately, all the rage has been about large tortoise-shell frames that cover the face, a trend that was popular in past years. This vintage sunglasses rebirth has dawned a newfound respect and desire for designer sunglasses of all sizes.

Are you going to be out and about roughing it with your sunglass? You should probably consider sunglasses with glass lenses. Plastic lenses are softer and easier to scratch, allowing you to maintain a clear lens after a couple of falls to the pavement. This is where cheap sunglasses will fail. Polycarbonate lenses provide protection from harmful UV rays and are very strong and durable. Most premium sunglasses brands utilize this technology.

This is just touching the surface on the properties of sunglasses that should be considered before purchasing. OpticsPlanet understand the depth of study necessary to become an expert in the field and has provided a How-To guide about how to buy sunglasses. You can read about the many facets of the product, as well as receive various recommendations for your personal fit. Check it out today!

Streamlight Flashlights - Clearly a Great Gift

2009-04-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

Giving a Streamlight TLR-1 or Streamlight TLR-2 mounted flashlight means more than just caring about someone’s well-being; it also means that you appreciate the effort and time Streamlight has put into creating the world’s most hardened line of mounted flashlights to date. Streamlight tactical flashlights are coveted by military officials and homeland protectors here and overseas.

When giving a gift, especially to a knowledgeable tactician, specs must be paid attention to. Law enforcement professionals, front line soldiers, and insurgent relief troops need an infinitely strong safety net that is their equipment. Streamlight understands that C4 quality LED flashlights are the only way to light up the battlefield, and a well-designed, unbreakable TLR flashlight is worth more than its weight in gold. The new Streamlite-engineered reflector with C4 Photonic Crystal technology almost triples the brightness of an LED flashlite and creates an intense beam that pierces through the darkness. Plus, little details on the Streamlight TLR like the smart rocker switch that toggles the unit on and off makea TLR light a worthy investment.

OpticsPlanet is fostering a gift-giving environment that is unmatched by any other store. With our help, and the performance from Streamlight flashlights, you will make the job of your favorite real-life hero safer. Give the perfect gift of a on the first try with a Stream light TLR-1 or TLR-2.

Nikon Rifle Scopes: A Gift Plus Some..

2009-04-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

Where is the best place to see a Nikon riflescope? In the hands of an excited sport shooters hands on his/her birthday! Nothing can replace the joy of gift-giving, and the sight of seeing your choice of a Nikon rifle scope make somebody’s day brighter. Nikon has perfected the art of crafting finely tuned optics and optical accessories, and they have applied said knowledge to the world of riflescopes. Step right in and marvel.

The patented Nikon BDC reticle is a sharp placement on the Nikon laser rangefinder riflescope. How did you know that? OpticsPlanet’s pages are chock full of helpful information to guide you on the perfect path towards that great gift. Read up on how Nikon’s one touch laser activator can be controlled via remote, enabling the quickest acquisitions. With OpticsPlanet and Nikon, you’ll quickly turn into a Nikon rifle scope giving guru.

It is hard not to see that Nikon rifle scopes are surmounting a tidal wave-like entrance into the riflescope history books. With prices that leave plenty of breathing room for other gifts (such as a Nikon binocular) and then some. Buy toys for your kids, but make sure you don’t buy a toy for that loving father. Nikon rifle scopes are heavy duty champions.

Bushnell Radar Guns Produce Champions

2009-03-30T16:53:00.000-07:00

When does a gift keep on giving? When it is a Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun of course! No other radar gun provides more technically advanced training sessions than a Bushnell radar gun. Bushnell has crafted a winner, and the Velocity Speed Gun is shaping champions out of young sport enthusiasts all over the globe. And to think that the Bushnell speed gun that you bought from OpticsPlanet was the first step towards the Hall of Fame!

The Bushnell Velocity will make a huge difference for anyone’s baseball or softball team. For college, this exciting gift combined with a professional weight training program can increase and monitor bat speed improvements, with consistent results! Watch and record the racket speed of your Wimbledon hopeful as they get inspired by each mph increase. The reviews speak for themselves; thousands of sports enthusiasts from dads to daughters are amazed by the results of the Bushell Velocity gun.

It’s the bottom of the ninth, two outs, and the tying run anxiously waiting at third; will your final pitch be fast enough to blow by the batter? Yes! You’ve been working on that late-game fastball all year with your team’s radar gun provided by Bushnell and OpticsPlanet. Don’t take any chances by giving the coach in your household another baseball hat. Check out Bushnell Velocity Speed Guns and watch the sparks fly.

