Anyone digiscope here??

CAT-THE-FIFTH · 19 Dec 2012 at 18:06

I was wondering if any one uses a spotting scope with a compact or SLR?? How is it practice and what are the pitfalls of using such a setup. I already have a Sigma 135-400MM which I use for a few things.

I am looking at taking pictures of a few birds,etc??

Looking at perhaps picking up a spotting scope in he £200 to £300 range. Any brands or models worth considering?

CAT-THE-FIFTH · 20 Dec 2012 at 13:47

Thanks!

Ultimately,I would like to pick up a Sigma 150-500MM or 50-500MM,as I do take pictures of aircraft too. However,I would want to invest in a new body too,so that won't be happening at least for the immediate future.

I managed to pick up a Acuter ST22-67X100A for a low price(it costs around £210 on WEX but I got it much cheaper),and put the money saved towards the telephoto lens budget. I will probably adapt my Canon S95 then and see how it goes. It should be a bit of relatively inexpensive fun!!

CAT-THE-FIFTH · 20 Dec 2012 at 16:38

Thanks!! That looks a good way of attaching a compact to the scope.

CAT-THE-FIFTH · 21 Dec 2012 at 16:07

TheAnimus said:
Don't do the 50. Get the 150. For the price difference is very large. £350 today, but also the 150 is slightly sharper at the higher end.

What is interesting is a lot of people saying the IS in the 150 isn't worth choosing it over, as at around the 300mm the 50-500 is sharper is concensus. But if you want a sharp 300mm, you can get lighter, sharper, faster options! In fact, this is what I noticed with the help of the guys at SRS when playing with the 50-500. When you think it would cost 'only' £200 more two get the 150-500mm sigma & a DA* 60-250mm...... Thou I've not found I'm disapointed really to want the 60-250mm yet......

Thanks!! £350 would be a decent chunk of a wide angle standard lens,which would still probably be the main lens on whatever system I eventually get.