Kowa PROMINAR TSN-99A ZM SET with VEO 5 264CV14 Spotting Scope Kit

The 99mm PROMINAR Pure Fluorite Crystal Objective

At the heart of the TSN-99A is a massive 99mm objective lens crafted from pure fluorite crystal. Unlike optical glass, fluorite has extremely low dispersion characteristics that virtually eliminate chromatic aberration, or color fringing. This results in exquisite detail even at high magnification, helping you resolve fine feather details and subtle color variations.

Paired with a Kowa XD concave lens and improved optical coatings, the objective produces superior low-light performance. For observers who are active at dawn and dusk, the large 99mm aperture gathers more light, producing a brighter image when the light is low.

TE-11WZ II Eyepiece: 30-70x Wide-Angle Zoom

This kit includes the Kowa TE-11WZ II, Kowa's wide angle zoom eyepiece for the TSN-99. It provides a continuous magnification range from 30x to 70x, allowing you to scan a wide area and then seamlessly zoom in on a distant subject. The field of view is a generous 115 feet at 1,000 yards at 30x, making it easy to locate and track moving targets.

Kowa gives the TE-11WZ II an eye relief of 17mm and a weight of 0.80 lb. The eyepiece attaches to the scope body via a bayonet mount with a quick release button, allowing swaps with the other Kowa eyepieces listed for the TSN-99: the TE-80XW extreme wide angle eyepiece (40x on this body) and the TE-20H long eye relief eyepiece.

Dual Focus: From 6m to Infinity in Two Revolutions

The TSN-99A features Kowa's dual focus system, a two-step focus knob with one part for quick focusing and one for fine focusing. The quick focus brings the object into focus 3 times faster than the fine focus, moving from the minimum focus distance of 6m (19.7 ft) to infinity in only two revolutions. This allows you to rapidly acquire focus on subjects at vastly different distances, such as a nearby songbird followed by a distant raptor.

The fine focus provides the precision needed for critical sharpness, especially at 70x. The manual says this system allows a smooth transition from quick focusing to fine adjustment. Do not turn the focus knob beyond its turning range.

A 3.9 lb Magnesium Alloy Body with KR Coating

Despite its large 99mm objective, the TSN-99A body weighs only 1810g (3.9 lb). This remarkable portability is achieved through a 100% magnesium alloy chassis created using a sophisticated thixotropic molding process. The result is a body with the strength and rigidity of metal but at a significantly lower weight, making it one of the most compact and lightweight in its class of large objective spotting scopes.

• Angled Design: The TSN-99A is the angled viewing version of the TSN-99 PROMINAR, measuring 380 mm (15.0 in). Kowa designed the body with comfort and ease of operation for long periods in the field.
• KR Coating: The objective lens is protected by Kowa's unique KR coating, which actively repels dirt, moisture and dust from building on the surface.
• Integrated Sunshade: A twist-out sunshade protects the lens from rain and keeps direct sunlight from entering the scope. It also features an integrated aiming sight to help you locate a subject that is difficult to find.
• Dual Tripod Mount: The tripod mount has a removable screw: with it inserted the mount fits 1/4-inch tripods, and with it removed it fits 3/8-inch tripods.

Vanguard VEO 5 264CV14: 17.6 lb Capacity Carbon Fiber Support

This kit includes the Vanguard VEO 5 264CV14, a full-sized carbon fiber tripod that Kowa recommends for its larger TSN-88 and TSN-99 PROMINAR models. Vanguard gives a carry weight of approximately 4 lbs and 26mm diameter legs that enhance stability, and the system supports up to 17.6 lbs.

The included VEO PV-14 is a fluid 2-way video head designed for smooth, precise control. A counterbalancing spring assist system smooths out tilting movements, and a long pan handle with independent pan/tilt locks gives controlled operation. The hexagonal center column converts into a short column for low-angle shooting down to approximately 8.5". An ARCA-compatible QS-71P quick-release plate mounts the scope. For stability on varied terrain, the tripod features three adjustable leg angles (23°, 50°, 80°) and rubber feet that convert to built-in spikes, for secure footing on rock, dirt, or soft ground.

Digiscoping with the TSN-99A's Accessory Collar

Kowa describes this kit as ideal for digiscoping with a camera or smartphone. An easy access collar on the main body allows direct connection of Kowa's wide range of digiscoping accessories, transforming the spotting scope into a super telephoto lens system.

With the eyepiece removed, unscrew the protective ring on the accessory mount (counter-clockwise) before attaching an adapter. The pure fluorite crystal objective's freedom from color fringing carries through to your images.

The 105mm Filter Thread and Field Maintenance

The front of the TSN-99A's objective housing features a 105mm filter thread. This allows you to attach a protective filter, such as the optional Kowa TP-105FT, which features Kowa KR coating to repel dirt and moisture and helps protect the objective lens from harsh environments.

For cleaning, the manual recommends using a blower or soft brush to remove dust from the lens and body. Then clean the lens gently with a light circular motion using an optics cleaning cloth, gauze or cleaning paper; commercial lens cleaners can leave a film, so use only the smallest possible amounts. After use in damp or coastal environments, clean and dry the scope at room temperature, then remove the lens cap and store it in a dry place to prevent stains and mold.

Kowa TSN-99A vs. TSN-88A: Aperture and Portability

The primary decision between Kowa's flagship PROMINAR scopes comes down to the trade-off between light-gathering power and portability. The TSN-99A gathers more light, while the smaller TSN-88A offers a more compact package.

• Objective Size: The TSN-99A's 99mm objective gathers significantly more light than the TSN-88A's 88mm lens. This translates to a brighter image at dawn and dusk.
• Size and Weight: The larger aperture comes at the cost of size. The TSN-99A body is longer and heavier, at 380 mm (15.0 in) and 1810 g (3.9 lb). For observers who prioritize a lighter pack for long hikes, the TSN-88A may be the better choice.
• Filter Size: The TSN-99A uses a 105mm filter thread, while the TSN-88A uses a 95mm thread. Both models share the same pure fluorite crystal optics, dual focus system, and magnesium alloy construction.