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Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled
Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled
Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled
Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled
Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled
Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled
Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled
Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled
Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled
Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled

Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled

by Kowa
SKU KOW-TSN-55A
$2,499.00 - $2,499.00
$2,499.00
$2,499.00 - $2,499.00
$2,499.00
Price Match Policy!
  • 55mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens
  • Angled body design
  • Integrated 17-40x wide-angle zoom eyepiece
  • Ultra-compact 10-inch length and 34 oz weight
  • Dual focus knob for quick and fine adjustments
  • Minimum focusing distance of 9.1 feet
  • Fully sealed, nitrogen-filled and waterproof body
  • Standard 58mm filter thread for protection filters
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
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  • Warranty

  • Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope, Angled

    The Kowa PROMINAR TSN-55A Spotting Scope packs a 55mm pure fluorite crystal objective into an angled body that measures just 10 inches long and weighs only 34 oz. Its integrated eyepiece provides a versatile 17-40x zoom magnification range, delivering a field of view from 192 feet down to 105 feet at 1,000 yards. The dual-focus system focuses on subjects as close as 9.1 feet, and Kowa describes the TSN-55 as an ultra-compact, ideal travel companion.

    Kowa TSN-55 PROMINAR built-in zoom eyepiece

    The 34 oz PROMINAR: Built for the Traveler

    Kowa built the TSN-55 PROMINAR for adventurers. As the newest addition to the PROMINAR fluorite crystal scope series, it is an ultra-compact option: 10 in long and 34 oz, designed to be effortlessly portable without sacrificing image quality. This is a true PROMINAR scope, built for those who travel light but see bright.

    Its portability suits a range of uses, from birdwatching to exploring vast landscapes, and Kowa sums it up as the freedom to travel without compromise.

    A 55mm Pure Fluorite Crystal Objective: Virtually No Color Fringing

    The heart of the TSN-55A is its 55mm objective lens, crafted from 100% pure fluorite crystal. Unlike optical glass, fluorite has unique dispersion properties that virtually eliminate chromatic aberration (the color fringing visible on high-contrast edges). This results in breathtaking clarity, contrast, and color accuracy, rendering the subtle patterns of a bird's plumage or the colors of a distant landscape true to nature.

    Pure fluorite crystal requires extra special care and sophisticated manufacturing processes to work, and Kowa relies on lens processing skills cultivated for over 70 years. PROMINAR lenses and prisms receive multiple layers of coatings, and Kowa says the fluorite lens produces images of startling clarity and brightness.

    Kowa TSN-55 PROMINAR on a viewing platform

    TSN-55A vs. TSN-55S: Choosing an Angled or Straight Body

    The TSN-55 series is offered in two body styles to suit different observing preferences. The TSN-55A is the angled version and the TSN-55S the straight version; both share the same 55 mm fluorite crystal objective, 17-40x wide zoom, dual focus and 58 mm filter thread. Kowa does not rank one body type above the other, so the choice is a matter of personal preference.

    • TSN-55A (Angled): The angled body is 10 inches long and weighs 34 oz.
    • TSN-55S (Straight): The straight version of the same scope is 10.8 inches long and weighs 33.8 oz.
    Kowa TSN-55 PROMINAR 17-40x zoom view

    Integrated 17-40x Wide-Angle Zoom Eyepiece

    The TSN-55A features a permanently attached zoom eyepiece based on the renowned TE-11WZ II PROMINAR design. Kowa says integrating the TE-11WZ II eyepiece into the body maintains the scope's compactness. Twist the eyepiece anticlockwise to increase the zoom and clockwise to decrease it. The eyepiece provides a versatile 17-40x magnification range, allowing you to scan a wide area at low power and then zoom in to study fine details.

    The eyepiece features Kowa high grade XD lenses, matched to enhance the performance of the 55mm pure fluorite crystal lens. The wide-angle design provides an immersive viewing experience, with a field of view up to around 50% wider than its predecessor, the TSN-550.

