Kenai or Golden Ring?

[Pathfinder101]

Well, I decided not to get a 50mm compact Leupy Golden Ring.  I was in Wholesale Sports a couple of weeks ago, and looked through a Kenai.  I like it a lot.  The Kenai and the 60mm GOlden Ring are within $200 of each other in price (about $800 for the Kenai, about $1,000 for the GR).  I have not looked through them both side by side yet. 
Here are the pros and cons:

Kenai is an 80mm scope, larger reticle, more light(?)
Kenai is not too bulky for an 80mm, no problem packing it where I hunt
Kenai is higher powered 60x as opposed to the GR's 45X

Golden Ring is made in Oregon (Kenai is made overseas)
GOlden RIng has a long track record (Kenai is a new model)
GR has a reputation for being excellent glass (Kenai has virtually no track record)
GR is lighter, smaller

So, does anyone have experience with both scopes?  Which one would YOU buy?

[Pathfinder101]

Nuthin'?

No help from the Forum

...am I on my own...

[ribka]

I looked at the Kenai in Cabelas. Seemed pretty heavy for its size. I compared with the Nikon outside the store at dusk and ended up purchasing the Nikon. Was not very impressed with the Kenai for it sprice range but am sure there are plenty of guys on here with more experience than me. I have looked through the GR and I think for $200 more would purchase over a China made scope IMO

[Bean Counter]

Doesn't the Kenai come with two eyepieces? a fixed 30x wide and a zoom 25-75x? 

Kenai is an 80mm scope, larger reticle, more light(?)

More light, and more field of view!

Kenai is not too bulky for an 80mm, no problem packing it where I hunt

This, to me, answers the question. If you can carry it, horse it in, or have partners to help carry the gear, get the biggest spotting scope with HD glass that you can afford. You'll quickly learn that its your most important piece of gear when hunting mullies. 

GOlden RIng has a long track record (Kenai is a new model)

Irrelevant--both are from the same manufacturer, which has a very solid track record.

Golden Ring is made in Oregon (Kenai is made overseas)

Irrelevant to me. I don't enjoy my Nikon any less bc it is Japanese.  I wouldn't enjoy it any more if it were USA made.

[Ray]

What was wrong with the compact scope?

[Lowedog]

What type of terrain are you hunting.  Is a spotting scope essential to hunt your area?  I find I use my spotting scope very little. 

[Ray]

I don't own a spotting scope but I was looking at the compact leupold for hunting in Montana and Wyoming. I don't see much use for one where I hunt in western Washington.

[Lowedog]

My buddy just bought this Nikon http://www.outdoors4less.net/proddetail.asp?prod=57785&product=nikon_prostaff_spotting_scope_1648x65_realtree__outfit

I wouldn't really call it compact but it isn't overly large either.  I haven't had a chance to look through it much but he says it is really clear.  I own the Leupold compact GR which is a fixed 25x50mm scope.  Very compact and light weight.  Works great for me and I have never felt like I needed more power as I use only to confirm something I have spotted with binos. 

This is the scope I have... http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=190658540

[USAFpj]

Irrelevant to me. I don't enjoy my Nikon any less bc it is Japanese.  I wouldn't enjoy it any more if it were USA made.

I don't poo on Japanese glass, as that is one of two places that make high end lenses; but that's scary times when we are comfortable stating the last portion of your statement.  I realize we live in a 'global economy', but I would always feel more enjoyment if the option was there to purchase the same item, but manufactured in the U.S.  Am I missing something?

[Pathfinder101]

What was wrong with the compact scope?

Not enought magnification, not enough field of view.  I already have a 36X spotter (an Alpen), but it is grainy at long ranges.

What type of terrain are you hunting.  Is a spotting scope essential to hunt your area?  I find I use my spotting scope very little. 

Mostly Southeastern WA, but I drew Montana this year too.  I live behind my spotter.

[Pathfinder101]

Sorry I didn't clarify more in my first post.

