<My wife is interested in buying a spotting scope. Any suggestions on
good scopes in the $200-400 range? Any suggestions where to go? Any
help greatly appreciated.>


I think Dennis is correct in his recommendations. I also
think you really need to go on a birding trip where there are several
scopes you can compare in order to decide if you want to spring for a
good one. The nice ones can be expensive, but it's a one time hit and
you'll be looking through coated lenses with better color resolution and
sharper image. There's a lot to learn about scopes. You can get more
for your money with catadioptic scopes and more power, but they're more
difficult to use and not as durable in the field.
If you have the time and the inclination, call
Christopher's 800-356-6603. Tell them you're contemplating a scope
purchase and they'll send you a really nice mini-course on optics free.
Also, you might ask for their information sheets on binoculars while
you're at it. Eagle Optics 800-289-1132 has an informative catalog as
does National Camera Exchange 800-624-8107. These are all free for the
asking. And, depending upon how far you really want to get into it, you
might want to send $10.00 to:
Better View Desired (BVD)
Whole Life Systems
PO Box 162
Rehoboth, NM 87322

Stephen Ingraham reviews binoculars and scopes regularly with some
sophisticated testing followed up by recommendations for best buys
etc..The BVD newsletter/booklet comes out 4 or 5 times a year.

BVD just arrived in the mailbox today. He reviews Swift Nighthawks,the
new Leupold compact 60mm and the Swarovski Habicht CT 75 & 85. I haven't
had a chance to digest it yet.

Most of the Kowa/Swarovski users I know invested in a Bogen tripod with a
fluid head (made for smooth video pans)..this will cost $125 or so, but
ease of use and silky movement make it much easier to follow birds at
higher powers.

Hope this helps..

Good luck..



Tom Foote footet at elwha.evergreen.edu
The Evergreen State College 866-6000 x6118
Olympia, WA 98505