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  1. V

    Don't use thread adapters!

    I totally agree - the Manfrotto system worked perfectly well with Swarovski ATS/STS and the earlier ATX/STX 'scopes. We've been forced to accept the second-rate Arca Suisse solution which is supposed to be popular with photographers. How many wildlife photographers, with their enormous telephoto...
  2. V

    ATC 65 tripod head compatibility

    I thiink you're probably correct. Swaro changed the ATX/STX series from Manfrotto-type feet to Arca-Suisse a couple of years ago, so they've probably inflicted it on the ATS/STS series as well. We're having to adapt to the photographic world - not a good idea. How many wildlife photographers...
  3. V

    Don't use thread adapters!

    Agreed about the spokes, but you're talking about (almost) vertical loads (compression/tension). If the 'scope is always horizontal on a tripod, there's no problem but the turning moment on the 'scope/QR plate interface is appreciable for a 2 kg 'scope, when it is being carried in an...
  4. V

    Don't use thread adapters!

    It partly depends on the material from which the adapter insert is made. Some of them are manufactured from brass, which is not sufficintly robust, especially if you want it to hold 'scope the weight of a Swaro ATX115. For maximum grip, a mild-steel 3/8 bolt cut to the maximum allowable length...
  5. V

    Swarovski ATM 65 HD Spotting Scope recently acquired. Any value?

    Your example is an ATM 65, rather than ATS 65 (the green focus ring and black lens hood identify), so it's one of the magnesium-bodied ones and would probably sell for more than the aluminium ones. They're also quite rare.
  6. V

    New ATC/ STC 17-40x56 Telescope

    I've been a fan of Swarovski kit for years now - my first Swaro optics were a pair of 7x42 SLCs back in the 1990's and I've stayed true to the manufacturer ever since, but I can't get my head around the idea of hand-holding the ATC/STC 'scope. I read somewhere in the distant past that it's...
  7. V

    New ATC/ STC 17-40x56 Telescope

    I've been a fan of Swarovski kit for years now - my first Swaro optics were a pair of 7x42 SLCs back in the 1990's and I've stayed true to the manufacturer ever since, but I can't get my head around the idea of hand-holding the ATC/STC 'scope. I read somewhere in the distant past that it's...
  8. V

    Don't use thread adapters!

    I completely agree and I fail to see the reason for adopting Arca-suisse fittings anyway - they aren't as robust as the good old Manfrotto 128RC kit nor the now difficult-to-find Gitzo 1720 and 2720. Personally I find the latter designs the best ever but I think their initial price put many...
  9. V

    ATC 65 tripod head compatibility

    You'll need a Gitzo QR plate to go between the 'scope and the tripod head because the ATS 65 foot is only compatible with the Manfrotto RC128 head, NOT Arca-Suisse. I use the Gitzo GH1720QR with my ATS65 (and a Gitzo QR plate) and it works brilliantly for me. I see no need to bother with...
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