Farpoint · Universal Binocular Mount
A precision aluminum parallelogram mount that lets your binoculars float — perfectly balanced through every axis, effortlessly pointed from horizon to zenith.
The Farpoint Universal Binocular Mount (UBM) is built for serious binocular astronomy and proudly designed and made in the USA. A parallelogram mount lets you adjust eyepiece height across a wide vertical range without losing your target — hand the view to another observer at any height, then bring it right back to yours. With every axis in balance the binocular feels weightless: no arm strain, no neck strain, no wobble.
Specifications
Load capacity
12 lb — handles binoculars up to ~100mm aperture
Mount weight
16.4 lb including two 5-lb counterweights
Dimensions
35″ collapsed, ~51″ fully extended
Construction
Anodized aluminum, made in the USA
Pivots
Effectively zero slop or backlash across all axes
In the box
UBM parallelogram, two 5-lb counterweights, 3/8-16 tripod mounting post, dovetail assembly
Tripod
Not included — requires a standard photo tripod with a 3/8-16 stud and no pan-tilt head
Tripod required (not included)
The UBM mounts on top of a sturdy photo tripod via the included 3/8-16 post — use a plain tripod with no pan/tilt head, since the parallelogram handles all the motion. For larger binoculars (10 lb+), pair it with a heavy-duty tripod in the Manfrotto 055 class. Using a surveyor's tripod instead? Use one of our alternate-thread posts: 5/8-11 or M10 metric.
Which binoculars work with the UBM
Bottom-socket binoculars (tripod socket on the underside of the body, 90° from the optics) attach directly to the UBM dovetail assembly — no adapter needed.
Inline-socket binoculars (tripod socket between the objective barrels, common on porro-prism designs) need an adapter to come into proper balance.
Mounting a porro-prism binocular? Add the Far-Sight quick-release — it's the recommended interface for inline-socket binoculars on the UBM and can be bundled with the mount. A standard L-bracket also works if you already own one.
Recommended upgrade — Swing Hinge
The UBM Swing Hinge adds a 5th degree of motion — natural pointing in any direction, without the slight twist a 4-axis parallelogram can have. Many observers consider it essential for the smoothest possible experience.
Heavier binoculars?
The UBM ships with two 5-lb counterweights, enough for most binoculars up to 80–100mm aperture. For larger binoculars, add one more 5-lb counterweight.
See it in motion
Watch our full video review for a hands-on look at the UBM's range of motion and ease of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included with the UBM?
The UBM ships with the parallelogram mount, two 5-lb counterweights, a 3/8-16 tripod mounting post, and the dovetail assembly that holds bottom-socket binoculars. A tripod is not included.
Do I need a tripod, and what kind?
Yes — the UBM mounts on top of a sturdy photo tripod using the included 3/8-16 post. Use a plain tripod with no pan/tilt head, since the parallelogram provides all the motion. For heavier binoculars, choose a tripod in the Manfrotto 055 class. Surveyor's tripods can use our 5/8-11 or M10 posts.
What size binoculars will it hold?
The UBM has a 12 lb load capacity and comfortably handles binoculars up to roughly 100mm aperture. The two included 5-lb counterweights cover most binoculars up to 80–100mm; add another counterweight for larger pairs.
Does my binocular need the Far-Sight adapter?
It depends on where the tripod socket is. Bottom-socket binoculars attach straight to the UBM dovetail assembly. Inline-socket binoculars (most porro-prism designs, socket between the barrels) need the Far-Sight quick-release — or a standard L-bracket — to balance properly on the mount.
Is the Swing Hinge worth adding?
It's optional but popular. The Swing Hinge adds a 5th degree of motion that removes the small twist a 4-axis parallelogram can have, giving the smoothest pointing in any direction. Many observers consider it essential; others are happy with the base mount.
Complete your binocular rig
Add the quick-release adapter for porro-prism binoculars and a fitted case to protect your optics.
Far-Sight Mounting System Binocular Travel Cases
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