I have a leupold spotting scope. What is the best tripod available for it? Need something light, rugged. Cost is not a problem. I like the manfrotto pistol grip for adjustment.
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best tripod for spotting scope
- Thread starter macmann
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I have photography background, and if you want something good and light, Gitzo carbon fiber tripods are sturdy and light. $500-$1500 depends on what size you pick. Mine has seen a lot of miles and abused and still going strong after 10 years. You will have to spend additional amount for the head.
I use a slick tripod as well with my Leupold Mk4 spotter. Picked up the "large" one from PRS (site advertiser) and I could not be happier. I also bought 3 of their QD plates so I can easily switch between saddle, spotter, chrony and DSLR camera. Light and compact and good and sturdy. Fits nicely on/in my pack.
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The Capn'
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The Capn'
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller + RRS BH-30 Compact Head
Also, including the foam MTB grips I added to pad/protect the legs is still weighs less than three (3) lbs. The 30mm BH-30 LR Compact Heads still allow the GT1550T’s legs to fold 180 degrees, which is part of why the GT1550T Traveller folds down to such a compact package. No other tripod and head come close to the lightweight, compact size, and versatility of this combination. The only thing I’d suggest is that if you are spotting with the Legs extended (each leg is five sections) and/or you have the Center Column extended that you hang some ballast from the bottom of the crotch of the body to increase stability (remember, the tripod and head combo is very light and there are five leg sections).
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller Tripod w/MTB Grip Foam + Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Ballhead folded and ready to travel:
If you want the best Ball Head, check-out Really Right Stuff. RRS stuff is made in the U.S.A. and sold direct from RRS Headquarters in California. You won’t even find them in high-end “Pro” shops because of this, but they really are superior in terms of design, quality, AND value. RRS link: Really Right Stuff
Below are some photos of my BH-30 LR (Lever Release). The BH-30 is a Compact Head, and is available without a Clamp, or with different Clamp and Lever configurations.
Below are a couple of photos of my Optolyth S80 Compact mounted on my GT1550T/RRS BH-30 LR Head. If you want a great spotter with a MIL Reticle and you want the ability to be able to offset the spotter to the Right or Left of you while you shoot AND BE ABLE TO ROTATE THE SPOTTER WITHIN IT’S ROTATING COLLAR WITHOUT CANTING THE RETICLE YOU MUST CHECK-OUT THE OPTOLYTH MIL RETICLE EYEPIECES. THEY HAVE RETICLES WHICH ROTATE INDEPENDENTLY OF THE EYEPIECE ITSELF, SO UNLIKE THE LEUPOLD, USO, VORTEX, AND HENSOLDT SPOTTERS THE RETICLE CAN ALWAYS BE ORIENTED TO BE SQUARE WITH THE HORIZON REGARDLESS OF THE ORIENTATION OF THE SPOTTER WITHIN IT’D COLLAR AND/OR THE POSITION OF THE BALLHEAD.
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller Tripod + Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Compact Head and Optolyth S80 HD Compact
w/30X WA MIL Reticle Eyepiece. Here the scope is set-up to the Left of the shooter/spotter. The spotting
scope has been rotated to the Right within it's Collar, while the Eyepiece's Reticle has been rotated to the
Left to remain "square" with the target area:
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller Tripod + Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Compact Head and Optolyth S80 HD Compact
w/30X WA MIL Reticle Eyepiece. Here the scope is set-up to the Right of the shooter/spotter. The spotting
scope has been rotated to the Left within it's Collar, while the Eyepiece's Reticle has been rotated to the
Right to remain "square" with the target area:
To read a review of the Optolyth S80 HD Compact Spotter I wrote about two years ago compared against my Zeiss Diascope 65T FL check-out this link: http://www.snipershide.com/shooting...3-optolyth-s80-hd-compact-spotting-scope.html
Keith
The shortest collapsed length non-"tabletop" tripod that is available (actually a model from several years ago but still available new online and occasionally popping-up in excellent used condition on photography web sites and eBay) is the Gitzo GT1550T (1550 Traveller). The 1550T Traveller uses 6X Carbon Fiber and has a collapsed length of 14.1". "Ground Level Set" Height is 8.25" (Center Column removed) for prone use, and Maximum Height is 57.48 (Legs fully extended and Center Column "up"), and Minimum Height is 49.21" (Legs fully extended and Center Column "down"). Combined with my Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Compact Ballhead with Compact LR the OAL of the GT1550T and BH-30 LR combo is 14.33".
