Need advice picking out a spotting scope again

mgman · Joined: 23 Jul 2007 Posts: 10

Hi Joanie,
Here I am again needing your advice in picking out a spotting scope. A year ago you directed me to the Eagle Optics Raven. I purchased this scope for my daughter and we love it. This scope wasn't even one we were considering.

Now it's time for Dad to get one.
I wear glasses so I need to keep eye relief in mind.
I would like at least 15-45 zoom with a 60 mm objective. My Daughter thinks I shoud opt for the 20-60 zoom, but I think 45 power may do the trick.
Multi Coated optics
Waterproof not required
Using for wildlife viewing at Yellowstone mostly.

I have several I am looking at, but you may suggest something else that I havn't considered.

Here is my list.

Alpen 15-45x60mm Compact Waterproof Angled Spotting Scope
This scope seems like a good deal for the price. Nitrogen Filled and padded case.

Audubon Lightwave 15-45x60mm
I just noticed this one today. Has Fully Multi Coated optics and padded case.

Burris 20-60x80mm Landmark
Seems like a great price for the specs but I would have to spend extra for a padded case.

Eagle Optics Denali 15-45x60
I like the specs, comes with a padded case, and I really like my Daughters Eagle Optics. Also at the top end of my price range.

Konus Konuspot 20-60x80mm
My Daughter picked this one out. 20-60 zoom.
Top end of price range.

Celestron Ultima 80
Good price. Just considering it.

For a tripod would this work.
Bushnell Master Tripod 60" 784010

My Daughter has the Bushnell Advanced Titanium Tripod 784040 but I don't want to spend that much.

Thanks for any advice you can give.

Dan

Jne_K · Site Admin Joined: 24 Sep 2003 Posts: 5509

Hi Dan

Of these, I like the Alpen and the Celestron and you might also want to consider the smaller Celestron Ultima 65. As for the tripod, it is pretty minimal. I would at least try to get a model with a metal head, such as the Bushnell 784030 or, better yet, the Nikon 848
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mgman · Joined: 23 Jul 2007 Posts: 10

Of these, I like the Alpen and the Celestron

Thanks Joanie,
What is it about these two that are better choices?
Do they have better optics or are they built better?

Thanks
Dan

Jne_K · Site Admin Joined: 24 Sep 2003 Posts: 5509

Hi

Definitely a bit of both. Not going to be a huge difference, but enough to make them better choices.
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