Try a Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun

2009-03-26T07:02:00.001-07:00

Few products in OpticsPlanet history can compare to the consistent satisfaction granted by the Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun. Thousand of coaches around the globe have been witness to the progression that Bushnell has fostered it their players. Years of research and technological advancements have culminated in the ultimate tool for radar analysis. Bushnell has emulated radar guns for speeding, radar guns for baseball, as well as law enforcement radar guns and combined them into a complete package. Read on to see how the world benefits from Bushnell radar guns.

The Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun has the tremendous power to measure the speed of cars, baseballs, darts, and even make great radar guns for rc cars. With an easy to use Bushnell point-and-shoot pistol grip, using a radar gun has never been easier or more comfortable. As a baseball radar gun or even a softball radar gun, the Velocity speed gun tracks pitches from up to 100 feet away, allowing onlookers to crowd around the large police radar gun display and track that 100mph throw. Use this radar gun to easily help your daughter regulate her change-ups for that clutch final inning. The Velocity Sport radar gun truly creates masters of their respective crafts.

OpticsPlanet an authorized dealer of quality Bushnell products and we stand behind them with a 100% guarantee. As an award-winning Most Trusted Brand, Bushnell takes customer satisfaction as number one priority. It shows by how many coaches, fathers, and athletes are taking advantage of our low prices on Bushnell Velocity Sport Radar Guns. We will need a radar gun to measure how fast they are flying off the shelves! Get yours today!

Top 10 Sunglasses for Summer

2009-03-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

If you are one of the lucky residents of a warm-weather state, then you are fully aware of the practicality of having the best sunglasses and designer eyewear. Those that are eagerly awaiting the sun’s arrival in your sector still have some time to prepare your eyewear palette for the hottest designs in prescriptions sunglasses from brands like Bolle, Serengeti, and Wiley-X. Name brand sunglasses can set you apart from the crowd that just didn’t know about the deals that OpticsPlanet has on all of the most popular driving sunglasses, sport eyewear, men’s sunglasses, and women’s sunglasses. Looking to buy sunglasses for your husband? Does your wife need a new pair of golf sunglasses? For your enjoyment we have compiled a list of the top ten best sunglasses and prescription eyewear for the 2009 summer season. Our product specialists researched the newest prescription sunglasses and designer shades and have put the leaders here so that you do not have to investigate any further.

10. Ray-Ban RB4091 Sunglasses

These award-winning designer frames from Ray Ban took home the Brilliance Award for Top Ladies’ Sunglasses. These make any woman shine with pride and individuality.

9. Wiley-X JP-2 Seal-Tek Motorcycle Goggles

These goggles from Wiley-X feature shatterproof lenses that give riders the safety they need. Also, Seal-Tek innovative frames protect eyes from outside elements, so no more tearing up and temporarily becoming dazed from sweat. Wiley-X sunglasses are going to be a hit this riding season.

8. Bolle Sport Vigilante Sunglasses

Bolle comes correct with a pair of sport sunglasses that can be used for golf, tennis, biking, driving, or any other activity where durability is a must. Remember, Bolle lenses can be tailored to specific functions; see Bolle’s glasses and frame technologies and replacement lens options.

7. Bolle Snakes Spiral Sunglasses

One of the few pair of wrap-around sunglasses that actually stay in place. Stand out in the crowd with the bold color selections of these sunglass frames.

6. Bolle Kicker Sport Tennis Sunglasses

Bolle shows off their distinctive lens technology in this set. Competivision lenses carefully mutes all colors in the spectrum except for yellow, allowing a tennis ball or softball to pop out of the background allowing you to fully connect. These tennis sunglasses are a must have.

5. Bolle Snakes Anaconda Sunglasses

These designer eyeglasses are the most lightweight and stylish wrap-arounds available, and we have them for a competitive price.

4. Serengeti Zina Cosmopolitan Sunglasses

Syle, sophistication, zeal. These all describe the wearer of these ladies’ sunglasses. These Serengetti sunglasses will make you never leave home without driving lenses again.

3. Serengeti Velocity Titanium Sunglasses
A sleek pair of aviator sunglasses that are perfect if you on a budget. Save a bundle and feel the difference of Serengeti premium innovation.

2. Bolle Parole Sunglasses

The top sports sunglasses of 2008 according to the OpticsPlanet Brilliance Awards, the Parole can’t be topped for a sports prescription sunglasses set. The lenses can be swapped out faster than any other sport eyewear piece, making this pair a staple for athletes.

