Monday, January 30, 2012

Celestron 52248 65mm Ultima Zoom Spotting Scope

Celestron 52248 65mm Ultima Zoom Spotting Scope Review



Celestron 52248 65mm Ultima Zoom Spotting Scope Feature

  • Multi-Coated Optics
  • Sight tube for quick targeting
  • Soft Carrying Case
  • 18-55x Zoom Eyepiece
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
The Celestron Ultima 65 Zoom Spotting Scope is the smallest and most affordable scope in Celestron's popular Ultima series, yet it delivers surprisingly good views. The Ultima 65 is a refractor style spotting scope with multi-layer anti-reflection coatings on the objective lens and on the zoom eyepiece. The Ultima 65 package includes a padded soft case for the scope, a hard case for the removable eyepiece, and a T-thread adapter so you can attach a camera.

The focus ranges from 20 feet to the horizon with just a few turns of the focus knob. When I fold down the rubber eye cup I can keep my glasses on and see the whole 1.7 degree field of view at 18X magnification. The 1.7 degree field of view seems a bit narrow, but it is sharp from edge to edge. With my glasses on I need very little focus adjustment while I crank the zoom eyepiece from 18X up to 55X. Sometimes though I like to take my glasses off while observing because the view seems to have just a little more contrast and sharpness. I like the fact that the Ultima 65 gives me a sharp image either way.

The drawback of the tradition crown and flint achromatic lens used in the Ultima 65 Zoom Spotting Scope is a bit of false color, also known as blue fringing or chromatic aberration. Blue fringing seems well controlled at 18X magnification, but it becomes increasingly noticeable as I zoom up to 55X. Celestron also offers the Ultima 80 which produces a brighter image with a wider field of view, and the Regal 65 F-ED spotting scope which uses exotic ED glass lenses to virtually eliminate blue fringing and produce the sharpest possible high power views.

Celestron's Ultima 65mm Zoom Spotting Scope combines sharp multi-coated optics with a good quality zoom lens in a compact waterproof package. Top it off with a lifetime "No-Fault" warranty and the Celestron Ultima 65 is simply a great value. --Jeff Phillips

Pros:

  • Sharp multi-coated optics
  • Good zoom eyepiece
  • Waterproof design
  • Lifetime no-fault warranty

    Cons:
  • Blue fringing noticeable at high power
  • Narrow field of view SEE up close. Compact, 100% WATERPROOF Celestron 18 - 55x65 mm Ultima Zoom 45 degree Spotter. Open up a whole world of long distance views! Celestron's highly acclaimed Ultima Series is a portable and durable design. Ideal for birding, spotting game, eyeballing scenery, locating target "hits" at the range, even astronomy. More: 18-55x zoom magnification; 65 mm objective size; 100% waterproof for use in rain and inclement weather; 45° eyepiece for comfortable viewing; Multi-coated optics for excellent contrast and image brightness; Refractor optical design; Sight tube for quick targeting; F.O.V. at 1,000 yds. is 89' at 18x, 38' at 55x; Eye relief: 18 mm at 18x; Close focus: 20'; Tripod / camera adaptable, includes camera t-adapter Includes carry case. Weighs 37 ozs. Order yours today! Celestron 18-55x65 mm Zoom 45 degree Spotting Scope


  • Saturday, January 28, 2012

    Celestron Ultima 80 20 to 60x80 Straight Spotting Scope

    Celestron Ultima 80 20 to 60x80 Straight Spotting Scope Review



    Celestron Ultima 80 20 to 60x80 Straight Spotting Scope Feature

    • Multi-coated optics for a clear view
    • Zoom eyepiece for 20-60x magnification
    • Straight through viewing angle
    • Sight tube for quick targeting
    Celestron's popular Ultima 80mm Zoom Spotting Scope offers images that are noticeably brighter and sharper than entry level 60mm spotters. The Ultima 80 is a refractor style spotting scope with an Achromatic objective lens. Excellent light transmission is assured by multi-layer anti-reflection coatings on the objective lens as well as on the zoom eyepiece and the BAK-4 prisms. The multi-coated 80mm objective lens delivers 77% brighter views than a 60mm scope, and the built in zoom lens produces sharp images from 20X all the way up to 60X magnification.