Also, including the foam MTB grips I added to pad/protect the legs is still weighs less than three (3) lbs. The 30mm BH-30 LR Compact Heads still allow the GT1550T’s legs to fold 180 degrees, which is part of why the GT1550T Traveller folds down to such a compact package. No other tripod and head come close to the lightweight, compact size, and versatility of this combination. The only thing I’d suggest is that if you are spotting with the Legs extended (each leg is five sections) and/or you have the Center Column extended that you hang some ballast from the bottom of the crotch of the body to increase stability (remember, the tripod and head combo is very light and there are five leg sections).
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller Tripod w/MTB Grip Foam + Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Ballhead folded and ready to travel:
If you want the best Ball Head, check-out Really Right Stuff. RRS stuff is made in the U.S.A. and sold direct from RRS Headquarters in California. You won’t even find them in high-end “Pro” shops because of this, but they really are superior in terms of design, quality, AND value. RRS link: Really Right Stuff
Below are some photos of my BH-30 LR (Lever Release). The BH-30 is a Compact Head, and is available without a Clamp, or with different Clamp and Lever configurations.
Below are a couple of photos of my Optolyth S80 Compact mounted on my GT1550T/RRS BH-30 LR Head. If you want a great spotter with a MIL Reticle and you want the ability to be able to offset the spotter to the Right or Left of you while you shoot AND BE ABLE TO ROTATE THE SPOTTER WITHIN IT’S ROTATING COLLAR WITHOUT CANTING THE RETICLE YOU MUST CHECK-OUT THE OPTOLYTH MIL RETICLE EYEPIECES. THEY HAVE RETICLES WHICH ROTATE INDEPENDENTLY OF THE EYEPIECE ITSELF, SO UNLIKE THE LEUPOLD, USO, VORTEX, AND HENSOLDT SPOTTERS THE RETICLE CAN ALWAYS BE ORIENTED TO BE SQUARE WITH THE HORIZON REGARDLESS OF THE ORIENTATION OF THE SPOTTER WITHIN IT’D COLLAR AND/OR THE POSITION OF THE BALLHEAD.
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller Tripod + Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Compact Head and Optolyth S80 HD Compact
w/30X WA MIL Reticle Eyepiece. Here the scope is set-up to the Left of the shooter/spotter. The spotting
scope has been rotated to the Right within it's Collar, while the Eyepiece's Reticle has been rotated to the
Left to remain "square" with the target area:
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller Tripod + Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Compact Head and Optolyth S80 HD Compact
w/30X WA MIL Reticle Eyepiece. Here the scope is set-up to the Right of the shooter/spotter. The spotting
scope has been rotated to the Left within it's Collar, while the Eyepiece's Reticle has been rotated to the
Right to remain "square" with the target area:
To read a review of the Optolyth S80 HD Compact Spotter I wrote about two years ago compared against my Zeiss Diascope 65T FL check-out this link: http://www.snipershide.com/shooting...3-optolyth-s80-hd-compact-spotting-scope.html
Keith
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Check out the tripod "systems" from Ashbury Ordanance Welcome! | Ashbury Precision Ordnance, Mfg. In the used section, I have seen deals on demo gear.
The vectronix tripods are the same as the APO tripods (model GP or S I think). They work well, but are a bit heavy and not very collapsible. I will say they are pretty stable and are great for running the spotter inverted with the TIM accessory mount. Lots of options, but pretty pricey to get the full features (terrain leveling gimbal, fine elevation knob, amagnetic base, etc.). If I had to do it over again, I would buy the TIM-17 mount made for manfrotto heads and grab a manfrotto tripod with a quick grip ball head.
This is what I bought.
It is fantastic in terms of stability and infinitely smooth (downright fluid, in fact) adjustment.
Not gonna fit on the shooting bench, though.
Joe
*edit* whoops, forgot the link.
http://www.eurooptic.com/zeiss-full...-with-fluid-head-17-93-996-like-new-demo.aspx
They are still listing "demos" for the discount price. It's well worth $400.
After I bought mine at that price a few months back, SWFA had some on their samplelist.com for even less.
They are gone now but I bet Euro Optic honors the price.
It is fantastic in terms of stability and infinitely smooth (downright fluid, in fact) adjustment.