1. Serengeti Aviator Sunglasses

Winner of the coveted Eyewear Product of the Year Brilliance Award, the Serengeti Aviator is overall the top designer sunglasses available. With constant glare monitoring, superior technology, and interchangeable lenses, no other aviator sunglasses will make your eyes feel as good as Serengeti Aviators Sunglasses.

There you have it. The top ten sunglasses at OpticsPlanet. Stay tuned for more of summer’s greatest gift-giving ideas here on Operation:Gift.

You Can Do Better Than That

2009-02-11T07:57:00.000-08:00

So I’m guessing that you still have not bought (or made) anything for your other half for Valentine’s Day. Time is running out and your back can’t take another night on the couch, so start thinking critically. OpticsPlanet has always been the leading provider for riflescopes, tactical gear, and almost any other optical product available, but for the creative lovers out there, they can be the source of the most memorable gifts that will bring back memories for a lifetime.

If you think that you are the only guy that scrounged up the money to buy a full bouquet of roses or a buffet dinner then you are mistaken. These “token” gifts will only get you a half smile and a hug. Really show the person that you care about that they are special and deserve more thought than a last minute impulse buy. Picture this, after a peaceful, romantic dinner you present your significant other with a certificate showing that a star has been named after them. You then escort them over to your Meade DS-2080AT GoTo Telescope or astronomical binoculars and proceed to show them exactly where that specific star is in our galaxy and how it is the brightest, most spectacular star in the sky. After cleaning up their melted heart, you will immediately understand how far a little special attention goes.

This is just one of the many ways that OpticsPlanet can fulfill your Valentine’s Day desires with its selection of telescopes, sunglasses, police equipment, and apparel at the lowest prices. Until Tuesday, use the code vd9red to redeem $10 off your purchase of $100 or more, making it even easier to get the products you love from the brands you trust. Check out the site today and get those creative juices flowing, before it is too late.

Optics on Valentine's Day

2009-02-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

February brings so much more than just frigid temperatures and a weather predicting groundhog. The second month of year is the time when hearts are warmed and the gift giving spirit is kicked into gear once again. Here at OpticsPlanet we are more than excited to provide optical gifts and accessories for you and your loved ones for Valentine’s Day.

When Valentines come to mind, we often picture Cupid and his trusty arrows of love to deliver that extra delight into the hearts of the man or woman that has captured our eye. This year we have dared to ask, how is Cupid so precise? How does he make sure that each special delivery hits the mark? The obvious answer is that Cupid now spots aspiring lovebirds with a Nikon 10x50 Action Extreme Binoculars and upgraded his “bow of desire” with an accurate scope from OpticsPlanet. Could it be a Leupold, a Tasco? Perhaps he uses a spotting scope from Bushnell to seek out potential match-makers? Whatever equipment is involved, OpticsPlanet has it all taken care of.

Don’t be left out alone in the rain this Valentine’s Day. Go against the grain and find a great optics gift for your loved one at OpticsPlanet and watch their eyes light up. We guarantee that you won’t ever spend another February 14th by yourself.

OpticsPlanet's Brilliance Awards: A New Guide to Gift Giving

2009-01-23T12:03:00.000-08:00

Can there be a better way to decide on a gift for that unique someone? The OpticsPlanet Brilliance Awards put the heavy hitters of various unique categories on display. Hundreds of thousands of products were reviewed, tested, surveying by industry experts, product specialists, and most importantly, you the loyal customer.

The OpticsPlanet Brilliance Awards were developed to help everyone quickly see the best items in their class and make a great decision. To find the most innovative scope of 2008 or even the Eyewear Item of the Year only takes a glance, and you will instantly know which brands you can rest assured is a great product. The winner of the most coveted award of 2008, the OpticsPlanet Brilliance Award for Product of the Year went to the PS-22 Night Vision Scope Converter by ATN. It stole the show with its advanced night vision technology and popularity. The award for the best snow goggles was interesting as well with the Shark Ski Goggles from Bolle topping the charts.

Now you can match up the style and personality of your friend, co-worker, companion, or relative right to a category. The Best Beginner’s Telescope award winner will be a surefire gift to the aspiring astronomer, and the Gadget of the Year winner is surely the perfect gift for the neighbor’s son. Stay tuned for more insights on the triumphs of the OpticsPlanet Brilliance Awards.

Free Gifts from OpticsPlanet!

