General Optics Comments

 I now do a fair bit of  bird watching, and astronomy, so I thought that I would review some of the equipment that I use. It is difficult to find reports that truly reflect reality on forums which are often used to promulgate users' prejudices and sometimes their arrogance and snobbery.

There is no doubting that instrument manufactures such as Zeiss, Leica, Swarovsky, Kowa and Vortex etc. produce the finest instruments which are not just optically superb but are also tough and long lasting. These sort of scopes are ideal for adventurers, professional naturalists and hunters who want the best images, ergonomics and build. They get this from the prime makers but they have to pay for the privilege. Many bird watchers like me do not venture far and we usually observe from sedentary postions and hides.

 You can't do visual astronomy when it rains so you do not need a waterproof scope. This blog therefore concentrates on my scopes and optics which do not cost a fortune but which  serve the purpose of someone who does not got out into the outback. This blog offers no criticism of  the Swarovski, Zeiss and Leica owners that I meet when I am observing; who have pride in their scopes and binoculars. In my opinion buyers should always reflect upon the law of diminishing returns and design features - they might find that  brilliant design can triumph over cost.

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