IdahoHntr
WKR
If you don’t want to read my ramblings, 3 questions are highlighted.
Lots of research and it seems like these are 2 of the better options around $1000 (Kowa used, Athlon new). I know Kowa’s reputation, but is the old 553/554 optically equal or better than the larger objective and increased magnification of the Athlon Cronus?
The Cronus has a few good reviews but not many from people I put very much trust in, so not sure what to think on it. Anybody have any good time with the Cronus?
Any other viable options around $1000? Optical quality being number 1, other specs not as important.
My Experience and Use Needs:
Looking to upgrade from an Athlon Ares 15-45x65 first generation which I have liked and has served me well, but the upper end of the magnification is not super usable and the low light performance is poor. Not a huge fan of the barrel focus either. Both of these scopes seem like they would be a decent upgrade.
I don’t care about weight really. I’m going to carry a spotting scope when I need a spotting scope and the weight difference doesn’t matter. Optical quality is my only concern.
I don’t glass through a spotting scope. I use it to get a closer look at things I’ve spotted through my binos, assess trophy quality, and getting footage of animals. I have quality binos and now I’m looking to at least do a slight upgrade on the spotting scope.
Thanks for the help. Lots of knowledgeable opinions here that I do trust.
Lots of research and it seems like these are 2 of the better options around $1000 (Kowa used, Athlon new). I know Kowa’s reputation, but is the old 553/554 optically equal or better than the larger objective and increased magnification of the Athlon Cronus?
The Cronus has a few good reviews but not many from people I put very much trust in, so not sure what to think on it. Anybody have any good time with the Cronus?
Any other viable options around $1000? Optical quality being number 1, other specs not as important.
My Experience and Use Needs:
Looking to upgrade from an Athlon Ares 15-45x65 first generation which I have liked and has served me well, but the upper end of the magnification is not super usable and the low light performance is poor. Not a huge fan of the barrel focus either. Both of these scopes seem like they would be a decent upgrade.
I don’t care about weight really. I’m going to carry a spotting scope when I need a spotting scope and the weight difference doesn’t matter. Optical quality is my only concern.
I don’t glass through a spotting scope. I use it to get a closer look at things I’ve spotted through my binos, assess trophy quality, and getting footage of animals. I have quality binos and now I’m looking to at least do a slight upgrade on the spotting scope.
Thanks for the help. Lots of knowledgeable opinions here that I do trust.