I've been comparing the features of various zoom spotting scopes as I am planning on finally taking the plunge to purchase one this year. The 65mm Diascope has a FOV at 15X of 168'. Most other scopes with 20X minimum power have a FOV of 90' -115'. Using the geometry I remember from high school, the Diascope has two to three times the visible area at 15X compared to other scopes at 20X.
My question is: Does this actually translate to a significant advantage in using the scope in the field - is it easier to initially locate the bird, rather than wasting time searching for a bird that eventually flies away before you can focus on it? I would be using it for mostly land/tree birds so I feel I can live without the 46X - 60X portion of the zooms available in most other scopes since the visible distances are not as great as over the water.
It would seem that this is a great advantage & if the responses concur, I just might stretch my budget to purchase it.
Thanks in advance for your comments.
My question is: Does this actually translate to a significant advantage in using the scope in the field - is it easier to initially locate the bird, rather than wasting time searching for a bird that eventually flies away before you can focus on it? I would be using it for mostly land/tree birds so I feel I can live without the 46X - 60X portion of the zooms available in most other scopes since the visible distances are not as great as over the water.
It would seem that this is a great advantage & if the responses concur, I just might stretch my budget to purchase it.
Thanks in advance for your comments.