Birding Binoculars Q&A

Digiscoping with the Canon PowerShot S100 and a Kowa TSN spotting scope

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Fri, 11 May 2012 20:16:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

Do you have any tips on attaching the Canon PowerShot S100 to a Kowa zoom 20-60x or the 25x eyepiece with the Vortex DCA? Distance of lens to camera?

Should I use the tele-convertor on the camera? Which settings should I use? J peg or raw, etc?

Thanks,
Kevin

Kevin,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics.

First of all, I’m not entirely sure the S100 will work for digiscoping because it has a 5x optical zoom. Generally, anything with an over 4x optical zoom doesn’t work well because you can’t get rid of vignetting. That being said, you might have a camera that bucks the trend and is the exception to the rule.

Which Kowa scope do you have? The DCA you choose will depend on which scope you have.

If you’re using the 60mm, 66mm, or 82SV scopes, you’ll want this DCA. If you have the zoom eyepiece with this setup, you’ll also need this extension ring. Then, assuming your camera does not have filter threads, which most of them don’t, you’ll also need Kowa’s DCA 37mm ring. And the Vortex PS100 to match the 37mm thread.

If you’re using the 77 or 88mm scopes from Kowa, with a zoom or fixed eyepiece, you’ll need this adapter. Plus the Kowa DCA 37mm ring above and the Vortex PS100 above.

You’ll want to put the camera in manual mode, turn the flash off, etc. You can shoot raw, but you will obviously need a much larger memory card. Please let me or anyone else know if you have any more questions.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Binoculars for a gift

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 19:40:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I would like to buy a pair of binoculars for my husband. He will use them for viewing travel landscape, sports, and a little star gazing. We're not really bird watchers, but lots of hiking brings that opportunity. I've watched the videos on your website and have read several reviews and there are many options but I'm not sure how to make the choice for this variety of uses.

We are in our mid 50's, don't want anything too bulky or heavy, and would like to spend less than $400. I don't need to over buy. He cares how well things work mechanically and how they feel in his hands.

Can you recommend some for me to look at online? Can I make an exchange if he prefers a different model?

Thanks,
Nancy

Hi Nancy,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics. You have a full 30 day return policy, so no worries there.

I'd recommend you look at both the 7x36 Atlas Intrepid and 8x32 Eagle Optics Ranger. Both of these are mid-size, lightweight, and have the same comprehensive warranty coverage.

The Atlas is a bit nicer optically, and a bit heavier. The Ranger is a bit slimmer in the hand and has a bit better build quality and accessories. Can't go wrong with either one.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Digiscoping with a Vortex Razor

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 18:23:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I just purchased a Vortex Razor spotting scope and camera adapter and need a couple of additional attachments but am not sure exactly what that is.

I purchased the scope (and love it!!) through Eagle Optics and thought maybe you might be able to tell me specifically what I need to order.

I have a Nikon Coolpix 4500 and the smallest adapter ring (30mm I believe) doesn't quite line up with the threads on the inside of the lens housing. Is there a slightly small adapter or a step ring to transition it?

Next I have a Cannon 5d SLR with a Cannon 1.2 50MM L series lens which the largest adapter ring doesn't fit. The lens thread is 72MM.

I don't know if there is a better choice for a lens for this camera - maybe the lighter, smaller non L series 50MM Lens? or maybe the SLR isn't the way to go - seems kind of big and gaudy on the scope and tripod.

Thanks,
Mark

Mark,

Both of your camera options should work okay.

Your Coolpix has a 37mm thread, so you’d actually just thread directly to the 37mm ring provided with the Razor Digital Camera Adapter.

As far as the DSLR goes, generally folks use the fixed 50mm lenses with a 52mm thread on the front (which will match the 52mm ring on the adapter).
The basic, manual lenses are the ones you want. I don’t know if yours is fancier or not, but you do want the basics.

What I would try before you buy another lens though, is getting a step ring (which you can find at most camera shops) that will take you from the 72-52mm threads.
If you can easily find that, that may be all you need. Hopefully this helps.

