Binoculars are one of the simplest but most useful gadgets in Arc Raiders. Most players know they exist, but not everyone uses them effectively. In this guide, I’ll go over how binoculars work in practice, how to get them, and tips based on what most players actually do in-game.
What Are Binoculars and How Do They Work?
Binoculars in Arc Raiders are a basic scouting tool. They have two levels of magnification, which allows you to see enemies or objects from a distance without getting too close. In general, most players use them to:

• Spot enemy patrols before entering a dangerous area.
• Locate crafting materials or mission objectives.
• Plan movement around hazards.

Using binoculars is straightforward. You simply equip them and look at your target. The two levels of zoom let you adjust how far you can see clearly. In practice, players usually switch between the normal view and maximum zoom depending on the size of the area they are scouting.
Binoculars are light, weighing only 0.5 units, and they do not stack. This makes them easy to carry without significantly affecting mobility.
How Do You Get Binoculars?
There are a few ways to acquire binoculars in Arc Raiders. Most players rely on crafting rather than buying them from vendors because it is cheaper in the long run.

• Crafting: To craft binoculars, you need 8 Plastic Parts and 4 Rubber Parts. The crafting must be done at a Utility Station 1. Once crafted, you have a ready-to-use gadget that can be carried into missions.
• Buying: Binoculars can also be purchased from Shani. This is usually quicker if you already have enough in-game currency, but most players prefer to craft their own to save money and make use of leftover materials.
• Salvaging: If you already have binoculars you no longer need, you can recycle them into 4 Plastic Parts and 2 Rubber Parts. Salvaging is common among players who are constantly upgrading gadgets or experimenting with different setups.

In general, crafting is the most consistent method. Even new players can manage to get the parts by exploring low-level areas and completing basic missions.
How Useful Are Binoculars in Actual Gameplay?
The effectiveness of binoculars depends on how you use them. Many players underestimate their strategic value. Here are some common situations where binoculars make a noticeable difference:

1. Planning MissionsBefore rushing into a room or area, players can scout the layout from a safe distance. This helps avoid unnecessary firefights and allows teams to position themselves optimally.
2. Spotting ResourcesWhile on a scavenging run, binoculars help locate important resources like rare crafting parts. Most players check rooftops or hard-to-reach areas with binoculars first.
3. Team CoordinationIn group play, one player with binoculars can mark targets or enemy positions for the rest of the team. In general, this improves mission efficiency and reduces casualties.
4. Long-Range Threat AwarenessSome enemies are aggressive but predictable. Using binoculars, players can monitor patrol patterns and time their movements accordingly. Most experienced players do this to avoid getting overwhelmed.

Practical Tips from Experienced Players
Based on what I’ve observed in actual play, here’s what usually works best:

• Keep binoculars equipped early in missions: You never know when a sniper or high-value target will appear. Most players carry them in a quick-use slot.
• Switch zoom levels strategically: The maximum zoom is great for spotting distant enemies, but it narrows your field of view. Use it only when needed.
• Combine with stealth tactics: Binoculars are most useful when you avoid being seen. Players often use them to plan stealth approaches or find safer paths.
• Recycle when upgrading: Binoculars are easy to recycle into Plastic and Rubber Parts. If you’re upgrading your gear, don’t hesitate to break down old binoculars.

What About Trading Binoculars?
While Arc Raiders doesn’t have an official marketplace for all items, players sometimes engage in barter-style exchanges. One area where this comes into play is the arc raiders blueprints trade. In general, players who participate in blueprint trading are focused on acquiring rare crafting recipes. Binoculars themselves are common, so they are not usually the main item being traded, but having extras can sometimes be useful when negotiating trades for more valuable items.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though binoculars are simple, there are a few pitfalls:

• Forgetting to zoom out: Some players get tunnel vision at maximum zoom and miss nearby threats.
• Ignoring recycling: Many new players keep old binoculars in inventory. Recycling them for parts is usually more efficient.
• Relying on binoculars exclusively: They are a scouting tool, not a combat advantage. Most players pair them with other gadgets and weapons.

Binoculars in Arc Raiders are a basic but strategic gadget. Most players find them most useful for scouting areas, spotting resources, and coordinating with teammates. Crafting is generally the best way to acquire them, though buying or salvaging can also work. Remember to use both zoom levels, recycle when necessary, and combine binoculars with other tactical tools. Finally, understanding where binoculars fit in the larger gameplay context—including trades like the arc raiders blueprints trade—helps make better decisions about inventory and mission strategy.