Documents Tagged with "Spotting Scope"

Q: What is the best scope for low light?A: It is important to gather as much light as possible in order to improve visual performance in low-light conditions.A scope with a large diameter objective lens may be preferrable; as it will transmit more light than a scope with a smaller objective lens.However, larger scopes are considerably more expensive.

Q: How powerful is my scope?A: This depends on which scope and eyepiece is being used.Magnification is determined by the focal length of the spotting scope's objective lens and the focal length of the eyepiece (in combination).Please note the formula for determining magnification of a spotting scope or telescope: Focal length of the scope’s objective lens divided by focal length of the eyepiece equals magnification.

Q: Can I use my spotting scope for astronomy?A: Yes, but to a limited degree.While a few brighter astronomical objects (such as the moon, stars, and a few planets) can be successfully viewed in a spotting scope, many fainter objects are often difficult to locate or impossible to see.This severely limits its use for astronomy.

Q: Straight scopes vs.Angled scopes..................What is the benefit?A: PENTAX produces spotting scopes with "straight through" or angled viewing capability.Straight versions may be suggested for "prone" viewing by hunters or target shooters, and may be used for general observing.Operating a straight version scope at less than adequate viewing height may be difficult or uncomfortable when standing.

Q: Can I attach my camera to a PENTAX spotting scope for making images?A: Yes.The term “digiscope” refers to using a digital camera attached to a spotting scope (or telescope) to make images.PENTAX produces camera adapters for digital point and shoot cameras and for PENTAX DSLR cameras.Simply follow packaged instructions for their use.

Q: Which eyepiece(s) should I use?A: PENTAX PF Series spotting scopes feature standard 1.25” size focusers.PENTAX eyepieces with a 1.25” mount tube must be used with our PF Series scopes because of their optical and mechanical configuration.Eyepieces with different sized mount tubes cannot be used with PENTAX PF Series spotting scopes.

Q: Which tripod is suitable?A: We may suggest selecting a sturdy (rigid) tripod rated above the load placed on it, which can also extend to a comfortable viewing height.A good tripod is key to successful viewing; providing stability, comfort, and a margin of safety when using a spotting scope.Pentax Spotting Scopes feature a standard ¼”-20 thread on their mounts; (a common thread size featured on most cameras and on most all tripods in the US, today).

Q: Can I use filters on my spotting scope?A: Filters may be used, but may not be necessary, because PENTAX super multi-coatings are designed for optimal performance.(If available), filters for an objective lens are generally quite large and can be very expensive, but may offer only marginal effect in the image.

Q: How do I clean my lenses?A: We may recommend using any suitable camera lens cleaning materials (available at most photo shops).Some sport optics dealers may offer lens cleaning materials with anti-fogging properties, which may also be suggested.For the best results, follow packaged recommendations, and carefully clean lenses as soon as possible when required.

Q: What is the safest way to carry my spotting scope in the field?A: Your spotting scope must be protected from the possibility of falling and from impacts.We may suggest supporting your spotting scope fully by removing it from your tripod when transporting in the field.When digiscoping, DO NOT transport the scope and camera assembly while mounted on the tripod.

Q: How Should I Care for my Spotting Scope When not in Use?A: Your scope should be returned to storage, dry, and in as clean a condition as possible, optically and mechanically.This will make it ready for use on demand.Keeping your scope as clean as possible during use upholds its condition and will make preparation for storage quite easy.

Q: How do I determine the focal ratio of my spotting scope?A: To determine how “fast” your scope is, use the following formula: focal length of objective ÷ diameter of objective = focal ratio

Q: Does the PENTAX PF63 spotting scope feature interchangeable eyepieces?A: No.This model features a built-in zoom eyepiece, only.

Q: Which PENTAX zoom eyepiece is recommended for which PENTAX spotting scope?A: The PENTAX XF Series zoom eyepiece is fully recommended for use with the PF-65 ED / ED II series spotting scopes.It features a smaller profile and is ideally designed for these small scopes.It offers superb performance and features matched zoom range with them.

Q: Does PENTAX produce a night vision spotting scope?A: No.PENTAX has not announced plans to produce such a product.