You can certainly feel free to call as well and any of our staff will be happy to help.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Digiscoping with a Kowa 883 and a Point-n-Shoot camera

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:14:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I recently purchased a Kowa TSN 883 from Eagle Optics (with which I am very happy) and would now like to get set up for digiscoping. From reading your articles and watching your tutorial videos I have decided to begin with a point and shoot camera, being unfamiliar with digital photography (I have quite a bit of experience with conventional SLRs, primarily in the Nikon family). Would you be able to provide me with a list of cameras you consider suitable (please include your opinions) for this activity that meet your minimum specs for digiscoping (including video-capable)?

I have not yet purchased an adapter, not having decided on a camera.
When I was doing bird photography with a telephoto lens in my conventional SLR days I found that a shutter release cable was essential to capturing good images, but I saw no mention of any need for this in digiscoping.

Thanks,
Charles

Charles,

There is no comprehensive list of digiscoping appropriate cameras because the models and offerings change so much. The main thing is that you choose a camera with a small body and below 4x optical zoom.

Along with a camera like that, the nicest adapter setup for your scope would be
a Kowa TSN DA-10 Digital Camera Adapter, a 37mm adapter ring, and a Vortex PS100 Point-n-Shoot adapter.

The camera we use in store and love is the Canon SD4000IS.

I would suggest heading to B&H and see what they have. They usually have a really good selection of good quality cameras that are inexpensive.

And we are always happy to help answer any further questions you might have as you go.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Compact Binoculars

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:03:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

Are the Eagle Optics Shrike 8 X 42 binoculars compact?

Thanks,
Ana

Hi Ana,

Any binocular with a number greater than 30 for the objective lens size would be considered to be a full or mid-sized binocular.

The Shrike 8x42 has a 42mm lens size, making it a full sized binocular.

If you are interested in getting a compact 8x binocular, you'll want to shop for something like an 8x20, 8x25, or 8x28.

In the same price range as the 8x42 Shrike, is the compact Vortex Vanquish 8x26. That is one of the nicer compact models that sells for around $100.

If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to email or call.

Best Regards,
Eagle Optics

Beginning Digiscoper Setup

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 16:23:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I am looking to get a digiscoping setup for my mother. What should I purchase to get the most bang for my buck?

I have never used a spotting scope or field scope so I don't know what specs I should be looking for. I would like to be able to zoom in close and take crisp pictures of birds.

Are there options that you offer for a digiscoping package?

I would like to be able to use the setup with my Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8S. Any advice? I really enjoy the eagle optics videos.

Thanks,
Ellen

Ellen,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics.

It makes sense to get a scope of good quality glass since that will be the single most important factor in image quality. You could start around the price range of something like the Vortex Viper scopes. If you can afford the HD glass on those or any other scopes, it’s worth it for digiscoping.

I have bad news for the camera, unfortunately. You will not be able to use your Panasonic because its optical zoom is over 4x. Its 12x optical zoom will mean that no matter what you do, you’ll never be able to get a full frame image and everything will be a small image surrounded by black shadowing (called vignetting).

If you buy an inexpensive point and shoot with a small body and below a 4x optical zoom, you should be good to go with a wide variety of setups. The option we would recommend for use with the Vortex Viper would be the Point-and-shoot Adapter Kit.

We would be happy to walk you through any setups, price ranges, questions you have, etc, but you will need to get a different camera. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. The good news is that digiscoping appropriate cameras need not be expensive in the scheme of things.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Digiscoping with a Nikon V1

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 15:38:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I have just received the Nikon V1 camera for my birthday. I want to digiscope with it. I have a Kowa 82SV angled scope with the 20-60x eyepiece. What additional hardware will I need? The camera has the Nikkor 10-30mm kit lens.

Thanks,
Sally

Sally,

Thanks you for your interest in Eagle Optics.

The first thing you’ll need is a fixed 50mm lens for your Nikon V1. You can’t digiscope with the zoom lenses.

Once you get it, you will also need these pieces:
Kowa DA-1 Digital Camera Adapter
Kowa Extension Ring z7/z9
Kowa 52mm Adapter Ring
(The 50mm camera lenses almost universally have a 52mm thread on the end of them, so you'll need that size adapter ring).

