scope recommendation - for an 11 year old

[billabong]

I wonder if you could recommend a scope that would be suitable for an 11 year old. He has been birdwatching for a couple of years now, so we want something lightweight, robust, not too expensive, but that will last a few years.

I have had a search on google, but am left thoroughly confused.

Thanks in advance.

[htcdude]

Depends what you mean by not too expensive.

Hawke do a pretty good range. This is the Nature Trek series:

Hawke Sport Optics

If you can afford a bit more I'd go for the Nature Trek ED series:

Hawke Sport Optics

I've not got one, but have used them at fairs and some friends have brought up the name in good use before :-)

Nige

[captaincarot]

i'd get one from aldi rather than the hawke.

you could do a lot worse than taking a look at the opticron mighty midget scopes, they're small and light weight being designed for travelling,
and they are from a british company,

as far as optics companies in britain are concerned warranties don't get better than the ones opticron provide.

[Picidae]

Have a look at the RSPB optics sale


RSPB Optics - Online Shop

Some of very reasonable quality for a reasonable price, including the mighty migit series - you could also take your son to one of the RSPB reserve shops near you so he can try a few out for himself and get some help from the sales staff, which I'd strongly recommend before purchasing one - I'd also suggest one with a fixed eyepiece and a large objective lens

This one comes with a monopod and carry case included so would be easy for an 11 yr old to carry round:

RSPB Optics Viking

http://www.rspboptics.com/acatalog/o...elescopes.html

RSPB Spotting Scopes

[billabong]

Thank you so much for the quick replys.

I like the look of the mighty midget. Will try and have a look at one before we make a decision.

Thanks again.

[Acipiter]

I have both the straight and angled one with the 13-39 zoom eyepiece, which I use with a monopod, I can highly recommend it.

[Adam Cheeseman]

Just one thought I would throw in, and that is that optics are very much a personal choice. What one person would say is very good another wouldn't touch. You need to get your 11 year old to try a few out within the price range you want to spend and let them choose the one they prefer. Nothing worse than being bought optics that you don't like, for whatever reason.

Cheers,

Adam

[artdemole]

Had a Vision King scope from telescopeshop.c.uk Only £99 But got it at a bargain price due to being in display cabinet.Small but handy. Purchased a Tripod from Argos but the legs on the lowest price are not that stable.

[Acipiter]

Originally Posted by Adam Cheeseman

Just one thought I would throw in, and that is that optics are very much a personal choice. What one person would say is very good another wouldn't touch. You need to get your 11 year old to try a few out within the price range you want to spend and let them choose the one they prefer. Nothing worse than being bought optics that you don't like, for whatever reason.

Cheers,

Adam

So very true of so many things in life.

[nightshade]

I use the Opticron Piccolo Buy Opticron Piccolo Compact Telescope 15-45x60 Ref: OP-40148 at The Digital Camera Shop, UK Online Digital Camera Dealers
I am not a great bird watcher but this works remarkably well and I have been very pleased with it, I have even taken photos through it using my little Sony camera!