Kowa TSN 553/554 vs 55

[tracker12]

I currently have a Swaro ATS 65 that is a great spotter but am wanting to try a compact model. Have decided to try a Kowa this time and trying to decide if going with a 55 or just looking for a deal on the old model is the way to go. I really only make one western hunt a year that I use a spotter otherwise its just range work. Anyone use both and have a recommendation.

 

[hereinaz]

What’s the purpose? How will you use it?

 

[gr8fuldoug]

The new 55 series is so superior to the older one. The use of the TSN 11wZ eyepiece is huge

 

[Pabst]

Apart from the wider field of view and for those of you that have used both, would you say the new 55 has shown a significant improvement in clarity or resolution from the older 553/4?


I've got a 554 and it's sharp and clear, but with the smaller objective will come reduced resolution. I also have the new 66mm Kowa and the difference in resolution between my 554 and 66s is huge.

 

[tracker12]

I think most will agree the new version 55 is an improvement over the 554/553 but it comes with a $1000 cost. For what “I” use a spotter for its not worth the additional cost. And to be honest if I was going to spend the extra $$ i would move up to the 66