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Variable Eyepieces Question

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:10:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I purchased a Zeiss 20-75x85mm spotting scope, but noticed that the eyepiece has two scales on it, one from 15-56 and one from 20-75. Why is the 15-56 scale on the eyepiece if it is suppose to be 20-75?

Thanks,
David

David,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics.
The eyepiece for the Zeiss scopes fit either of their scope bodies, the 65mm and the 85mm. On the 85mm scopes, the eyepiece is 20-75x. On the 65mm scopes, it is 15-56x.

There are actually a number of eyepieces that are designed this way, from many manufacturers as well.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Digiscoping with a Swarovski scope

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:43:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I have an older angled 80mm Swarovski spotting scope that I would like to use with my Canon XTI digital camera. Does the Swarovski DCA adapter on the video on your website work with all brands? What info do I need to order the right adapter?

Thanks,
Dick

Dick,

The Swarovski DCA adapter pretty much only works as is with Swarovski scopes. Here are the three pieces you’ll need to get in order to use your XTI with the old gray-bodied scope:

-Fixed 50mm lens for your camera (from a camera shop or online; we don’t sell these)

-Swaorvski Digital Camera Adapter for Zoom Eyepiece

-Swarovski Digi Camera Adapter Ring

The 50 mm lenses almost universally have a 52mm thread on the end of them. Swarovski provides a 52mm ring (along with other sizes) with the purchase of the DCA adapter.
This should all work quite well together.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

New birder's questions on 8x42 binoculars

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:18:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I am new to birding (just starting) and looking for a decent binocular. I am tempted by the Nikon Monarch ATB and would consider that my top end. I am really thinking more about spending around $120. I do want to go with 42mm objective lenses and believe I want 8x power (possibly 10 power). Is there anything that would help me understand the difference between the following 8x42 optics:

Bushnell H2O
Atlas Radian
Eagle Optics Denali
Eagle Optics Ranger
Nikon Monarch ATB

I believe I have narrowed it down to the Radian or Denali. I think I want to stay with your brand for warranty, but it looks like Atlas also has a “no fault” warranty. (Do I deal directly with Atlas on a warranty claim?) Any help with this would be great!

Also, one other question. Many specs include a twilight factor” calculated as the square root of the magnification times objective size. This make since for higher twilight factor for larger objective, but does not make since to me when comparing an 8x42 and a 10x42. The 10x42 has a higher twilight factor, but the 8x42 is usually considered “brighter” than a 10x42 and better for low light.(due to exit pupil diameter?). I seem to be getting something wrong here…

Thanks for your help,
Warren

Warren,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics. You’ve selected binoculars that are all generally in the same class, though I’d agree that you should stick with the Radian or Denali for price and overall build quality/warranty.

Atlas is one of our house brands, so just like the Denali, it would come here to us for service.

We don’t really use twilight factor to talk about brightness of a binocular, because you can basically get the same answers by looking at the magnification, field of view, and front lens size. I’m not sure where you’re seeing the difference in twilight factor numbers, but the lower the magnification (and hence wider field of view between an 8x and 10x of the same model) and bigger the front lens size, the brighter your image will be in low light.

If you want a good all-around binocular that will work well in all light situations and be easy to hold steady for long periods of time, I’d suggest an 8x42.

If you have any further questions, we’re happy to help.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Digiscoping with a Leica Televid 77 spotting scope

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:01:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I have an angled Leica APO Televid 77 with a 20-60x eyepiece. What digiscoping adapter can you recommend? I would like to use my Panasonic Luminix ZS7 point-and-shoot.

Thanks,
Tim

Tim,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics.

Your camera will unfortunately not work for digiscoping because of its high optical zoom of 12x. In order to digiscope, you will need a camera with no higher than a 3-4x optical zoom, as the high optical zooms will not allow you to get rid of vignetting (shadowing) around the image or get a full frame.

With a small-bodied point-and-shoot, the only adapter that is made for that older Leica scope is called the 42-303 Leica Digital Camera Adapter. At the time we sold it, it was around $260. It's been long discontinued, so you'd need to try finding it online.

Another option would be to try the Vortex Large Universal Digiscoping Adapter, also discontinued. This one might still be available at Wild Birds Unlimited stores or other Vortex dealers as it was recently discontinued. This one runs approximately $60, although it is a bit large and cumbersome.

