Kowa Spotting Scope Question

[DrEvil]

Hi, So I have been in search of a good spotting scope for about 1k bucks... I found a used Kowa 823 M fluorite coated scope. Comes with a 20-60 eye piece... Guy said he will sell it for 1,000. Does this sound like a fair price? Is there a better piece of glass for the price?

I have tried looking online (everywhere) and can’t find another one for sale. The reviews that I read are generally positive, some say it’s a little out dated as the 883 is the new big brother; but that is well out of my price range.

Thanks,

 

[Pappasniper]

Re: Kowa Spotting Scope Question

I bought a Kowa for under 1K and love it. Ill have to check what model. I use the 27Long eye relief eye piece. I have used it out to 1,400 yards. Worked great.

Do 1K all the time. Its perfect.

Point, you should be able to buy a new one for under 1K. How much is that scope street price, if you look around. How much did he spend on it?

I dont worry about glass getting old, if its taken care of, and its quality, your GTG.

 

[DrEvil]

Re: Kowa Spotting Scope Question

Thanks, I have found other models for sale for under 1,000 but I can’t find this exact model for sale. (I think it was discontinued when the 883 came out) That being said I was told by a local gun shop that the 823 used to retail at about $2200.

 

[2_many_dogs]

Re: Kowa Spotting Scope Question

the 823 is GTG. and if you found fluorite, you're in even better shape - fluorite lenses are the upgrade lens over the normal 823.

i got mine as a factory demo MANY years ago and it has one tiny blemish in the objective lens so i got mine cheaper than list. still going strong.

i also use the 27xLER eyepiece and have used it to 1K. the high mag eyepieces will shorten the eye relief and magnify the mirage which isn't too useful for me.

 

[sinister]

Re: Kowa Spotting Scope Question

The price is a steal.

The 88mm-series Kowa replaced the 82mms.

The 821 is the angle-head glass spotting scope. the 823M is the high definition fluorite lens scope. While both are very good an clear the fluorite kicks standard glass in the caboose. Definition and clarity are definitely noticeable.

 

[John L]

Re: Kowa Spotting Scope Question

I have to agree with Sinister here. For $1000.00 that is a heck of a deal.

 

[LibertyOptics]

Re: Kowa Spotting Scope Question

Last dealer cost on that spotter new was $1050 +/-......it's been discontinued for a few years now...so if in mint condition $1400 or under is a great price!! Kowa can still clean/inspect these for a nominal charge....I've got a trade-in here in the straight version (824) and I'm reading license plates at 900 yards...

The only downside is that the eyepieces are discontinued too....so no parts support and they are scarce, but if well cared for they are a very high quality spotter that will last for many years...

To answer your question, no, for $1K you won't do better with anything current. The Kowa Prominar 66mm is about $1300

Scott

 

[DrEvil]

Re: Kowa Spotting Scope Question

Cool, thanks guys great info! im buying it tomorrow. The guy is really cool even came out shooting with me and brought his 883 some we could do side x side comparison. He is also a local Kowa daler and a new buddy. For me money difference the 823 is good enough for me! we were out at 1,000 and it was nice and crisp. Had a bit of mirage but what can you expect on a warm day in Nv.