What is the diff optically and functionally. Also, what is a good price on a 1 owner like new STS non-HD 65mm with 20x60 eyepiece? I have an eye on one...

Hard to find pricing on the non HD. Any help predicated

'284, there is not that much difference between the 2, just for looking thru. HD has a slight advantage, but the only way you can really tell is to have them set up side by side. If apart, and you have to walk a few feet between them, then you'd be hard pressed to be able to tell. The difference becomes a little more obvious if you wanna take pics thru them, and compare pic quality. The HD rocks.

Thank huntsman. That helps. What would you guess for a value?

No clue. But, I think Tanner sold one on the classified a while back.

I just picked up a STS 80HD in perfect condition for $1800 so maybe a few bucks cheaper on the 65.

I have the ATS 65mm (and had a ATM 65mm) when I compare it to my buddies HD version I did not see enough difference to want to change. I have seen clean used STM 65's for $1250

Pics will show the difference if you digi-scope but otherwise little practical difference in the field. I had both because I got a good deal on an HD and ended up keeping it but there is not a lot of difference. Good HD price on 65 would be about $15-1600

Lee

I think I sold it for $1300.

STS-65s are badass.

Same here--cannot tell HD difference until using to take photos through. A family member has been a Swarovski dealer for decades and when I was shopping, went non-HD since I wanted it for a hunting scope. Same reason I went with the 65mm over the 80mm. Did all I needed and lighter and more packable.

Originally think the bodies for the STS 65 were higher, but when the magnesium bodies and HD glass came out Swarovski had special pricing and many of the online dealers had the bodies for $1000-$1200, then the cost of the eye-piece.

Have seen several ATS and STS 65's with 20-60 eyepiece in the $1200-$1400 range. If in good shape, $1,200 is a steal for that scope. I have one if the fitted Swarovski cases on our scopes--silly exoensive at first blush, but bomb proof and great protection in the field.

I ended up with this one from Tanner and it is great-side by side with my STS-65 HD there is no noticeable difference to the eye. If I was to do it all over I'd probably get the non HD since I don't use it with a camera. Tanner is correct, the STS-65's are bad ass.

Cool, thanks fellas. That helped alot. I just bought a non HD with 20-60 eyepiece. It is a one owner that is 16 yrs old and was used in Montana for 1 year of elk guiding. Looks new and is in the case. I paid $1000. Sounds like I did ok and will be happy with it. Thanks again for the help.

Now, for a light, compact tripod for it that won't break the bank.

JW