Using a Vanguard Pistol Grip Ball Head with a Spotting Scope
I have been using the Vanguard GH-100 Pistol Grip Ball Head for over a year now for normal photography with a camera, digiscoping and observation with a spotting scope and I have to say that it is one of my favourite pieces of kit. Because of it’s success, Vanguard have now brought out a new version, the GH-200 professional pistol grip ball head, which apart from a few tweaks looks and works the same as the GH-100. So I thought it was about time that I wrote a review on them and hopefully explain just why I love using the Vanguard pistol grip with a spotting scope.
Ball Head – Fast and Flexible
Most people probably use a pan-tilt head to attach their spotting scope to a tripod which, with a spotting scope is easier to use than a ball head. But tilt heads do not have as much flexibility of movement as that of a ball and socket joint that allows movement of all axes of rotation from a single point and you have to operate a number of different levers, which in the heat of the moment can seem to take an age to get your subject lined up.
If you ignore the pistol part on the Pistol Grip Ball Heads, the design is basically that of a ball head – this means that you get all the flexibility and speed of a traditional tripod ball head, but with the added bonus of having a far quicker and much more intuitive way of aiming your spotting scope or camera which means that it takes you far less time to get your subject into the field of view.
Speed
Whilst a traditional ball head gives you plenty of freedom of movement, adjusting them when aiming, especially with heavy equipment like a camera with a telephoto lens or a spotting scope can take a bit to get used to which is not ideal for things like spotting fast moving birds.
One of the things that I really love about these Vanguard pistol grips is that you get all this free movement with just the squeeze of the trigger and then you aim, and once in position you release. This is very quick and unlike 3-way pan heads for example with all their arms and knobs, it is just so intuitive making it far simpler as well.
The speed at which you can get your scope or camera into the right position can’t be over stressed as I can’t tell you how many times in the field I have missed viewing or taking a shot of a bird because of the time it took to get it into the field of view.
Flexibility
This ball head allows you to swivel your scope around an axis of 360° (panning) as well as tilt it 90° forwards to look directly at the ground, -8° upwards into the sky as well as tilt it about 35° to the right and 90° to the left (useful for taking portrait shots with a camera).
The fact that it can only allow you to tilt your scope -8° upwards into the sky is one of the few disadvantages of using one of these Vanguard Pistol Grip Ball Heads, but fear not as there are few ways you can get around this limitation:
Solution 1
One way is to rotate the grip to the far side of the scope – this has the effect of reversing the head meaning that it will now tilt only 8° forwards towards the ground and a full -90° directly upwards into the sky. The down side to this method is that the grip is now backwards and facing you which does make using it a little more awkward.
Solution 2 – the Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT Tripod Another way to get around this is if you combine the GH-100 or GH-200 with one of the excellent Vanguard Alta Pro tripods like the Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT Tripod that I use. These tripods have a Multi-Angle Central Column System that enables you to move the central column of the tripod in pretty much a complete circle around the legs – from 0 to 360 degrees meaning that you can have the central colum at an angle making it possible to point the pistol grip and your scope high into the sky. (see image below)
The hand grip itself can also be rotated around the ball head, this I guess would suite different peoples preferences, for awkward viewing angles and for comfort. I must say though that for the most part, I only really use the grip in the default upright position.
360° Panning
Another nice feature is the 72-click point panorama that enables you to rotate your scope or camera around a 360° plane making it easy to track a subject or take panoramic shots. To operate it you just unlock a lever on the side of the head and your scope will rotate in steps of 5°’s.
Strong Enough?
Both the GH-100 and the GH-200 Pistol Grip Ball Heads have a maximum loading capacity of 13.2lbs (5.9kg) which is more than enough to comfortably take most spotting scopes without any creeping or slipping. For example when I reviewed the large 100mm Celestron Regal 100 F-ED Spotting Scope that weighs 5.6lbs (2.5kg), I used it with no problems at all and it was as sturdy as you like.
These grips have a “Friction Control System” which makes for easy adjustment as it is adjusted via a dial behind the grip which then allows you to change the level of friction on the ball depending on the weight of your spotting scope or camera. For even faster tracking you can completely loosen it, enabling you to change the direction of your scope without even having to pull the trigger, yet your scope is still pretty safe, because you are holding it with the hand grip.
Once the dial is completely tightened, your scope is very sturdy and locked into place – To change direction now, all you have to do is pull the trigger and aim.
Quick Shoe
Like all good tripod heads, these Vanguard Pistol Grip Ball Heads come with a quick shoe that screws into your spotting scope, this is then clicked into the head. It has a safety button that has to be pressed before you can remove your scope, preventing accidental release and damage.