I already have a spotting scope that I use a lot.  It is an Alpen 60mm that goes up to 36 power.  I like it, but last year when I hunted Montana for the first time, I found that I was "underglassed".  For the first time I was trying to field judge bucks at very long ranges (over a mile in many cases), trying to figure out if they were worth spending a whole morning or afternoon "going after".  My Alpen (and my buddie's Vortex for that matter) was grainy at long ranges, and many times we had a hard time field judging animals.  I had Leupold Binoculars, and almost every day I found myself wishing that my spotter was as clear as my binos.  The deer I shot, I had ample time to look at through my spotter(at about amile), and I judged him at a lot bigger (wider) than he actually was.  Because of where he was bedded, we spent the whole afternoon stalking him (without seeing him), then jumping him and having to make a quick decision whether or not to kill him.  I did, but there was a lot of ground shrinkage.  Probably more in play here than just the grainy spotter, (experience etc..) but it definitely had a hand in it. 

THis year 2 things happened:
1.  I drew Montana again
2.  My garage burned down, taking a spotting scope with it, that my insurance company way overvalued (no, I am not complaining), so I get to replace my spotter with some decent glass.

As said before, I am down to a choice between the Leupold Kenai and the Golden Ring.   

[PYSEEKER]

Go with the Gold Ring you won't regret it. I have the Gold Ring HD and like it, plus the Gold Ring's size is more practical for long packs. That's just my 

[Lowedog]

I think the GR would be my choice but I would try real hard to get to look through both at the same time.  From what I know about Leupold their GR lines are much better quality as far as construction.  They might use some good glass in the Kenai but is it put together as well as the GR? 

[Pathfinder101]

I think the GR would be my choice but I would try real hard to get to look through both at the same time.  From what I know about Leupold their GR lines are much better quality as far as construction.  They might use some good glass in the Kenai but is it put together as well as the GR? 

Well, see, that's just the thing.  The Kenai has the features that I like (bigger objective, 2 eyepieces, more magnification, etc..), but it's an unproven product.  I know the GR is a solid peice of equipment, because they've been around forever.   

[Bean Counter]

Why don't you buy it at a brick and mortar (albeit paying a little bit more) that has a 30 day return policy? 

When was the last time you bought something with the name Leupold on it and they told you to go to hell when it broke? 

Why don't you want the first hunters review of the Kenai to read "Pathfinder101" next to the authors name?

I have to admit: the more I hear you talking about long range the more I want to buy a 75x eyepiece to go with my 30x for my Nikon. The cost? $250 

I don't think you'll experience grainyness with either of the two scopes you're considering 

[Bean Counter]

I don't poo on Japanese glass, as that is one of two places that make high end lenses; but that's scary times when we are comfortable stating the last portion of your statement.  I realize we live in a 'global economy', but I would always feel more enjoyment if the option was there to purchase the same item, but manufactured in the U.S.  Am I missing something?

Just my 
As a former businessman with an economics background (who happens to be ardently pro US and possibly xenophobic) it IMHO that buying globally is patriotic.  Buying the best product you can for the best price you can is in your interests, the interests of those you buy from, and those you don't buy from. Econ 101.  Any job that can be replaced by a machine should be!!! Any job that can be shipped over seas for a fraction of the cost should be!!!!

That being said, I feel hunting is a patriotic endeavor, and while I don't have much attachment to where my glass was made, I do like knowing that my guns are all American.  If I ever got into collecting guns, I'd only want to collect American guns.

This is a great conversation to have but we shouldn't  Pathfinder101's important path finding.  You can start a new topic in "General Discussion" if you wish to continue 

[Pathfinder101]

Good points Beancounter.  Thanks.

[Jamieb]

The goldring has been around for a while, the track record along with the warranty would make it hard for me the choose a Kenai.

[Pathfinder101]

This is a great conversation to have but we shouldn't   Pathfinder101's important path finding.  You can start a new topic in "General Discussion" if you wish to continue  

No no, this is one of the considerations in my original post. THis is not jacking the original post.   I AM taking into consideration that the GR is made in Oregon, and the Kenai is made in Japan (I think).  Not just out of patriotic concerns, but for this reason; The Golden Ring is made at the LEUPOLD FACTORY in Beaverton, OR.  It, along with all of the other Leupold products I own and love has a great track record, for that reason.  The Leupold Sequoia is NOT made in Oregon, and even though it carries the Leupold label, and it's excellent warranty, it is absolutely inferior glass (otherwise this question would have been settled 6-8 months ago, because I would have bought one).
For an HD spotting scope, the $800 Kenai is actually fairly cheap, especially considering all the features and extras it comes with (extra eyepiece, etc..).  I am not concerned with it's durability, because I know that Leupold will stand behind it for life if it ever has a problem.  WHat I am concerned with is buying inferior glass.  Basically, I don't want to get "lured in" by the "extras", and wind up buying something that I don't want anymore in 6 months...