Not gonna fit on the shooting bench, though.
Joe
*edit* whoops, forgot the link.
http://www.eurooptic.com/zeiss-full...-with-fluid-head-17-93-996-like-new-demo.aspx
They are still listing "demos" for the discount price. It's well worth $400.
After I bought mine at that price a few months back, SWFA had some on their samplelist.com for even less.
They are gone now but I bet Euro Optic honors the price.
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I use a Manfrotto with the carbon fiber parts. I also use this tripod for my Hog Saddle shooting vise.
Getting equipment that meets requirements
Gitzo tripods are definitely pricey. The GT1550T Traveller comes with a lightweight Head but it doesn't rotate, and if you want a QR Plate you need a Gitzo QR Adapter Plate (I have one and it works well but as I posted above I upgraded to an RRS BH-30 with Compact LR). The OP was looking for a lightweight, rugged tripod that also folds down to a very compact size, cost not being a concern (must be nice). Me, I only buy stuff when I know it fits the bill, is worth the price, and/or is the best at what it does. The GT1550T Traveller fulfills ALL of the OP's tripod requirements extremely well as well as remaining useful for standing use, unlike the other tripod suggestions posted within this thread.
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I use the vortex summit ss. it operate by the looks kinda like the one pictured above. $129 from cameraland
I will have to pick up one of the RRS heads. Here is a little Giottos I have used in the past to set my chronograph low enough that I could shoot through it while prone. It is plenty tall to use while sitting, and short enough to be comfortable while laying down. After seeing this thread it reminded me of having it and I think it will be about perfect for use it the field with my Vector.
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Keith, I like the looks and compactness of your set-up; however I have a couple of questions:
RRS makes really great equipment, but they recommend the BH-55 for lenses as heavy as a spotting scope; whereas you went with the BH-30. Was that strictly for the compact result? How would you rate it's adjustment fluidity when under the stress of a heavy lens? Speaking of fluidity, I've always heard that gimble heads are better than ball heads when used for spotting, panning and digiscoping. Did you consider a gimble head and reject it due to its bulk? Finally, I've also heard that compact tripods should be avoided when put under a load as large as a spotting scope. You don't say what your Optolyth scope weighs in at, but my Meopta Meostar S2 may have a bit more heft, so I'm concerned about the stability of both a compact tripod and ball head when used and abused in the field. I'd go all the way with RRS, but the really right combo will approach what I paid for the scope alone. That seems like spendy overkill. Your thoughts and advise?
Skip
RRS makes really great equipment, but they recommend the BH-55 for lenses as heavy as a spotting scope; whereas you went with the BH-30. Was that strictly for the compact result? How would you rate it's adjustment fluidity when under the stress of a heavy lens? Speaking of fluidity, I've always heard that gimble heads are better than ball heads when used for spotting, panning and digiscoping. Did you consider a gimble head and reject it due to its bulk? Finally, I've also heard that compact tripods should be avoided when put under a load as large as a spotting scope. You don't say what your Optolyth scope weighs in at, but my Meopta Meostar S2 may have a bit more heft, so I'm concerned about the stability of both a compact tripod and ball head when used and abused in the field. I'd go all the way with RRS, but the really right combo will approach what I paid for the scope alone. That seems like spendy overkill. Your thoughts and advise?
Skip
If all that I was going to use a tripod for was ground or tabletop spotting, I'd be all over the RSS Gound-Level tripod. However, when digiscoping or star gazing, I need an extendable unit. I'm probably too picky, but I only want to cry once.
Skip
Skip
Answers for Bounce
The BH-30 Compact with the LR (Compact Lever-Release) is the largest RRS Ball Head that will allow the legs of the GT1550T Traveller to completely fold closed, while still steadily supporting an (80mm) Optolyth S30 Compact. Ideally, I would have gone with a Head that has a separate Drag Lock (tension) for the Ball, but the smallest Head with a separate Drag Lock is the BH-40. The problem with the BH-40 is that the BH-40’s Body is larger (it has to accommodate a 40mm Ball), and it’s larger body doesn’t allow the GT1550T’s legs to sit parallel to the Center Column when collapsed, defeating the purpose of buying the GT1550T for compactness. Gitzo and RRS are conservative in their equipments capacity ratings, and the BH-30 is rated at 15lbs., the BH-40 at 18 lbs., and the BH-55 at 50 lbs. I like overkill, but since the GT1550T Traveller tripod is only rated load capacity is 10 lbs., even if the GT1550T could fully fold with a BH-55 there really was/is no reason for me to go with a BH-55. I knew that the GT1550T/RRS BH-30 combo would support my Optolyth S30 Compact, my 8mm camcorder, and my mid-size digital camera well so I went with it. It works really well and I haven’t looked back.
