Best Spotting scope choice- under 250USD

D

dlau

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After a ton of research, it seems that there's 4 choices in this price range.

1) Leupold Sequoia- 15-45X60
2) Bushnell Spacemaster 15-45X60
3) Nikon Sky&Earth 15-45X60
4) Orion Apex 90mm Maksutov (this is the odd duck- more of a terrestrial/astronomy scope but have read that it can be used as a spotting scope)

All are under $240 USD, and all have reasonable ratings and similar features. Mostly interested in using it for target purposes.

Any opinions would be appreciated as I've only read about these models. The Orion and Leupold have the 45 degree viewer.
 
For under $250 you can get a konus 20-60x80. For the limit amount of time I have had mine it is a decent spotter. I picked up mine after reading a write up in PS magazine. check out more a Jarheadtop.com Jim Owens is his name and he is a coach for Palma shooting.
 
We have a demo of a 16-47x60 Spotter XL Waterproof Spotting Scope @ $269.99 that is in like new condition. That would be a great choice.
 
Doug, is that the Nikon you are talking about that you have on special right now?

dlau, I highly recommend checking out gr8fuldoug's selection, he gives you a great deal and you will have a hard time finding better service!
Check out his ads in the dealer anouncments forum.
You can find quite a few opinions on the spotters @ epinions.com too.

Hope this helps,
Noel
 
I found a Seqouia on ebay from Florida that came to $250 CDN shipped. Used it today at an abandoned mine and am very pleased. I will need a tripod yet though. I used a friends Optex T12 on the loose gravel and found the stability of the arrangement just ok for sitting. Something to consider when you do get your setup is how it will be mounted as the crumby ones wiggle and shake your image with the lightest of touches. I think I'll find a wider based fuller sized stand when I do purchase as I would hate to see the tripod topple.
But back to the subject at hand. I'm very satisfied with this purchase. Clear at all magnifications, and in the twilight it was terrific.
 
Yes, that's the one. Normally it goes for over $400.00


Noel said:
Doug, is that the Nikon you are talking about that you have on special right now?

dlau, I highly recommend checking out gr8fuldoug's selection, he gives you a great deal and you will have a hard time finding better service!
Check out his ads in the dealer anouncments forum.
You can find quite a few opinions on the spotters @ epinions.com too.

Hope this helps,
Noel
Click to expand...
 
Second that Doug is a great guy to deal with, talked to him a couple of times, his prices are "Bang on". Hey Doug do ya still have the Leica Desert Tan 1200 Rangefinders?
 
Thanks for all the advice- all the reviews I've read mostly target the high end scopes, but there isn't a lot on the entry-mid level candidates... it certainly is getting to be a tough decision.

Doug- would you say that the Nikon Spotter XL clearly outperforms the other choices mentioned in this thread (including the Nikon Sky and Earth?) What is interesting is that "for a bit more" one can get into the 20-60X80mm class, especially if looking at some of the other not as well known brands.

I'm curious to know if:

1) anyone has ever put these scopes side by side for a direct analysis
2) how well a mid-level 80mm http://telescope.ca/telescopes/RENDER/5/2028/3065/12404.html would compare with a high-end 60mm if weight and size is not a concern.
3)Comparing a refractor with a similar Maksutov scope

I think this would really answer a lot of questions and help people navigate through all the brands and options. I think choosing a rifle was easier :)
 
The XL is a better scope than the S&E series.
It truly is a wonderful scope and I would say better than the other options. If you get it and disagree feel free to send it back. I'm a fair guy :>)
 
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