2009-01-09T12:37:00.000-08:00

Thanks to OpticsPlanet for their two new offers: a free Pelican MityLight Flashlight with orders over $100, and a free set of Simmons Wilderness Binoculars with orders of $200 or more. It is impossible to turn these deals down, who doesn’t like getting things for free? I know I try to make a profession out of it. My calendar is jam packed with days of free samples at grocery stores, free coffee Mondays, and tons more little offers that I’ve come across. Fortunately I don’t even have to leave the house to get a free MityLight or Simmons Binoculars, it just does not get any better!

The Pelican MityLight is a great little gadget that produces a surprisingly strong beam of light. The Xenon lamps make the light brighter and not appear yellow like other conventional flashlights. This Pelican would be great to have in your car, in the basement, in your purse, or practically anywhere! Even the kids will keep their trusty MityLite next to the bed to protect them from any creepy critters that may bother them while they are in dreamland. Use the coupon code “freepeli100” to get your free Pelican MityLite and be ready for the dark.

Things that are far away are hard to see. As obvious as that sounds, it is the truth. What can you do about it? Well OpticsPlanet is giving away a nifty set of Simmons 10x25 Wilderness binoculars with any order over $200. These binoculars are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, race fans, or those with extremely cheap baseball tickets. The multi-coated lenses allow for crisp, clean images and ensure that there is no distortion. Simmons is a great brand that offers genuine products all across the spectrum. Take advantage of this deal with the coupon code “freebino200”, as these Simmons Binoculars are out of sight.

Celestron AstroMaster 90 EQ Telescopes 21064 - A Hit for the Holidays

2008-12-17T16:15:00.000-08:00

Telescopes have always been a hit for the holidays, and the holidays are here whether you're ready or not. For a holiday that your family and friends are sure to remember, give the gift of astronomy. The Celestron astromaster 90 eq equatorial refractor telescope tops my list of telescopes for kids, teens, and adults this holiday season. The astromaster 90 EQ is an equatorial refractor telescope, which means tracking moving objects in the sky is easily done. With the equatorial mount and set of counterweights, the telescope moves in a circular motion, making movement smooth. Also very effective for high magnifications, the Celestron astromaster 90 EQ refractor can handle even the smallest nudge without disturbing the viewing area. The Astromaster comes with a thick steel legged tripod, is extremely easy to maintain and child friendly. Featuring a large lens for clear views of the night sky, the Celestron astromaster is an ideal refractor telescope for viewing the moon, Jupiter or the rings of Saturn.

The Astromaster refactor has an eyepiece that is relatively low to the ground, so no step stool or lifting is needed when your son, daughter, or grandchild wants to view outerspace. There is nothing more exciting to a child than experiencing something for the first time. In fact, you'll feel like a kid again when you take a look at the stars through the Astromaster 90 telescope. Enjoy star-gazing for years to come with the high-quality and easy-to-operate Celestron astromaster 90 EQ.

Celestron is an industry leader in telescope innovation and design. The Astromaster EQ is another example of excellence from Celestron telescopes. If the Astromaster EQ 90 telescope isn't for you, also check out the full line of Celestron telescopes available at OpticsPlanet. Each telescope offers something different while all carry on the tradition of quality expected from Celestron. Celestron astromaster telescopes are a cost-effective telescope solution at OpticsPlanet thanks to a 100% satisfaction guarantee and affordable telescope prices. Hurry to OpticsPlanet to make sure you'll receive your Astromaster EQ by the holidays, and make some memories this holiday season with a telescope from OpticsPlanet.com.

Gifts for Hunters - Bushnell Yardage Pro Trophy Rangefinders

2008-12-15T09:52:00.000-08:00

A laser rangefinder is an ideal hunting gift for the beginner, intermediate or professional hunter in your life. The Bushnell Yardage Pro Trophy Laser Rangefinder 202018 is an affordable hunting gift that will continue to give you accurate yardage all year on any terrain. These range finders were designed to be held vertically for single hand operation and work well with eyeglasses, providing 19 mm of eye relief. Bushnell Yardage Pro Trophy Range Finders are great for bow hunters, rifle hunters, and shooters who understand the need for accuracy. Whether you’re looking for a range finder for shooting or hunting, Yardage Pro Laser Rangefinders from Bushnell are ideal gift solutions. With a compact design and advanced laser technology, the Bushnell Yardage Pro Trophy Range Finder delivers outstanding range performance on targets from 5 to 800 yards away.

