Budget Large Spotter

[UTJL]

My current optics set up is 10x42 binos and a Kowa 554. Recently I’ve been doing more long range glassing (2+ miles) to save my legs. Most of this is from roads or short hikes.

Does anyone have recommendations on an 85mm or larger spotter for $1k? I prefer to get a used high quality spotter, over a brand new budget model. I’m also not concerned about how much it weighs or how old it is. I know the easy answer is save up for a used Kowa or Swaro, but I’d rather spend the extra $ on tags. I’ve searched threads and I haven’t found any similar topics. Thanks in advance for any ideas!

 

[gr8fuldoug]

You should check out the GPO APO Spotters. Great quality and priced way below what you'd expect

 

[Grassymike]

I have two Pentax PF 65 , I would sell you one if interested. These are 65mm sopes though. very good optics.

 

[Reed104R]

First generation Vortex Razor.

 

[Jon Boy]

First gen razor 85mm. Can probably get one used for $600.

 

[IdahoHntr]

The Athlon Cronus with the dual focus is a great scope. Out performs the razor and can be had for around $1,000. Less when it’s on a decent sale. It’s heavy, but optically it is very good.

 

[Lionhound1975]

I think this Opticron MM4 20-60 x 77 made in Japan ($1084) in the link below will beat out anything under $1000. I have the 50mm and 60mm scopes and they hit way above their price.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1857351-REG/opticron_41385_mm4_77_ga_vhd_45.html/overview?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&store=420&lsft=BI%3A514&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=11184208315&gbraid=0AAAAAD7yMh1N2uE0Ait8UHvG4h6FcQ2uV&gclid=CjwKCAjwwdbPBhBgEiwAxBRA4YLqUmWOvLqnetkV5ca7-SfCabNdVqwkGQnPjL-UHk-8FNqlyh2PpRoC50gQAvD_BwE

 

[4th_point]

Recently I’ve been doing more long range glassing (2+ miles) to save my legs.

I’m also not concerned about how much it weighs or how old it is.

I'd look at two scopes with high magnification eyepieces from the used market.

82mm Meopta with 70x
82mm Nikon ED82 with 75x

These are not wide-angle zooms but scopes with very good reputations for being optically superb with high resolution due to sound design and good QC.

 

[alexnelon]

Nikon FS3 ED is king under like $1,500.

There's also an old Pentax PF80ED on ebay right now that looks tempting.

Both can be had for well under $1k.

 

[AkMtnRunner]

Don't underestimate the difference between used alpha spotters for just under $2k and the best ones you'll find for around $1k. And I think you'd find there's actually very little difference between the ones mentioned above and your 554; and when there's plenty of light, your 554 will probably still outperform them.

At high magnification, as with a spotter, glass quality is just that important.

 

[WRO]

Watch the classifieds for a meopta s2 or cabelas euro hd, best spotter for the money you can get imho.

They pop up fairly regularly in the 12-1500 price point.

 

[Firehawk]

I have seen a few of the Maven S1 spotters priced around $1200-$1300 recently. I have the newer S1.2 (only difference if the removable eye piece on the 1.2) and I feel it is just as good as my Kowa 774 was. I am really pleased with mine. Might consider it anyway.

I would be tempted to try a GPO as well. Have a Rangeguide rangefinding bino and the Passion HD bino in 15x and they hit above their price for sure. Doug usually has some kind of screaming deal on them. Definitely worth checking out.

FH