I bought a Nikon 15-45 X 60 in 2003 from Cabelas for around $400. It came as a kit with a tripod, window mount and soft case. This is the first spotting scope I ever had and I have been satisfied with it. At the time, I was big on buying everything from Cabelas but I am now convinced you can shop around and beat their prices by a considerable amount. I guess the real answer to your question is how much are you going to use the spotting scope. I use mine about 6-8 days a year and the rest of time it sits on the shelf. Therefore, I am satisfied with a $400 spotter. If you live in the west or can get out and use it a lot, you may want to consider spending more money because you get what you pay for when buying optics. If you can get to a Cabelas or Sportsman's warehouse or that type of store, definitely go and compare the different brands side by side. Everyone's eyes work a little differently so you should buy what works for you, When I compared binoculars this way I was amazed at the difference in brightness and clarity in $500 binoculars.
Tim
Searchin' for a 4 X 4