The Optolyth S30 Compact is indeed lighter than the Meopta Meostar S2 (the S30 Compact weighs 49oz with it's 20-60X Zoom Eyepiece, compared to the Meopta Meostar's claimed weight of 1,375 grams with the 30-60WA Zoom Eyepiece, which is a hair over 62oz). I think that the extra heft of the Meostar S2 definitely warrants a Ball Head with a separate Drag Lock, so a BH-40 or the BH-55 would be better for you. The diameter of the Body will determine if the Legs will fold completely (other Traveller Series tripods are a little larger and offer greater capacity, and all fold 180-degrees for compactness). Hope this helps.
Keith
Pretty much. I wanted an extremely compact, lightweight tripod that would work well for prone, sitting, and standing use with my spotter as well as for use with camera and video use. That meant the GT1550T Traveller. No other manufacturer makes a tripod that comes close to offering the features and versatility that the GT1550T has. The GT1550T comes with the (Gitzo) G1077M (Magnesium) Ballhead. The G1077M is a bare Head, so if you want QD (who doesn’t?), you still need a QD Plate such as the (Gitzo) G2285M. The G2285M Adapter converts the G1077M into a QD Head and includes one (1) Plate. The G1077M has a capacity of 4.41lbs., which actually held the Optolyth’s 49oz. weight OK, but as I said before I upgraded to a BH-30 LR because I had really wanted a 360-degree Head. Also, the capacity of the GT1550T Traveller’s Legs is more than twice that of the G1077M Head that comes on it (about 10lbs.), so I had an “excuse” to by a new Head.
The BH-30 Compact with the LR (Compact Lever-Release) is the largest RRS Ball Head that will allow the legs of the GT1550T Traveller to completely fold closed, while still steadily supporting an (80mm) Optolyth S30 Compact. Ideally, I would have gone with a Head that has a separate Drag Lock (tension) for the Ball, but the smallest Head with a separate Drag Lock is the BH-40. The problem with the BH-40 is that the BH-40’s Body is larger (it has to accommodate a 40mm Ball), and it’s larger body doesn’t allow the GT1550T’s legs to sit parallel to the Center Column when collapsed, defeating the purpose of buying the GT1550T for compactness. Gitzo and RRS are conservative in their equipments capacity ratings, and the BH-30 is rated at 15lbs., the BH-40 at 18 lbs., and the BH-55 at 50 lbs. I like overkill, but since the GT1550T Traveller tripod is only rated load capacity is 10 lbs., even if the GT1550T could fully fold with a BH-55 there really was/is no reason for me to go with a BH-55. I knew that the GT1550T/RRS BH-30 combo would support my Optolyth S30 Compact, my 8mm camcorder, and my mid-size digital camera well so I went with it. It works really well and I haven’t looked back.
It’s pretty good, but nowhere as fluid as a big Ball Head. NFW. You realize that fluidity of adjustment is largely dependent upon Ball Tension. The lighter the tension on the Ball the easier and more fluid the adjustment is. This is where bigger, heavier duty Ball Heads shine – their larger bearing surfaces hold better with less tension. That’s where a separate Drag Lock would come into play. That’s the trade-off of small, compact, light, and versatile. Also, if you’re standing (meaning you have the tripod’s legs extended) the five (5) legs sections and the lightweight of the combo means you’re going to get some shake when you’re adjusting the scope position. I find it easier and steadier to use two hands when searching for the target(s). This combo is so light you’re going to have some shake when making adjustments (except when you’re prone and the legs aren’t extended at all). Due to the size, weight, and bulkiness of gimble-style Heads none received any consideration.
Generally-speaking, compact tripods should be avoided for use with spotting scopes. That’s because most compact tripods are cheap, poorly-designed crap so they tend to shake under even when lightly-loaded such as with a small camera. However, when you’re talking about better tripods such as Gitzo, RRS, ect. That assumption doesn’t necessarily hold true.
