Vortex Razor HD Spotting Scope - 65mm vs 85mm?

[joelweb]

I've been using a Nikon Fieldscope ED50 for years to hunt mule deer. It's a great little spotting scope to carry around (super light) and the ED lenses are crisp, but because of the limited 30x magnification, I'm frustrated by not being able to take a close look at bucks over long distances. Also, the 50mm lens limits light collection at max zoom.

I'm currently saving up to purchase a larger HD scope so I can size up bucks that are a mile or three away. I'm looking at the Vortex Razor line and I'd like some opinions about whether I should go for the 65mm or 85mm scope?

I'm leaning towards the 85mm, because I feel like the 65mm is too similar to what I already have. Will it give me the reach that I'm looking for to see antler definition on far away ridges? With that said, the 85mm is bigger and weighs 9 oz more. I hate the idea of packing around this beast, but I'm prepared to do it when glassing big country.

Opinions are appreciated.

 

[Stubaby]

I had an ED50 with the 13-40 eyepiece and thought I had the cat by the tale. I sold it and put the money towards the swarovski 65mm straight HD with the 25-50x wide angle eyepiece. It's so much better than I could have ever hoped.

Sell whatever you have laying around and get it. I have buddy's who are dealers. I can get you a brand new one like mine for $2100. It's heavier than the ED50 but once I have that baby on the outdoorsmans tripod it is so the way to go. Once I get my dual mount for that so I can have my 10x42s side by side it's game over for the game I chase.

I'm serious. Go throughout your house. Sell stuf. Find the money. Go mow your neighbors lawn. Find the cash. Top tier glass on a steady tripod makes the hunt so much more enjoyable. People who say "this is good enough for me" or "I'm happy with" don't really know what they are missing.