Hunting Washington Forum
Equipment & Gear => Scopes and Optics => Topic started by: Tracker0721 on April 04, 2019, 08:10:09 PM
-
So I’ve never had a spotting scope, used some sweet optics for my job in the army, but I think I could really use a spotter with my areas I hunt and where I want to. I’m wondering if going the used route is a good idea? Or should I get a new one? Are the new ones that much better then the older models? Would the warranty still cover it if I get it used? Any recommended models? Most of my scouting where I’d use it is from the truck where I’m looking mountain side to mountain side or clear cuts or something so I don’t worry too much about weight. Plus what’s the sang about shaving 5lbs off the belly is 5lbs off the pack? Any help is appreciated as it’s a lot of money and I want to make a smart investment.
-
I'd highly recommend buying used. Warranties are fully transferable as long as they're Swaro USA bought. If they're the European models, they require sending them across seas for warranty work. I'd look for an ATS or STS model in HD for your best bang for the buck in these days. A is for angled and S is for straight. Preference thing. 20-60×80mm sounds like it would fit your style. Also, don't overlook a Zeiss or Kowa as they're very comparable. I actually chose a Zeiss over them all until Swaro came out with the 95mm.
-
I just got a pair of Swarovski 10X42 SLC WB used, they are great. I would not hesitate to buy used unless they were beat to hell.
Carl
-
I have the Swaro ATM 20-60x65. I went with the 65 because I do pack it a lot so shaved off some weight. I thought I paid a lot for mine but since then the price has gone up significantly. Buy once, cry one. Go big or go home :chuckle: Nothing wrong with used if you can get it from someone you trust. That is a lot of money to shell out even if it is used.
-
I would buy used. You can find some pretty good deals. Most optics in this price range have probably been taken good care of. As said above warranty is transferable. buy once cry once. I like that saying. Very true. You won’t be disappointed!
-
If not packing the larger ones are better but used may be mandatory as your up to 3k. The 65 for 2k new was option I chose.
-
I've got a spare sts 20-60x80 non HD that I'm going to sell if your interested
-
I picked up a used ATX 65mm. The cool thing about the "X" seris is the modular design that allows you to swap between objective lense diameters. 65mm if you're packing or the 85/95mm models if you are scouting or traveling short distances. They can be found for around 2.6K used. If you want to save a little money, look at the 15x binos. Plenty of magnification and easier on the eyes to glass for hours as you're not straining a single eye (and a larger FOV). On the rare occasion that I hunt with a partner we are always optic heavy and bring both with a set of 10x binos in our chest harness.
-
I see that you are a vet or military. Cabelas has a 5% discount for veterans and they price match within 100 miles as well as several online stores. If you ship it to the Portland store you can also save 10% on the tax. I reduced my Swaros by 500$ with those tricks.