The Optolyth S30 Compact is indeed lighter than the Meopta Meostar S2 (the S30 Compact weighs 49oz with it's 20-60X Zoom Eyepiece, compared to the Meopta Meostar's claimed weight of 1,375 grams with the 30-60WA Zoom Eyepiece, which is a hair over 62oz). I think that the extra heft of the Meostar S2 definitely warrants a Ball Head with a separate Drag Lock, so a BH-40 or the BH-55 would be better for you. The diameter of the Body will determine if the Legs will fold completely (other Traveller Series tripods are a little larger and offer greater capacity, and all fold 180-degrees for compactness). Hope this helps.
Keith
Thanks, Keith, great feedback! Since I'm an old gimp, the real advantage of the very compact set-up for me is lack of bulk, rather than weight, as I don't envision trekking my stuff through ravines and over mountains. Pricing the RRS set up with a tripod that will reduce down for prone shooting but provide a no shake extension, fluid pan head and base is gonna run about $1800, however, which has me looking for less pricey no compromise alternatives. Probably going to be tough to find.
Skip
Skip
Since I already have a satisfactory (if not particularly light or compact) full size tripod, I am just looking for an economical but sturdy tabletop setup.
To that end, I just ordered a Giottos 405B compact tabletop tripod and Manfrotto MA701HDV fluid head.
The tripod has very low footprint and a removable section that, when omitted, leaves the tripod 2.2" tall and almost all of it tripod, no mast, so I'm thinking it will be fairly stiff.
With the Manfrotto head it will be just shy of 6" tall and weigh around 2 pounds.
Manfrotto has a $45 rebate on the head right now, so I'll have a tabletop tripod with fluid head for around $163 (ordered from B&H Photo $208 shipped).
The Manfrotto head shares quick change plates with my full size tripod, which is a little bonus.
I'll check in with the results.
Joe
To that end, I just ordered a Giottos 405B compact tabletop tripod and Manfrotto MA701HDV fluid head.
The tripod has very low footprint and a removable section that, when omitted, leaves the tripod 2.2" tall and almost all of it tripod, no mast, so I'm thinking it will be fairly stiff.
With the Manfrotto head it will be just shy of 6" tall and weigh around 2 pounds.
Manfrotto has a $45 rebate on the head right now, so I'll have a tabletop tripod with fluid head for around $163 (ordered from B&H Photo $208 shipped).
The Manfrotto head shares quick change plates with my full size tripod, which is a little bonus.
I'll check in with the results.
Joe
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The shortest collapsed length non-"tabletop" tripod that is available (actually a model from several years ago but still available new online and occasionally popping-up in excellent used condition on photography web sites and eBay) is the Gitzo GT1550T (1550 Traveller). The Traveller 1550T uses 6X Carbon Fiber. . Collapsed length is 14.1". "Ground Level Set" Height is 8.25" (Center Column removed) for prone use, and Maximum Height is 57.48 (Legs fully extended and Center Column "up"), and Minimum Height is 49.21" (Legs fully extended and Center Column "down"). Combined with my Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Compact Ballhead with Compact LR the OAL of the GT1550T and BH-30 LR combo is 14.33".
Also, including the foam MTB grips I added to pad/protect the legs is still weighs less than three (3) lbs. The 30mm BH-30 LR Compact Heads still allow the GT1550T’s legs to fold 180 degrees, which is part of why the GT1550T Traveller folds down to such a compact package. No other tripod and head come close to the lightweight, compact size, and versatility of this combination. The only thing I’d suggest is that if you are spotting with the Legs extended (each leg is five sections) and/or you have the Center Column extended that you hang some ballast from the bottom of the crotch of the body to increase stability (remember, the tripod and head combo is very light and there are five leg sections).
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller Tripod w/MTB Grip Foam + Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Ballhead folded and ready to travel:
If you want the best Ball Head, check-out Really Right Stuff. RRS stuff is made in the U.S.A. and sold direct from RRS Headquarters in California. You won’t even find them in high-end “Pro” shops because of this, but they really are superior in terms of design, quality, AND value. RRS link: Really Right Stuff
Below are some photos of my BH-30 LR (Lever Release). The BH-30 is a Compact Head, and is available without a Clamp, or with different Clamp and Lever configurations.
