Kowa TSN-553 50mm Prominar Fluorite Crystal Spotting Scope (Angled Body)

Description

Remarkably small and lightweight, the TSN-55 PROMINAR Spotting Scope from Kowa offers the same sharp, aberration-free viewing experience as its larger siblings in a highly compact package. The 10" scope comes with Kowa's TE-11WZ II eyepiece built into the body, with a magnification range of 17-40x, and its pure fluorite crystal objective lens all but eliminates fringing for color accuracy and clarity. Dual fast/fine focus makes it easy to dial in the details of your subject. Designed and manufactured in Japan, the scope is fully sealed and nitrogen-purged to prevent internal fogging from abrupt temperature changes. It comes with a twist sunshade, a 58mm filter thread, and an eyepiece thread for attachments including digiscoping adapters.

Optical Performance

55mm aperture
Ultralow dispersion PROMINAR fluorite glass elements eliminate chromatic aberration, which causes halos, astigmatism, and fringing, for improved color rendition and contrast
Built-in 17-40x TE-11WZ II PROMINAR wide-angle zoom eyepiece with two extra-low dispersion lenses for a sharp image and a generous field of view

Use and Handling

Integrated aiming sight
Smooth and precise fine and coarse two-speed focusing mechanism
58mm objective lens filter threads
1/4"-20 mount to accommodate most photo, video, and field tripods

Construction Details

Lightweight and impact-resistant chassis
Nitrogen filled, waterproof, and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme temperature changes and conditions
Oil-resistant KR exterior lens coatings make it easy to clean dirt, sap, and oil without leaving smudges or residue
Retractable sunshade reduces glare and lens flare, keeps snow and rain off the objective for clearer viewing

Specifications

Key Specs

Viewing Angle	Angled
Magnification	17 to 40x
Objective Lens Diameter	55 mm
Field of View	17x: 192.0' @ 1000 yd / 63.7 m @ 1000 m 40x: 105.0' @ 1000 yd / 34.9 m @ 1000 m
Minimum Focus Distance	9.2' / 2.8 m
Exit Pupil Diameter	17x: 3.2 mm 40x: 1.4 mm
Eye Relief	17.0 mm
Battery / Runtime	No

Design

Viewing Angle	Angled
Prism Type	Roof

Performance

Magnification	17 to 40x
Objective Lens Diameter	55 mm
Angle of View	17x: 3.64° (Actual) 40x: 2° (Actual)
Field of View	17x: 192.0' @ 1000 yd / 63.7 m @ 1000 m 40x: 105.0' @ 1000 yd / 34.9 m @ 1000 m
Minimum Focus Distance	9.2' / 2.8 m
Exit Pupil Diameter	17x: 3.2 mm 40x: 1.4 mm
Eye Relief	17.0 mm
Diopter Correction	No

Features

Fogproof	Yes, Nitrogen Filled
Environmental Protection	Water-Resistant (Unrated)

General

Battery / Runtime	No
Filter Thread	58 mm
Tripod Mounting Thread	1/4"-20 Female
Dimensions	L: 10.0" / L: 25.4 cm
Weight	34.0 oz / 964.0 g

In the Box

Kowa TSN-55A 15-45x55 PROMINAR Spotting Scope (Angled-Viewing)

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Compare Swarovski ATC and the Kowa TSN-55 (TSN-553/554)

The Swarovski ATC and the Kowa TSN-55 (TSN-553/554) are both premium compact spotting scopes designed for portability and high optical performance. Here's a detailed comparison of the two based on key aspects:

1. Optics

Kowa TSN-55 (553/554):
- Features a 55mm PROMINAR pure fluorite crystal objective lens, known for exceptional chromatic aberration correction and high color fidelity.
- Magnification range: 15-45x with the included zoom eyepiece.
- Dual-focus mechanism for both coarse and fine adjustments, allowing precise focusing.
Swarovski ATC:
- Features a 55mm HD glass objective lens with Swarovski's renowned coatings for sharp and vibrant images.
- Fixed magnification: 17-40x, designed for a wider field of view and seamless performance.
- Simplified focus wheel design, smooth and intuitive to use.

2. Build and Portability

Kowa TSN-55:
- Lightweight magnesium alloy body.
- Weight: Approximately 810 grams (TSN-553) for angled and 845 grams (TSN-554) for straight models.
- Fully waterproof and nitrogen-purged for fog resistance.
- Compact size, highly portable for hiking and travel.
Swarovski ATC:
- Compact and minimalist design with fewer protrusions.
- Weight: 970 grams (slightly heavier than the Kowa).
- Also waterproof and nitrogen-purged, built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
- Comes with an integrated tripod base for easy mounting without additional adapters.

3. Compatibility with Accessories

Kowa TSN-55:
- Compatible with multiple eyepieces (including wide-angle and fixed zoom options).
- Supports digiscoping with DSLR cameras via the TSN-PA7A adapter and smartphone adapters.
- Modular system that can pair with larger scopes in Kowa's lineup.
Swarovski ATC:
- Limited to its integrated zoom system; no interchangeable eyepieces.
- Supports digiscoping with a custom Swarovski VPA adapter for smartphones and cameras.
- Integrated features like a side strap for added convenience.

4. Price

Kowa TSN-55:
- Typically priced around CAD $2,149 - $2,599, depending on configuration and retailer.
- Eyepieces and accessories may be purchased separately.
Swarovski ATC:
- Higher price point, around CAD $3,500 - $3,800.
- Accessories are also premium-priced but include features like a stay-on case or custom adapters.

5. Key Considerations

Kowa TSN-55:
- Best for users seeking outstanding optics at a more affordable price, with versatility for interchangeable eyepieces and digiscoping.
- Ideal for birdwatchers, hikers, or photographers needing portability with professional-grade optics.
Swarovski ATC:
- Suited for those prioritizing design, ease of use, and Swarovski's legendary craftsmanship.
- Offers a more user-friendly, all-in-one experience but at a premium price.

Conclusion

Choose the Kowa TSN-55 if optical flexibility, digiscoping compatibility, and value are your priorities.
Opt for the Swarovski ATC if you want a higher-end design, simplicity, and are willing to invest in premium optics for top-tier performance.

Kowa TSN-DA20 Digiscoping Adapter

CAD269.00

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Kowa TSN-55A 55mm Prominar Fluorite Crystal Spotting Scope (Angled Body) - utilizing a fixed 11WZ eyepiece that improves the clarity and provides a wider field of view

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