    The Ultima 80 features a sleek, waterproof design and includes a padded soft case with zippers on both ends so the scope can be protected even while mounted on a tripod. Including the eyepiece the Ultima 80 measures just over 19 inches long and weighs about 3.6 pounds. The rubber eyecup can be removed to expose a standard "T-thread" for attaching a camera. The "straight-thru" viewing configuration is easier to point at moving targets, and is particularly handy on a bench top or even a car window mount.

    The focus ranges from 27 feet to the horizon with just a few turns of the focus knob. When I fold down the rubber eye cup I can keep my glasses on and see the whole 2 degree field of view at 20X magnification. With my glasses on I need very little focus adjustment while I crank the zoom eyepiece from 20X up to 60X. Sometimes though I like to take my glasses off while observing because the view seems to have just a little more contrast and sharpness. I like the fact that the Ultima 80 gives me a sharp image either way.

    The drawback of the traditional crown and flint achromatic lens used in the Ultima 80 Zoom Spotting Scope is a bit of false color, also known as blue fringing or chromatic aberration. Blue fringing seems well controlled at 20X magnification, but it becomes increasingly noticeable as I zoom up to 60X. Celestron also offers the Ultima 80ED and the Regal 80 F-ED spotting scopes which use exotic ED glass lenses to virtually eliminate blue fringing and produce the sharpest possible high power views.

    Celestron's Ultima 80mm Zoom Spotting Scope combines sharp multicoated optics with a good quality zoom lens in a compact waterproof package. Top it off with a lifetime "No-Fault" warranty and the Celestron Ultima 80 is a terrific value. --Jeff Phillips

    Pros:

    • Sharp multi-coated optics
    • Good zoom eyepiece
    • Waterproof design
    • Lifetime no-fault warranty

    Cons:

    • Blue fringing noticeable at high power


    Blue Heron at 50 yards shot at 20X
    Blue Heron at 50 yards shot at 20X
    Moon picture shot with 20X zoom
    Moon picture shot with 20X zoom
    Moon picture shot with 60X zoom
    Moon picture shot with 60X zoom
    Pelicans on an offshore rock shot at 20X
    Pelicans on an offshore rock shot at 20X
    Pelican in the air shot at 20X
    Pelican in the air shot at 20X
    SEE up close. WATERPROOF Celestron 20-60x80 mm Zoom Spotter is now PRICED LESS! Open up a whole world of long distance views! Celestron's highly acclaimed Ultima Series is a portable and durable design. Ideal for birding, spotting game, eyeballing scenery, locating target "hits" at the range, even astronomy. Wow, an overstock means BIG BUCKS OFF! Performance: Large 80 mm objective with fully multi-coated optics for glare-free clarity; Performs well under all light conditions; Straight tube is 16" overall; F.O.V. @ 1,000 yds. is 105' at 20X, 53' at 60X; 27' near focus; 480 mm focal length; Weighs 3 1/2 lbs. Includes soft carry case; No-fault Celestron Lifetime Warranty. Focus on ordering yours today! Celestron 20-60x80 mm Spotting Scope


    Thursday, January 26, 2012

    Barska Naturescape Spotting Scope

    Barska Naturescape Spotting Scope Review



    The Barska® Naturescape 20-60x60 spotting scope combines high-quality fully multi-coated optics and a wide zoom range in a sleek, "go-anywhere" compact body. Rugged rubber armor covering protects it from the harsh elements.


    Tuesday, January 24, 2012

    Barska BlackBlackhawk 20-60x80 Waterproof Angled Spotting Scope w/Tripod, Soft Carry Case & Premium Hard Case

    Barska BlackBlackhawk 20-60x80 Waterproof Angled Spotting Scope w/Tripod, Soft Carry Case & Premium Hard Case Review



    Barska BlackBlackhawk 20-60x80 Waterproof Angled Spotting Scope w/Tripod, Soft Carry Case & Premium Hard Case Feature