[Lowedog]

How about getting a in contact with a tech @ Leupold?  You might get someone on the phone that could give you the info you need on the glass they use.

I have always been very happy with them whenever I have contacted them.  They fixed a pair of almost 20 yr old Porro I.F.'s for me after I told them it was my fault they needed repair at no cost.  They did a complete rebuild on them!

[Pathfinder101]

How about getting a in contact with a tech @ Leupold?  You might get someone on the phone that could give you the info you need on the glass they use.

I have always been very happy with them whenever I have contacted them.  They fixed a pair of almost 20 yr old Porro I.F.'s for me after I told them it was my fault they needed repair at no cost.  They did a complete rebuild on them!

Well, that's a good idea, but I don't really know what to ask; do I call Leupold and say "Hey guys, I am thinking about buying a Kenai.  Are they crap?"
How about; "Hi, I am thinking about buying your $800 spotting scope or your $1,000 spotting scope.  Which one should I buy?"

 

[PYSEEKER]

Pathfinder,

I made the call to Leupold because I was curious myself. Here is what I learned, I hope this helps in your decision on which ever one you choose.

Kenai;

Top of the line Green Ring scope, to compete in $700.00 to $800.00 scope market.
Lifetime warranty for original owner.
14" long @ 58.5 oz
Imported product

Gold Ring;

Top of the line Leupold scope made. (Best lens Coating available from Leupold)
Lifetime warranty unconditional
12.5" long @ 37 oz
Made in Portland, OR USA

[Bean Counter]

Thanks PYSeeker! 

Sounds like the GR 60mm HD may be just as bright as the 80mm Kenai since the GR has better glass/coatings.

[Pathfinder101]

Thanks PYseeker.  I am watching a couple of used GRs on ebay right now.  Might wind up going that way...

...man, I still like the two eyepieces though...

[Bean Counter]

Cabelas has a 60 day return policy on optics. Also $5 shipping if you live a ways away.  I'd pickup the Kenai or maybe the Kenai and the GR HD and look at 'em both to decide what I want, then send the other back. Time to pull the trigger before opening morning creeps up on ya.

[Deep Forks]

A friend of mine bought the Kenai and wasn't happy, so with Cabelas return policy he bought the Leupy GR and hunted with both for a week or so, kept the GR and sold the Kenai.  I looked through both and there was no comparison between them.  The GR was much more clear, better color rendition and better edge brightness.

I purchased a Vortex Razor 85mm HD 20x60 this summer and it is better than my friends GR.  The difference between the Razor and the GR are about what the difference was between the Kenai and GR.  Unconditional warranty and was told to use it for a month and if your not happy return it.  I must say it has excellent glass and gathers better light at dusk and dawn.  They're awesome and I couldn't be happier.  My buddy wishes he would've purchased the Vortex HD also.  I'll check he said he was going to sell the GR's and buy a Razor.

Bought mine through The Outdoorsman in Phoenix AZ  800-291-8065
They are very knowledgeable, I think I talked to John      

[Pathfinder101]

Thanks deepforks.  THat is exactly the kind of review I wanted to hear.  Except for the part about the Vortex Razor.  Now I have more research to do...

Just kidding. I'll take a look at them, but aren't they a $2,000 scope

[HardCorpsHuntr]

Path, sounds like you use your spotting scope for the same reason as I do.  Long distance detail (how's his mass, is there kickers, stickers, droppers, eye guards, extras, etc.)  I use Swaro EL's and a Zeiss spotter whether I'm looking from the truck or packed in 10 miles (I will say I don't take my spotter elk hunting.)

What I have.

