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Barska BlackBlackhawk 18-36x50 Waterproof Angled Spotting Scope w/Tripod & Soft Carry Case by Barska
Digital product summary informationManufacturer: Barska Model: AD10348 Product features: - Complete waterproof and fogproof protection for all weather conditions
- Variable zoom magnifications from 18x-36x for different applications with a glare reducing sun-shade
- Multi-coated optics and massive objective lens increases light gathering ability thus delivering brighter images in low light conditions
- Ergonomically designed with shock-absorbing rubber armor for maximum protection and enhancing overall handling
- Convenient and portable as includes tripod and soft carrying case
Digital camera reviews of Barska BlackBlackhawk 18-36x50 Waterproof Angled Spotting Scope w/Tripod & Soft Carry CaseDigital camera Review: a great scope for air rifle competition Summary: 5 StarsI coach a high school air rifle team and was looking for an inexpensive shooting scope when I came across this little gem. While the name sounds vaguely eastern European, this scope is actually made in China. The scope has a lightweight but sturdy fiber-reinforced composite body and a back housing that is encased in a generous layer of rubber for shock protection. A hard plastic cap screws on to protect the eyepiece and a hard plastic dust cover friction fits into the front to protect the objective lens. An extendable sunshade is a nice and useful touch.
The magnification is perfect for shooting competition targets at ten meters. (Be careful when comparison shopping as many spotting scopes won't focus down this close.) We use it at the lowest 18x power setting and can see the whole target sheet while still viewing the individual bullseyes and pellet holes clearly. Like nearly all inexpensive scopes, the higher power settings are less useful as the picture darkens considerably and distortion around the edges becomes apparent. If you are looking for a scope for long range shooting or viewing, one with a larger objective lens would probably be a better choice.
Eye relief is good. Many inexpensive and compact variable power scopes have either a very short eye relief or a small field of view in order to save on the cost of manufacturing the lens elements in the eyepiece. With this scope, you don't have to tickle the lens with your eyelashes in order the see the entire field of view.
The only knock that I have on this setup is with the case and tripod that come with the set. The case doesn't offer much protection and the tripod is too small and lightweight to be useful. But then again, our school was able to purchase four of these scopes for the same price as a single "name brand" shooting scope with similar features. While I can't vouch for its long term durability this scope is perfect for what we use it for. If it lasts for four seasons of shooting, I would consider it a great value.
Update 2-25-09: So far, so good! I would still recommend these spoting scopes. The scopes have held up well with no problems. We liked them so much, the school bought 15 more. We bought briefcase style, foam filled pistol cases to store them in and they work great. Three will fit in a standard four pistol gun case. We've taken them traveling with no problems. After two seasons, no cracks, leaks, fogging, misalignments, peeling or flaking.
I even found a use for the soft cases the scopes came in. The kids use them to store their shooting equipment including their slings, safety glasses, glove and other bric-a-brac.
It seems Amazon doesn't carry these anymore but a third party retailer still lists them. I haven't used them before so I can't attest to their customer service.
Summary of Barska BlackBlackhawk 18-36x50 Waterproof Angled Spotting Scope w/Tripod & Soft Carry CaseSetting the pace for design, dynamics and technical precision, Blackhawk soars high in ultimate performance. Engineered with unsurpassed optical performance and durability by those who understands the harsh hunting conditions scopes have to endure. Designed for the discriminating hunters who demands only the best. Be it a compact or a large scope that set your sights, Blackhawk spotters set the standard for portability, optical performance and value.In addition, the new Mossy OakBreak Up Camouflage model helps you blend in on your hunt! Backed by Limited Lifetime Warranty.
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