Yep, I'd agree with a scope.My first scope was an old Mirador 75mm body with a 22-48x zoom and it was supprisingly clear.I used it mostly around 25x and would zoom up when needed and it didn't go too dark ( in good light
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I bet these are only going for £30-50 now second hand.
Scopes are a bit like cameras, people are always trading up , so have a look around the used ads - you might just pick up a bargain
neil