Opinions on the Kowa TSN-501?

[Jjustus16]

I’ve recently been put onto kowa for their higher end models, but I’m curious as to how their cheaper stuff performs? Super reputable company, so it at least peaks my interest.

 

[packgoatguy]

I've got the kowa 553 for serious backpack hunting excursions, and the 501 series for summer backpacking when I just want some ultralight glass to look at mountain goats or video with my phoneskope. I had the 501/502 first, some years ago, and it does the job, and i think excellent for just a 16oz scope...but the 553 is definitely easier on the eyes.