Zeiss 20-60X85mm (64 oz.)
Leupold GR fixed 25X50mm (21 oz.)
Leupold GR HD 12-40X60mm (45 oz.)

My conclusion.  Zeiss is better all the way around.  At longer distances the clarity in detail is vary noticeable, which is why we pack spotters!  I don't ever regret the money I spent on it, granted I bought it in '03 when the US dollar was strong compared to the euro for around $1200 .   If there is anyway you could get a Leica, Swaro, or Zeiss I would wait and not have regrets.

Not trying to confuse you, but it's one of the larger purchase's and you want to make the right choice.

To answer your question.  To chose between the two you've selected I would go with the GR.

Good luck.
 
 

[Pathfinder101]

Path, sounds like you use your spotting scope for the same reason as I do.  Long distance detail (how's his mass, is there kickers, stickers, droppers, eye guards, extras, etc.)  I use Swaro EL's and a Zeiss spotter whether I'm looking from the truck or packed in 10 miles (I will say I don't take my spotter elk hunting.)

What I have.

Zeiss 20-60X85mm (64 oz.)
Leupold GR fixed 25X50mm (21 oz.)
Leupold GR HD 12-40X60mm (45 oz.)

My conclusion.  Zeiss is better all the way around.  At longer distances the clarity in detail is vary noticeable, which is why we pack spotters!  I don't ever regret the money I spent on it, granted I bought it in '03 when the US dollar was strong compared to the euro for around $1200 .   If there is anyway you could get a Leica, Swaro, or Zeiss I would wait and not have regrets.

Not trying to confuse you, but it's one of the larger purchase's and you want to make the right choice.

To answer your question.  To chose between the two you've selected I would go with the GR.

Good luck.
 
 

Thanks Hardcorps.  you are right, that is what I use the spotter for.  The problem with getting a Ziess or a Swaro is that I am actually doing this through an insurance claim.  They are giving me $800 for my old spotter that burned up in my garage fire.  If I send them a reciept for a $2,000 spotter, they're gonna tell me to go to hell.  I think I can pick up a used Golden Ring 60mm for about what they are going to give me, so I send them the reciept, and no questions asked, I have a new spotter.
Based upon you guy's advice, right now, I am almost certainly going to go with the GR....  watching a couple of used ones on ebay right now...

[Bean Counter]

Well? Buy one already! 

[Pathfinder101]

Auction I was watching ended at friggin' 3:00am, so I got outbid.     watching a few more now. 

[C-Money]

I have had such good luck with Leupold, I just would go that way. I usually shop and compare products, but not with optics.

[Pathfinder101]

Yup.  I bid on a used Golden Ring on ebay last week and picked it up for 600-ish.  Got it in the mail just in time to use it this Saturday for PathfinderJRs elk hunt.  Didn't see any elk, but we love the spotter...  Glad I went with the GR. 
Honestly, I wish I would have had it for the last night of deer season down here.  I would have killed the 4x4 I let walk because I couldn't see his points thru my old spotter...(saw them when he trotted over the hill and skylined  )

[Bean Counter]

I hope I'm not putting you on the spot here. But i'm curious if you have further reflections on how you like the GR?

[Pathfinder101]

Yeah, I have been meaning to come back here and do an update after my Montana hunt.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the Golden Ring.  REALLY glad I got it.  We hunted over there in extreme conditions (-20 with the windchill, snowstorms, ect..) and the scope performed magnificently.  Both Tom and I spotted our bucks through the scope, and even in the horrible conditions were able to accurately judge our animals at a distance before begining the stalk. 
We spotted Tom's buck at over a mile across 2 canyons and I called him a 180" deer before we began the stalk.  On the ground he taped out at 174 5/8.  Spotted my buck at about 600 yards in a straight up snowstorm (my eyecups had filled with snow, so I couldn't see with the binos (left the caps off ).  Tom whipped out my spotter and judged him a "shooter" through the blowing snow.  On the ground he taped out at 160 2/8. 
Aside from those bucks, we also saw two more "shooters" that we couldn't close the deal on, and got to field-judge lots of 3x3s and 4x4s that we chose to pass on.  Lots of use out of the scope, and like I said, I LOVE it. 
I would tell anyone that can afford it, to buy one.  Here's a few pics.