Size & Weight
The GH-100 weighs in at 1.65lbs (0.75kg) and the GH-200 is a slightly heavier 0.8kg’s – so there is no there is no getting away from the fact that these tripod heads are neither compact or light and so may not be ideal if you are after a very lightweight and compact set-up. For me the ease of use and flexibility more than make up for the extra bulk and weight in most scenarios.
Conclusion
I have to admit that I love the Vanguard GH-100 and if I did not already have one, I would get the newer GH-200. I review many pretty cool pieces of kit, but this was so good that after reviewing it I went out and bought one for myself.
The intuitive way it works and the speed at which you can aim your scope are real highlights, which for me far outweigh their extra weight and bulk. Combining it with the Vanguard Alta Pro Tripod which then allows me to easily point the scope high into the sky also really helped to get over one of the issues that it has with only being able to tilt 8° upwards.
As a sturdy base for my scope or camera, I usually use my Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT Tripod, combined with the excellent Vanguard GH-100 Pistol Grip Ball Head that is not only secure, but makes it easier than ever to quickly aim the scope. The problem with this set-up is that it is fairly heavy and even when the tripod is collapsed, it is not very portable. So for using it in my garden and on short walks, it is fine, but is definitely not ideal if I want to go on a long walk, hike or indeed if I want to take my spotting scope with me on holiday.
Tripods for Travel
I am currently planning a trip to the French Pyrenees for this summer, where not only do I need to take my spotting scope and tripod with me travelling, but will also be going on some fairly long hikes over difficult and very hilly terrain. So I am on the lookout for a light and compact tripod that can still take the weight of a full sized spotting scope.
Benro Travel Tripods
I recently used the excellent Benro GH2 Gimbal Head as the tripod head when I was testing the Kowa Telephoto Lens Scope. The Benro Gimbal head was so good that I wondered if they also produced as good quality travel tripods.
Looking at their range of tripods, the Benro Travel Angel series looked to be the most ideal to carry a scope and take travelling. So I approached Kenro, the UK distributors and I was lucky enough to have the chance to be one of the first to try out one of their new Travel Angel 2 Tripods and so below are my findings as well as the full review of the Benro A1682TB0 Travel Angel 2 Tripod Kit:
Benro Travel Angel 2 Tripods
There are 6 models in the new Travel Angel 2 range with both aluminium and carbon fibre versions. The A1682TB0 Travel Angel 2 is the model that I tested for this review – an aluminium tripod with 4 leg sections and as part of the kit it came with the nro DJ-80 Ball Head.
Size and Weight
Fully collapsed the Benro Travel Angel 2 is just just 44cm (17.32in) long and far more compact than my Vanguard Alta Pro and is much smaller than most other full sized tripods not designed for travel. The 4 section legs that are able to fold backwards on themselves (so up towards the center column at 180°) make the tripod as small as possible when folded and therefore can easily fit inside most full sized camera/scope bags.
With all 4 legs sections extended, but the central column fully retracted the tripod stands at 125cm (49.2in) – excluding the height of the tripod head and measured from the floor to the base of the platform. With the central column fully extended the height extends to 152cm (59.8in). The advertised maximum height is 1.59m (62.6 in) which is achieved by taking the height of the tripod head into account.
Weighing 1.75kg / 3.89 lbs, it is perhaps not the lightest travel tripod out there, but is still light and for me the added stability it has over some super light models is far more important. If you do want a lighter tripod, you could try one of the carbon models in the travel Angel 2 series.
“Anti-Twist” Tripod Legs
This Benro Travel Angel 2 uses twist locks to open and close the 4 sections on each leg, these legs are also designed to prevent the legs from spinning as you turn the twist locks. This helps you to quickly setup and breakdown the tripod, even with one hand and is actually an excellent feature and one that you don’t always find on tripods in this price range. Setting up time is further reduced because you can open all three twist locks on each leg with just one hand at the same time and pull on the bottom section to extend all sections in one quick action. This also works when locking all of the sections after you have collapsed the legs.
The legs themselves open and close with a good amount of resistance, yet still remains nice and smooth. Each leg can move independently of each other and can click stop and lock at 2 positions: at 24° and at 80°. To move the legs from one of these locked positions, you just pull out the plate with the Benro logo on (see image above).
Adjustable Leg Angle Stops
Just like on my Vanguard Alta Pro, I really like the way that the Benro Angel 2 tripod legs can be independently locked into place at two different angles as this added flexibility has really helped me out in the past. A recent example being whilst I was taking some bird shots positioned on the side of a steep embankment. Being able to have diffident legs at different angles, but remaining secure really helped.
The first click stop for the legs is at the traditional position of about 24°. From here and with the 4 leg sections fully extended, the tripod is at it’s least stable, but was still easily able to take the weight (63.5ozs /1.8kg) of the Acuter DS20-60X80A Spotting Scope that I had with me during this test. If you want to add stability you can also add some weight to the spring-loaded hook located at the bottom of the center column.
