What is the main advantage of the Kowa TSN-99A's 99mm fluorite crystal objective?
Pure fluorite crystal virtually eliminates chromatic aberration (color fringing), producing sharp images with accurate colors, even at high magnification. The large 99mm aperture, paired with a Kowa XD concave lens, also gives superior low-light performance at dawn and dusk.
How does the dual focus system on the TSN-99A PROMINAR work?
The TSN-99A has a two-step focus knob. The quick focus brings the object into focus 3 times faster than the fine focus and can travel from the 6m minimum focus to infinity in only two revolutions. The fine focus allows slight, precise adjustments to achieve critical sharpness, which is essential when observing at 70x.
Is the Kowa TSN-99A ZM SET suitable for digiscoping?
Yes. Kowa describes it as ideal for digiscoping with a camera or smartphone. The TSN-99A body has an accessory collar for direct connection of Kowa's digiscoping accessories, turning the scope into a super telephoto lens system. The color-pure fluorite optics and the dual-focus system give you the control needed to capture images of distant subjects.
How weather-resistant is the Kowa TSN-99A?
Kowa says the TSN-99 PROMINAR series is built to last a lifetime and can be used with confidence even in the harshest of environments. It has a magnesium alloy body and a KR coating on the objective lens that actively repels dirt, moisture and dust. Kowa does not state a waterproof rating for the TSN-99.
What kind of tripod is recommended for the Kowa TSN-99A?
A sturdy, stable tripod is essential; the manual notes that hand-held observation is difficult because of image blurring. The scope body weighs 1810 g (3.9 lb), so use a tripod and head rated to carry well over the scope's weight. The mount has a removable screw: inserted, it fits 1/4-inch tripods; removed, it fits 3/8-inch tripods.
What does Kowa say about the TSN-99A's angled body?
Kowa describes the TSN-99A as the angled viewing version of the TSN-99 PROMINAR and designed the body for comfort and ease of operation over long periods in the field. Kowa does not publish further angled-versus-straight guidance.
Can I use filters with the Kowa TSN-99A spotting scope?
Yes. The TSN-99A has a 105mm filter thread on the front of the objective lens housing. This allows filters such as Kowa's own TP-105FT 105mm Objective Lens Filter, which features KR coating and helps protect the objective lens from harsh environments.
What is the difference between the included TE-11WZ II eyepiece and the optional TE-80XW?
The included TE-11WZ II is a zoom eyepiece offering 30-70x on this body, with a field of view of 115-66 ft at 1,000 yds. The optional TE-80XW is Kowa's extreme wide angle eyepiece, giving a fixed 40x on the TSN-99. Both have 17 mm eye relief. The zoom gives you versatility; the TE-80XW gives a single wide-angle magnification.
How do I attach and remove the eyepiece on the TSN-99A?
The TSN-99A uses a bayonet mount. To attach, align the red dot on the eyepiece with the red dot on the scope body and turn the eyepiece clockwise until it clicks into the locked position. To remove, press and hold the quick release button and turn the eyepiece anti-clockwise until it is released from the scope body.
What does the Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty cover for the TSN-99A?
The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the original owner who purchased the scope from an authorized North American retailer. It does not cover damage from misuse, abuse, or unauthorized repairs, nor normal wear and tear. Lens caps, cases, pouches and straps are covered for their lifetime to the original owner but not for accidental loss.
