baldwin1968
FNG
- Joined
- Jul 24, 2015
- Messages
- 25
So I just purchased an Athlon Ares 15x45x65 as I wanted a scope that I could pack with me into the backcountry. Until now, my primary spotter has been a Vortex Razor 85MM which is just too big for backcountry, but great for tripod or window spotting.
Let me first say that I'm WOWED by the Athlon! I had the two of them side by side and I honestly felt the Athlon was clearer at max (yes, I know there's a diff between 45x and 60x, but still). Image was super nice edge to edge and just seemed clearer overall.
I've never truly loved the Vortex, so I sold it. I still like having an 80+ spotter, so I'd like to get a different model (I also want a straight eyepiece considering how I use it).
I love the Ares 65 so much that the 85 should be pretty good too right? But staying with the "buy one cry one" mentality, I'm also looking at the Leupold Santiam SX-5 Spotter for about twice the price. I have the Santiam 15x56 binos and love them too.
So, yes I know folks will say "Save your money and buy Swarovski or Kowa". Thank you, but no. I'm looking for some input with direct experience with both scopes and to know if the Santiam really justifies twice the price. Longshot, but I thought I'd ask.
Thanks in advance for any input!
Let me first say that I'm WOWED by the Athlon! I had the two of them side by side and I honestly felt the Athlon was clearer at max (yes, I know there's a diff between 45x and 60x, but still). Image was super nice edge to edge and just seemed clearer overall.
I've never truly loved the Vortex, so I sold it. I still like having an 80+ spotter, so I'd like to get a different model (I also want a straight eyepiece considering how I use it).
I love the Ares 65 so much that the 85 should be pretty good too right? But staying with the "buy one cry one" mentality, I'm also looking at the Leupold Santiam SX-5 Spotter for about twice the price. I have the Santiam 15x56 binos and love them too.
So, yes I know folks will say "Save your money and buy Swarovski or Kowa". Thank you, but no. I'm looking for some input with direct experience with both scopes and to know if the Santiam really justifies twice the price. Longshot, but I thought I'd ask.
Thanks in advance for any input!