You can then open the legs and fix them at the wider 80° position, which allows you to get much lower to the ground, which to be honest is mostly usefull if you use the tripod for photography so you can take macro shots or photos from a more unique perspective. I can however imagine that if you wanted to sit on the ground and use your scope then this could also be a very useful feature when using the tripod for observation.
Spiked or Rubber Feet
The rubber feet on the tripod legs can be unscrewed and replace with the included stainless steel spiked feet. This is a nice touch and will help to ensure you have the most stable platform possible, no matter where you are.
Tripod + Monopod + Walking Stick
This is a feature on the Benro travel Angel that I really like – Know as a Transfunctional Tripod, one of the legs can be removed and used as a monopod or a walking stick. To do this you just unscrew the detachable leg that has the foam handle on it and is marked with a blue ring and then screw on a head plate that enables you to attach your scope to the monopod – excellent!
To use this leg as a walking stick, you just screw on the really good looking “walking stick” head attachment that even has it’s own compass – this is ideal for those who also enjoy walking with the aid of a stick. A nice touch is that the tripod also comes with a wrist strap that you can attach and will prevent you from dropping the stick or monopod.
Carry Bag
The carry case that comes with the Benro tripod is well padded and has an internal zipped pocket and a shoulder strap. This case will provide your tripod and tripod head with some extra protection during transport when you are travelling.
Benro B0 Ball Head
This tripod kit came with Benro’s B0 Ballhead that can take an advertised maximum load of 17.6 lbs (8 kg) and whist it could easily hold my 80mm spotting scope, I did get some creep. One thing that was missing is that it does not have a safety lock on the PU-50 Quick Release Plate and so the only thing separating your spotting scope from the ground is one knob that you must make sure is tightened before moving it otherwise it could turn out to be a very expensive mistake!
I also find moving a scope into position quickly with a ball head a little tricky and so soon found that I reverted to using my Vanguard Pistol Grip ball head which attached to the tripod with no problems.
The B0 Ballhead itself worked well and would be fine for those using lighter cameras, it has two independent manual drag and locking controls as well as a panning control and use a Universal Arca-Swiss style Quick Release mounting plate system. Also included is a built-in bubble Level that helps in making sure that you don’t get uneven pans and head movements.
Conclusion
I really like the Benro A1682TB0 Travel Angel 2 Tripod, it is well made using good quality materials and whilst it may not be the lightest, most compact travel tripod available, it is nice and sturdy which more than makes up for the few extra grams in weight. It is also very reasonably priced and in my opinion makes an excellent choice for travel and for use on longer walks and hikes and so I will be taking it with me to France later in the year.
Benro A1682TB0 Specifications
Sections: 4
Max Height: 1.59m / 62.6 in
Folded size: 44cm / 17.32 in
Weight: 1.75kg / 3.89 lbs
Max load: 8kg / 17.6 lbs
Cost and Where to Buy
Benro Travel Angle Tripods are available on Amazon in both the UK and the USA:
Meopta USA has recently announced their new MeoPix iScoping Adapter. Developed to allow the iPhone 4 or 4s to interface with any binocular or spotting scope eyepiece, the MeoPix transforms a smart phone into a long-range photo and movie capturing tool.
The Apple approved MeoPix iScoping adapter attaches securely to the iPhone, it is very light and has a low profile for ease of portability. The proprietary technology guarantees a secure fit, precise alignment and incredible image quality.
“The latest smart phone technology combined with our revolutionary MeoPix adapter will render traditional camera based Digiscoping and Binoscoping obsolete,” says Meopta USA GM Reinhard Seipp. “iScoping” harnesses the power of the iPhone to capture, edit, organize and upload images from the field. When paired with our premium spotting scopes and binoculars, the MeoPix adapter provides extraordinary close-up photos and movies with clarity and resolution that rival traditional photography.”
Meopta signed an exclusive global distribution agreement with Base One Labs, LLC the designer and patent holder of the smart phone adapter.
A formal introduction of the MeoPix will be made at SHOT 2012 and IWA 2012 where show attendees can experience a live demonstration and a chance to win a Meopta spotting scope and MeoPix iScoping adapter.
If you would like further information or additional product photography please contact:
Reinhard Seipp, General Manager
Meopta, USA, Inc.
50 Davids Drive, Hauppauge, NY 11788
Tel. 631-436-5900
Fax. 631-436-5920
www.meoptasportsoptics.com
Meopta USA is the U.S. affiliate of the Meopta Optika group. Founded in 1933, the Prerov, Czech Republic based company is the leading manufacturing partner to many of the World’s finest optical brands. Meopta conceives, develops and manufactures precision optical and electro/optical systems for semiconductor, medical, aerospace, military and consumer industries at their state of the art Prerov development and manufacturing campus and New York manufacturing and distribution facilities.
