Date: 10/23/26 12:32 pm From: Asher Koch via Tweeters <tweeters...> Subject: [Tweeters] Looking for a Used Scope Upgrade
Hi everyone,
I'm looking to upgrade from my Vortex Diamondback 16–48×65, which has
disappointed me with its lack of sharpness, chromatic aberration, and
low-light performance. I'm hoping to find a meaningful optical upgrade for
birding in the PNW, especially shorebirds and seawatching in our lovely
gray weather.
Ideally, I'm looking for an *angled 77–82mm scope* with excellent sharpness
and contrast. I'm considering the Kowa TSN-773 and Nikon Fieldscope ED82,
with a budget of around $700–1,200 for a good used setup, including an
eyepiece. Fluorite models like the Kowa TSN-883 are appealing, but the
$2,800+ prices I'm finding are beyond my budget at this stage in my birding
career. I fully plan to do this for the rest of my life, but I'm trying to
pace my insatiable gear thirst! That said, I'd consider stretching my
budget for an exceptional deal.
I've mostly been looking on eBay, but good used options seem surprisingly
scarce. *Where else should I be looking?* Any birding forums, used optics
dealers, classifieds, or other marketplaces worth checking?
I'd also love to hear from anyone who's used the Kowa 773 or older Nikon
ED82, particularly how they compare in real-world sharpness, color
fringing, and low-light performance. I'm also open to thoughts on straight
scopes or other models I should consider.