If you are like the majority of sportsmen out there who rely on accurate yardage to the target, Yardage Pro Trophy Rangefinders help turn a tough shot into a no-brainer. This Yardage Pro Rangefinder takes a 9 volt battery and has an accuracy of +/- one yard. Use these rangefinders for all your range finding needs. Find the distance to the pond, to the deer or to your target of choice. Yardage Pro Range finders will help you hit the target by spotting deer at 300 yard, trees at 500 yards, and water at 800 yards. On the course or in the woods, this rangefinder offers 5x magnification, multi-coated optics, and single hand operation. Featuring through-the-lens distance display, this sleek and streamlined Bushnell Range finder will enhance your game of course.

These Bushnell rangefinders are made with quality. Bushnell range finders pack the most extensive and effective features of any brand name. 100% waterproof, fog proof, and fully multi-coated optics mean Bushnell laser rangefinders are reliable and handle all conditions. This holiday season, give a bushnell rangefinder to your favorite sportsman and take the guesswork out of range finding.

Meade 114EQ ASTR Reflector Equatorial telescopes 04056 - Give the Gift of Astronomy

2008-12-12T15:42:00.000-08:00

With only a few more days to purchase telescopes for the holidays, I'm here to help you choose an affordable yet high quality telescope that everyone will enjoy for years to come. OpticsPlanet.com has hundreds of astronomical telescopes by Meade, Celestron and more that will fit any budget. A Meade telescope that is sure to please is the Meade 114EQ ASTR Equatorial Reflector Telescope 04066, a favorite reflector telescope of amateur astronomers everywhere. Observe the moon, Saturn, Jupiter, and other space objects in detail with its light-gathering reflecting telescope design. With a large 114mm diameter reflective mirror, the Meade 114EQ telescope lets in more light for brighter images with more detail and clarity. This Meade telescope is also an ideal telescope for viewing the Orion Nebula and the Andromeda Galaxy thanks to its large size.

The equatorial telescope moves easily in a circular motion allowing for easy object tracking across the night sky. The EQ Equatorial Mount from Meade enables simple manual turning and features full-length adjustable aluminum tripod legs for stability. Included with the 114EQ telescope are two 1.25 inch eyepieces for low to high power observing and the Meade AutoStar Suite Astronomer Edition Software for an interactive astronomy lesson. The Meade AutoStar suite software displays more than 10,000 celestial objects ideal for planning observation sessions and charting stars. Also featuring an electronic red dot projection viewfinder and a rack-and-pinion focuser, the Meade equatorial telescope has all the features you need to explore the universe.

Enjoy an evening under the stars with this Meade EQ 114 telescope and start a lifetime astronomy hobby with a little help from Meade and OpticsPlanet. Meade has been designing innovative telescopes for decades and the EQ ASTR 114 telescope is no exception. Make this holiday season the beginning of a year of astronomy with the Meade EQ 114 and Free Ground Shipping from OpticsPlanet.

Speedster 2 Bushnell Radar Speed Gun 101900 - Cordless Radar Gun Exclusive

2008-12-12T09:09:00.000-08:00

The Bushnell Speedster II Radar Speed Gun is an excellent gift idea for the sport-loving speed-chasing enthusiast on your list. The Speedster 2 101900 is a handheld cordless radar speed gun exclusively available at OpticsPlanet. The portable radar is an affordable sports radar gun similar to the bushnell velocity speed gun, with a new digital processor allowing you to switch between MPH and KPH. Ideal for tracking speeding baseballs, softballs, or tennis balls, these radar guns are perfect baseball radar speed detectors. With its compact and ergonomic radar gun design, comfortable Bushnell point-and-shoot pistol grip, and large LCD display screen, the Bushnell Speedster provides real time speed measurement of +/- 1.0 MPH. Track baseballs, softballs, and tennis balls from 100 Feet away or track cars and boats from 1300 feet. The Versatile and efficient speedster radar gun will have you tracking speeds for hours.

I played a little baseball years ago when I was a kid. I was pretty much on the baseball field all summer with all the other twelve year olds working on our baseball skills. I would have loved a Bushnell radar gun to track my pitching speed and my progress over the years and I’m pretty sure all of my friends would have loved to have a speed gun too. What young kid wouldn't? Baseball isn’t the only sport that the speedster 2 can handle, however. Whether for softball, tennis, or any sport with a ball, a radar gun from Bushnell is a great gift idea for the young or old athlete or fan.

