First birding scope

[Brummiebird]

Looking to get my first scope for birding.Was looking at this one Celestron Ultima 65 Celestron Spotting Scopes

Can anyone recommend another or is this one any good.Always thought zoom lenses were bad though.

Thanks

[wizzo]

Hiya Brummie and welcome to WAB! I don't know the scope you mention so can't really comment on how good (or bad) it is I'm afraid What is your budget? It might be worth looking at 'Hawke' spotting scopes. If they are anything like their binoculars. then they will be superb. As for zoom lenses. Well there are plenty of threads on here regarding zooms v prime lenses. Generally speaking, primes will almost always, out-perform zoom lenses, especially where cameras are concerned. As for scopes. Well I use a zoom and I'm very happy with it. Some of my birdwatching pals use only fixed focal length lenses. They are definately brighter, but of-course not so versatile. The short answer would be, in my opinion. Unless you're a semi-pro photographer or birdwatcher, you're gonna be hard pressed to tell the difference in normal viewing conditions or unless making large enlargements of your prints. Of course, if I was loaded and money was no object...then prime everytime!! Personally, I'd always go for a zoom lens when using a spotting scope. For me, it wouldn't be practical swapping lenses all the time. Hope this helps a little - Wizzo

[nightshade]

I am afraid it is all down to money, cheap first time Opticron Piccolo £60.
After that well There are many many retailers like Digiscoping, Digiscoping Cameras, Plane Spotting Telescopes, High Power Telescopes, Spottingscopes - Sherwoods-Photo.com for instance I have no connection with this company other than as a customer