I've been looking at these small spotters lately. How useful are they? I've already got a Leica 62mm, but am thinking I might try something smaller and lighter; specifically, to tote along on a few backpacking trips later this Summer.

Has anybody used these, and if so, what where your impressions?
What are their limitations?

Obviously low light performance will be lacking. How is the resolution at the longer distances? How comfortable are they to use for extended glassing sessions?

Comparing the Minox and the Leupold, which is nicer?

If you want small and light, take a look at the Nikon ED50. I don't think either of the ones you mentioned are as good as the Nikon.

Not a 50 but here is a MD62 last week , included some pictures taken with the optional dcm eye piece , she is pretty small and light as is.The pictures and video would have been better if the battery on the remote control didnt die on me.





Picture of far slide , snow patch in upper area.

One thought for you would be to find one of the older Leupold 20x50's. If I recall right they weigh 19 oz, they won't break the bank and IMO they're as good as it gets till you get to the really big 3.

I've had my old 20 for about 20 years (or more) now and just love it!

Dober

I second what Mark says, I have a 25x leupy and light it is, slids into a backpack real nice,they can usually be found on ebay for a fair price.

Nikon ED50. This thing is made for backpacking and is great optically. I read this thread:
http://www.monstermuleys.info/dcforum/DCForumID27/1476.html
and decided on the ED50 with the eyepiece from Doug. Great decision. This is the happiest I've ever been with a spotter. This will cover a ton of vertical miles with me.

I'm going to try out a Nikon ED50, and I think I've got my hands on one of the vintage Leupold 20x50's.

But, I'd still like to know how the small Minox and Leupold Compacts rate? Either one can be had at a discount right now if you look in the right places, and I'm sure both have potential in this niche..?

I had a Leupold 10-20x40 spotter it was o.k. but I think you could do beter for the same money. The 15-30 isn't much different than the one I had. It was a bit difficult to focus it. If I could find one of the old Leupold fixed powers as has been suggested I'm going to jump on it.