Showing 1–25 of 109 results

  • Swarovski Spotting Scope - Eyepiece 20-60x

    Swarovski Spotting Scope – Eyepiece 20-60x

    R14,899

    The Swarovski 20-60x Eyepiece is a variable eyepiece by Swarovski Optik and provides bright, crystal clear images right up to the image periphery over a wide range of magnification.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Swarovski Spotting Scope - STS 80

    Swarovski Spotting Scope – STS 80

    R57,999

    The Swarovski STS 80 Spotting Scope features a straight view that is particularly beneficial to those who need to find moving targets quickly. The 80mm objective lens diameter provides higher detail recognition, while a wider exit pupil ensures brighter images and comfortable viewing even in poor lighting conditions.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-AR66HL 50mm Adapter Ring

    R539

    Kowa TSN-AR66HL smartphone digiscoping adapter ring for use with Kowa-compatible spotting scopes.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-AR66Z 50mm Adapter Ring

    R539

    Kowa TSN-AR66Z smartphone digiscoping adapter ring for use with Kowa-compatible spotting scopes.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-AR500 TSN-500 37,5mm Adapter Ring

    R639

    Kowa TSN-AR500 smartphone digiscoping adapter ring for use with Kowa TSN-500 series spotting scopes TSN-501 and TSN-502.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa C-601 TSN-601 Stay On Case

    R909

    High quality stay on case for TSN-600 series spotting scopes. Provides protection to spotting scope body whilst still retaining full use out in the field. Includes stay-on objective lens and eyepiece covers which can be quickly be removed for viewing.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa C-882 TSN-884 Stay On Case

    R1,249

    Provides protection to spotting scope body whilst still retaining full use out in the field. Includes stay-on objective lens and eyepiece covers which can be quickly be removed for viewing.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa C-553 TSN-553 Stay On Case

    R2,419

    Retain the lightweight and compact design that is the hallmark of the TSN-553 spotter while adding an extra layer of protection with the black Kowa Neoprene Case.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa C-554 TSN-554 Stay On Case

    R2,419

    Luxury Stay on case for Kowa TSN-550 spotting scopes. Robust tough materials and stylish design. Includes PROMINAR padded Carry Strap.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa C-771 TSN-773 Spotting Scope Stay On Case

    R1,819

    High quality stay on case for TSN-770 series spotting scopes. Provides protection to spotting scope body whilst still retaining full use out in the field.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-CM2 Nikon F Camera Adapter Ring

    R569

    This T-mount is intended for digiscoping applications with compatible Kowa spotting scopes that are fitted with TSN-PZ, TSN-PA6, and TSN-PA7, and TSN-PA8 digiscoping adapters.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-CM2 M4/3 Camera Adapter Ring

    R419

    This T-mount is intended for digiscoping applications with compatible Kowa spotting scopes that are fitted with TSN-PZ, TSN-PA6, and TSN-PA7, and TSN-PA8 digiscoping adapters.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-CM2-SE Sony SE Camera Adapter Ring

    R419

    This T-mount is intended for digiscoping applications with compatible Kowa spotting scopes that are fitted with TSN-PZ, TSN-PA6, and TSN-PA7, and TSN-PA8 digiscoping adapters.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-CM2 Canon EOS Camera Adapter Ring

    R359

    This T-mount is intended for digiscoping applications with compatible Kowa spotting scopes that are fitted with TSN-PZ, TSN-PA6, and TSN-PA7, and TSN-PA8 digiscoping adapters.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-CM2 Pentax K Mount Camera Adapter Ring

    R359

    This T-mount is intended for digiscoping applications with compatible Kowa spotting scopes that are fitted with TSN-PZ, TSN-PA6, and TSN-PA7, and TSN-PA8 digiscoping adapters.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-PA8 Digiscoping Adapter

    R3,399

    Kowa’s TSN-PA8 Digiscoping Adapter installs quickly and easily on your TSN-series spotting scope without tools or having to permanently modify your scope in any way.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-PA7A Digiscoping Adapter

    R3,399

    The Kowa TSN-PA7A DSLR digiscoping adapter transforms your KOWA TSN 99/88/880/770 series scope into an extremely high powered telephoto lens for you D-SLR, or Mirrorless/MFT camera.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa Prominar MFT 25mm F1.8 Black Lens

    R13,619

    A dual Link Iris system makes it possible to choose silent or click aperture adjustment. Aperture settings can be changed in an instant.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa Prominar MFT 12mm F1.8 Green Lens

    R16,319

    A greatly reduced TV distortion value of just 0.59% and a minimum focusing distance of 2m ensures high quality close-up pictures with a wide angle.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa Prominar MFT 8.5mm F2.8 Silver Lens

    R17,689

    The super wide angle manual lens “KOWA PROMINAR 8.5mm F2.8” has an angle of view of 106 degrees. This greatly reduces TV distortion to a value of just 0.12% producing high-definition pictures and movies.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-AR11WZ 55mm Smartphone Adapter Ring

    R639

    It couldn’t be easier to start taking highly magnified images or video with your smartphone via the Kowa RP Series smartphone adapters.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa FW-HSIPX Iphone X Smartphone Adapter

    R2,379

    It couldn’t be easier to start taking highly magnified images or video with your smartphone via the Kowa RP Series smartphone adapters.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-GAS10 RP Samsung Galaxy S10 Smartphone Adapter

    R2,519

    The Kowa RP series smartphone adapter is made from a tough polycarbonate material. The design is slim and sleek and yet offers a high level of protection to your smartphone.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-GA4S Samsung Galaxy S5 Smartphone Adapter

    R999

    The Kowa Photo Adapter for Samsung Galaxy S5 allows a Samsung Galaxy S5 to effectively use a Kowa spotting scope or binocular as a telephoto lens. This adapter includes a holder as well as 41mm and 55mm adapter rings.