Take advantage of this Eagle Optics exclusive purchase and save on a Zeiss premium scope kit while supplies last. These lightly-used Zeiss 20-75×85 Angled Spotting Scope display units are in new condition with full original packaging and paperwork, including Zeiss’ transferable limited lifetime warranty. This is the perfect opportunity to save a huge amount of money on a top-shelf spotting scope without making any compromise.
These ex-demo Zeiss 20-75×85 Diascopes come with Zeiss’s dual speed focus within a single knob that automatically adapts the precision and fast focus to your needs. The optical excellence of the Diascope centers on the fluoride glass and multi-layer lens coatings that provide impressive brightness and contrast for images with little to no color fringing. The 85mm Diascope offers excellent light gathering ability in low light conditions and over long distances.
The Zeiss Victory DiaScope 85 T* uses their FL Concept optical system that includes thinner Fluoride glass lenses to correct color aberrations and anti-reflective multi-layer coatings have been applied to all air-to-glass surfaces for brighter, high-contrast images.
What is more is this Zeiss Kit comes with a Zeiss ex-demo 20-75x eyepiece included.
List Price: $3,533.32
Sale Price: $1,999.00
You Save: $1,534.32 (43%)
Where to Buy
The excellent deal is only available from Eagle Optics in the US:
Objective Diameter: 85mm
Focal Length: 502mm
Close Focus: 16.3ft / 5m
Length (without eyepiece): approx 13.6 in / 34.5cm
Height: approx 4.1 in / 10.5 cm
Width: approx 3.82 in / 9.7cm
Weight (without eyepiece): 52oz / 1.45 kg
Tripod Thread: 1/4″ and 3/8″
Front Filter Thread: M 86 x 1
Thread for adapting photo/astro adapter: M 45 x 0.5
When I go out on a long bird or wildlife walk, I often choose to take my binoculars with me rather than a scope mainly because even large binoculars are just far easier to carry. This is especially true when you consider that with a scope you also usually have to lug a tripod about with you.
Somethig that could really help with this problem is the new Lowepro Scope Porter 200 AW Backpack that in theory will not only make carrying your scope and tripod much easier and comfortable than before, but you can also carry your binoculars and a small camera with you as well. On top of this you get a bag that will protect your equipment, even when it rains.
Lowepro are probably best known for their range of quality camera bags, but have recently added a range of optics bags, that included the Field Station Belt Pack designed to carry your binoculars and field guide as well as this backpack that has been specifically designed to give wildlife and birdwatchers a “hands-free, protective and supportive way to carry a large spotting scope and tripod in the field”
I was immediately interested and made some enquiries – Warehouseexpress.com kindly gave me the chance to try out the Lowepro Scope Porter 200 AW and below are my thoughts and findings:
Carry your Scope, Tripod, Binoculars & More..
The Scope Porter is far more than just a bag that carries your scope, it offers you a a hands-free solution to also easily carry your full sized tripod, a small camera, some binoculars, a field guide and some personal items:
Main Scope Compartment
The main compartment is very roomy and has Inner Dimensions: of 2.2W X 6.3D X 7.1H in./ 5.5 X 16 X 18 cm and should therfore accept most compact angled spotting scopes.
It is also very well padded and is adjustable to ensure a snug fit to help protect the scope as well as possible. To adjust the cavity to fit your scope you can move a base and two padded side walls that are attached with Velcro strips and has nine adjustment points to allow for longer/shorter scopes as well as thinner /thicker ones.
The main cavity is accessed by two zips that run almost half the length of the bag. The are connected together with a nice strap – this allows you to unzip both at the same time for quicker access. This flap can then also be fastened with a button that ensures that it won’t open accidentally.
The Lowepro “Hydration Pocket”
The backpack also has two long pockets down the sides of the bag, both of which are accessed with a zip that runs the length of the pocket. One has been designed to carry up to a 70 oz. (2 L) hydration reservoir (bladder) and comes with a small hole through which you can feed the hose, Lowepro call this their “Hydration Pocket” which should make keeping you refreshed even on a long walk as simple as possible.
A bladder is not included with the bag, but I checked and there are plenty available on the web with prices starting at about £10 all the way up to about £40 (Hydration Bladders on Amazon). At the time of writing, I have not tried out the bag with a bladder installed, but I think it is a great idea and should be an improvement on carrying around a water bottle.
You can also choose not to use this pocket to carry water and instead use it to carry some of your other equipment or even something like a light fleece.
Within this side pocket there is another small pocket that has a lid that is kept closed with a Velcro strip.
