Dennis wrote:

> I consider the Nikon 15-45x zoom a Best Buy. I'm willing to bring it to
> the picnic if we can get one each of the competing brands, for a brand new
> Scopes Trial.

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I also have a Nikon 15-45x zoom and for the money it is very sharp. It
is water-resistant, not waterproof, but I have had no problems in heavy
mist/light rain. Through birding trips with Audobon etc., I have had
the opportunity to view other scopes. I suggest that potential buyers
do the same before making such an investment. Eagle optics in
Wisconsin and Christopher's in Oklahoma both have good handouts on
optical equipment. In my experience (birding 7 years), I rarely use
45x and think that 60x is overkill for the "average" birder.

I have enjoyed reading other opinions on scopes, please keep them
coming!

__________________________________________________________
Joe Dunstan, Landscape Architect, National Park Service
909 First Avenue, Seattle, Washington 98104 (206) 220-4273
email: joe_dunstan at nps.gov