The final option would be to use a Kowa DA-10 adapter with a 37mm adapter ring and the Vortex PS-100. All of these items are in stock and the total cost would be $260, and this would be a fairly lightweight and slick option for digiscoping with your Leica 77mm scope.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Digiscoping with a Vortex Razor

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:06:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I was formerly a birder, and, now that I am retired, thinking I would enjoy digiscoping photography in conjunction with resuming my interest in birding.

I am thinking of buying the Vortex Razor HD 20-60x85 Angled Spotting Scope, the proper coupling adapter and a Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital Camera with EF-S 18-55mm Lens which has a 58 mm threaded filter (and a remote shutter release). High quality distance viewing equipment and impressive photographic results are important to me.

Will the adapter definitely work smoothly with this camera?

Is an angled eyepiece the advisable choice (I am 6'1") and wear glasses?

I would think the tripod should have a panning head instead of a ball-type? Do you have a recommendation for a particular make and model? on sale?

What about one of those sliding brackets to balance the scope when the camera is taken off?

Any irresistible deals for binoculars, which I basically see as a tool for locating the birds, and probably would not see a heavy expense as justified?

Thanks,
Don

Hi Don,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics. The setup that you listed will work, except in order to digiscope you will need a fixed 50mm lens for the DLSR camera instead of the 18-55mm lens. These 50mm lens generally have 52mm threads, which will attach to the 52mm plate on the adapter.

As for a tripod you will certainly want a video pan-arm tripod head as opposed to a ball head.

For your height, I’d suggest the following setup:
Manfrotto 055xb Tripod legs
Manfrotto 128rc Tripod Head

You can check our hot deals section for binocular deals in your price range.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Digiscoping with a Kowa TSN-2

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:04:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

Several years ago I got interested in using my school's Kowa TSN-2 (77mm) for digiscoping. I bought a TSN-DA1 adapter, the extender and the piece that fits around the eyepiece.

My question is, will a full size Canon D7 work through such a tiny eyepiece?

The lens on the camera is a 18-135 with a 67mm filter size. It seems too large to work and I do not see a 67 mm adapter on your site.

Alternatively, can you recommend a point and shoot camera with filter threads that would be optimal? With the appropriate adapter? Most point and shoot cameras have no threads for filters/adapters.

Thanks,
Mark

Mark,

Unfortunately, your lens will not work. In order to digiscope, you need a fixed 50mm lens for the camera. Almost universally, those fixed 50mm lenses have a thread size of 52mm. Assuming that’s the case with the one you buy, you’d also need the 52mm adapter ring for the front of the DA1.

As far as point and shoot cameras go, the first thing is to make sure its optical zoom is no higher than 4x. From there, any with filter threads (or a filter thread adapter) should work (along with the appropriate Kowa DCA ring) on the DA1.

The other option would be to buy one of the newer Vortex PS-100 brackets, which provide a 37mm ring.

We use a Canon SD4000IS with the Vortex PS-100 and it works well.

If you went the PS-100 route, you’d need the Kowa DCA 37mm adapter ring.

Make sense?

If not, we'd be happy to try and help answer more questions.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Tripod Head Advice

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:37:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

Now that we have played with our new scope a bit, it is painfully obvious we need a better tripod head. I have done a bit of research, watched a lot of your videos, etc. I want to make sure the head I buy will support the Swarovski 80mm Spotting Scope and any DSLR - I currently shoot with a Canon 50D, but want it to support a heavier camera in case I move to a bigger camera/battery pack in the future.

I realize the heads that are good for digiscoping typically only pan/tilt, and don't offer that third axis for moving a camera to shoot portrait. Seems like most of the 3-way heads aren't great for digiscoping.

Of the Gitzo, Swarovski, and Manfrotto (or other brands) heads, what do you like best? What max support weight do you look for? I assume given the offset of the weight, you should allow for more than the actual combined weight of the scope/camera?

Thanks,
Greg

Hi Greg,

There are several tripod heads that will work well for digiscoping, and I’ve listed a few of my favorites below. As for 3-way heads, it is possible to use them for digiscoping, but the drawback is that you can’t fluidly pan/tilt without first loosening the locking knobs. As for supporting the weight of the scope and DSLR, all three of the tripod heads listed below can handle it.

