What to get for Swarovski Spotting scope 65mm vs 80mm

[Murf45]

I'm looking to purchase a high end spotting scope. I'm kind of torn between the swarovski 80mm or the 65 mm. I was just wondering if the weight difference was really noticeable and whether or not the low light capability was that much better with the 80mm. I was also wondering if the HD glass was that much better then the non HD? Any insight on these spotting scopes would be very helpful, because this is going to be a once in a life time investment. I will be using the scope for hunting.. sometimes packing out a couple miles and sometimes just spotting out of the truck.

[moombaskier]

I've been really happy with my STS65. I use it for pack in and target practice. It is the non HD model and I can easily see 7mm holes in white painted plywood at 850yds. Make sure you get a good tripod too.

[Murf45]

How does the 65 perform in the low light situations? Also is there much of a difference between the HD and non-HD and if so where are you going to see it?... I just got a manfrotto carbon fiber tripod so I'm thinking that should do the trick. What do you use for a tripod?

[jwp475]

One can never have too good of an optic, get to the 80mm Swaro. Unless you want sone a tad better and if so then get the Kowa TSN883. The top of the line Kowa with the Promenade lens is a tad better than the Swarovswki in resolution at the longer distances. I tried them side by side and I sold my swarovski 80mm and kept the Kowa 88mm

Size definately makes difference and bigger is better just like she said

[Toomanytracks]

If you plan on packing your scope any distance stick with the 65 HD. Yes you will be giving up a little on the front end but gain the ability to pack it all day. Ie space and weight. Manfratto head is the only head too use, it comes at a cost . Buy it once and your set till something better tickles your fancy.

[Murf45]

What manfrotto head do you recommend?

[Toomanytracks]

It's all personal preferance. You want a fluid head. I am running 3130 it's 5
years old it works for me because I use an angle spotter. A pistol grip for a striaght spotter . Spending good money on glass and sitting it on a econo tripod is setting your self to use it less. I spend alot of time behind one, it takes some time to get familar with your setup.