    Kowa TSN-55 PROMINAR focus knob

    Dual Focus System: From 2.8 m to Infinity in 2 Revolutions

    Acquiring a sharp focus is effortless with Kowa's dual-focus mechanism. The focus knob has a two-step mechanism, one for quick focusing and one for fine focusing, with a smooth transition between them. This design allows for rapid, coarse adjustments to find your subject, followed by precise, delicate refinements to achieve critical sharpness.

    When the object is substantially out of focus, the quick focus knob brings it into focus 3.5 times faster than the fine focus knob, and it can focus from 2.8 m to infinity in only two revolutions. The fine focus is for fine focusing and slight adjustments. Do not turn the focus knob beyond its turning range, as this damages the focusing mechanism. This responsive and intuitive system is a hallmark of Kowa's advanced Japanese engineering.

    10-inch Body: Fully Sealed, Waterproof and Nitrogen-Filled

    Kowa says durability is paramount in the design of the TSN-55 PROMINAR and calls it compact yet robust. At just 10 inches in length and 34 oz, the scope is robust without being cumbersome.

    The body is fully sealed and nitrogen-filled, making it completely waterproof and fogproof and resilient against harsh environmental conditions. The objective lens is further protected by Kowa's KR coating, which repels dust, dirt and moisture from building on the surface.

    Digiscoping Ready: The TSN-DA10 Accessory Mount

    The TSN-55A can be used for digiscoping. The twist-up eye-relief cap can be unscrewed to reveal a dedicated accessory thread. This thread allows connection of optional accessories, including the TSN-CV88A twist-up eye-relief protection cap and the TSN-DA10 digiscoping adapter, sold separately.

    Kowa describes the TSN-DA10 as suited to compact, lightweight Micro Four Thirds or mirrorless system cameras with compact lenses, so you can photograph distant wildlife and birds through the scope.

    58mm Filter Thread for Objective Lens Protection

    To protect the valuable fluorite crystal objective lens, the TSN-55A features a standard 58mm filter thread on the front of the housing. This allows you to attach a protective filter, such as the optional Kowa TP-58FT filter, which Kowa offers for enhanced protection.

    Using a protection filter provides peace of mind in the field, especially in dusty or coastal environments. It is far easier and safer to clean or replace a filter than it is to service the scope's main objective lens. This small feature is a testament to Kowa's focus on long-term durability and user-friendliness.

    Kowa TSN-55 PROMINAR in the field

    Field Ergonomics: 3-Stage Eyecup and Aiming Sight

    The TSN-55A is designed for comfortable and intuitive operation in the field. The eyepiece features a 3-stage twist-up eyecup, which you adjust according to your viewing preference. Other key features enhance its usability:

    • Aiming Sight: An integrated aiming sight helps you quickly align the scope with a distant target before looking through the eyepiece.
    • Sliding Sunshade: A smooth twist sunshade slides away from the body to protect the lens from rain or to keep direct sunlight from entering the scope.
    • Tripod Mount: The base includes a standard 1/4-inch tripod socket for secure attachment to any tripod or monopod head.
    Portable Kowa TSN-55 PROMINAR spotting scope

    Maintaining Your PROMINAR for a Lifetime of Use

    Proper care is essential to preserving the optical and mechanical integrity of your spotting scope. Before cleaning the lenses, always use a blower brush or compressed air to remove any abrasive dust or grit. Gently wipe the lens surface in a circular motion with a dedicated optics cleaning cloth.

    Clean the scope body with a blower and a clean, soft cloth, never with organic solvents, and use a soft brush to remove debris from moving parts like the focus knob and the sun-visor. Commercial lens cleaners can leave a film on the lens, so use only the smallest possible amounts. After use in damp or coastal environments, it is critical to clean and thoroughly dry the scope at room temperature before storage. Remove the lens cap to store the scope in a dry place; for long periods, place it in an airtight container with desiccant. Storing it without cleaning can lead to stains and mold.

    Kowa's Limited Lifetime Warranty

    Kowa stands behind its craftsmanship with a Limited Lifetime Warranty for the original owner. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for the lifetime of the product, provided it was purchased from an authorized North American Kowa retailer.