Recommendations:

I really like the Manfrotto 128RC Tripod Head which weighs 1.9 pounds, and has a maximum load of 8.9 pounds. It’s less expensive than the other two heads below, and lacks a few of their features, but it is very sturdy, will support your digiscoping setup.

The Gitzo Birdwatching Tripod Head is super small and lightweight, and is ideal for traveling or hiking with it. It weighs 1.1 pounds with a maximum load of 8.8 pounds, and has just one large knob that you can use to loosen/tighten the pan and the tilt, or lock both in a fixed position.

I personally use the Swarovski DH 101 Tripod Head and really like how it operates. It also is very light at 1.2 pounds, and can support up to 10.9 pounds. It has a very smooth pan and tilt which can be locked independently of each other, and it has a bubble level (which isn’t always useful, but can help with setting up a composition against a horizon).

I like all three of these tripod heads and I hope this was helpful, but if you have any other questions about them please let me know.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Digiscoping with a Nikon D90 camera

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 19:17:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

Do you carry a photo adapter that will work with the Kowa TSN 82SV angled spotting scope?

It would be attached to a Nikon D90 camera. Would a Nikon specific adapter also be required?

Thanks for the information,
Sally

Hi Sally,

Thanks for your inquiry.

You would need the following parts:

Kowa DA1 camera adapter

Kowa extension ring

Kowa 52mm adapter ring

In addition to those pieces, you would need to get Nikon's 50mm F/1.8 lens for your camera.

The system works by attaching the adapter to your 50mm camera lens which will mount on/over the scopes eyepiece. What you will be doing is taking a photo through the camera lens and through the 20-60x zoom eyepiece. If you are using a different eyepiece on your scope, than you can skip the extension ring above.

Here is a link to an article about digiscoping with a DSLR.

If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to email or call.

Best Regards,
Eagle Optics

Digiscoping Questions

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 20:10:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I want to digiscope with my Nikon D7000 and Nikon S 6100 cameras. Will you please advise me on a scope with a budget of $200 to $300? Also the T ring, T adopters etc and tell me the total cost. I have gone through the web site and video demo of digiscoping.

From R.N.

Dear R.N.,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics.

Unfortunately you will not be able to digiscope in this price range.

There are several reasons for this:

1. For your D7000 camera to be used for digiscoping, the only manufacturers who make adapters that will accept that camera body with a fixed 50mm lens are Kowa, Vortex, and Swarovski.

2. Your S6100 will not work for digiscoping at all because it has an optical zoom over 4x.

In order to use a small digital point and shoot camera and a universal adapter, you will need a small-bodied camera with a 3-4x optical zoom.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but we are happy to help answer any other questions.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Binoculars for backpacking

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:07:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I’m a wildlife biologist and an avid birder but can’t always pack my regular binoculars due to space, weight, etc. while travelling/backpacking. I’m looking for a compact pair of binos that do not sacrifice too much light or clarity due to small size. I absolutely love my Swarovski 10x42s but have also owned and liked Bausch and Lomb 8x36 and Eagle Optic Rangers 10x50. A few different options in price range would be great. Since I already have Swarovski 10x42s, I don’t think I can justify spending $700-800 on a “travel pair” but it’s always good to know what else is out there.

Thanks,
Sophie

Sophie,

Here are some recommendations for good, compact binoculars:

Bushnell Elite 7x26
Super nice optics at a good price: $219.99. The downside is that they are not the most compact of binoculars due to their design.

Vortex Viper 8x28
This sells for $320. Probably my favorite of the compacts outside of the “super-premium” models. It’s compact, bright, and has the feel/operation of larger binoculars. Easy to use with one hand and very well suited for eye-glass wearers.

Nikon Premiere 8x20
This sells for $430. This is the best deal of the “top-shelf” options. Optics comparable to the Swarovski’s and Leica’s but they run on average $200 less than the European models. Very small when closed up and in its case. Not as easy to use as the Viper but it’s smaller.

