Used Kowa TSN-1 + Opticron HDF Zoom Spotting Scope
£99 Sold
Condition report
Checked in HarrogateOptics completely free from marks, haze, scratches etc. Body a little riugh but a good optical scope
- Testing
- Fully tested
- In the box
- For more information feel free to call us on 01423 538138 or email on enquiries@bassandbligh.com
Open Mon–Sat, 9:30am–5pm
Questions about this one?
Ask the people who tested it. We’ll check any detail or send extra photos before you buy.
- 4.9 on GoogleFrom 137 reviews
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60+ yearsIndependent, in Harrogate
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Warranty includedUp to 12 months
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Secure checkoutPayments by Shopify
The details
At a glance: Kowa TSN-1 body + Opticron HDF Zoom eyepiece - vintage Kowa scope with aftermarket zoom.
About this spotting scope
A used Kowa TSN-1 spotting scope with Opticron HDF Zoom eyepiece - a vintage Kowa scope body (the TSN-1 predates the current TSN-770/880 series) paired with an aftermarket Opticron zoom eyepiece. A heritage spotting scope combination that still delivers serviceable image quality for casual birding and nature use.
Build & handling
| Type | Spotting scope (vintage) |
|---|---|
| Body | Kowa TSN-1 (heritage body, typically 77mm objective) |
| Eyepiece | Opticron HDF zoom (aftermarket, typically 20-60x range) |
| Angle | Typically angled body |
| Tripod thread | Standard 1/4"-20 |
Works with
- Standard 1/4"-20 tripod thread
- Opticron HDF zoom eyepiece fits the Kowa TSN-1/2/3/4 series eyepiece thread
Best for
A vintage Kowa + Opticron combination - the TSN-1 was a respected Kowa scope body in its era (pre-2000s), and the Opticron HDF zoom eyepiece adds modern zoom capability. Used scopes like this can be surprisingly good value - heritage optical quality at a fraction of alpha-brand new prices. Best for casual birding rather than serious competitive use.
Frequently asked questions
Is the TSN-1 still a good scope today?
For casual use, yes - image quality remains acceptable. For serious competitive birding or digiscoping, modern scopes (Kowa TSN-770/880, Swarovski ATX, Zeiss Harpia) offer significantly better optical performance. Think of this as a characterful heritage option rather than a current working tool.
Why buy from Bass & Bligh
Bought from a real shop, not a warehouse.
Dispatched on the Monday… great service
Ordered a Panasonic four thirds lens dispatched on the Monday after purchase and delivered on the following Tuesday great service. Tried on the camera and initial thoughts are wow pin sharp and clear photos. Thank you
George P.Ordered a lens onlineA proper little treasure trove
3rd time I've been to this shop to treat myself to some new kit. Always very friendly and knowledgeable. Fairly priced too. I would highly recommend a visit if your nearby and looking for camera gear. I'd say if they don't have what your looking for, it's probably not possible to find anywhere. It's a proper little treasure trove.
Philip B.Third visit to the shopBrilliant advice with awesome customer service
Sure you can buy online and possibly save a few pounds.. but if you require and appreciate knowledge and brilliant advice with awesome customer service then it's a no brainer...This is a real camera shop like it used to be back int day..
Malcolm S.