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ZEISS DTI thermal imaging cameras. For more discoveries at night, and during the day.

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  1. ajfossey

    Swarovski CTS 85 Extendable Draw Tube Telescope

    I noticed the same. 20x was likely my preference. The fixed eyepiece 75mm objective version I’d already discounted as I’m not sure they’d work well with my glasses. The catalogue from John and video review from William were indeed both useful in researching these options.
  2. ajfossey

    Swarovski CTS 85 Extendable Draw Tube Telescope

    The Swarovski website states that this scope is “…compatible with two different SWAROVSKI OPTIK eyepieces”. These are the 20-60x and the 25-50x W. I’d be interested to know whether the 20x or 30x fixed eyepieces would work? Perhaps there’s a technical reason as to why they aren’t an option...
  3. ajfossey

    Lightweight tripod with fluid head for scope - recommendations?

    I have the SmallRig Selection CH-10 tripod fluid head. I use fairly regularly with the Arca Swiss plate that came supplied, but also use other Arca Swiss plates including those from Gitzo, Sirui and Vanguard without issue. I’m always cautious and ensure that everything is tight prior to...
  4. ajfossey

    Gitzo GHF2W counter balance knob

    Mine behaves same as yours in the video.
  5. ajfossey

    NL Pure - A close look, with pictures!

    I have both the 8x & 10x (42) NL and have never experienced this issue. I’m typically using them 2/3 hours, often longer, up to 5 days a week on 3 to 5 mile walks. I’m also a glasses wearer; not sure whether this may make a difference.
  6. ajfossey

    Which MM4 eyepiece?

    I’m in agreement. The MM4 is great with the SDL3 (and the SDL2), however my eyepiece of choice is the 23x (40831). I also enjoy the 32x (40858), but this is only available secondhand.
  7. ajfossey

    Swarovski Spotting Scope Back Pack anyone...?

    For the price point I expected a better designed bag. Fine if you don’t want multiple pockets as is my preference.
  8. ajfossey

    Swarovski Spotting Scope Back Pack anyone...?

    https://www.birdforum.net/threads/swarovski-backpack-30.404086/post-4149441
  9. ajfossey

    Poll: does NL glare depend on eyeglasses?

    I have both 8 and 10 x42s, use one or the other daily, and voted that despite wearing eyeglasses, I experience no issues with glare. Both top notch binoculars.
  10. ajfossey

    Next step: I need a scope

    Built up over time, I can assure you! All the combinations get their turn in the field; just depends on weather, habitat I’m visiting and mode of transport as to which gets used. An expression I heard once said what needed to be said: “The best binoculars you have are the ones with you.“ I...
  11. ajfossey

    Next step: I need a scope

    My main scope is a Swarovski BTX, usually combined with a 115mm body (I also have the 95mm and 85mm bodies with ATX and STX modules). It’s an absolutely beautiful thing to watch and observe through if weather conditions allow and you’re not planning to walk too far. It never accompanies me on...
  12. ajfossey

    Next step: I need a scope

    Agreed the MM4/60 is an excellent travel scope and I’ve used with both and SDL2 and SDL3. My preference however is with the x23 delivered using the 40831 HDF T WW eyepiece. The 40858 HDF delivering x32 also works well, but is difficult to find for purchase now.
  13. ajfossey

    Opticron mm3 focus wheel broken

    I had a slightly different issue with my MM4 fine focusing wheel not working. Contacted Opticron to confirm the process for returning in order to be repaired. Sent them away and they returned fixed. No drama, paid for postage out, they paid postage to return. Very good experience in my opinion.
  14. ajfossey

    New Camera Advice

    Post #39 Malcolm nails it here for me with “I'm a birder not a photographer”. The Sony RX10 IV is the camera I’m going to have with me; my Canon 7D MKii & 100-400 MKii is going to be either still at home or in the car when needed! If you’re commercially reliant on your camera for photography...
  15. ajfossey

    ATX - stiff zoom?

    I can’t recall the specifics of the issue to be honest; it was just clearly not right and that was enough. Seriously please don’t listen or act on any suggestions of silicone spray or other DIY fixes on your new expensive purchase! Such attempts may invalidate any warranty! Quality instruments...
  16. ajfossey

    ATX - stiff zoom?

    Suggest that you compare with another sample and consider returning to Tring Observatory for replacement. It was an issue that I experienced and eventually I ended up returning the unit to Swarovski to resolve the issue.
  17. ajfossey

    Trekking pole with camera mount head - recommendations?

    Hello. I purchased this fairly recently: https://www.harrisoncameras.co.uk/pd/leki-fs-carbon-4-section-monopod-trekking-pole_380098 I’ve not used it in anger and am no walking pole expert, but it does extend high enough for me to use with a binocular support from either the floor or as a finn...
  18. ajfossey

    NL pure 10x vs 8x

    Agree with Gijs. NL 8x42 is an excellent binocular and I’ve experienced no issues with using mine.
  19. ajfossey

    Night vision equipment for mortals

    Pulsar Axion XM30S Thermal Monocular available at Naturespy currently. Purchased one this morning.
  20. ajfossey

    Swarovski slc 15x56 or el 12x50

    What was your opinion on these binoculars after some time to experience?
  21. ajfossey

    Swarovski Backpack 30

    I’ve used this Swarovski backpack a couple of times recently. It’s comfortable and has room enough for what I wish to carry, but to be honest, the Vanguard Endeavour 1600 remains my favourite. The 1600 is a better thought out birding option. Accessing content from the bag is easier when in the...
  22. ajfossey

    Scope histories

    No longer have (sadly) Kowa TS1 and Kowa TS2 Kowa TSN4. Think I had a 20x, 30x and zoom. Regret trading this in. Still have: Nickle Supra (Draw tube), never use. Nostalgia only. Still use: Nikon ED 50 x27 Opticron MM3 50 HD (SDL2 (x2), SDL3, x18, x24) Opticron MM4 60 HD (SDL2 (x2), SDL3, x23...
  23. ajfossey

    Small and light scopes ...

    Thank you Pete. I’d forgotten that the 40831 was still available. I like the brightness of the 23x on the 60mm MM4. This is a magnification that I can generally work with when walking some distance and works very well on a lightweight Gitzo series 1 tripod (GK1545T-82TQD) if not too windy...
  24. ajfossey

    Small and light scopes ...

    My wife and I on occasion use the Nikon ED 50mm along with the 27x eyepiece and it is undoubtedly a useful and very lightweight piece of kit. This is the only eyepiece available to us for this scope. I have no experience of the zoom options here. I’d also recommend the Opticron MMx ED 50mm and...
  25. ajfossey

    How much of x10 (over x8) is psychological?

    8x/8.5x when birding with a scope or in woodland. 10x/12x when birding with no scope or walking the dog away from woodland in more open habitat. Not hard and fast rules to rigidly follow, but generally what works (for me) and always enjoy giving all the optics an occasional outing!
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