>> I would appreciate information on the pros and cons (your personal
experiences) of automobile window mounts for scopes. I have a swarovski
scope. I don't know if this matters (the weight/size/etc) or not so I
thought I should mention it. <<

For years I have used the Manfrotto (Bogen) Car Window Pod ($24.50) with
a 3130 Quick Release Micro Fluid Head ($72.95!) as sold by ABA
Sales (800-634-7736). (Special plate required for some Swarovski scopes.)

This is a very expensive proposition, but because I have the same head on
my tripod (3221), I can quickly move the scope between the tripod and
window mount. When driving, I keep the scope in front with me -- not on the
tripod.

I don't see big scopes as a problem -- I use a straight Leica. I don't
drive a tiny car, but not a huge one either -- a Toyota Avalon. Or, when
seriously birding out of town, I rent an Explorer -- discovered a long time
ago you can rent an awful lot of days of Explorer for half the cost of
owning one.

Using a window mount is a tremendously successful and enjoyable way to bird
at times and in areas where tromping around is not the most desirable.
Scoping water birds from your car in a steady rain will save an otherwise
abandoned birding trip. Scoping birds near the road from your car provides
a blind that allows a close approach you would otherwise not be able to
execute -- in fact, when driving, if you see a likely bird, just stopping
and getting out of the car will cause it to depart for another county,
where stopping and putting the scope on your window will usually provide
you a good view.

Years ago, I got my life Lazuli Bunting, north of Cashmere, with a
window mount -- it landed on my scope!

Yes, I know, to some it seems not sporting -- let 'em do it their way.

As for the expense, for many of us, nothing (almost) is as important as
our birding. Getting the right equipment (such as your scope) the first
time is the only good strategy.

Jerry Blinn
Placitas, NM
<jerry at avisys.net>
<www.avisys.net>


E-mail from: Jerry Blinn

AviSys Web Site: <www.avisys.net>
AviSys EMail: <support at avisys.net>