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Kowa PROMINAR TSN-88S Spotting Scope, Straight

by Kowa
SKU KOW-TSN-88S
Original price CA$4,550.00 - Original price CA$5,599.00
Original price
CA$4,550.00
CA$4,550.00 - CA$5,599.00
Current price CA$4,550.00
Price Match Policy!
  • 88mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens
  • Includes TE-11WZ II eyepiece with 25-60x magnification
  • Straight-through body design
  • Lightweight 3.26 lb magnesium alloy construction
  • Dual focus system with quick and fine adjustments
  • Minimum focus distance of 5 m (16.4 ft)
  • Protective KR coating and 95mm filter thread
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty
  • Kowa PROMINAR TSN-88S ZM SET with TE-11WZ II Zoom Eyepiece

    The Kowa PROMINAR TSN-88S ZM SET combines an 88mm pure fluorite crystal objective with the versatile TE-11WZ II eyepiece, delivering a powerful 25-60x magnification range. This straight-body scope focuses down to 5m (16.4 ft) and features a lightweight 3.26 lb magnesium alloy body measuring just 326mm in length. The optical system provides a field of view from 138 ft down to 75 ft at 1,000 yards, with 17mm of eye relief.

    Kowa TSN-88 PROMINAR 88mm fluorite crystal objective

    The 88mm Pure Fluorite Crystal Objective

    At the core of the TSN-88S is an 88mm objective lens crafted from pure fluorite crystal. Unlike conventional optical glass, fluorite virtually eliminates chromatic aberration, the color fringing that can soften high-contrast edges. This results in breathtaking color fidelity and resolution, allowing you to discern the most subtle plumage details on a bird or the finest textures in a distant landscape.

    Kowa pairs the fluorite element with an XD concave lens and has improved the optical coatings applied not only to the lenses but also to the prism. The result is higher light transmission than the previous model across the entire color spectrum for natural color, which helps in the low light of dawn or dusk. An upgraded Kowa KR coating on the objective lens repels dirt, moisture and dust from building on the surface.

    Kowa TSN-88 PROMINAR light transmission

    The 25-60x TE-11WZ II Wide Angle Zoom Eyepiece

    This set includes Kowa's TE-11WZ II wide angle zoom eyepiece, which provides a seamless magnification range from 25x to 60x. At 25x, the eyepiece delivers a wide 138 ft field of view at 1,000 yards, useful for scanning terrain or locating subjects. As you zoom to 60x for detailed inspection, the field narrows to 75 ft, bringing distant objects into sharp focus.

    The eyepiece has 17 mm of eye relief and weighs 0.80 lb. The bayonet mount system ensures a secure, quick connection to the scope body with a simple twist-and-lock action, while a release button allows for fast and easy removal.

    • Compatible Eyepieces: The TSN-88S body is also compatible with other Kowa eyepieces, including the TE-80XW for an extreme wide-angle 35x view and the TE-20H long eye relief eyepiece.
    • 1.6x Extender: For long range observation, the optional Kowa TSN-EX16 1.6x extender increases the magnification of the TE-11WZ II by 1.6x and has its own accessory collar for Kowa digiscoping adapters.
    Natural colour through the Kowa TSN-88 PROMINAR

    The Straight-Through TSN-88S Body Design

    The TSN-88S features a straight-body design, where the eyepiece is aligned directly with the objective lens. It is the straight viewing version of the TSN-88 PROMINAR; Kowa also makes the angled TSN-88A, with the same 88 mm fluorite crystal objective, 5 m minimum focus, 95 mm filter thread and dual focus.

    The straight TSN-88S body is 326 mm (12.8 in) long and weighs 3.26 lb. Kowa does not rank one body type above the other, so the choice between straight and angled is a matter of personal preference.

    Kowa TSN-88 PROMINAR dual focus wheel

    Dual Focus: Quick and Fine Adjustment from 5m to Infinity

    The TSN-88S is equipped with Kowa's highly-refined dual-focus system, a two-step mechanism with one step for quick focusing and one for fine focusing. When a subject is well out of focus, the quick focus brings it into focus 3 times faster than the fine focus, in just a few smooth revolutions. This allows you to rapidly acquire focus on a subject that appears unexpectedly.

    Once you are close to focus, the fine focus takes over for slight adjustments. This provides pinpoint, fingertip control, allowing you to achieve critical sharpness and pull every last detail from the image. The seamless transition between the two controls makes focusing fluid and precise, whether you're observing a nearby insect or a distant mountain peak.

    Kowa TSN-88 PROMINAR durable body

    Field-Ready Construction: 3.26 lb Magnesium Alloy Body

    Engineered for a lifetime of use in the field, the TSN-88S has a body made from a 100% magnesium alloy. Kowa says this makes it tougher and lighter than its predecessor; it weighs 3.26 lb. The shell is fully waterproof and nitrogen sealed, which guards against internal fogging.

    A sliding sunshade extends to block stray light and protect the objective lens from rain, and it incorporates a built-in aiming sight for rapid target acquisition. The tripod mount has a removable screw: with it inserted the mount fits 1/4-inch tripod heads, and with it removed, 3/8-inch heads.

    Digiscoping with the Kowa TSN-88 PROMINAR

    Digiscoping & Accessories: The Integrated Accessory Collar and 95mm Filter Thread

    Kowa calls the TSN-88 PROMINAR the king of digiscoping. The scope body has an accessory collar; with the eyepiece off, remove its protective ring and you can attach Kowa digiscoping adapters such as the TSN-PA7 or TSN-DA10 (used with the TE-11WZ II) to connect a DSLR or mirrorless camera for super telephoto photography.

    The front of the objective lens features a 95mm filter thread, which lets various types of filters be attached. The optional Kowa TP-95FT protection filter, made for the TSN-99 and TSN-88 PROMINAR scopes, carries Kowa KR coating to repel dirt and moisture and helps protect the objective lens from harsh environments. Kowa also makes the C-88S-N neoprene case for the TSN-88S.

    Field Use and Care: Setup, Handling, and Maintenance

    Setting up the TSN-88S is straightforward. The tripod mount fits 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch tripod heads, and Kowa advises a stable tripod since hand-held observation blurs the image. To attach the eyepiece, align the red dot on the eyepiece with the red dot on the bayonet mount, insert it and twist clockwise until it clicks; to remove it, press and hold the quick release button and turn it anti-clockwise. The built-in sight on the sunshade helps you quickly point the scope in the right direction before using the eyepiece for fine-tuning.

    To maintain optical performance, use a blower brush to remove dust from lens surfaces before gently wiping with the included cleaning cloth. Clean the body with a blower and a clean, soft cloth, never with solvents such as acetone, benzene or thinner. After use in dusty or damp conditions, clean the scope and dry it thoroughly indoors at room temperature, then remove the lens cap and store it in a dry place; for long periods, use an airtight container with desiccant.

  • What is the main advantage of the Kowa TSN-88S's fluorite crystal lens?

    The 88mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens virtually eliminates chromatic aberration (color fringing). Kowa says this performance cannot be matched by an optical system made of glass lenses, giving sharp, high-contrast images with accurate color, especially at high magnification.

    How does the straight TSN-88S differ from the angled TSN-88A?

    The TSN-88S is the straight viewing version and the TSN-88A the angled version of the same TSN-88 PROMINAR, with the same 88 mm fluorite crystal objective, 5 m minimum focus, 95 mm filter thread and dual focus. The straight TSN-88S body is 326 mm (12.8 in) long and weighs 3.26 lb. Kowa does not rank one body type above the other, so the choice is a matter of personal preference.

    How does the dual-focus system on the Kowa TSN-88S work?

    The focus knob has a two-step mechanism, one step for quick focus and one for fine focus. When the subject is well out of focus, the quick focus brings it into focus 3 times faster than the fine focus; the fine focus is for slight adjustments, with a smooth transition between the two.

    What is the magnification range of the included TE-11WZ II eyepiece on the Kowa TSN-88S?

    The included TE-11WZ II wide-angle zoom eyepiece provides a magnification range of 25x to 60x on the Kowa TSN-88S spotting scope.

    Can I use filters with the Kowa TSN-88S spotting scope?

    Yes. The objective has a 95mm filter thread that lets various types of filters be attached, including the Kowa TP-95FT protection filter, which carries KR coating to repel dirt and moisture and helps protect the objective lens from harsh environments.

    How do I attach the Kowa TSN-88S to my tripod?

    The tripod mount on the Kowa TSN-88S has a removable screw that allows it to fit both 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch tripod heads. With the screw inserted, it fits 1/4-inch tripods. Removing the screw lets the scope attach to 3/8-inch tripods.

    Is the Kowa TSN-88S suitable for digiscoping?

    Yes. Kowa calls the TSN-88 PROMINAR the king of digiscoping. It has an accessory collar for Kowa camera adapters such as the TSN-PA7 and TSN-DA10, used with the TE-11WZ II eyepiece, and Kowa says its improved coatings further enhance digiscoping performance even at the highest magnifications.

    How much do the Kowa TSN-88S body and eyepiece weigh?

    The Kowa TSN-88S body weighs 3.26 lb and the included TE-11WZ II eyepiece weighs 0.80 lb.

    What does the KR coating on the Kowa TSN-88S do?

    The KR coating on the objective lens repels dirt, moisture and dust from building on the surface. Kowa says that, together with the fully waterproof and nitrogen sealed shell, it makes the scope reassuringly rugged.

    What is covered by the Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty for the TSN-88S?

    The Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the lifetime of the product to the original owner who purchased it from an authorized North American Kowa retailer, and Kowa requests product registration within 30 days of purchase. It does not cover damage from unauthorized repair, abuse, misuse, or normal wear and tear. Lens caps, cases, and straps are covered for their lifetime but not for accidental loss.

  • UPC 879110008806
    Design Straight body
    Objective Lens Diameter 88 mm
    Objective Lens Material Pure fluorite crystal with XD concave lens
    Minimum Focus Distance 5 m (16.4 ft)
    Body Length 326 mm (12.8 in)
    Body Weight 3.26 lb
    Body Material Magnesium alloy
    Focus System Dual focus (fine and quick)
    Filter Thread 95 mm
    Lens Coatings KR coating on the objective
    Included Eyepiece TE-11WZ II wide angle zoom
    Magnification (with TE-11WZ II) 25-60x
    Field of View at 1,000 yd 138 - 75 ft
    Eye Relief (TE-11WZ II) 17 mm
    Eyepiece Weight (TE-11WZ II) 0.80 lb
    Warranty Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty to the original owner (authorized North American retailer)
    • TSN-88 PROMINAR spotting scope body (straight)

      × 1

    • TE-11WZ II wide angle zoom eyepiece

      × 1

    • Objective lens cap

      × 1

    • Cleaning cloth

      × 1

  • Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty