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Spotting scope stand suggestions

I am in the same position as you are. I am seriously considering a spotting scope for F-Open. The stand you have in your posting is the same one I am considering. I think it is excellent. Now for the costliest part of the equation. I have an old Nikon spotting scope with a "straight" eyepiece. You really do need the angled eye piece. AND, although it was an excellent scope in it's time, compared to today's scopes, it is sadly lacking. I have narrowed it down to 3 scopes. 1.) Vortex Razor HD.. About $13-1500 bucks and it is "bright", crisp and very clear; 2.) Kowa 80MM ($1600.00 one) >> excellent! Clear but not as "bright" as the Vortex; 3.) Nightforce $2350.00... Beyond either of the other two in both clarity and "brightness" BUT A LOT more $$$s.. Is it worth the extra? I have looked thru all 3 but not for any great lengths of time.
I too am interested in this thread as I am on the brink of making the plunge..
 
I recently purchased a Celestron Regal M2 spotting scope that I've been using for mid-range (600yds) and I'm very happy with it. It's the model designed for shooter's reading mirage at distance. It comes with extra low dispersion glass and an extra long eye relief (32mm) that works great when using shooting glasses. It's available on Amazon for $579. (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IBIMGDC/?tag=accuratescom-20). Here's the link to the manufacturers website with a bit more detailed information and description (http://www.celestron.com/browse-sho...g-eye-relief-80mm-regal-m2-spotting-scope-kit).

Celestron makes serious telescopes, so don't under estimate the quality of their optics. So if you're looking for a spotting scope for reading mirage at the range, and your not looking to spend huge dollars on one of the big name brands, definitely consider this scope as a VERY viable option, because it works!
 
I am interested in only the stand and scope head. Already made up mind on kowa scope

I think this set up will get the job done. Just not sure about scope head. There are several out there to chose from
 
I had a pole cat. The head was nice. All of those single rod type of stands are pretty unsteady. Get the heaviest possible, Giraud makes a stainless 1" one. The tripods are much more stable and one like the manfrotto 055 can get plenty low. I dont feel that a spotting scope is necessary like most do. For me, the mirage in my scope and flags are plenty for my brain to try and compute. Like when I dabbled in short range shooting, 3 flags was all I wanted, 5 was more info than I could handle. To each his own.
 
I would suggest getting one with a large diameter rod. When you raise the scope for scoring, they can get tippy. The larger rod seams a little more sturdy.
 
++ on the Celestron and large diameter pole. I believe I have a Ray-Vin @ 1" OD. and store a cleaning rod down it. Haven't pulled a bullet yet but that rod has bailed out a few folks who knew I stored one there. Added a Baader eyepiece and give me a hot sticky day and I can go all weekend with hardly looking at a flag. Eric in DL
 
I have fifty years experience with scope stands and do not like any of them. I have a Creedmoor Pole Cat and do not like it. They are very expensive and no better than less expensive poor choices.
 
K.I.S.S.
Freeland Tripod
Freeland Zoom Head
or
Freeland Saddle Head
Cordura zippered cover for your scope

The base's leg lengths sets the tone for stability, not the diameter of the stands extension rods.

Angled scope w/ long eye relief 25-30 power eyepiece is sufficient.

HD-you aren't shooting in twilight conditions that you'll need night vision equipment.

The Hubble Telescope won't show you bullet holes at 1/2 mile through mirage & if that is your concern you've missed the call that mother nature just blew past you at 150 yds.

Remember-you have to pack it........also.
 
I would also suggest looking at the Giraud stand. It has an optional ground spike that threads into the center of the base to improve stability, as needed. The large diameter pole is sectional so it can be used prone and sitting/standing for scoring/observing. In the lowest configuration I don't think stability is an issue. When the scope is up higher on the stand, wind gusts will cause a little sway.
 
ShootDots said:
I am in the same position as you are. I am seriously considering a spotting scope for F-Open. The stand you have in your posting is the same one I am considering. I think it is excellent. Now for the costliest part of the equation. I have an old Nikon spotting scope with a "straight" eyepiece. You really do need the angled eye piece. AND, although it was an excellent scope in it's time, compared to today's scopes, it is sadly lacking. I have narrowed it down to 3 scopes. 1.) Vortex Razor HD.. About $13-1500 bucks and it is "bright", crisp and very clear; 2.) Kowa 80MM ($1600.00 one) >> excellent! Clear but not as "bright" as the Vortex; 3.) Nightforce $2350.00... Beyond either of the other two in both clarity and "brightness" BUT A LOT more $$$s.. Is it worth the extra? I have looked thru all 3 but not for any great lengths of time.
I too am interested in this thread as I am on the brink of making the plunge..
Click to expand...

I've been using the Kowa 82 for 3yrs now and love it. Check out the pricing here. https://www.creedmoorsports.com/category/s?keyword=kowa
I got mine complete with cover for around 1000 with the long eye relief eyepiece. I found an increase in my scores after my purchase. I also purchased a phone scope adapter and use it to score with. You can score and follow mirage without wearing out your eyes in the process. https://www.phoneskope.com/?gclid=C...36JGIioJXxEzoBAbdx1d5YQ2A1SynTQ_oQaAonU8P8HAQ
 
brxbrad said:
I've been using the Kowa 82 for 3yrs now and love it. Check out the pricing here. https://www.creedmoorsports.com/category/s?keyword=kowa
I got mine complete with cover for around 1000 with the long eye relief eyepiece. I found an increase in my scores after my purchase. I also purchased a phone scope adapter and use it to score with. You can score and follow mirage without wearing out your eyes in the process. https://www.phoneskope.com/?gclid=C...36JGIioJXxEzoBAbdx1d5YQ2A1SynTQ_oQaAonU8P8HAQ
Click to expand...
Thank You! I am quickly leaning towards this scope. I have spoke with a few people I respect who also hold your view. It is coming down to the Kowa or the Vortex Razor HD. They are both nearly the same price, give or take a hundred or so bucks. After this thread and the talks I have had, I have ruled out the NightForce>>>for what I need and want, it is over twice the dollar amount for no additional benefit. Once again, Thanks for your input, it is much appreciated.
 
Ben, Pentax is a very good scope also, and it is conditions you need to see. Not looking for bullet holes, but it will, at 600 on a good day, and remember the eye piece is the deal breaker and they have the best.... jim
 
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