    If your scope is found to have a defect, Kowa will repair or replace it at its discretion. The warranty does not cover damage resulting from unauthorized repair, alteration, abuse, misuse, or normal wear and tear. Kowa requests product registration within 30 days of purchase. For repair or maintenance, contact your Kowa dealer.

  • What does the fluorite crystal lens of the Kowa TSN-55A do?

    The 55mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens in the Kowa TSN-55A virtually eliminates chromatic aberration (color fringing) in the visible light range. Kowa says this performance cannot be matched by an optical system made of glass lenses, giving sharp, high-contrast images with accurate, natural color.

    Is the Kowa TSN-55A suitable for low-light birding at dawn or dusk?

    Kowa says the pure fluorite crystal lens produces images of startling clarity and brightness. Its 55mm aperture is the trade-off for a 10 in, 34 oz body: scopes with larger objectives gather more light.

    How does the 17-40x zoom range on the Kowa TSN-55A perform for wildlife observation?

    At 17x, you get a wide 192 ft field of view (at 1,000 yds) to locate animals. You can then zoom to 40x (105 ft at 1,000 yds) to examine fine details like antler points or feather patterns. Twist the eyepiece anticlockwise to increase the zoom and clockwise to decrease it.

    Should I choose the angled (TSN-55A) or straight (TSN-55S) model?

    Kowa does not rank one over the other. The TSN-55A (Angled) and TSN-55S (Straight) share the same 55 mm fluorite crystal objective, 17-40x wide zoom, dual focus and 58 mm filter thread; the TSN-55A is 10 in long and weighs 34 oz. The choice is a matter of personal preference.

    Can I use filters with the Kowa TSN-55A?

    Yes. The Kowa TSN-55A has a 58mm filter thread in front of the objective lens that lets various types of filters be attached, such as the optional Kowa TP-58FT filter for enhanced protection.

    What is the benefit of the dual-focus knob on the Kowa TSN-55A?

    The focus knob has a two-step mechanism. When the object is substantially out of focus, the quick focus brings it into focus 3.5 times faster than the fine focus and covers 2.8 m to infinity in only two revolutions. The fine focus is for fine focusing and slight adjustments.

    Is the Kowa TSN-55A durable enough for rugged backcountry use?

    Yes. Kowa says the TSN-55 body is fully sealed and nitrogen-filled, making it completely waterproof and resilient against harsh environmental conditions, and the objective lens has a KR coating that repels dust, dirt and moisture from building on the surface.

    How close can the Kowa TSN-55A focus?

    The Kowa TSN-55A focuses as close as 9.1 feet. This allows you to observe nearby subjects like butterflies, insects, or birds at a feeder.

    Is the eyepiece on the Kowa TSN-55A interchangeable?

    No, the 17-40x zoom eyepiece is built into the body of the Kowa TSN-55A. Kowa says integrating the TE-11WZ II eyepiece technology into the body maintains the scope's compactness.

    How do I attach a camera for digiscoping with the Kowa TSN-55A?

    Unscrew the eye-relief cap to access the thread mount. You can then attach the optional Kowa TSN-DA10 digiscoping adapter, which Kowa describes as suited to compact, lightweight Micro Four Thirds or mirrorless system cameras.

  • Design Angled body with built-in zoom eyepiece
    Objective Lens Diameter 55 mm
    Objective Lens Material Fluorite crystal
    Magnification 17-40x zoom
    Field of View at 1,000 yd 192 - 105 ft
    Minimum Focus Distance 9.1 ft
    Focus System Two-step focus knob (fine and quick)
    Eye Relief Cap 3-stage twist-up
    Filter Thread 58 mm
    Tripod Mount 1/4 in
    Length 10 in
    Weight 34 oz
    Warranty Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty to the original owner (authorized North American retailer)
    UPC 879110008714

    • TSN-55 PROMINAR 17-40x spotting scope (angled)

      × 1

    • Objective lens / eyepiece cap

      × 1

    • Cleaning cloth

      × 1

  • Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty