SPOTTING SCOPES

I am gathering information to purchase my first Spotting Scope. Photography has been my primary interest. However, I have recently volunteered as a "citizen scientist" to observe bald eagle nests in NJ (where they are still classified as "endangered") to gather research data. Observation points are at least 1000 feet away from nests and many are farther. I am looking for a good quality scope at a good price. I would appreciate your recommendations and suggestions.

Joseph, this thread may be a good starting point, though it mainly discusses more affordable scopes as opposed to high-end Swarovskis:

http://forums.yellowstone.net/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=10179

Scopes are popular in Yellowstone due to all the wolf and bear watching, so there may be some useful info in there.

Max

Zeiss and Kowa are the best, in my experience. The Kowa is wonderful at gathering light; images are excellent in very low light. The Zeiss sets up as fast as any scope I've seen in the field.

You might also investigate digiscoping - taking digital pictures thru a good scope, with the right equipment.
Sounds like a great opportunity!

http://www.nikon.com/products/sportoptics/lineup/dsystem/index.htm

Sandy

Hi Joseph,

I have owned/used Nikon, Kowa, and Bushnell scopes - then I acquired a Swarovski (model ATM-80 HD). Incomparable. Costs many bucketfuls of money - but an absolute pleasure to use with unbelievable clarity, resolution and overall quality.

Cheers...

Brad