DontTellTheAliens

From what I've read you calculate focal length ÷ lens mm so 780÷8=97.5X & 780÷24=32.5X Anything over about 15x you'll need a tripod. Typically birders will use binoculars in the 7X to 10X magnification but if you have a tripod and the birds aren't very close to you the 32-97X is more than you need. I'm not sure about planes though, perhaps 30X would be okay, I'd expect anything more and it might get hard to track them?

Hi all, New to the scene and was hoping for some advise, I'm tossing up between the SV41 and the Celesteron C70. Is one a clear winner over the other? Use case is mostly terestrial and something to dip my toes into for astronomical. I'll likely use it at the rifle range for spotting and away bush when I go camping to spot animals and for use at night to look at whatever i can. Due to being out in the elements the sealed and nitrogen purged rating for the SV41 is attractive, seems the C70 isn't sealed/purged? Also being slightly more compact is also a plus. I already have a good carbon fiber tripod to support it and would love to hear thoughts in pros and cons. Thanks!