Below are a couple of photos of my Optolyth S80 Compact mounted on my GT1550T/RRS BH-30 LR Head. If you want a great spotter with a MIL Reticle and you want the ability to be able to offset the spotter to the Right or Left of you while you shoot AND BE ABLE TO ROTATE THE SPOTTER WITHIN IT’S ROTATING COLLAR WITHOUT CANTING THE RETICLE YOU MUST CHECK-OUT THE OPTOLYTH MIL RETICLE EYEPIECES. THEY HAVE RETICLES WHICH ROTATE INDEPENDENTLY OF THE EYEPIECE ITSELF, SO UNLIKE THE LEUPOLD, USO, VORTEX, AND HENSOLDT SPOTTERS THE RETICLE CAN ALWAYS BE ORIENTED TO BE SQUARE WITH THE HORIZON REGARDLESS OF THE ORIENTATION OF THE SPOTTER WITHIN IT’D COLLAR AND/OR THE POSITION OF THE BALLHEAD.
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller Tripod + Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Compact Head and Optolyth S80 HD Compact
w/30X WA MIL Reticle Eyepiece. Here the scope is set-up to the Left of the shooter/spotter. The spotting
scope has been rotated to the Right within it's Collar, while the Eyepiece's Reticle has been rotated to the
Left to remain "square" with the target area:
Gitzo GT1550T Traveller Tripod + Really Right Stuff BH-30 LR Compact Head and Optolyth S80 HD Compact
w/30X WA MIL Reticle Eyepiece. Here the scope is set-up to the Right of the shooter/spotter. The spotting
scope has been rotated to the Left within it's Collar, while the Eyepiece's Reticle has been rotated to the
Right to remain "square" with the target area:
To read a review of the Optolyth S80 HD Compact Spotter I wrote about two years ago compared against my Zeiss Diascope 65T FL check-out this link: http://www.snipershide.com/shooting...3-optolyth-s80-hd-compact-spotting-scope.html
Keith
I'm thinking about the RSS BH-30LR for a Vortex Razor HD 20-60x85 spotting scope on a Gitzo GT2542T Traveler Tripod.
I e-mailed RSS and asked them if this would all work...they sent me this:
"Thank you for contacting us about this item. Based on what I found on their (VORTEX) website, the BH-30 should be more than adequate for that spotting scope. Please note that you will need a plate on the spotting scope for mounting into the head. Do you have a photo of the mounting foot on that spotting scope? Perhaps with a ruler alongside?"
I have not purchased the scope yet and I have no idea about this plate or mounting foot. Can you advise?
Thank you
Edit: How do you think the Vortex HD stands up to the Optolyth S 80 (non HD), I just realized they are at similar price points.
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RRS QD Mounting Plate advice + Optolyth S80 HD Compact recommendation
Take a look at the photos below of the mounting foot of my Optolyth S80 HD Compact. While I could have used a larger Plate it was neither necessary desired. The RRS B6 Bi-directional Plate is 1.6Lx1.75W” and works great for me. I have a two B6 Plates - one is mounted on my Optolyth S80 HD Compact and the other is mounted to my PVM-21 Chronograph.
If you want or need a slightly wider Plate, the RRS B76 should suit you. It measures 2.1’Lx1.6”W. http://reallyrightstuff.com/ProductDesc.aspx?code=B76&type=0&eq=B76-005&desc=B76:-Multi-use-plate
RRS B6 bi-directional QD Plate on mounting foot of Optolyth S80 HD Compact:
RRS B6 bi-directional QD Plate attached to frame of PVM-21 Chronograph:
As far as how the [Vortex] Razor HD compares to the non-HD version of the Optolyth S80 Compact I can’t say – I’ve never used or even looked through the non-HD version of the Optolyth S0 Compact. However, I have compared my S80 HD Compact against the Razor HD (as well as many other spotting scopes including but not limited to the previous generation Diascope 65T FL and Diascope 85T FL, Swarovski STS and ATS 65 and 80, Swarovski ATM 65 and 80s’, Leica 77s’ Leupold 25X, Leupold 15-30X50 GR, Leupold 12-40X60 GR, Leupold Mark 4 12-40X60), and while the Razor’s image quality is pretty good, it isn’t nearly as good as my S80 HD Compact. NFW.
