Venom Visual Scopes

Metal Tripod Spotting Scopes

You've been birding for some time and developed an degree of expertise. You may have built a good life list. Now you want to expand that list and ensure quality sightings at the same time. Binoculars served you well at closer ranges, but what about the birds across the water or on the mud flats, or farther across the prairie, or high in the sky? You are ready for new gear: a spotting scope.

As it is with binoculars, so it is with scopes. One can spend any amount. Often, manufacturers try to accomplish being inexpensive and being lightweight at the same time. Sometimes, this leads to scopes which are not well proofed for water or fog and are not as rugged. Still, recent trends have brought down the price to more affordable levels. Consequently, spotting scopes are not only for the elite, but are becoming both essential and accessible equipment for the avid birder.

The first decision is the eye piece, also know as the ocular. Really, this is two decisions in one. First do you want it configured straight through sited (ST) or angular (AN)? Straight through may make it easier to find birds because it works just like your binoculars. Angular appeals to some because it may be less a strain on the back and neck. If you are the sole user of the scope, ST may be the way to go. If you tend to share with several people when birding, you may wish to consider AN. Secondly, you have a choice of a fixed or variable magnification. Many believe it best to stick with a fixed magnification of 20x or 30x--the larger the magnification the greater the light distortion. Variable magnifications typically are 15x-45x or 20x-60x. You should use the smaller magnification in the range to locate the bird and ramp up to gain more detail. As you ramp up, less light will be let in accompanied by a narrower field of view.

The next decision is the objective lens. These define the field of view and are best if at least 60 mm. Larger objective lenses gather more light as well as allowing a greater field of view. The material used for the lens is important, too. The more expensive scopes have a special type of glass in them call ED, which stands for extra-low dispersion. ED enhances light gathering and corrects for chromatic aberration.

Finally, don't neglect the support for your scope. Rigid, mid-weight tripods are best. Tripods need to be sturdy and easily adjustable. Consider a tripod with flip locks for secure and quick adjustments.

The acquisition of a quality spotting scope will enhance your experience and enjoyment of the great outdoors.

Roy Smallwood is the owner of Kingbirdfeeders.com. Roy began this enterprise after a 26 year career as a teacher of science. His love and enjoyment of the outdoors and birding in particular is the impetus for the company. He is an active member of the Central Texas Audubon Society. Roy encourages everyone to participate and enjoy birding whether in the backyard or in the field. Visit http://www.kingbirdfeeders.com and happy birding!

Featured Metal Tripod Spotting Scopes For Sale:

More Featured Metal Tripod Spotting Scopes For Sale On Amazon Below:

	Ravelli APGL4 New Professional 70" Tripod with Adjustable Pistol Grip Head and Heavy Duty Carry Bag List Price: $399.99 Sale Price: $83.33 You save: $316.66 (79%) See Reviews For This Product
	Description The Ravelli APGL4 is a Professional Pistol Grip Tripod providing a solid base for high-end photographic equipment. This model is all pressure treated aluminum alloy construction and is unrivalled in stability... Features Quick Release Camera plate Pistol Grip Tilt Adjustment Head Quick Release Leg Locks Rubber And Spiked Feet Included Invertible Quick Release center Column

Alpen Car Window Mount List Price: $26.00 Sale Price: Too low to display See Reviews For This Product

Description Stabilize your spotting scope or camera while sitting in your car with this car window mount. The mount, which attaches to the top edge of your car's window, features an all-metal body that's tough and long lasting... Features Car window mount for spotting scopes and cameras Attaches to top edge of car window's glass All-metal body is tough and long lasting Fits all scopes and cameras with standard mount Lifetime manufacturer's warranty

Slik Heavy-Duty Tripod with 3-Way Fluid-Effect Head and Built-In Bubble Level List Price: $79.99 Sale Price: $49.00 You save: $30.99 (39%) See Reviews For This Product

Description Light in weight and light in price, but heavy in value! The Slik U series of economy tripods have proved to be so popular and successful that they have been knocked-off by many companies, but none have been able to match the quality and value performance of these versatile tripods... Features This lightweight versatile tripod has a maximum height of 59 inches 3-way pan head with long panhandle for sure camera control Rack and pinion geared center column with handle Easy to attach quick release plate Retractable metal spikes within hard rubber padded feet

	Tracker Series All-Aluminum Alloy Tripod With 3-Way Panhead - Height: 29.5" Up To 72.625"; Weight: 8.25 Pounds 32mm Leg-T55179 See Reviews For This Product
	Description VANGUARD ALUMINUM ALLOYTRIPOD 72 5/8IN TRIPOD 72 5/8inMaximum height: 72 5/8", folded length: 29 1/2"Weight: 7.45 lbs.Extremely smooth all-metal panhead suited for high quality photo/video work. Also accommodates most spotting scopesReversible column for macro or copyworkSelf-adjusting conical bearing locking system for 360 rotation on both vertical and horizontal planes...