Swarovski STS 65 HD & 20-60X 86318

I made this purchase with the intent of using the spotting scope in western New Mexico for elk and mule deer. After receiving the scope, I set it up on a tripod and glassed objects from a few hundred feet to around 30 miles. The optical quality was superb, focal adjustment was smooth and precise, and was everything I have come to expect from Swarovski. Unfortunately, there were a few issues I discovered that kept me from keeping it. First, at any setting above 30X the tripod is required regardless of how stabile a rest you have, which should be no surprise, but adds weight and bulk in my pack that I felt was unnecessary . Second, if there is any mirage, as is persistent were I live, you will be using this as a giant 20X monocular. Anything above that is like looking through running water. This most likely would not be an issue in the upper elevations, but is in the areas I hunt. Finally, I realized that I would be better of with the 10x42 SLC's I already own for for what I want to do. This is entirely based on my requirements, if you hunt or bird somewhere this type of scope makes sense, Swarovski optics are something you will never regret purchasing.