How much real difference is there between say the Nikon 82ED and the new Nikon EDG.
Is there that much difference say between Nikon 82ED and a Kowa 883 or do you have to really study to tell the difference ??????????
I had the Nikon 82ED, and upgraded to the Kowa 884. I did look at them side by side before I sold the Nikon. As has been well documented, the Nikon zoom had questionable eye relief and FOV as zoom increased. The Optics were wonderfully bright, crisp, and clear, on par with the neighbor's Zeiss 85 T FL Diascope. However, neither one can match the view through the Kowa. It is exceptional, with no peer, and is extremely well built. Crystal clear views to the edge are amazing even when zoom increases. The 82ED is a great scope, but not in the same league as the Kowa. There's good reason you never see people in the field with the new Nikon EDG.....it's much too heavy, bulky, and downright ugly. If you're going to spend the money spend it on the Kowa Prominar. I do agree in your case the Vortex is grossly overpriced, as are all Nikon EDG products IMO.