If you haven’t already read it, read my Optolyth S80 HD Compact write-up: http://www.snipershide.com/shooting...3-optolyth-s80-hd-compact-spotting-scope.html, where I compared my Zeiss Diascope 65T FL to my Optolyth S80 Compact. Also, at the range I ran into the guy who I sold my Zeiss 65T FL to after I bought my Optolyth S80 HD Compact, and after looking through both side-by-side that guy preferred my Optolyth S80 HD Compact to his Zeiss 65T FL.
Also, don’t overlook the fact that Optolyth is the only company (at least that I have knowledge of) whose reticle can be rotated independently of the Eyepiece, allowing you to “square” the reticle with the target/horizon, ect. The few other reticle-equipped Eyepieces and reticle-equipped spotters all cant the reticle unless the spotting scope is oriented in a perfectly upright manner.
Keith
Most RRS Plates are custom-fit and camera-specific, so RRS makes a bewildering number of mounting plates. That's why RRS wants to know how big the mounting foot on the Razor is so they help you determine which QD plate(s) will fit on it (and if the BH-30's Clamp will accommodate one of those plates). I'm sure RRS has at least one Plate that will work. I would email Vortex and request a photo of the mounting foot with a ruler next to it (and the dimensions of the mounting foot would help as well). NOTE: The QD plate you choose doesn't have to be as large as or of the same shape as the Razor's mounting foot, but the Plate's size and shape must provide adequate support to the mounting foot so the spotter balances well. I’m using the RRS B6 Bi-directional Plate, whose interface is just a tad narrower than an Optolyth S80 Compact’s mounting foot. B6: Small Bi-directional Plate - B6
Take a look at the photos below of the mounting foot of my Optolyth S80 HD Compact. While I could have used a larger Plate it was neither necessary desired. The RRS B6 Bi-directional Plate is 1.6Lx1.75W” and works great for me. I have a two B6 Plates - one is mounted on my Optolyth S80 HD Compact and the other is mounted to my PVM-21 Chronograph.
If you want or need a slightly wider Plate, the RRS B76 should suit you. It measures 2.1’Lx1.6”W. http://reallyrightstuff.com/ProductDesc.aspx?code=B76&type=0&eq=B76-005&desc=B76:-Multi-use-plate
RRS B6 bi-directional QD Plate on mounting foot of Optolyth S80 HD Compact:
RRS B6 bi-directional QD Plate attached to frame of PVM-21 Chronograph:
As far as how the [Vortex] Razor HD compares to the non-HD version of the Optolyth S80 Compact I can’t say – I’ve never used or even looked through the non-HD version of the Optolyth S0 Compact. However, I have compared my S80 HD Compact against the Razor HD (as well as many other spotting scopes including but not limited to the previous generation Diascope 65T FL and Diascope 85T FL, Swarovski STS and ATS 65 and 80, Swarovski ATM 65 and 80s’, Leica 77s’ Leupold 25X, Leupold 15-30X50 GR, Leupold 12-40X60 GR, Leupold Mark 4 12-40X60), and while the Razor’s image quality is pretty good, it isn’t nearly as good as my S80 HD Compact. NFW.
If you haven’t already read it, read my Optolyth S80 HD Compact write-up: http://www.snipershide.com/shooting...3-optolyth-s80-hd-compact-spotting-scope.html, where I compared my Zeiss Diascope 65T FL to my Optolyth S80 Compact. Also, at the range I ran into the guy who I sold my Zeiss 65T FL to after I bought my Optolyth S80 HD Compact, and after looking through both side-by-side that guy preferred my Optolyth S80 HD Compact to his Zeiss 65T FL.
Also, don’t overlook the fact that Optolyth is the only company (at least that I have knowledge of) whose reticle can be rotated independently of the Eyepiece, allowing you to “square” the reticle with the target/horizon, ect. The few other reticle-equipped Eyepieces and reticle-equipped spotters all cant the reticle unless the spotting scope is oriented in a perfectly upright manner.