Minox 8x24 BV BR
Sells for $150 and the best option for a budget compact. If you are used to using Swarovski’s, I’d be willing to bet that you would find the view not so satisfying, but it’s the best in this price range.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Binoculars for $200-$300

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:22:00 +0000

Hi Eagle Optics,

I work as a professional wildlife biologist and I am looking into replacing my personal set of binoculars. At work we have the Ranger 8X42 which I have found agreeable, I however personally prefer a 10X42. I am debating between buying the Ranger 10X42 or the Denali 10X42. I am recently out of school so every dollar counts. The aspects that are very important to me are clarity and performance in low light. Is the Ranger worth the extra money, is the Denali plenty good or am I looking at the wrong binoculars all together?

Thanks,
Bik

Bik,

Thank you for your interest in Eagle Optics. I think you've selected two excellent binoculars to consider in the Denali and the Ranger. The Ranger, however, is a clear winner when it comes to brightness, especially in low-light conditions. The Ranger also has a more true color tone than the Denali which tends to be a little on the warm side.

I feel it is definitely worth the difference in cost, although the Denali is a great binocular for under $200, and I can't think of a binocular that I would recommend over these two automatically.

For another alternative though I would look at the Atlas Intrepid ED which has extra-low dispersion glass that will reduce Chromatic Aberration and has a little better contrast than the Ranger. However, the brightness and clarity is the same between the two of them, and the Atlas Intrepid is larger and heavier, so it has its drawbacks.

I hope that was helpful and please let me know if you have any other questions.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Razor Digiscoping Setup

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 15:36:00 +0000

Hi Eagle Optics,

I have a Canon G11 and would like to know if that will work with the Vortex Razor HD and what adapter I would need.

Thanks,
Ken

Ken,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics. You're in luck. The G11 is one of very few exceptions to the rule that a point and shoot has to have a below 4x optical zoom to digiscope. The G11 has a 5x zoom, but works well.

In order to digiscope with your Razor scope you'll need these pieces:

Vortex Razor Digital Camera Adapter

And you'll also need one of these which you can order online but not from us:

Canon Filter Adapter

OR

We can sell you this adapter that will attach to the Razor DCA and provide a platform to mount your camera on:

Vortex PS-100 Point-n-Shoot Adapter

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

15 power binoculars on a tripod

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:59:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I have a very good spotting scope, a fairly new Zeiss 85mm w/20-60x eyepiece, but I find hours of one-eyed viewing to be uncomfortable. I almost always use 20x, 90% of my scope birding is over water, and I find distortion and shake to negate any advantage from higher magnification.

I was considering mounting a 15x50 Vortex Viper on a tripod, but am reluctant to spend $650+ on an experiment that may be a failure and I have no experience with the stability or durability of bin/tripod adaptors. I'm also a little reluctant given that I've seen only one or two folks in my 37 years of birding with a bin/tripod set-up.

Do you have any insight on this matter, pros or cons? Will you have any reps in Michigan, perhaps at a festival or show, where I might have an opportunity to try such a set-up? Thanks for any information you can provide.

-Matt

Matt,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics. The tripod and binocular setup should work well for you and reduce eye fatigue since you’ll have both eyes open.

You’re right that most folks don’t use these setups. I’d argue that there are two reasons for that. Most of the time, people like the light gathering of a scope (bigger front lenses) and there is not a wide selection of binoculars in similar front lens sizes.

I guess a lot of folks also don’t mind the one-eye viewing. But if if is a problem for you, I think the bin/tripod setup might be your ideal fix.

We don’t have any upcoming festivals in Michigan, but we do have a full 30-day return policy. You have 30 days from the time you receive the order to set it up and check it out. If you’re not happy for any reason, you can return it in original condition for a full refund or exchange.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

8x vs. 10x Magnification

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 15:46:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

Can you tell me what percentage of birders get magnification 10x vs 8x? They both seem really good. I have viewed your videos which are very helpful in demonstrating field of view, etc. Is it just a matter of personal choice?

Thanks,

Terri

Terri,

It is mostly a matter of choice. I’d say the majority of birders use 8x.
A 10x is perfect if 1) you can hold that magnification steady (many people can’t), and 2) you are doing mostly long-distance viewing.

