Scopes on the cheaper side (1 Viewer)

Hey there,

I'd been saving up for some binoculars but recently a friend of mine gave me hers, and her scope--but the scope is very old, and isn't exactly the best one I've used. So I'm left with a few options-- Very few, actually.

Since I'm still in high school with absolutely no job, I don't exactly have a lot of money to spend (then again, in this economy and world, who does?) Anyhoo, I'm an avid birder nonetheless, despite my age (and aspiring to become a falconer!)

The Binoculars I recieved are the Brunton Epoch 7.5x42mm. I could buy a separate field scope that attaches to the left side of the Epoch, and acts as a scope when attached to a tripod. It doubles the 7.5 to 15, and it costs approximately $130--150. But it's not angled, and i'd prefer an angled eyepiece...

I was looking at these following scopes (I don't have to buy right away...but I do want to get one before this coming summer.)

http://www.amazon.com/Barska-BlackB...rproof-Spotting/dp/B000BY66JO/ref=pd_sbs_sg_8

http://www.amazon.com/Yukon-YK11025...RM34/ref=dp_return_1?ie=UTF8&n=502394&s=photo

http://www.amazon.com/Barska-BlackBlackhawk-20-60x60-Waterproof-Straight/dp/B000BY42T0/ref=pd_cp_p_2

But if I could find the last one as angled I would *love* it...

Any input is appreciated. Of course, I'd be willing to spend more--maybe up to $250. Any recommendations are appreciated too.

Thanks in advance--
Phoenix

For what it is worth I would avoid the Barska models. I have yet to own a Barska product that I was enthused about.

Up to $250 I would suggest either....

http://www.cameralandny.com/optics/vortex.pl?page=vortexspecial20-60x80

or....

http://www.cameralandny.com/optics/vortex.pl?page=vortexsandpiper

...in the straight version at $200. The angled is there too but it is $329. Either scope offers very, very good performance for the price. Either would be significantly better optically than any of the models you listed.

The Celestron Ultima 65 has gotten decent reviews on this forum and is available new on Ebay for about $110.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290342010106&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT
That seems like a reasonable option to me, even though it is not the newer ED glass version, which is several times more costly.

Much thanks...It looks like tripods don't come with the scopes though--would any tripod work, or do I have to buy a compatable one?

Much thanks,
Phoenix

I like etudiant's suggestion as well. I had the little Celestron Ultima 65 and thought it was alot of scope for the money. I would recommend it as well.

No, most scopes do not come with tripods....and even when they do they are typically the little tabletop versions that aren't very versatile.

If you want a decent tripod then I would suggest something like this for the Celestron 65.......

http://www.adorama.com/BG718B.html

Bogen-Manfrotto is one of the most well respected names in tripods. This particular unit would be a very good match for the Celestron as it is lightweight and very compact. I have been using it with a Pentax model when I am looking for extreme portability. Two thumbs up!

That would bring your total to right at $200 shipped as the same outfit sells the Celestron Ultima 65 as well....

http://www.adorama.com/CNU65.html?searchinfo=celestron+ultima

Thanks! I'll keep the Celestron and the Vortex no-name in mind.

Cheers,
Phoenix