The Other Side Pocket
This is also accessed via a long zip that creates a nice big opening contains a number of smaller compartments and pockets inside it and is ideal for storing your field guides and some personal items like pens, keys, a small camera and there is even space for a pair of full sized binoculars.
The fact that I could also carry my binoculars with me is important as there are times when a pair of binoculars, with their much wider field is far more ideal than a scope. In the past when if I wanted to take both out with me I would usually have the binoculars dangling around my neck all day, where they can sometimes get in the way.
There is also a stretch-mesh front pocket on the backpack.
Different ways to use the Backpack
Probably the best feature of this backpack foe me is the different ways you can use it to carry your tripod and scope, depending on the situation and terrain you are in and those requirements:
1) If you are wanting the most protection for your scope, like when you are traveling or you know you are not going to be using the scope any time soon, you can carry the scope completely inside the bag, with your tripod closed and securely attached to the rear of the backpack.
2) For the fastest access to your scope, you can also carry your backpack with the scope and the tripod already set up on your back. This minimises set-up time and ensures you don’t miss that sighting, but obviously provides much less protection for your equipment (unless you use your scopes own cover). Both your hands are free in this position to use any of your other gear, like binoculars or your camera.
3) You can also fix your tripod with it’s legs folded, but with the scope attached to it on either shoulder strap by using the auxiliary tripod collar and “Easy Clip” – this enables you to set up your equipment fairly quickly and is a little easier to move about than option No.2. It also keeps both of your hands free to allow you to use your binoculars, camera or flick through your field guide.
4) This is the solution that I like best, it is really just a variation to No. 2 as you mount the backpack to the tripod, but by tilting your tripod head, you can easily store the scope, which is still attached to your tripod inside the bag. This allows for fairly quick and easy access, but will ensure your scope maintains a high level of protection. Carrying your scope and tripod this way also means that both your hands are free. I thought that this was really excellent and was the way I used the bag the most whilst out in the field.
Waterproofing
Whilst I may not always go out when it is raining, it sometimes starts to rain whilst I am out there and so for me it is important that my scope is protected. The good news is the Scope Porter comes with a built-in waterproof cover. It is tethered to the backpack and is stored in a rather neat and somewhat hidden pocket under the bag. Once you pull it out and put it over the 200 AW, it acts like a rain coat for the bag and can be used with or without the tripod attached.
In these conditions, if you still want to use your scope and want to keep it dry, you will still need your scope cover.
Carrying Comfort
My usual way of carrying my scope and tripod is to have the scope attached to the tripod, fold the tripod legs up and sling it over my shoulder. Whilst this works well, it can get a little uncomfortable on longer walks especially on the shoulder where the tripod dig in and means that you don’t have both your hands free to use your binoculars or field guide.
I have now taken the Lowepro Scope Porter out with me a couple of times, using it fully loaded and on fairly long walks and have been very impressed by just how much easier and more comfortable it is to carry all my gear.
This comfort is made possible with the help of the well padded and fairly wide shoulder straps that distribute the weight over a bigger area as possible. I also like the mesh-covered backpad, that like the straps is well padded. This really helps make sure that the bag balances nicely on your back and ensures there is nothing to dig into you. The mesh should also help to reduce the amount of sweat as in theory it will allow a little air to circulate, but on all the bags I have tested, I have never really noticed that this makes much of a difference.
The Scope Porter backpack also comes with a sternum strap buckle and a waistbelt that will prevent it from swinging out sideways and moving about, but will add to the setup time. I tend to only use this when I know I wont be using the scope for a while and want to make walking with the bag as comfortable as possible.
Other Features
Lowpro have also shown a good attention to detail with things like a safety whistle that has been built into the sternum strap buckle and the grab handle on top of the backpack has been rubberized to help ensure that it does not accidentally slips out your hands, that could lead to your gear getting damaged.
Conclusion
I thought that like other Lowepro bags that I have used, this one was very well made with high quality materials and if looked after should last you a lifetime. Fully laden, it was as comfortable as it gets, even on long walks and does a great job of protecting your gear. I like the fact that I can now easily carry my pair of binoculars as well as a scope with me and so for bird and general wildlife observation it is excellent choice. I also really love how versatile it is and how you can mount the scope and tripod on it in different ways depending the situation.
Best Spotting Scope Reviews Scores
Build Quality: 9/10 – Very well made and what you have come to expect from Lowepro
Design: 9/10 – Very innovative and love the different ways you can store and use your scope and tripod with it.
Capacity: 8/10 – Easily big enough to carry most compact angled spotting scopes and has plenty more storage space for things like a field guide, binoculars, a small camera and your personal objects.
Style: 8/10 – I love the long sleek design that is not only comfortable, but looks great as well.
