Need a new spotting scope and tripod head (1 Viewer)

[Super Dave]

Hi everyone,

I wanted to get some suggestions for a used, cheap, good quality, waterproof, robust spotting scope and tripod head.

I operate a dementia care facility and have a spotting scope on the second floor lanai. The residents and families use it daily and enjoy it. The one in the photo was a warranty replacement for the first one...that was my personal old scope with a 20 year Nikon warranty. Anyway, this replacement is still working but the rubber on the focus knob has fallen off and it's pretty well worn overall. Unfortunately, it will likely not get cleaned regularly and it will get rained on even though it's under the roof line....wind blows rain in. So in 12 years we've worn out two Nikons.

I'm looking at a something like a Nikon Fieldscope D 60 20X60. Looks like I can get them for about $150 shipped. Is that a good choice, or something else?

I need a good basic tripod head that I can remove the extended arm...since the arm gets in the way of the hand rail for shorter people. Same thing, looking for used and something that can take some "abuse".

I'm looking to spend around $150 USD for the scope and maybe $25 to $30 for a used head.

Thanks much,
Dave


Photo of current scope

 

[dwatsonbirder]

I'm unsure what availability is like in Hawaii, but perhaps something like a Celestron Hummingbird (or one of the clones e.g. Svbony/Hawke etc) may be a good option - small, low power and waterproof?
A Nikon FS series would be an excellent option, but just remember that only the FSiii series is waterproof. Perhaps something from the US market like a Theron Saker or Vortex Stokes Sandpiper could be a good option?
A good choice for a head with removable handle would be the Manfrotto 128rc - I think it is called a Bogen 3130 in the US.

 

[Super Dave]

Thank you very much for pointing out the the Field Scope 1 is not waterproof. That would have been a disaster. Scratch that. Waterproofing is a must. We are having a storm for the next two days and guaranteed the Nikon is getting a wash.

Some more thoughts on what I need:

1. A straight through scope is better for the shorter people...and more understandable.
2. I agree a lower power is perfect. I don't need a zoom. Most people don't know how to use the zoom. But a zoom isn't a deal killer.
3. I will most likely buy it on Ebay or new if there is a good deal. New budget for the scope is $200.

Celestron Hummingbird: I can get these new for less than $200 but it's angled. Still a good fall back option.
Theron Saker: I'm not seeing much on these on eBay or elsewhere on my searches.
Vortex Stokes and Sandpiper: Not seeing much of these on eBay.

Thanks for the fluid head suggestion. I need something with resistance so it doesn't flop over too hard.

I'll keep exploring the options. I appreciate the help.

Dave