$800 spotter budget

[Curtis C]

Got a budget of $800 for a new spotter and would like some input.

Vortex Viper HD 15-45X65
or
Vortex Razor HD 11-33X50

Considering those 2 and would like to know which you would choose and why. I know there is a significant weight difference. I am more interested in learning if the larger objective and higher power of the Viper out performs the high quality glass of the smaller Razor.

 

[eltaco]

I've never used the small razor, but have owned both the 45x viper hd and 48x razor. JMO, but I wouldn't recommend the viper hd... the higher power was not very useful in anything less than perfect light conditions. It suffered significantly at dawn/dusk and cloudy conditions. .. the razor truly does blow it away. I would guess that the 33x razor would be more clear than the 15x in the viper hd, even given the smaller objective. The razor glass is exceptional, but the viper hd is unfortunately a huge step behind it.

 

[ltlacorn]

The Compact Razor is amazing for the size. That is what I will be packing with me this year on my Wyoming Elk hunt.

 

[tipsntails7]

Save another 200 and get the razor 65 demo from camera land. That is my plan

 

[dotman]

Save another 200 and get the razor 65 demo from camera land. That is my plan

X2....

 

[Liljozie495]

Save another 200 and get the razor 65 demo from camera land. That is my plan

X3.....

 

[bard]

if you wouldn't mind a larger optic I would look at the zenray ed2 80mm. it performs identical to the large razer at almost half the price on all the birder site tests. I have had it side by side 2 full size razers and it is impossible to tell the difference. I have the binos as well and they are as clear as glass twice the price. imo larger optics are one place it pays to pack the extra weight but that depends on where and what your hunting. last season on most days I could use the spotter on 60x with no problems. would love a compact spotter for a few occasions but It would be hard going back full time

 

[bohunterm]

I believe Cameraland has the Zen ED 2 Spotter for $799 now.

 

[WRO]

Zen Ray and vortex are basically the same. See if you can find a used meopta..

 

[Beastmode]

Call elknut. You may but closer to a new razor 65mm than you are think.