Kowa 773 v. Kowa 883 (1 Viewer)

[rpg51]

Optically, other than the diameter of the objective and the type of glass used, the numbers seem to be virtually identical.

To folks who have used both - what are the differences between these two as far as the view? Apparent field of view? Brightness? Aberration? Sharpness? Color?

The price difference on the street as far as I can tell on line is about $600 or so. I'm leaning hard toward one of these two for my next purchase. My use is mostly bird and general wildlife viewing. Not using it as a camera lens. Might do some iphone digi scope stuff for fun I suppose. Low light performance is nice for sure. But, I don't need the last three minutes - I could live without that if the view is otherwise excellent.

 

[Tanager]

I have the 883, tried the 773 when deciding which one to buy, the 883 image was much better to my eye; sharpness and chromatic aberration. If you can afford it buy the 883, I’ve never regretted it.

 

[Pileatus]

The 883/884 employs fluorite crystal in the design.
The 773/774 uses XD glass.

Kowa Sporting Optics

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I have the 883 and it controls CA better than any model I've examined. I attribute that to the fluorite crystal.

 

[rpg51]

Pileatus, do you find CA is an issue with the 773/774?

 

[Torview]

The 773 loses out to the 883 in direct comparison, however, judge it on its own merit and against any other 80mm class scope (or even 65`s because its not much bigger or heavier) and it is a superb instrument, I love mine with the 30x wide angle, I got rid of my 20-60, its also an inch shorter and 6.7oz lighter if that matters to you.

 

[Pileatus]

Pileatus, do you find CA is an issue with the 773/774?

Pileatus, do you find CA is an issue with the 773/774?

In direct comparison I preferred the 883 image.

 

[rpg51]

Thanks for the input. I ended up with the 883.

 

[Tanager]

Thanks for the input. I ended up with the 883.

Excellent choice, hope it gives you many happy hours, I know mine has.