Libby Hood-Phipps wrote:
I agree Katherine! I'd love to get a scope, but reasonable and attainable are two completely different things!!
Libby.
Katherine and Libby,
When I started out all I had was a pair of bins, which were nearly thirty year old, still using them and they are now over forty year old, bit on heavy side but still as good as most.
Bought a second-hand scope about five years ago for £150, and wouldn't part with it, although I would like another lens to add to it, although nothing wrong with the one I have.
I could have a top of the range scope, but it still wouldn't find me any more birds than the one I own. Mine is x25 with a 60mm lens.
A few month ago while at Potteric Carr, a birder was using an Opticron Mighty Midget, they cost about £200 or a bit more maybe.
Have a look on Birdforum.net you may strike lucky.
Don't lose heart, something will come along.
There are lots of makes of scopes out there besides Leica and Swarovski.
Regards