I would say in general 8x work well because they are very all-purpose as far as having a good mix of magnification and field of view. Most people will buy a spotting scope eventually if they need high magnification.

If you are a beginning birder or binocular user, I would also suggest an 8x binocular.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Interpupilary Distance Question

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:54:00 +0000

Dear Eagle Optics,

Can you tell me the name of the specification that describes how close the tubes can get on a pair of binoculars?

I have very close set eyes and can only use most binoculars as a telescope. My old pair of Minolta Activa 8x40 was almost what I needed but is finally falling apart after almost 10 years of really rough treatment. I'm a casual user and am looking to spend in the mid $300 range.

Thanks,
Andy

Andy,

The term you’re looking for is IPD or interpupilary distance.

If you call your eye doctor, they will have your IPD measurement on file.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
If you give us your minimum IPD measurement and/or measure the IPD of the Minolta you own, we should be able to suggest some binoculars that might work for you.

When you measure your binocular, you can give us the measurement in millimeters from the center of one binocular eyepiece to the other.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

Nikon Digiscoping Questions

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 17:49:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I have a question about digiscoping and pairing my scope with my camera.

Scope: Nikon Fieldscope ED III-A 60mm angled view with a 30x and 60x wide fixed eyepieces.

Cameras: Canon 60D SLR or Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 point and shoot

Is it possible to pair either of these cameras with the scope for digiscoping? What adapters would I need?

Thanks,
Mike

Mike,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics.

Unfortunately, neither of your cameras will work for digiscoping at all.
Your 60 D won’t work because Nikon doesn’t make an adapter for the Fieldscope that will attach an SLR with its lens. Also, in order to use the body of an SLR without its lens, Nikon requires that the camera be a Nikon body on the Nikon scopes. Canons won’t attach at all.

Your point and shoot won’t work because of its high optical zoom of 12x.
In order to use a small-bodied point and shoot (the option you’ll want to go with) it needs to have no higher than a 4x optical zoom capability.

You could do a general google search or look at B&H. Nothing expensive is required, just a basic point and shoot with a low powered optical zoom.

Once you have a basic point and shoot, you can use this adapter or any other universal adapter.

Feel free to give a call with any questions as well; we’re happy to help!

Thanks,
Eagle Optics
800-289-1132

Zeiss Diascope Digiscoping Setup

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:04:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I caught your offer for the green Zeiss 15-45x65 scope-sounds like a good deal. I think I may have got some stuff off you guys on ebay previously and I was recommended you by many folks who say you're the best. I was just wondering is there a digiscoping attachment for this device you may like.

Thanks,
Duncan

Hi Duncan,

Thank you for your interest in Eagle Optics, and the Zeiss 15-45x65 spotting scope. It is definitely a great deal on a high quality scope package, and there are a couple of digiscoping adapters that will work with it.

The first is the Vortex Universal DCA for $59.99. It’s a very simple design, but will work with almost any Point-and-Shoot camera.

The other option is a Zeiss DCA for $455. This is a very well designed, although heavy, adapter that has several features the Vortex DCA does not, but the price is a bit of a pill to swallow.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics

6x32 Binocular Comparision

noreply@blogger.com (Parker Reynolds) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 15:23:00 +0000

Eagle Optics,

I see you have the Vortex Viper 6x32 for $275 and the Leupold Katmai 6 x 32 for $399.99. I don't know anything about the Vortex but have been interested in the Katmai for a while. Which is the better binocular, in terms of not getting a headache after long periods of viewing time and optical quality?

Thanks,
Greg

Greg,

Thanks for your interest in Eagle Optics. I don’t think you’d get a headache with either one. The low magnification and midsize front lens should mean you’ll be able to hold them steady for long periods of time.

They are both quite good optically at their price, but I do think the Viper will be a bit sharper and brighter to the edge. It’s on closeout because it was redesigned and this model is being discontinued. The specifications will all be quite similar.

Aside from optics, the other big thing is warranty coverage. Leupold will cover manufacturing defects for the lifetime of the piece, whereas Vortex provides lifetime, no-fault, no charge coverage against anything other than theft or loss.

Thanks,
Eagle Optics