Recommendations for a cheap scope? (1 Viewer)

C

cjnelson

Member

• Aug 26, 2004

• #1

Hi all.

Stumbled across this site while looking for a review of a telescope, so I'm wondering if you guys can help me...

To date, I've only used binnoculars, but I'd love to invest in a scope. Thing is - they look damned expensive to me! Any thoughts on buying second hand?

I've found an Opticron Classic IF MkII for sale, for about £60. Now this looks like a bargain to me - anyone used one? Any recommendations?

Any help appreciated! Thanks. Ciaran

 

scampo

Steve Campsall

• Aug 26, 2004

• #2

Look through it. Is the view wide and bright enough for you? Try to look into shadows - can you see much? It might be worth buying if that is your budget.

If you can stretch to more, look at the Nikon FSIII with 30X on this site:

www.warehouseexpress.com

You won't get cheaper or better for the price.

Don't forget you'll need a decent tripod - about £40-00 minimum or so (same site has some good Velbons).

 

Geoff Brown

Well-known member

• Aug 28, 2004

• #3

Try and get to a specialist optics dealer if you can. One who deals with various makes of scopes and bins for birding. Look in the advertising in the birding magazines to locate a convenient retailer near to where you live. They will have the best choice which often includes second hand bargains. Most important is to try before you buy, as what is suitable for one persons eyesight is not always ideal for someone else.

 

scampo

Steve Campsall

• Aug 28, 2004

• #4

Geoff Brown said:

Try and get to a specialist optics dealer if you can.

Click to expand...

It was foolish of me not to suggest that, Geoff. Thanks for pointing it out.

 

C

cjnelson

Member

• Aug 31, 2004

• #5

Thanks for your advice guys - I'll let you know how I get on.

Ciaran

 

A

amh2029

Well-known member

• Sep 10, 2004

• #6

Hi Ciaran,
If you're interested, I'm selling my Nikon fieldscope III (complete with 30x lens and carry case) for £250. It's only 6 months old and is in mint condition (selling because i've upgraded to the Nikon 78 ED). I'll even throw-in a free tripod. The scope retails for £450 at warehouse express - so you'd be getting a pretty much brand new scope half price. PM me if interested.
Andrew

 

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Edward woodwood

Member

• Sep 10, 2004

• #7

second hand - great gear at knock down prices!