brcfo_outdoors
Well-Known Member
I am curious what people's thoughts are on mid priced ($650-$1200) spotting scopes which are compact and lightweight for backpack hunting and some target shooting. I have been eyeballing the Kowa TSN-554 for a while, and even though I can afford it, I am having a hard time justifying the expense for the amount I will use it. This had me looking at more affordable alternatives and I came across the Nikon Fieldscope ED50 which has had my attention for a while with its very positive reviews. Then just last night I came across the newer Maven CS.1 which is a little heavier but has a larger objective and more magnification out of the box. Now I have no illusions that either are even close to the Kowa, but I find the price tag more justifiable and am less worried about them getting damaged or thrashed in the backcountry.
Any thoughts or experiences with the above mentioned optics? Any other recommendations for scopes in this price range?
Essentially looking for:
2.5lbs or less
Under a foot long
ED glass
<70mm objective
At least 30x, but preferably more, or have the ability to change eye pieces.
I know this is a fairly specific criteria, but I appreciate any help.
Any thoughts or experiences with the above mentioned optics? Any other recommendations for scopes in this price range?
Essentially looking for:
2.5lbs or less
Under a foot long
ED glass
<70mm objective
At least 30x, but preferably more, or have the ability to change eye pieces.
I know this is a fairly specific criteria, but I appreciate any help.