    • Complete waterproof and fogproof protection for all weather conditions
    • Variable zoom magnifications from 20x-60x for different applications with a glare reducing sun-shade
    • Multi-coated optics and massive objective lens increases light gathering ability thus delivering brighter images in low light conditions
    • Ergonomically designed with shock-absorbing rubber armor for maximum protection and enhancing overall handling
    • Convenient and portable as includes micro-adjustable tripod ad premium hard aluminum case
    Setting the pace for design, dynamics and technical precision, Blackhawk soars high in ultimate performance. Engineered with unsurpassed optical performance and durability by those who understands the harsh hunting conditions scopes have to endure. Designed for the discriminating hunters who demands only the best. Be it a compact or a large scope that set your sights, Blackhawk spotters set the standard for portability, optical performance and value.In addition, the new Mossy OakBreak Up Camouflage model helps you blend in on your hunt! Backed by Limited Lifetime Warranty.


    Monday, January 23, 2012

    MINOX MD 50 W 16-30x Waterproof Spotting Scope

    MINOX MD 50 W 16-30x Waterproof Spotting Scope Review



    MINOX MD 50 W 16-30x Waterproof Spotting Scope Feature

    • Fully adjustable eyepiece with 16x to 30x magnification
    • Small compact design; weighs just 615 grams
    • 50 mm entrance pupil
    • High resolution objective lens system features the unique MINOX multi-layer M coating
    • Angled scope provides a more relaxed stance during viewing
    Travel friendly dimensions, a variable power top-of-the-range optical system and highest precision mechanics, these are the characteristics of the brand new MINOX MD 50 W telescope, representing the classic design and production values of the brand MINOX at a very high level. With its fully adjustable eyepiece from 16x to 30x magnification, its compact dimensions and weighing in at just 615 grams the new MINOX MD 50 W truly is a spotting scope to have with you at all times.


    Sunday, January 22, 2012

    Tasco World Class 20-60x60mm Spotting Scope

    Tasco World Class 20-60x60mm Spotting Scope Review



    Tasco World Class 20-60x60mm Spotting Scope Feature

    • 20-60x60mm magnification
    • The ultimate hunting and birding tool
    • BK7 prisms, fully coated optics
    Tasco World Class 20-60x60mm Spotting Scope ASIN: B000F4C5HW The Tasco World Class 60mm Spotting Scope is an excellent value because it offers very good optical performance in a compact and affordable package. The scope itself features fully-coated optics, a rubber armored waterproof body, and a zoom eyepiece with magnification ranging from 20X up to 60X. The accessories include a light weight table-top tripod, a soft carrying case, and a durable hard shell case that will allow the rubber armored scope to stand up to years of use.

    The Tasco World Class 60mm spotting scope uses a fully-coated objective lens and rugged porro-prism design for bright, clear images. At 100 yards, I can clearly focus in on a target, even when I crank the magnification up to the maximum 60X. When I use the scope for wildlife spotting, I find myself using the low power 20X magnification most of the time because it gives me the sharpest images and the widest field of view. On a recent trip to the lake I saw an Oprey with my binoculars. With the Tasco World Class 60 I was able to zoom in and watch the Osprey feeding a freshly caught fish to its chicks.

    I also like the compact size and light weight of the Tasco World Class 60. At only 14 inches long and weighing less than two pounds, the Tasco 60 is light enough to use a photo tripod such as the SLIK U-9000 in the field. Like other entry level spotting scopes, the Tasco World Class 60 uses an Achromatic objective lens, which means that some false color or blue fringing becomes noticeable at magnifications of 40X or more.

    I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the quality and value of some of the binoculars and spotting scopes imported from China the last few years. The Tasco World Class 60mm spotting scope simply offers very good optical performance for a very reasonable price. --Jeff Phillips

    Pros:

    • Excellent price/performance ratio
    • Very good Achromatic optics
    • Rubber armored waterproof design
    • Lockable hard shell case included
    Cons:
    • Blue fringing noticeable at high power
    • Limited eye relief for eyeglass wearers
    Evening Grosbeaks shot at 20X
    Evening Grosbeaks shot at 20X
    Pelicans on the lake shot at 20X
    Pelicans on the lake shot at 20X
    American White Pelicans shot at 20X
    American White Pelicans shot at 20X
    Osprey nest over 100 yards away shot at 20X
    Osprey nest over 100 yards away shot at 20X


    World Class scopes are ideal for hunters, birders and naturalists, and include a car-mount tripod.