Surely there has never been a better time to get yourself a quality Nikon Fieldscope as Eagle Opticscurrently have both new and refurbished Nikon Fieldscope III 20-60×60 Angled Spotting Scope available at an incredible prices.
Plus: Free Eagle Optics Window Mount
But there is even more (sorry if this is now starting to sound like some cheesy tele-ad!) – But it is true, while stocks last you also get a Free Eagle Optics Car Window Clamp/Mount with the purchase of any spotting scope from Eagle Optics.
Main Features
Helical Focus Ring for quick adjustments
Waterproofing keeps out moisture, dust and debris
Fully Multi-coated Lenses Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces
Fogproofing with nitrogen to inhibit internal fogging
Rotating Tripod Ring that allows greater flexibility when positioning the spotting scope
Zoom eyepiece and case included
Where to Buy
The excellent deal is available from Eagle Optics in the US:
The guys at Eagle Opticsjust informed me that they currently have a fantastic deal on one of their Zeiss spotting scopes:
Zeiss 15-45×65 Straight Spotting Scope
Not only do you get a whopping 31% off the list price, but this excellent quality Zeiss Scope also comes with a free Zeiss tripod worth around $200!
The Zeiss Advanced Optical System on this scope includes extra-low dispersion fluoride glass, multi-layer coatings with their protective LotuTec coating that ensures external lens surfaces shed water and dirt to protect the lenses and for unobstructed glassing even in poor conditions.
The scope also comes with separate fast and fine focusing wheels, a light magnesium alloy body that is both water and fog proof and Zeiss covers the Diascope with a limited lifetime transferable warranty.
Sale Price: $1,599.99
List Price: 2,351.00
You Save: $751.01 (31%)
Cost & Where to Buy
The excellent deal is available from Eagle Optics in the US.
Over the past few years digiscoping (taking super telephoto pictures by combining a spotting scope and a compact digital camera) has become more and more popular.
But what has also happened is the increase in the popularity of Digital Interchangeable Lens Cameras in the camera market and this has created a transition from compact digital cameras to SLR cameras for digiscoping. Because telephoto lenses for digital SLR cameras can be extremely expensive and bulky, there has been a growing demand for more cost-effective, light and compact lenses.
In response to this, Kowa has produced a new telephoto lens the PROMINAR 500mm F5.6 FL for super telephoto shooting. This lens has a focal length of 500mm and a lens weight less than 2kg.
Designed by utilizing Kowa’s optical expertise gained through decades of development of spotting scopes and binoculars. The PROMINAR 500mm F5.6 FL lens design includes a pure fluorite crystal lens and multiple XD (eXtra-low-Dispersion) lenses to achieve unrivaled optical performance.
Two Products in One Use as a High-Performance Camera Lens and as a Spotting Scope
Making effective use of the outstanding optical system of the master lens, the telephoto lens can also be used as a spotting scope by connecting it to the optional prism unit and eyepiece. Through the use of a simple and easy to use bayonet mounting system, switching between “photographing” and “observation” with the lens is easily accomplished. When used as a spotting scope, crystal clear images can be enjoyed since there is no focusing screen.
Three Focal Lengths in One Lens
With one “master” lens the focal length can be changed from 500mm to 350mm or 850mm.
From the standard specification of 500mm F5.6, it is possible to change the focal length of the lens so that it can be used as a brighter 350mm F4 lens or as a longer telephoto 850mm F9.6 lens. This is accomplished by using the optional mount adapters (TX07) or (TX17). XD lenses are incorporated in the optical designs of the 350mm and 850mm mount adapters to ensure optimal optical performance when combined with the master lens. (All support 35mm full size.)
In addition, there are multiple mount adapters available for different manufacturers. The Kowa lens can be used with Nikon, Canon, Pentax, and Micro Four-Thirds mount cameras. From December 2010, Kowa will also offer the “TP-88EC1”, an optional prism unit that when used with an eyepiece will allow the lens to be used as a high performance spotting scope.
Not Only for SLR Cameras
Digiscoping Opens up a World of Even Higher Super Tele-Photography of 1000mm – 3000mm
By connecting a digital camera adapter to the lens when configured for use as a scope, it is possible to digiscope using a compact digital camera. Through digiscoping, it is possible to achieve focal lengths of 1000mm to 3000mm (35mm film full size equivalent focal length) and more, allowing photographing of wild birds and other subjects at long distances that would not ordinarily be possible with digital SLR cameras alone. So by using both a digital SLR camera and a compact digital camera with the master lens it is possible to cover focal lengths from 350mm to more than 3000mm with a single lens.
In order to tap new markets, the “PROMINAR 500mm F5.6 FL” targets people who carry out super telephoto shooting in fields other than nature photography, such as astronomy, aerospace and sports. Since the lens can also be used as a spotting scope, the dual use of the product is appealing to those who want to enjoy observation and photography. A new era of super telephotography has arrived.
