Celestron Ultima 18-55x65 Spotting Scope

Comments about Celestron Ultima 18-55x65 Spotting Scope:

Very good scope for the money. Used it to zoom in
on nesting pair of Bald eagles at 1/4 mile away
and the image was very clear.

Comments about Celestron Ultima 18-55x65 Spotting Scope:

Purchased this scope for my son and we love it.

Comments about Celestron Ultima 18-55x65 Spotting Scope:

Pro:

This scope is primarily to be used for spotting targets. I like that it has quality BaK-4 porro prisms, assuring better light transmission and the 65 mm objective lens. Most spotting scopes in this price range seem to come with the BaK-7 prism which has lower light transmission. I find that the scope is clear from edge to edge and has an easily detachable eyepiece with a separate storage case. The soft case will accommodate the scope with the eyepiece attached. The focus knob works smoothly with enough resistance to retain the setting. The zoom eyepiece works easily over the full range. The inclusion of an aiming sight tube, next to the eyepiece, is a nice touch not found on most scopes. This helps to quickly acquire the target.

Con:

I am concerned that there is not an extendable lens shade for the objective. I will be in bright conditions mostly. My at-home test, in bright sunshine, did not present a problem with the sun high and slightly ahead of the scope. A sunshade is not an option from Celestron but I did easily make a 4" one from a black plastic report cover and some Velcro. The lack of a sunshade may give away a hunters position to the quarry.

The only other gripe that I have is that the eyepiece does not have a lens-cap which seems to be standard equipment on the other scopes I considered. This is important, to me, as dusty conditions on the range will contaminate the eyepiece without the cap. Even in the scope storage case with eyepiece attached, a lens cap should be standard practice. Both of these gripes were conveyed to Celestron with the usual non-responsive reply received. Probably computer generated response.

Conclusion:

As with all spotting scopes used at high power, the addition of a sturdy tripod is mandatory for best results. The Vortex or Bushnell "shooters stand" table-top tripod or maybe the Vanguard "lite 1" should be adequate for shooters use but the Vortex and similar Bushnell also have issues. The Celestrons lack of a tripod, which many spotting scope manufacturers include, was not an issue because these freebie pods are generally flimsy and not suitable, at least in my opinion.

For the money, < $120, this scope is an excellent value and I highly recommend it. The gripes are small and can be overcome as necessary.