    Friday, January 20, 2012

    Alpen 15-45x60 w/45 deg. eye piece, wtrpf Spotting Scope

    Alpen 15-45x60 w/45 deg. eye piece, wtrpf Spotting Scope Review



    Alpen 15-45x60 w/45 deg. eye piece, wtrpf Spotting Scope Feature

    • Spotting scope with 15-45x magnification and 60mm objective lens
    • BaK-4 multicoated optics for superior brightness, resolution, and edge clarity
    • Nitrogen-filled housing is waterproof, dustproof, and shock-resistant
    • 45-degree angled eyepiece; extendable sunshade; includes 12-inch tripod
    • Durable field carrying case; measures 13 inches long; weighs 28 ounces
    Spotting scope users demand top-quality optics that perform flawlessly under all weather conditions. Enter the Alpen 15-45x60 model, a waterproof, fogproof spotting scope that's ideal for backcountry use, benchrest shooting, or just checking out the scenery from your backyard. The scope is equipped with BaK-4 multicoated optics, which offer superior brightness, resolution, and edge clarity regardless of your subject. The scope's 15 to 45x magnification range, meanwhile, provides a panoramic view at low power and a close-up view of distant objects at high power, so you can enjoy the best of all worlds. And the Alpen scope stands up to rough handling thanks to the nitrogen-filled housing, which is waterproof, dustproof, and shock-resistant.

    Other features include a 45-degree angled eyepiece; an extendable sunshade; a portable 12-inch swivel-head tabletop tripod; and a durable, padded field carrying case. The scope carries Alpen's lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

    Specifications

    • Magnification: 15x to 45x
    • Objective lens diameter: 60mm
    • Eyepiece: 45 degrees
    • Focus system: Center
    • Prism type: Porro
    • Field of view: 115 feet @ 1,000 yards (15x); 59 feet @ 1,000 yards (45x)
    • Exit pupil: 4mm to 1.3mm
    • Eye relief: 18mm to 15mm
    • Close focus distance: 19 feet (15x) to 24 feet (45x)
    • Prism material: BaK-4 lenses
    • Lens coating: Multicoated
    • Tripod adaptable: Yes
    • Waterproof/fogproof: Yes
    • Type of case: Nylon and aluminum
    • Length: 13 inches
    • Weight: 28 ounces
    • Warranty: Lifetime

    About Alpen Optics
    Established in 1997, Alpen Optics produces a full line of binoculars, spotting scopes, riflescopes, and accessories designed to offer superior value to the consumer. The company produces more than 70 products and accessories chock full of features and benefits normally found on much more expensive brands. Alpen backs up its commitment to quality manufacturing with a limited lifetime factory warranty. Alpen is headquartered in Rancho Cucamonga, California. This Alpen 15-45x60 zoom spotting scope features a 45 degree eye piece and is fully waterproof and fogproof. The zoom magnification provide a great combination of convenience and optical performance. This model has 15-45x magnification which provides panoramic viewing at low power and close up viewing of distant objects at high power and weighs only 28 ounces. The retractable sun shade helps reduce glare and the BAK4 multi-coated optics deliver a bright crisp image and the rubber armoring provides shock resistance. Great for back country use, bench rest, or just viewing in your back yard. Comes with small table top tripod and durable carrying case. Backed by Alpen's lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.


    Wednesday, January 18, 2012

    BARSKA Blackhawk 22-67x100 Straight Spotting Scope with Tripod and Premium Hard Case (Green Lens)

    BARSKA Blackhawk 22-67x100 Straight Spotting Scope with Tripod and Premium Hard Case (Green Lens) Review



    BARSKA Blackhawk 22-67x100 Straight Spotting Scope with Tripod and Premium Hard Case (Green Lens) Feature

    • 22-67x magnification with large 100mm objective lens with complete water proof and fogproof
    • Multi-coated optics maximizes light tresmission for superior brightness and clariy
    • Porro Prism type spotting scope with Straight Eyepiece system
    • Rubber armor designed to protect & absorb shock
    • Bonus accessories includes premium hard case and micro-adjustable tripod.
    Specifications:22-67x, Field of View (ft@1000yds/m@1000m) =95/32@22X-47/16@67x, Exit Pupil (mm): 4.4@22x~47/16@67x, Close Focus (ft/m) 33/10 Eye Relief (mm) 18@22x, 15@67x


