spotting scopes

lightline · 03-01-2006, 03:27 PM

I need a new spotting scope and thought that I may get some insight and advice on what's out there. I'm looking for somthing in the 15-50 power range. Price isn't a factor but I would just as soon get the best for the buck. I use zeiss binoculars but have seen a few products that I thought worked just about as well for less money. Any ideals??

HntnFsh · 03-01-2006, 03:42 PM

You'll get a million other opinions.So I'll throw mine out too.
You may want to check out Carsons.I recently bought a pair of their binoculars.I was amazed at the quality to say the least.I read a lot of reviews.A lot of different places.A lot of people more knowledgable than me recomended them.i was worried,because i didnt get a chance to look through them before ordering.But risked it after a lot of research.Ended up being money well spent.
A lot of people rated up close to the high end $1000 stuff.I dont think they miss it by much.

You can see some remarks by doing a search on www.24hourcampfire.com or www.archerytalk.com.

I dont know if their spotting scopes are of the same quality.But cant imagine why not.

By the way,the binos I got list for $330,they are all over for $269,I got mine for $185. Ended up being some of the best $ I ever spent.

HntnFsh · 03-01-2006, 03:46 PM

Never mind.i just looked at their website.Doesnt look like they do spotting scopes.
But if your ever in the market for another pair of glasses they are worth checking out.

traks44 · 03-01-2006, 04:37 PM

Go Swarovski and never have to look back!

HOGGEMIN · 03-01-2006, 08:23 PM

I second Swarovski, They are awsome.

onstep · 03-02-2006, 06:26 AM

Zeiss Diascope in either the 85MM or 65MM. The Swarovski HD is nice but by my eyes I feel it is third in rank behind the Zeiss and Leica APO glass. Keep in mind at this level you are talking about comparing a hairs difference. I would get the HD glass whatever you do. At a distance the APO, HD, or Flouride Glass makes a clear step up when you are looking into dark timber or heavy shaded slopes. I just went through the buying process and picked up a Zeiss 65MM with a velbon luxi f tripod. I needed a compact packable setup and this entire package came in at just under 5 pounds (4.92) and take up on 18.5 inches of pack space. Good luck.

snit · 03-02-2006, 09:16 AM

I agree! I got a Zeiss 65MM from Killertraylor last fall and I LOVE it!!!!

oregoncritters12 · 03-02-2006, 11:13 AM

If money isn't a factor...You know the top three.. However, the binoculars Cabelas have been putting out are awesome. I'm not sure if they have a spotting but i think they do, check it out..

ajfishfinder · 03-03-2006, 08:53 PM

If cost isn't a factor take a flight over to salt lake and spend the day at Cabelas. You can look at just darn near every model made and then make your choice. Come to think of it, you can also look at darn near every model of every piece of sporting goods made. Might just need to make a weekend trip of it. Oh and don't forget to take your cabelas visa card so you can rack up more points while your shopping.

Branden · 03-04-2006, 07:12 AM

I have looked thru Zeiss, Swarovski and the Leica side by side and I am going to buy the Swarovski. None were HD models and my Dad owns the Leica but overall I liked the Swarovski. One brand that I like better than Leica and Zeiss is "Optolyth". I am not sure if that is how you spell it but it is a very nice scope. Branden