Advice Needed re: Telescopes/Binoculars - Possible Trade?

[ShyOne]

Hi:

 

Could use some general advice/suggestions here, from anyone in the know on these things ...

 

Not sure whether what we really want is serious binoculars, or a telescope. What I'm looking for is something that might be good for both star-gazing and bird watching, if such a thing exists. I like the idea of a tripod for support, and my assumption is that I can get greater magnification with a telescope, but not sure how hard/easy it is to track a moving object with one. In those terms, does it make any difference what kind of telescope I consider? Any recommendations on 'strength' (or whatever the proper term is ... ) I should be looking for with this intended use?

 

Not looking to spend a whole bunch on anything too serious, which is where the possible trade part comes in. Could offer up my skills in the areas of box/label type work, or glass work, if anyone's interested, and has something to trade that might fit the bill. Please PM me, if so.

 

At the very least, interested in any knowledge anyone might have to share on the subject in general. Thanks!

[Chickybaby]

I've just stuck to binoculars for bird watching & star gazing. The binoculars are old as heck at least 20 -30 years. At least for me it was easier to maneuver w/ binoculars then lug a scope hiking or when sky watching. Birds just seemed to move too fast to properly adjust a scope before they were gone. there's also no real stable ground to set a scope up around here or overly long distances that binoculars wouldn't cover.

[ShyOne]

Thanks!

[revsdr]

just got my wife a bushnell model # 78-9512

seems pretty good for both.

Edited February 25, 2007 by revsdr

[+batari]

If you get a scope, get a spotting scope. A typical stargazing telescope actually views the image upside-down. A spotting scope isn't for serious stargazing but they are adequate for casual viewing. A spotting scope will often work with a standard photography tripod.

[Rom Hunter]

http://www.atarimania.com/zoom_frame.php?T...amp;NUM_IMAGE=5

 

[ShyOne]

http://www.atarimania.com/zoom_frame.php?T...amp;NUM_IMAGE=5

 

 

Yup! Yup! This is the one for me!! (And I think I might need to order one of those really nifty looking Atari Organizers, too ... you know ... for my hubby to store all his Atari stuff in ...) Riiiiight ... :lol:

 

Thanks for the good info, folks. I'm thinking I like the spotting scope idea. Between your comments, and the little bit of research I've been doing on the subject, it appears to be an appropriate compromise for my mixed purposes.