Field of View

newguy220

Member
Jul 12, 2012
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Idaho
I was looking at the Swarovski ATS spotting scopes and noticed that the field of view at 1000yds is the same with the 65mm or 80mm objective diameter. I than went to the Swarovski website to make sure I wasn't reading a misprint and that is what it stated on there website. It also said the light transmission percentage was the same with both.

So what is the point of getting the bigger objective?

Thanks,
newguy220
 

Bitterroot Bulls

Veteran member
Apr 25, 2011
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Montana
The field of view is the same because they use the same eyepiece. FOV is determined by the eyepiece, and not the objective size.

The 65mm and 80mm bodies also have the same focal length, so the two scopes have the same magnification range and FOV specs.

The advantage of the 80mm is the exit pupil is larger at all magnifications, and so it is brighter. Also, a larger objective also has greater resolution potential, although it is not usually very noticeable when comparing 65mm scopes to 80mm scopes.
 
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Bitterroot Bulls

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Apr 25, 2011
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Montana
So I wouldn't be gaining nothing but weight mainly by going with an 80mm objective?

Thanks,
newguy220
You would be gaining a noticeable improvement in low-light performance for both viewing and digiscoping. Additionally, it is easier to view through a 80mm scope at 60x, due to exit pupil size.
 

newguy220

Member
Jul 12, 2012
104
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Idaho
Thanks for the information. Are there any other scopes I should be considering that are in the 80mm size? I've been thinking about the Zeiss as another choice.

Thanks,
newguy220
 

Bitterroot Bulls

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Apr 25, 2011
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Yeah, the Zeiss is worth a look.

Also check out the Meopta S2 82mm. I like that one with the 30-60 WA eyepiece.

If you can afford them, the Swarovski ATX and Kowa Prominar 88 w/ 25-60 WA eyepiece are the best spotters currently available, IMO.

If budget is a top concern, the Vortex Razor 85 still offers great performance.
 

newguy220

Member
Jul 12, 2012
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Idaho
The ATX is a little more than I want to spend, that is why I'm leaning towards the ATS. I don't mind the Razor, but it's heavier than the rest and seems bulkier than the rest from the ones I've looked at.

Thanks,
newguy220
 

newguy220

Member
Jul 12, 2012
104
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Idaho
Thanks for the information guys. I was able to pick up the ATS 65 HD body on ebay cheap. So, now which eye piece? 25-50WA or 20-60 normal?

Thanks,
newguy220
 

newguy220

Member
Jul 12, 2012
104
0
Idaho
Thanks guys,

I've been looking at the Velbon Tripod's and was wondering what you guys thought of them. I like that they collapse down so small, but can still extend to a standing position.

newguy220
 

Bitterroot Bulls

Veteran member
Apr 25, 2011
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Montana
I have a Velbon that is OK.

The Slik 340 EZ is a good lightweight inexpensive option.

Vortex's offerings are decent as well.

The Outdoorsmans setup is super nice, but you pay for it.