Any info on these scopes. (1 Viewer)

[KenGill]

Has anyone any info on the Barr And Stroud Sahara 20-60X80 or the Hawke Nature Trek 20-60 X 80, I cannot decide which to go for. I realize they are budget scopes but this is my range.

 

[Boro Birder]

I've had the Barr and Stroud Sahara and it was like looking through a smarties tube, not impressed in the slightest, it's my believe you pay for the stay-on case, has it's the only thing what's up to any good, it surprised me has I have Barr and stroud binoculars and are very impressed with those, excellent for the price.
Had no expereince with the Hawke Nature Trek, only the 85ED so cannot comment on that only to say the 85ED was outstanding but a lot more expensive.
Hope this helps a bit.

Damian

 

[KenGill]

Thanks Damian, it does help.

 

[LesR]

Has anyone any info on the Barr And Stroud Sahara 20-60X80 or the Hawke Nature Trek 20-60 X 80, I cannot decide which to go for. I realize they are budget scopes but this is my range.

My first spotting scope about a year ago was the Barr and Stroud Sahara 20-60x80 and after a look through it I returned it. Short eye relief, tunnel vision and a very unimpressive view. I then bought an Acuter ST PRO 20-60x80 for the same money, what a difference with a brighter view, long eye relief and all together sharper image. The only drawback was the case was only a carry case but have modified it to a stay on case. This is always in my car, even though I upgraded 3 months ago to a Celestron Regal F-ED for birding walks, for moments when I am out and about driving and can rest it on the partially open window of my car with a bean bag under it.
Hope this helps.

Les.

 

[KenGill]

Thanks Les, had a look at the Acuter ST PRO 20-60x80, it is now supplied with a stay on case.

 

[Boro Birder]

That is the scope (Acuter TS PRO Series. 20x60) I now have after upgrading from the Celestron Ultima65, however I have put in a Opticron eps but for the price a cracking scope, like les has stated the only downside to that is the case is not up to scratch.

Damian

 

[Boro Birder]

Ken do not be fooled by that, the stay on case is crap, it's more of a carry case, nothing like the Barr and Stroud case what is very similar to the Nikon stay on cases, however the OpticronHR 80 stay-on case does fit the Acuter but at nearly £70.00 more cost to the orignal price of the Acuter.

Damian

 

[Ratal]

£190 gets you a 60mm Helios ED spotter.

Seriously a steal at the price. Sure it isn't an 80 mm objective, but its a beautiful starter scope well within your budget.

 

[KenGill]

I really appreciate all the advice, it isn't an easy choice in any price range is it. While looking at the Acuter Pro 20-60x80 I found the Celestron Ultima 20-60x80 at the same price so I am likely to go for one of these two, up to now.

 

[Keith Dickinson]

Ken, why not try In focus at Martin Mere, they should have a used section and you will get more for your money with a pre-owned scope.

 

[KenGill]

Thanks Keith, I was going to go there this week. Had a look on line and there are some options.