Old Swarovski STS 80

[Benjblt]

I still have my first spotting scope from 2004 I bought when I was 23. It's an STS 80 as the subject of this posts indicates. My main question is this: Was there a big difference between the standard STS 80 and the STS 80 HD? I wasn't very savy back then in my gear research and really did none at all. I've always regretted not getting the HD but maybe there wasn't much of a difference.

My second question is if there are other eyepieces available that woudl improve my spotting scope? This one came with the standard 20-60. Often I don't go much above 45 as the clarity is not great beyond that.

 

[Echo]

There is a 25-50x wide angle eyepiece out there. I’ve not personally used it but I just went down quite a few rabbit holes researching a 65 ATS and the available eyepieces for those scopes (ended up going with a Kowa 66a).

The consensus I’ve read is that the 25-50x is a the superior eyepiece - providing better clarity and FOV. They aren’t cheap, around $800 new. However, when I was looking cameraland NY had some demo units available for a better price. Eurooptic usually has a good demo selection, as well.

 

[handwerk]

I've had both the HD and non HD STSs and although not earth shattering the HD was certainly an improvement.
I've also had both eyepieces and have kept the 25-50 liking it much more.

 

[BRTreedogs]

And I was the opposite.
I like the 20-60 better then the 25-50

I just felt like the 25-50 was more eye strain and harder to stay behind.

Over all man unless your pretty committed, have some funds and not other upgrades you want to do. Sticking with what you have is probably a safe bet.

Yeah the newer stuff is better but idk about light years.