    Add to cartLoading Done
  • Kowa TSN-GA4S Samsung Galaxy S4 Smartphone Adapter

    R999

    With the Photo Adapter for Galaxy S4, your Kowa spotting scope or binocular can be used as a high-powered telephoto lens for your smartphone.

    Add to cartLoading Done

How to Choose a Spotting Scope

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, a birder, a hunter, or a nature lover, a spotting scope is an indispensable tool to have. A spotting scope is a portable and powerful optical device that allows you to observe distant objects in high detail and clarity. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs? In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a spotting scope.

Understanding Spotting Scopes

A spotting scope is a type of telescope that is specifically designed for terrestrial viewing. It is used to observe wildlife, birds, landscapes, and other distant objects. A spotting scope consists of a long, straight or angled tube that houses a series of lenses and prisms, which magnify the image and transmit it to the user's eye.

Magnification and Objective Lens

The magnification and objective lens are two of the most important factors to consider when choosing a spotting scope. The magnification refers to the degree to which the image is enlarged, and the objective lens is the diameter of the front lens element. A higher magnification and larger objective lens will allow you to see farther and in more detail, but it also means a heavier and bulkier scope. The ideal magnification and objective lens will depend on your intended use and personal preferences.

Aperture and Exit Pupil

The aperture and exit pupil are two other important optical parameters to consider. The aperture is the size of the objective lens and determines how much light can enter the scope. A larger aperture will provide brighter and clearer images, especially in low light conditions. The exit pupil is the diameter of the light beam that exits the eyepiece and enters the user's eye. A larger exit pupil will provide a more comfortable viewing experience, especially for extended periods of time.

Field of View and Eye Relief

The field of view and eye relief are two other factors to consider when choosing a spotting scope. The field of view refers to the width of the area visible through the scope, usually measured in feet at a distance of 1000 yards. A wider field of view is beneficial for tracking moving objects and scanning large areas. The eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and the user's eye and determines how much of the field of view can be seen. A longer eye relief is beneficial for eyeglass wearers and for comfortable viewing.

Focus and Diopter Adjustment

The focus and diopter adjustment are two other important features to consider. The focus mechanism allows you to adjust the sharpness and clarity of the image, while the diopter adjustment allows you to fine-tune the focus for your specific vision. A smooth and precise focus mechanism is essential for quick and easy adjustments, especially when observing moving objects or changing distances.

Prism System

The prism system is another critical component of a spotting scope. There are two main types of prism systems: roof prism and porro prism. Roof prism systems are more compact and durable, while porro prism systems provide a wider field of view and better depth perception. The quality and coating of the prisms will also affect the brightness, contrast, and color accuracy of the image.

Lens Coatings

The quality and coatings of the lenses are critical factors in determining the image quality of a spotting scope. Lens coatings help reduce glare, improve light transmission, and enhance color accuracy. Look for scopes with multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses, which provide superior light transmission and clarity.

Build Quality and Durability

A spotting scope is an investment, so you want to ensure it is built to last. Look for scopes with a durable and sturdy construction, which can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The scope should also be waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof to protect it from the elements and accidental drops.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of a spotting scope will depend on your intended use and personal preferences. If you plan to hike long distances or travel frequently, you may want to consider a more compact and lightweight scope. However, larger scopes with bigger objective lenses may offer better image quality and magnification.

Accessories and Compatibility

Many spotting scopes come with accessories such as carrying cases, lens covers, and tripod mounts. Make sure the scope you choose is compatible with the accessories you need. Also, consider the compatibility of the scope with your existing gear, such as cameras, binoculars, or tripods.

Budget

Spotting scopes can range in price from a few hundred Rands to several thousand Rands. Determine your budget before shopping and look for scopes that offer the best value for your money. Don't compromise on quality, but also don't overspend on features you don't need.

Brand and Reputation

Choose a spotting scope from a reputable and well-known brand, which offers good customer support and warranty. Do some research and read reviews from other users to get an idea of the scope's performance and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a spotting scope if I already have binoculars?

Yes, a spotting scope offers greater magnification and detail than binoculars, which makes it ideal for observing distant objects such as birds or wildlife.

Can I use a spotting scope for stargazing?

While a spotting scope is designed for terrestrial viewing, it can also be used for stargazing. However, a telescope may be a better choice for astronomy purposes.

Should I choose an angled or straight spotting scope?

This depends on your personal preferences and intended use. An angled scope is more comfortable for extended viewing and allows for more flexible positioning. A straight scope is easier to use for quick and precise observations.

Can I use my spotting scope for photography?

Some spotting scopes can be used for digiscoping, which is a technique that allows you to attach a camera to the scope and take photos. Make sure the scope you choose is compatible with your camera and has good image quality.

What is the best spotting scope for birding?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it depends on your personal preferences and budget. However, look for scopes with high magnification, good image quality, and a wide field of view, which are ideal for birding.