The Accurate Reloading Forums
sheep hunt--ideas on a new spotting scope
29 May 2009, 10:08
quickshotsheep hunt--ideas on a new spotting scope
I drew on a sheep permit for this fall

any suggestions on a quality but reasonable priced spotting scope-------$400 to $800 range
nothin sweeter than the smell of fresh blood on your hunting boots
Kudos on the Draw!!!

Can't recommend any specific spotter, but there are many to consider. Light weight, a 65mm objective, and small configuration are what I'd look for.
Just read a few days ago that someone bought the small Leupold Spotter for a similar type hunt, and liked it. Don't recall what model, but it did cost somewhere in the price range you're looking to spend. It wasn't a cheapie; it has good glass.
Good luck finding the right spotter!!!

Don
29 May 2009, 20:43
butchlocmy favorite was always an little leupold that was a only about 8-10" long. was a 30x with a crosshair in it. the crosshair was really useful when trying to describe to somebody the exact location of whatever it was we were looking at. don't think its made anymore though
If I had a sheep tag in my pocket and was in the market for a new spotter, I'd be on the horn to Doug at Cameraland and order up one of the new in the box Leica 62mm Televid's he has on sale for $999.99 complete with 16-48x eyepiece, shipping included.
Here's a link:
http://www.24hourcampfire.com/...rch=true#Post288991030 May 2009, 19:05
gr8fuldougBTW, we have 1 left of the 62 straight with rubber armor with the 16-48x and it is new so it comes with the Leica Passport Warranty and it too is only $999.99.
If you want something tiny that you'll always carry that is good quality, take a look at the
Minox MD5001 June 2009, 01:57
quickshotthanks for input.
I am really looking for something with a 60mn or larger objective-----all spotters I have now or used in past really were quite poor when cranked up in power if the objective was less than 60-----I prefer 60---80mn.
I have several small spotters I can pack if I need to,but the quality is lacking. So a spotter of reasonable quality with 60mn or larger objective--regardless of size is what I am after.
I got chance of lifetime on drawing a sheep tag this fall here in Idaho-only 2 tags were offered this year in the unit I will be hunting, so I want a spotter to increase my success

hell, I might even use the tag as an excuse to buy another gun to boot!

any other suggestions --and thanks Doug for your input.
nothin sweeter than the smell of fresh blood on your hunting boots
01 June 2009, 02:28
gr8fuldougIn that case may I suggest the
Pentax PF65ED II It is a VERY well reviewed scope and should be perfect for your needs
01 June 2009, 03:13
quickshotDoug,
what is the mag of the Pentax PF65ED
how doe sit compare to the Minox MD62ED or the Nikons
thanks
nothin sweeter than the smell of fresh blood on your hunting boots
01 June 2009, 05:19
gr8fuldougThe Pentax is a 20-60x (IMO, effective 20-52x). The Minox ED should be purchased with their 21-42x LER eyepiece for best quality
Hang the cost! With a sheep tag in your pocket, pony up the money and get a 60-65mm Zeiss, Swaro or Leica; IMHO.
I found my Grizzly/Moose last year @ 6 miles with my Zeiss 60mm on 30x. Get an angled lens so you can use a shorter tripod which will help with stabilization/vibration due to wind. I was on the very far western end of the Seward Peninsula, between Teller and Kotubue and the wind never stops, averaging 9 mph daily.
Alan
19 July 2009, 08:05
dampatents+1 on the Pentax 65ED (relatively light also in comparison to ... well, others). I would get one of the fixed eyepieces, right now have the 14, perhaps a 10 would be best for what you want or maybe even a 7... call Doug for sure... great field of view and super color rendition... good eye relief also...