Nikon ediii best budget spotter?

[503Dan]

I’ve been reading through a lot of threads on spotters. Currently do not own a spotter and I’d like to get one in the 60-65 objective range. Is there a better option for glass in the sub 1000 used market? Sub $500? Seems like if I can find the Nikon for $400 ish I’ll be able to get my money back if I upgrade. Just looking for opinions.
Use case would be very broad from spring bear and mountain bucks to desert mulies and back to around home for blacktails.
Thanks in advance

 

[BLJ]

I like mine.

From what I’ve seen anything under $400 is a good price on the ED 3.

I’ve read quite a bit about the Athlon Ares 15-45 being a comparable but I’ve never looked through one.

 

[HuntHarder]

Nikon spotting scopes with ED glass punch waaaay above their price point.

 

[503Dan]

I’m thinking about ordering this one. It ships from Japan so I’m a little bit hesitant. Looks like Nikon warranty may or may not cover it if I have issues. I’m not sure what it would cost to have it serviced if it didn’t cover it. Anyone have any thoughts?

Pardon Our Interruption...

 

[Beendare]

Nikon spotting scopes with ED glass punch waaaay above their price point.

I would agree. BUT and it's a big but....the ED glass in mine does not overcome the 60mm objective in very low light at long range. My Big scope- Zeiss 85mm - is a little bit better....enough that I rarely use my 60mm since I don't backpack in with it. The 60mm is SO MUCH better for backpacking it's not even close....no way I'm packing that big scope around.

I'm going to sell my mint Nikon ED 60mm to some lucky guy...I just haven't got around to it yet.

 

[503Dan]

Looks like the lin

I would agree. BUT and it's a big but....the ED glass in mine does not overcome the 60mm objective in very low light at long range. My Big scope- Zeiss 85mm - is a little bit better....enough that I rarely use my 60mm since I don't backpack in with it. The 60mm is SO MUCH better for backpacking it's not even close....no way I'm packing that big scope around.

I'm going to sell my mint Nikon ED 60mm to some lucky guy...I just haven't got around to it yet.

I’m in the market. Pm me if you decide to sell

 

[ckt3]

I am an a similar position as you, OP. Still reading and researching. Seems that a lot of people like the Athlon Ares G2 spotters.

 

[nm.otter]

It ships from Japan so I’m a little bit hesitant.

What kind of tariff hit do we take these days on a JP shipment?