Opticron MM3 50 ED: straight or angled? (1 Viewer)

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Bobby Marlene

Member

• Jul 13, 2016

• #1

Hi, I would like to buy a travel scope and decided on a Opticron mm3 50. I do not know which version to choose, straight or angled. Most of my birding is in open country, either coastline or moors. I think when you want to use a scope without tripod a straight version is easier to use. But I am not sure as I only used angled scopes so far. Looking for your experience. Many thanks, Bobby

 

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jring

Well-known member

• Jul 13, 2016

• #2

Hi Bobby,

how do you plan to use your scope, handheld or with a monopod? What magnifications do you plan to use?

Joachim

 

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Bobby Marlene

Member

• Jul 13, 2016

• #3

Joachim, I would go for the zoom 12-36 HDF zoom. I would use it mainly with a monopod, sometimes a light tripod. Very occasionally handheld. Thanks, Bobby

 

njlarsen

Gallery Moderator

Opus Editor

Supporter

• Jul 13, 2016

• #4

Bobby, with that usage profile I would probably go for an angled model. A straight model needs higher support which is difficult to find in light-weight. I use mine with a light tripod.

However, I will also say that if you have a long reach camera, including e.g., a superzoom bridge camera, then you can get away with not having a scope at all. I used my Pana GH2 with a 100-300 lens on a recent trip to Ecuador and left the scope behind.

Niels

 

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Bobby Marlene

Member

• Jul 13, 2016

• #5

Thanks Niels, I was also thinking that finding a light but stable tripod for a straight model would be difficult. I am 6 ft tall. Monopod should be ok. Taking only camera is unfortunately no option or me, I am not a photographer. I think I tend to the angled version but I am keen to hear others experience. Many thanks, Bobby

 

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jring

Well-known member

• Jul 14, 2016

• #6

Hi,

I agree with Niels in that case... angled means you can get away with a shorter mono- or tripod. Also it's a lot better to share the scope, if it's on a tripod.

Joachim