65 mm spotters

[mthomasondpt]

Hey guys, I’m thinking of getting a 65 mm spotter. Im open to getting a used one. Just wondering if getting a middle of the road one is worth the smaller cost, or if “buy once, cry once” is the way to go. For perspective, I usually hunt in my home state and occasionally go out of state. Also, I don’t get to hunt more than a couple of weeks per year. Any advice is appreciated!

 

[gr8fuldoug]

How good of a unit are you looking for. We just posted some amazing deals on Demo Kowa Spotters

 

[Hnthrdr]

What’s your home state? And what other states do you hunt?

 

[Hnthrdr]

Yeah the 773 from Doug in my mind would be really really hard to pass up

 

[Maverick1]

I don’t get to hunt more than a couple of weeks per year. Any advice is appreciated!

I think you are buying gear for the sake of buying gear, you likely don’t *need* a spotter, and you would ultimately be wasting your money. But it’s your money, so do what you think will make you more successful and happy. Good luck!

 

[mthomasondpt]

How good of a unit are you looking for. We just posted some amazing deals on Demo Kowa Spotters

Honestly not sure. I have Maven B2 binos, so probably something like that. Not thinking the big 3 (Swaro, Zeiss, Leica).

 

[mthomasondpt]

What’s your home state? And what other states do you hunt?

California. I’ve hunted Idaho and plan to hunt WY soon and likely other western states eventually.

 

[Hnthrdr]

Would be fine with some mid grade stuff, also what budget are you shooting for that determines a lot

 

[CorbLand]

I would call Doug and have one of the 553 dropped off on your doorstep.

 

[mthomasondpt]

Would be fine with some mid grade stuff, also what budget are you shooting for that determines a lot

Probably $2k.

 

[LaHunter]

If you stay patient and keep on the lookout, you can find a used Swaro 65mm 20-60 HD spotter in excellent condition within your budget of $2k. The warranty is transferable also.

 

[Hnthrdr]

Doug has the 773 for under 2k, pretty awesome spotter if you ask me that or the 553 would do you well!

 

[lundellhunting7]

I have ran a lot of spotters over the last 15 years. I now run a ATS 65 hd. I don't believe I will be changing in the foreseeable future

My spotter before was a 773 and that was great spotter! My only complaint was MY eyes for some reason did not love the WA eyepiece on it when I was looking at something closer than 300 yards.

IMO get it narrowed down to a couple spotters and sit down behind each one. But defiatly spend the money for what you really want.

 

[Blockcaver]

I've used a Swaro ATM HD 20-60x65 since 2011. Works just great for sheep, caribou, moose etc where we have horn, age or antler point restrictions. Digiscoping too as the iPhone, plus thge Phonescope attachment really allows you to check out the head gear.

Also have a tiny Nikon ED 13-30x50HD that I use a fair bit, both with the phone scope and to size up bears and other critters where the antlers/horns are not critical to determine legality. Pretty decent little optic that is around 10 years old, bought used, but it is no Swaro.

Based on the my extensive experience I'd buy the latest compact Swaro ATC17-40x56 ($2500) and be set. Lots of info on them here on Rokslide. Check eye relief specs carefully if an eye glass wearer. Also check field of view. I think the small Swaro noted would serve my dual needs pretty well.