    Monday, January 16, 2012

    Celestron 52302 Regal Refractor 80mm F-ED Spotting Scope

    Celestron 52302 Regal Refractor 80mm F-ED Spotting Scope Review



    Celestron 52302 Regal Refractor 80mm F-ED Spotting Scope Feature

    • Regal 80 F-ED Refractor scope.
    • 45 angled APO refracting spotting scope
    • Waterproof
    • Fully multi-coated optics
    Celestron 52302 Regal Refractor 80mm F-ED Spotting Scope

    Celestron’s Regal 80 F-ED Zoom Spotting Scope offers high end optics in a medium priced spotting scope. The “Fluoro ED” glass objective lens virtually eliminates the false color or blue fringing commonly seen with traditional achromatic lenses. With its Fluoro-ED optics and Multi-Coated zoom lens the Regal 80 F-ED delivers images that compare with more expensive ED and Fluorite spotting scopes.

    Conventional achromatic scopes seem to lose sharpness at high power because different colors come to focus at slightly different points, this is known as “chromatic aberration.” The Regal 80 F-ED with its Fluoro-ED objective lens overcomes this problem and gives me images that are delightfully crisp and clear. When I’m looking at backyard birds at 20X magnification the view is so sharp it’s like holding a bird in my hand. When I look at the Moon at 60X, I can easily pick out detail and identify hundreds of craters.

    The Regal 80 F-ED features a sleek, waterproof design and includes a padded soft case with zippers on both ends so the scope can be protected even while mounted on a tripod. With the 20-60X zoom eyepiece the Regal 80 F-ED measures about 19 inches long and weighs just over 4 pounds. A “T-thread” adapter is included for attaching a camera. I like the 45* angled eyepiece because I can use a shorter tripod to support the spotting scope while viewing or while taking pictures with a digital camera.

    The dual-speed focus knobs allow really sharp focusing anywhere from 20 feet to the horizon. The twist-up eyecup allows me to see a generous 2.1 degree field of view at 20X, even while wearing glasses. Sometimes though I like to take my glasses off while observing because the view seems to have just a little more contrast and sharpness. I like the fact that the Regal 80 F-ED gives me a sharp image either way.

    Celestron’s Regal 80 F-ED Zoom Spotting Scope combines sharp multicoated optics with a good quality zoom lens in a compact waterproof package. Top it off with a lifetime “No-Fault” warranty and the Celestron Regal 80 F-ED is simply a great value. --Jeff Phillips

    Pros:

    • Sharp multi-coated optics
    • Good zoom eyepiece
    • Waterproof design
    • Lifetime no-fault warranty


    Cons:
    • Imported from China
    80MM (3.1-Inch) diameter 45⁰ angled APO refracting spotting scope. Waterproof 480MM focal length (f/6) Fully multi-coated optics Low dispersion fluoro ED glass


    Saturday, January 14, 2012

    Celestron 52228 50mm Refractor Zoom Spotting Scope

    Celestron 52228 50mm Refractor Zoom Spotting Scope Review



    Celestron 52228 50mm Refractor Zoom Spotting Scope Feature

    • 50MM (2-Inch) diameter refracting spotting scope.
    • Waterproof 303 MM focal length
    • Fully Coated optics
    • Tabletop Tripod
    • Soft Case/Aluminum Carrying Case
    Refractor Series 2-Inch diameter spotting scope. 303 mm focal length f/6 . Fully coated optics 15-45x zoom eyepiece. Tabletop tripod


