Tropical Audubon Society

South Florida’s Voice of Conservation

Don'r know what you can get for $350--the top spotting scopes range from $1500-3500. However, if you have a decent telephoto lens, 200 mm or more, you might consider converting the lens to a spotting scope with an adapter. The one i've heard of is here: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=857277&gclid=COXw9JaX1s0CFZY1aQod4jMI2w&is=REG&ap=y&c3api=1876%2C91438732682%2C&Q=&A=details

and will only cost you $179. You can order it with the specific mount for your brand of lens. I am willing to bet it is a better option than a $350 dedicated scope, the optics of which might be sub par. But I am only speculating..

The link below might be helpful. However, even if you find a decent spotting scope for that price, you still need good tripod, and that might cost you just as much if not more. But a sturdy tripod makes all the difference in the world. Without one, even the best scope will be useless.

http://www.birdwatching-bliss.com/bird-watching-spotting-scopes.html

I have been eyeballing the Alpen scope on that page for over a year. All the teviews look good. Anyone have experience with it?

Hi Robyn,

I would contact Eagle Optics for this type of purchase. Best in the business, hands down. Ask for Tomkat, Adrian or Ben; they are a wonderful crew and will help you choose the right scope and tripod combo. Tell them your friends from Miami sent you :)

Nature is Awesome
Angel & Mariel
[email protected]

Thank you all for your feedback. Much food for thought...😊