Feedback Needed: Vortex Razor 11-33/50 vs Kowa 601 w/25x LER

Hey all!

My old Bushnell had an accident. Looking at new scopes. Was recommended a Kowa TSN-553, and although I certainly ascribe to the "buy once, cry once" philosophy, I think it might just be a little overkill. 

I've narrowed my options down to the scopes listed above, both around $700. Just missed the Kowa that came up on commercial row, sadly. Does anyone have first hand experience with both these units? Looking for something that can sit in my box for the next 20 years.

Dave

I have used a kowa on occasion, it was nice. From my photography background investing in good glass is always advisable.

However, a spotting scope is a more luxury item in my shooting box, it doesn't help me shoot any better. Regardless of cheap or expensive options, if you are shooting in dimmer light conditions you will have trouble seeing 22 holes at 50. I would advise getting whatever has the features you want at the best price point.

I think that's the issue... I'm not sure which is more important. I like the extended eye relief of the Kowa, plus the lighter weight, but I think the glass on the Vortex is better. Hoping that's what someone can chime in on.

Dave

I love my Vortex Razor spotting scope, also hard to beat the Vortex warranty. Never looked through the Kowa though.

Dave,

I don't think you could go wrong with the glass on either, both are likely overkill. If the long eye relief and weight matter to you, go with the Kowa. On the other hand vortex has excellent warranty reputation. If I was in the market for one I probably would go for the cheaper of the two options just because it realistically would see minimal use during any training or match scenario.

Just remember that their is a good chance that your spotting scope will be exposed to rather harsh conditions and has high potential in being bumped around.

Kowa has good lens, don't know about Vortex since I never owned one. If my memory is correct my Kowa was a fixed 35 or 40X. As I got older seeing .22 holes at 50 yards became difficult so I got more power and angular eye piece. I got a 20-50X from Champions Choice at Perry, they had them on sale plus it was a small scope that could fit in my 2 gun box. Yes I do have the 5 gun box and use it to transport my gun but especially at Perry the 2 gun box is easier to handle. I have the Leopold SX-2 in the bigger box.