    Thursday, January 12, 2012

    Barska 11-33X50 WP Tactical Spotting Scope

    Barska 11-33X50 WP Tactical Spotting Scope Review



    Barska 11-33X50 WP Tactical Spotting Scope Feature

    • Versatile spotting scope designed for tactical and hunting environments
    • 11 to 33x magnification range and 50mm objective lens
    • Mil-cross reticle; fully multicoated BK-7 optics for bright, crisp images
    • 100-percent waterproof and fogproof; shockproof rubber armor
    • Side focus knob with ribbed rubber focus ring; includes mini tripod
    Designed for both tactical and hunting environments, the Barska 11-33x50 WP Tactical spotting scope gives users a crystal-clear view of the subject ahead. The scope is equipped with fully multicoated BK-7 optics that deliver crisp, bright images at any magnification in any conditions. The scope's mil-cross reticle, meanwhile, helps the viewer calculate the distance of an object. And thanks to the O-ring-sealed, nitrogen-purged housing, the scope is 100-percent waterproof and fogproof. Other details include a side focus knob for convenience, a ribbed rubber focus ring, a shockproof rubber armor, and a mini-pan-head lever tripod. The Tactical scope--which also comes with a carrying case and objective lens cover--carries a limited lifetime warranty.



    The Tactical spotting scope comes with a mini tripod and carrying case.
    Specifications:
    • Magnification: 11-33x
    • Objective lens: 50mm
    • Waterproof: Yes
    • Fogproof: Yes
    • Reticle: Mil Cross
    • Prism type: Porro
    • Eyepiece system: Angled
    • Exit pupil: 4.5 to 1.5mm
    • Optical coating: Fully multicoated
    • Field of view: 191 to 89 feet @ 100 yards
    • Close focus: 16.4 feet
    • Eye relief: 19.13 to 17.66mm
    • Length: 11 inches
    • Weight: 1.4 pounds
    • Accessories: Mini-pan-head tripod, soft carrying case, lens cloth
    • Warranty: Limited lifetime

    About Barska
    Barska is a worldwide sport optics company with strong brand recognition within the optics industry, with corporate offices in La Verne, California, and warehouses and distribution centers in La Verne and Shanghai, China. Barska offers an extensive line of precision sport optics products, such as binoculars, riflescopes, spotting scopes, and telescopes. The product range has been designed and built with the latest optical technology, allowing users to enjoy all their favorite leisure time outdoor activities, including bird watching, outdoor observation, hunting, fishing, stargazing, concerts, and sporting events.

    11-33x50 WP Tactical, Angled, W/Mil Dot Reticle, Side Focus System, Fully Multi-Coated, w/Tripod, Soft Carrying Case


    Tuesday, January 10, 2012

    Leupold SX-1 Ventana 20-60 x 80mm Spotting Scope - Kit

    Leupold SX-1 Ventana 20-60 x 80mm Spotting Scope - Kit Review



    Leupold SX-1 Ventana 20-60 x 80mm Spotting Scope - Kit Feature

    • New Ergonomic Design - Aggressive knurling on the focus knob and lens shade provides sure, positive adjustment, even with gloved hands.
    • The Multicoat 4® lens system ensures maximum brightness, clarity, contrast, and color fidelity.
    • Generous Eye Relief - Comfortable twist-up eyecups and non-critical eye relief makes long glassing sessions a breeze.
    • Retractable Lens Shade - eliminates glare on the lens to improve picture quality.
    • 100 Percent Waterproof and Fog Proof. Rugged construction and sealed optics withstand the worst of the elements.
    SX-1 Ventana Spotting Scopes The new SX-1 Ventana combines sleek and striking industrial design, and superior optical quality with a price that keeps exceptional spotting within reach of virtually every hunter. 15-45x60mm or 20-60x80mm models offer an extreme magnification range for maximum versatility, allowing you to get up close and personal with your target. With a huge magnification range; sharp, bright Multicoat 4® treated optics; and rugged, waterproof construction, the Leupold® Ventana 20-60x80mm spotting scope gives you incredible power and flexibility, in a rugged, field-ready optic


    Monday, January 9, 2012

    Celestron 52229 60mmRefractor Zoom Spotting Scope

    Celestron 52229 60mmRefractor Zoom Spotting Scope Review



    Celestron 52229 60mmRefractor Zoom Spotting Scope Feature

    • 60MM (2-Inch) diameter refracting spotting scope.
    • Waterproof 303 MM focal length
    • Fully Coated optics
    • Tabletop Tripod
    • Soft Case/Aluminum Carrying Case
    Refractor Series 2.4-Inch diameter spotting scope. 341 mm focal length f/5.7 . Fully coated optics 20-60x zoom eyepiece. Tabletop tripod


