Anyone compare the Zeiss Diascope 65 vs 85mm Scopes?

[squeekieslayer]

Hey guys, I have been using the Zeiss diascope 85 for a couple years now. I absolutely love it so far. That said it is very heavy. I am debating selling it, and getting the 65 for a little smaller package and a little weight loss. I will lose the 60-75X magnification, but I almost never use it anyway because it wiggles too much.

Has anyone had any head to head comparison? I know I will likely lose a bit of light at dusk/dawn, but is it noticeable? Did you really miss the extra 15X? I guess I am just looking for an excuse to spend money at this point hahaha

JOe

 

[luke moffat]

I had the Zeiss 65mm....and now have the 85mm....glass is one of the places I'll pack the extra weight as it generally means I don't have to carry the rest thats in my pack needlessly around to get closer to something

 

[squeekieslayer]

I should probably just get a better tripod. I have the slik mini and it just isn't stable enough for the higher powers. Thanks for the input. I hear rumors that zeiss may be coming out with a new spotter. Then I would just have to spend more money hahaha

Joe

 

[luke moffat]

HAHA...yeah there is always something new and "better" coming out, but at this point I'd rather spend money on leave without pay or apply it to air/water taxis and what not than gear. An upgraded spotter over what I have won't do me much good I got to work a week to pay for it rather than take that week off to go hunt somewhere.

 

[squeekieslayer]

Agreed. Unless its 4 pounds lighter and highlights game with a red arrow I'm probably set. What tripod are u using? Debating the slik on ss or gitzo mountaineer.... or outdoorsman haha can't decide.

 

[justin davis]

I agree Luke. I'm at the same point.

 

[luke moffat]

Agreed. Unless its 4 pounds lighter and highlights game with a red arrow I'm probably set. What tripod are u using? Debating the slik on ss or gitzo mountaineer.... or outdoorsman haha can't decide.

I have a Velbon Ultra maxi tripod (same as the Vortex summit), but the heads on those suck. I used a Manfrotto 700 RC last year but switched to a Manfrotto 494 ball head this year cause its smaller, lighter, and I found I rarely actually pan with my spotter. Light weight and stable enough that it doesn't leave me wanting much over the heavy (5 pound) much more expensive and nicer tripod I use when hunting from an ATV/Boat at a fraction of the weight.

 

[bobhunts]

The Vanguards I have been using seen to be fine. I may be re-thinking that when I get my new one.( Scope ) We will see. Bob.