The video below highlights some of the Lens/Scope’s main features – it was taken whilst it was still a prototype at the Rutland Birdfair in 2010:
What’s Included The standard package comes with the following:
1. Master Lens
2. Mount Adapter (TX10) – Available Mounts：Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Micro Four-Thirds
3. Lens Hood「TP-100LH」
4. Objective Cap
5. Mount Adapter Cover
6. Mount Lens Cover
7. Camera Mount Cover
8. Sights（S/M/L）
As well as one of their fantastic car window mounts, I also recently had the enjoyment of testing the Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT tripod that came included with the Vanguard SBH-30 Ball Head.
Vanguard Alta Pro Tripods The Alta Pro Series of tripods are available in lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum alloy models and are for many people far more flexible and therefore useful than traditional tripods. Why do I say this? Well the biggest innovation is in what Vanguard call it’s Multi-Angle Central Column (MACC) System that enables you to move the central column of the tripod in pretty much a complete circle around the legs – from 0 to 360-degrees.
This not only has huge benefits for photographers, enabling them to position their cameras in al sorts of positions never previously possible, it also has many benefits to those that use their tripod for spotting scopes and binoculars.
Best Tripod for Digiscoping
For those who use their spotting scopes for digiscoping, this tripod is as flexible as it gets and can make that impossible shot become a reality. I can see the Multi-Angle Central Column useful for positioning you equipment for correct balancing making your rig far more stable and less lightly to topple over on uneven ground.
The Alta Pro 263AT is an aluminium version and priced at a point that is easily within reach of most people looking for a quality tripod. You can buy the tripod on it’s own, or you can get it as a bundle with a variety of Vanguard tripod heads.
The tripod I was testing came with the SBH-30 Ball Head, which is probably most suitable for photography, but on the Alta Pro it does give you some extra added flexibility enabling you to position your scope or any other optical equipment in a multitude of positions.
The Vanguard Alta Tripod
Rather than trying to explain in words and confusing both myself and you on just how it works, below is their promotional video that demonstrates very well just how flexible this tripod is:
I really like the latch that locks and releases the central column, which is easy to use and you can quickly set up the tripod to the exact position that you need. Another difference to the norm, or what I am used to is the fact that the central column is hexagonal shaped, which Vanguard say is less vulnerable to accidental slippage. I am not sure if it is better than the more traditional round tube shape, but I can say that it never once slipped during my test.
As with many tripods, the feet can be adjusted to be either rubber or spiked to ensure a good grip in a variety of terrains.
The Legs of the tripod lock into three angles (25°, 50° and 80°), that will help to ensure a steady base on uneven ground.
I also like the attention to the small details, for example at the top of the legs there are foam grips to help with carrying and an anti-shock ring prevent camera or even spotting scope vibration damage.
The aluminium versions use levered locks on the legs to tighten and loosen them and almost lock into place making you feel confident that they are secure.
On the negative side, it is a little heavy, but then again it is as sturdy as you like and easily takes the weight of a spotting scope or the heaviest of DSLR cameras and telephoto lenses. If weight is a big issue for you, get the carbon fiber model.
Conclusion
I am very impressed with the Alta Pro 263AT Tripod it is very well made and when you take into account it’s very competitive price, I would say that for a top end tripod it is excellent value for money. You could easily spend this or more on a standard tripod of a far lesser quality. It has the features that you expect to find and more and is more than stable enough for even the heaviest equipment.
Cost & Where to Buy
The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT on it’s own costs around $120 in the US and about £120 in the UK. As mentioned earlier you can also get it with a number of different heads. With the SBH-30 Ball Head, the bundle costs about £150 or about $200 with the SBH-100 Ball Head in the US.
My Favourite Use:
One use that I found for the Alta Pro Tripod that would be impossible for a traditional tripod was to set it up with my scope, monoculars or even a pair of binoculars in-front of a window in my office at home looking out into my garden and my bird feeders. Now I know there is nothing new about this, but I was able to position it in such a way as so that I could roll back on my chair and look through the scope without having to stand up. With traditional tripods the legs would have got in the way. It is a small thing and is incredibly lazy I know, but it does just demonstrate that with a little imagination you too will find many additional ways to use it.
I recently had the opportunity to try out the Vanguard PH-242 window clamp which I not only used with a spotting scope, but binoculars, video camera and my digital camera. Below are my findings:
More than just a Car Window Clamp
As the image above perfectly demonstrates, you can use your mount for far more than just car windows, they can be attached to may objects and therefore be used in many situations and there are many cases where I actually prefer one to a tripod.