Keith
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Most RRS Plates are custom-fit and camera-specific, so RRS makes a bewildering number of mounting plates. That's why RRS wants to know how big the mounting foot on the Razor is so they help you determine which QD plate(s) will fit on it (and if the BH-30's Clamp will accommodate one of those plates). I'm sure RRS has at least one Plate that will work. I would email Vortex and request a photo of the mounting foot with a ruler next to it (and the dimensions of the mounting foot would help as well). NOTE: The QD plate you choose doesn't have to be as large as or of the same shape as the Razor's mounting foot, but the Plate's size and shape must provide adequate support to the mounting foot so the spotter balances well. I’m using the RRS B6 Bi-directional Plate, whose interface is just a tad narrower than an Optolyth S80 Compact’s mounting foot. B6: Small Bi-directional Plate - B6
Take a look at the photos below of the mounting foot of my Optolyth S80 HD Compact. While I could have used a larger Plate it was neither necessary desired. The RRS B6 Bi-directional Plate is 1.6Lx1.75W” and works great for me. I have a two B6 Plates - one is mounted on my Optolyth S80 HD Compact and the other is mounted to my PVM-21 Chronograph.
If you want or need a slightly wider Plate, the RRS B76 should suit you. It measures 2.1’Lx1.6”W. http://reallyrightstuff.com/ProductDesc.aspx?code=B76&type=0&eq=B76-005&desc=B76:-Multi-use-plate
RRS B6 bi-directional QD Plate on mounting foot of Optolyth S80 HD Compact:
RRS B6 bi-directional QD Plate attached to frame of PVM-21 Chronograph:
As far as how the [Vortex] Razor HD compares to the non-HD version of the Optolyth S80 Compact I can’t say – I’ve never used or even looked through the non-HD version of the Optolyth S0 Compact. However, I have compared my S80 HD Compact against the Razor HD (as well as many other spotting scopes including but not limited to the previous generation Diascope 65T FL and Diascope 85T FL, Swarovski STS and ATS 65 and 80, Swarovski ATM 65 and 80s’, Leica 77s’ Leupold 25X, Leupold 15-30X50 GR, Leupold 12-40X60 GR, Leupold Mark 4 12-40X60), and while the Razor’s image quality is pretty good, it isn’t nearly as good as my S80 HD Compact. NFW.
If you haven’t already read it, read my Optolyth S80 HD Compact write-up: http://www.snipershide.com/shooting...3-optolyth-s80-hd-compact-spotting-scope.html, where I compared my Zeiss Diascope 65T FL to my Optolyth S80 Compact. Also, at the range I ran into the guy who I sold my Zeiss 65T FL to after I bought my Optolyth S80 HD Compact, and after looking through both side-by-side that guy preferred my Optolyth S80 HD Compact to his Zeiss 65T FL.
Also, don’t overlook the fact that Optolyth is the only company (at least that I have knowledge of) whose reticle can be rotated independently of the Eyepiece, allowing you to “square” the reticle with the target/horizon, ect. The few other reticle-equipped Eyepieces and reticle-equipped spotters all cant the reticle unless the spotting scope is oriented in a perfectly upright manner.
Keith
Thanks for your advice.
I just bought one of the new Vortex Summit XLT tripods from Euro Optic it arrived in one day and was exactly what I was looking for. The engineering in this tripod is awesome, they've come a long way and this one is a new model so there aren't many reviews on it. It goes from 7" up to 64" which is perfect since I'm 6'2". I just bought a Swarovski STM 65 HD so I'm looking forward to giving it a try. I attached my Pentax 65 ED to it and used it outside. My main concern was stability in moderate winds. It was quite stable for the weight, and the best thing, which surprised me, was that even with the middle bar fully extended it had similar stability as it does with the center bar retracted. I saw something online that you can even buy an adapter for the QD plate and swap it out for a V shape mount to use as a shooting tripod. Price was good too $229 and weighs only 3.5 pounds with the head.
Agreed, the PRS/SLIK medium/large tripod works great and doesn't weigh a lot or take up too much space. It's plenty strong enough to hold a spotting scope as I often use it to hold my gun via a pic rail. weight and size are my concerns, hence my selection of the PRS/slik. If yours are not, then any of the other mentioned systems are also good recommendations.
The Really Right Stuff tripods are top quaility and very stable. I know of some of our customers who are using them to mount our cameras on. Another option is the Creedmoor Deluxe Tripod Creedmoor Deluxe Tripod Scope Stand - Creedmoor Stands - Scopes & Stands | Creedmoor Sports These Creedmoor tripods are well built very flexible. They are designed by Dennis who owns Creedmoor and is also a champion shooter.
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What kind of shooting are you doing? I shoot cross course matches where the shooting is done standing, sitting and prone so you need a different kind of stand. Sinclair, Champions Choice and many other companies make spotting scope stands. These have a tripod base and a multi-piece vertical rod with a head to hold the scope.
