Advice on choice of ATX 85/95 vs Kowa 883 vs Harpia 85/95 (1 Viewer)

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I've never had any luck with Osprey (or Marsh Harrier) there, although I have seen them migrating thru the Test Valley. Some people get amazing photos of them at Fishlake, that's for sure.

 

[gabrielgartner]

I just went through the same decision as the OP and ended up with the Kowa paired with a 500AH. I just don't see myself using the modular system of the Swaro and I hate chromatic aberration which the Kowa handles beautifully. The fact that I could buy the scope plus the 1.6x extender, plus case and tripod head and still come out less than the Swaro didn't hurt either! The 883/500AH is an almost perfect combo. The 500AH is a big head in volume, but doesn't way a ton and the pre-set drag is just about perfect. It was very easy to balance the scope using the spring balance and supplied manfrotto plate. On a recent day on the water, looking west into the sun (birds were backlit) there was zero and I mean zero purple or green fringing--just incredible!

My only complaints (and they're minor) is that it is not compatible with Arca-Swiss plates...I have lots of Kirk plates and none of them work. Second, the lack of rubbe armor is noticeable--the scope feels delicate and would certainly take on damage from even a small drop onto a hard surface. A Kowa canvas or neoprene case is a must (I have the canvas which is functional, albeit ugly).

 

[Alexis Powell]

...My only complaints (and they're minor) is that it is not compatible with Arca-Swiss plates...I have lots of Kirk plates and none of them work...

I have used short adapters like this one to use Arca plates with Manfrotto/Gitzo/Sirui heads with great success for many years. They are solid and super convenient.

Metal Adapter for Arca-swiss Camera Quick Release Plate to GITZO Tripod Ballhead | eBay

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I see that they now make full-length adapters which might be nice for some applications but in my experience not necessary as the actual clamping area of Manfrotto heads is usually short. Still, I think I will get one or two of these for future use.

Adapter f Arca Fit Quick Release Plate to Manfrotto Gitzo Three-dimensional Head | eBay

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--AP