The jaws of the clamp extend to 1.6in (42 mm) meaning that it can be mounted onto many objects including fences, tree branches, deck rails and more. I only wish I had one of these at the last safari lodge I was working at, where it would have been ideal to use on the balcony overlooking a waterhole where many of Africa’s wildlife would come down to drink.
The first thing you can’t help but notice is just how “solid” the construction of it is, which means as long as whatever you mount it to is steady, it will provide a the stablest of bases for even the heaviest spotting scopes, cameras and binoculars. On the down side is that it is a little on the heavy side (1.56lbs – 0.7kg).
Even though it is a little on the heavy site, it is still fairly compact meaning that is a lot easier to carry around than a tripod making it ideal to use on walks.
The “non-slip” hard rubber faces on the clamp work well and I had every confidence that my expensive scope or camera and telephoto lens would be safe.
Quick Release Platform
Attaching your spotting scope or other equipment to the mount is simple using the included QS-52 Quick release shoe. This shoe can be move backwards and forward about a centimetre to help with the balancing of your scope.
The PH-242 comes with a large platform ideal for heavy and large equipment like full size scopes. According to the manufacturers the maximum loading capacity is 6.6lbs or 3kg’s and it had no problem holding any of the equipment that I used during my tests for this review.
The Two-Way Pan Head
The PH-242 comes with a two-way fluid Pan Head which means it can pan left and right a full 360° and move up and down or tilt it from +90° to about -60° which makes it ideal for spotting scopes, video use and binoculars.
You can of course also use it with your camera although it will not tilt the 90° to enable you to shoot portrait photos. If you are planning to use it mostly for photography and often shoot in portrait, I would suggest using one of Vanguard’s ball heads (PH-230, PH-250) or their three-way pan heads (PH-304, PH-222)
The movement on my sample was very smooth and locking or unlocking it to move is very simply done by twisting the pan handle.
Conclusion
I was highly satisfied with the performance of the PH-242 and I highly recommend it to anyone who owns a scope and who not only wants a mount for their vehicle, but to use on country walks or even in a hide.
Cost & Where to Buy
The Vanguard PH-242 Pan Head Clamp/Mount costs around $70 in the US and about £80 in the UK. This means that it sits at the mid to top of the range. Vanguard as well as other manufacturers make cheaper as well as more expensive models:
February 9, 2012 | Posted by admin 
If you ignore the pistol part on the Pistol Grip Ball Heads, the design is basically that of a ball head – this means that you get all the flexibility and speed of a traditional tripod ball head, but with the added bonus of having a far quicker and much more intuitive way of aiming your spotting scope or camera which means that it takes you far less time to get your subject into the field of view.
Another way to get around this is if you combine the GH-100 or GH-200 with one of the excellent Vanguard Alta Pro tripods like the Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT Tripod that I use. These tripods have a Multi-Angle Central Column System that enables you to move the central column of the tripod in pretty much a complete circle around the legs – from 0 to 360 degrees meaning that you can have the central colum at an angle making it possible to point the pistol grip and your scope high into the sky. (see image below)
360° Panning
These grips have a “Friction Control System” which makes for easy adjustment as it is adjusted via a dial behind the grip which then allows you to change the level of friction on the ball depending on the weight of your spotting scope or camera. For even faster tracking you can completely loosen it, enabling you to change the direction of your scope without even having to pull the trigger, yet your scope is still pretty safe, because you are holding it with the hand grip.
Categories: Accessories, Tripod Heads, Tripods | 
Tags: Accessories, Pistol Grip, Tripod Head, Vanguard, Vanguard GH-100, Vanguard GH-100 Pistol Grip Ball Head, Vanguard GH-200 | 
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Meopta USA has recently announced their new MeoPix iScoping Adapter. Developed to allow the iPhone 4 or 4s to interface with any binocular or spotting scope eyepiece, the MeoPix transforms a smart phone into a long-range photo and movie capturing tool.
If you would like further information or additional product photography please contact:
Refurbished Nikon Fieldscope III’s starting at: $599.99
The Introduction of the new Kowa Prominar 500mm F5.6FL Telephoto Lens/SpottingScope
From the standard specification of 500mm F5.6, it is possible to change the focal length of the lens so that it can be used as a brighter 350mm F4 lens or as a longer telephoto 850mm F9.6 lens. This is accomplished by using the optional mount adapters (TX07) or (TX17). XD lenses are incorporated in the optical designs of the 350mm and 850mm mount adapters to ensure optimal optical performance when combined with the master lens. (All support 35mm full size.)
The standard package comes with the following:
The first thing you can’t help but notice is just how “solid” the construction of it is, which means as long as whatever you mount it to is steady, it will provide a the stablest of bases for even the heaviest spotting scopes, cameras and binoculars. On the down side is that it is a little on the heavy side (1.56lbs – 0.7kg).
The Two-Way Pan Head