    Saturday, January 7, 2012

    Swarovski STM-80-HD Spotting Scope

    Swarovski STM-80-HD Spotting Scope Review



    Swarovski STM-80-HD Spotting Scope Feature

    • New Magnesium technology means lower weight and maximum stability
    • Fluoride HD Lenses minimizes color fringing
    • Outstanding optical quality and ergonomic function
    • Dustproof and watertight with protective rubber armoring
    • Light, precise and rugged
    With Swarovski Optik spotting scopes, you'll always have a balcony view. The Swarovski STM 80 HD spotting scope, for instance, offers such features as outstanding long-distance focusing, high light transmission, and ultra-high magnification power, turning every observation into an adventure. The STM 80--which is made using state-of-the-art magnesium technology--features a large 80mm objective lens diameter, letting you observe objects in razor-sharp detail. The scope also offers excellent light-gathering qualities, which work beautifully even at high magnifications and in low-light conditions. Best of all for viewers on the move, the scope's magnesium housing is unusually lightweight and extremely rugged, making it a great choice for hiking or traveling.

    The STM 80 is outfitted with fluoride-containing HD lenses, which minimize color fringing (chromatic aberration) and deliver high-contrast images with precise outlines. The HD lenses are terrific for regular viewing, but they're particularly valuable for digital photographers who want to take pictures through the spotting scope (a process known as digiscoping). Observers will also love the scope's straight-angle chassis, which makes it easy to locate and follow birds in flight, or to observe from a car without being seen.

    Every spotting scope in the Swarovski Optik collection is well built and protected from scratches or dents. Swarovski scopes' enhanced Swarodur or Swarotop coatings guarantee lifelike color reproduction and outstanding image brightness even at dusk. The scopes also feature a nonstick Swaroclean coating on the outer surface of each lens. The coating--which helps extend the lifespan of your lens--is particularly effective when you need to remove dried-on mineral residues (such as water marks from condensation), insect repellents, and tree resin. Finally, each Swarovski scope boasts a rubber armoring that protects against shock and noise. Dustproof, waterproof, and submersible to 13 feet, the STM 80 HD spotting scope carries a lifetime warranty. Swarovski eyepieces are sold separately.

    Specifications:

    • Objective lens: 80mm
    • Shortest focusing distance: 16.4 feet
    • Dioptric correction: Greater than 5
    • Objective lens filter thread: M82x0.75
    • Length: 13.19 inches
    • Weight: 45.2 ounces
    • Warranty: Limited lifetime

    About Swarovski Optik
    Although founded in 1949, Swarovski Optik's roots actually trace all the way back to 1895, when Austrian Daniel Swarovski--who invented the world's first electric grinding machine for jewelry stones--established the family-owned Swarovski Crystal in the province of Tyrol. Since then, the name Swarovski has become synonymous worldwide with the clearest crystal, precision grinding, and a brilliant spirit of innovation, as the original enterprise continued branching out into additional lines of business.

    Swarovski Optik owes its rise to Wilhelm Swarovski, son of the original founder and an avid hobby astronomer, who decided to build his own improved binocular in 1935 at a mere 17 years of age. With access to the specialized glass production and finishing technologies already used to manufacture jewelry stones in his father's factory, Wilhelm managed to develop a novel prism fabrication and grinding process that he applied in constructing his first 6x30 binocular. Wilhelm went on to found Swarovski Optik KG in Absam, Tyrol, in 1949, thus laying the foundation for a sports optics company with a global reputation. His company's first serial product, the Habicht 7x42, is still an industry standard in the field of hunting optics and continues to be produced in the best tradition of its founder.

    Swarovski Optik HD observation spotting scopes will impress with their brilliant performance, fine resolution, extremely ergonomic design and unique functionality. These HD spotting scopes have a complex high grade optical system which allows for very detailed observation with high contrast images right up to the periphery and with total color fidelity even in poor light. Digiscoping (photography through spotting scopes) accessories are available. Spotting scope bodies are sold separately from the eyepiece, an eyepiece is necessary for viewing.