Bushnell radar guns are handy, multi-functional speed guns that come with a two year warranty. A Bushnell radar gun is made with the same quality as all Bushnell products - the best. Take this handheld radar gun with you whether you’re going to the race track, the baseball park or the tennis court. This Bushnell speed gun is a convenient travel companion that couldn’t be simpler to operate. The only thing more convenient is the 100% Satisfaction Guarantee and Free Ground Shipping offered from OpticsPlanet.

Affordable Telescope Gift Idea - Bushnell 3 Inch Newtonian Reflector Telescopes

2008-12-10T10:03:00.000-08:00

This holiday season, everyone I talk to is trying to save money. Luckily, there are tons of ways to save out there and I’m here to help. The Bushnell 3 inch reflector telescope is the ultimate beginner telescope at an affordable price. This budget friendly yet high-quality Bushnell telescope is the only telescope in its price range with a sturdy metal alt-az mount and slow motion control. The rack and pinion focuser and red dot finder scope also make this telescope from Bushnell a deal like no other. With a Newtonian Reflector optical design, Barlow lens, and starry night CD software, the Bushnell 3 inch reflector telescope 789669 is the ideal optical telescope for enjoying an evening of astronomy.

It’s a great time to pick up a relatively inexpensive hobby like astronomy. All you’ll need to enjoy astronomy is a telescope and a dark night sky. Imagine a cool spring night under a blanket a stars. On a superlative evening when the air is crisp and the sky is clear, enjoy a little star-gazing with the help of the Bushnell Reflector telescope. The 3 inch reflector telescope is ideal for exploring deep space objects, the moons of Jupiter and the rings of Saturn. With four distinct packages from opticsplanet.com, customize your Bushnell 420 x 3 Telescope with the accessories you desire most. Choose the bundled package that best fits your needs and experience the world of astronomy to the fullest without spending a fortune.

Bushnell Optics is known for the best optics in the market. Rest assured that a Bushnell telescope is a first-rate optical telescope that comes with a limited lifetime warranty from Bushnell. OpticsPlanet.com is an authorized U.S. Dealer of Bushnell and is proud to offer a wide selection of Bushnell telescopes including the 3 inch reflecting telescope. With free ground shipping on orders over $29.95, a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and hassle free holiday specials, Opticsplanet.com is the place to go for telescopes this holiday season. Experience the night sky with the Bushnell 3 inch reflector telescope from opticsplanet.com and enjoy astronomy for years to come.

Serengeti Aviator Sunglasses – Style and Sun Protection From Serengeti Sunglasses

2008-12-08T10:14:00.000-08:00

Always classic and stylish, Aviator Sunglasses are still a great gift idea this holiday season. The Serengeti Aviator Sunglasses are the classic aviator shape and style with a Serengeti modern twist. Aviators have long been used by pilots to shade their eyes from the sun. Serengeti takes this authentic sunglasses design and turns up the volume by offering aviator shades with polarized, mirrored and driver’s lenses. Available in mens sunglasses, womens sunglasses, and even prescription sunglasses, the Serengeti aviators are the quintessential designer sunglasses.

Why are Aviators so hip? Maybe it’s the sleek metal frame or the oversized lenses, maybe it’s the fact that aviators look good on fashion models with pouty lips, but rest assured that the Serengetti aviator is not merely just a fashion statement. These sunglasses are ideal for sun protection and reducing driver’s glare. With fully coated lenses to shield your eyes from harmful sun rays, Serengeti lenses block 100% of UVB light and no less than 98.5% of UVA rays making these the fashion sunglasses that never go out of style. Summer, Fall, Winter or Spring, eyewear protection is essential all year. These sunglasses come in customizable colors for the perfect sunglasses for your individual needs. As someone in need of prescription eyewear, I also appreciate that these Serengeti sunglasses are available with Rx Prescription lenses, allowing those in need of a little correction to stay “stylin” in aviators.

Serengeti is a well-known and established eyewear brand that has been shielding us from the sun for decades. Popular Serengeti sunglasses include the Serengeti drivers sunglasses, Serengeti summit sunglasses, and of course the Serengeti aviator sunglasses. OpticsPlanet.com offers a full line of Serengeti brand sunglasses at affordable prices. For the fashionista in your life, these discounted Serengeti sunglasses from OpticsPlanet.com make a great gift idea for the holidays thanks to free shipping, a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a hassle-free return policy. Give the gift of style and sun protection this year and enjoy sunny days ahead with a pair of Serengeti Aviator sunglasses.