What is the main advantage of the Kowa TSN-55S's fluorite crystal lens?
The 55mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens virtually eliminates chromatic aberration, or color fringing. This means you see a sharp image with true-to-life colors, without the distracting purple or green halos that can appear around high-contrast subjects (like a bird against a bright sky) in scopes with conventional glass lenses.
How does the straight body of the Kowa TSN-55S differ from the angled TSN-55A?
On the straight TSN-55S you look straight through the scope along the same line of sight; on the angled TSN-55A the eyepiece sits at an angle to the body. Both share the 55mm fluorite crystal objective, the built-in 17-40x zoom and the 58mm filter thread, so the choice comes down to the viewing position you prefer.
How does the dual-focus system on the Kowa TSN-55S work?
The focus knob has a two-step mechanism. The quick focus brings an object that is well out of focus into focus 3.5 times faster than the fine focus, covering 2.8 m to infinity in two revolutions. The fine focus is providing precise, delicate adjustments to achieve critical sharpness, which is especially important at the higher 40x magnification.
Is the included Vanguard VESTA GO 264CV12 tripod stable enough for 40x magnification?
Kowa recommends the VESTA GO 264CV12 for its compact TSN-55 and TSN-66 PROMINAR models. Vanguard says its carbon fiber legs balance strength, vibration resistance and light weight, the VEO PV-12 fluid video head has a counterbalancing spring for smooth, controlled panning and tilting, and a spring-loaded ballast hook adds stability in wind.
Can I use filters with the Kowa TSN-55S spotting scope?
Yes. The objective lens has a 58mm filter thread, which Kowa's manual says allows various types of filters to be attached. Kowa names the optional TP-58FT filter for enhanced protection.
How do I set up the Kowa TSN-55S for digiscoping with my camera?
To begin digiscoping, you first unscrew the 3-stage twist-up eyecup from the eyepiece. This reveals a threaded accessory mount. You can then attach an optional Kowa digiscoping adapter, such as the TSN-DA10, which provides the connection point for your specific camera system.
What kind of viewing experience can I expect when observing a distant raptor with the Kowa TSN-55S kit?
Imagine spotting a hawk perched on a tree 500 yards away. You would start at 17x magnification to easily locate it within the wide 192-foot field of view. Once centered, you'd use the quick focus and then the fine focus to get a sharp image, then twist the eyepiece anticlockwise to 40x. Thanks to the fluorite crystal lens, you'll be able to resolve fine feather details and subtle color patterns without distracting color fringing, while the tripod keeps the scope steady.
How do I use the eyepiece cap and eye relief cap on the TSN-55S?
The eyepiece protection cap has a strap that connects it to the scope body on either side, so it stays with the scope; to remove it, unthread the strap from the body. The 3-stage twist-up eye relief cap is adjusted according to your viewing preference, and it can be unscrewed to reach the accessory thread mount.
How should I clean and care for the lenses on my TSN-55S?
First, use a blower, compressed air or a soft hairbrush to remove any loose dust or grit. Then gently clean the lens 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. The body can be wiped with a clean, soft cloth, without organic solvents. After use in damp conditions, allow the scope to dry thoroughly at room temperature before storing it.
What does the Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty cover for the TSN-55S kit?
The Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty covers the spotting scope for the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship when purchased from an authorized North American retailer. It does not cover damage from misuse, unauthorized repair, or normal wear and tear. Kowa requests product registration within 30 days of purchase. The included Vanguard tripod is covered by Vanguard's warranty.
