REVIEW: Hilkinson Natureline 80 Telescope
1 July 2023
By Stuart Hamilton
By Stuart Hamilton
Hilkinson has been quietly going about their business in the mid-range price optics market over the last few years. Now though, they are looking to make a bigger splash with two new telescope launches.
First up, I've had the pleasure of the Hilkinson Natureline 80 for the last two weeks, here's my opinion on this one...
What's in the box?
Images and coatings...
First and foremost, the Natureline 80 boasts an 80mm objective lens, which provides a respectable amount of light-gathering capability. This feature allows for better visibility of birds in various lighting conditions, including low-light situations.
The telescope's multi-coated optics ensure that images appear sharp and vibrant, offering a pleasing viewing experience.
One of the standout features of this telescope is its ease of use. Setting it up is a breeze, even for those with limited technical knowledge. The scope is very easy to attach to most tripod's and is sturdy and stable, allowing for smooth and steady panning to track birds in flight.
The Natureline 80 comes with a superb and 'non-fiddly' 20-60x zoom eyepiece, providing versatility in observing different bird species. The zoom capability allows for easy adjustment of magnification, enabling you to focus on distant birds or zoom out for wider views of bird habitats. The eyepiece is comfortable to use and provides a decent field of view, a big thumbs up when given the overall price point.
Performance and handling...
The Natureline 80 is a rugged scope that is also great in any weather thanks to the fully waterproof and nitrogen filled construction. The stay on case is well made and provides adequate protection, while the scope is lightweight (1252g) and will pack down easily in your backpack.
While the Natureline 80 performs admirably in most situations, it does have a few limitations. The image quality at higher magnifications can be slightly compromised, resulting in some loss of clarity and detail. However, considering its affordable price point, this compromise will be totally acceptable for beginner birdwatchers.
Another minor drawback is the absence of a smartphone adapter in the package. With the rising popularity of digiscoping (capturing images or videos through the telescope with a smartphone), including an adapter would have been a valuable addition for those interested in documenting their birding experiences.
Overall, the Hilkinson Natureline 80 Telescope is an excellent choice for beginner birdwatchers. It offers a good balance between affordability and optical performance, making it a worthwhile investment for those starting their birding journey. With its ease of use, portability, and decent magnification range, this telescope will help you observe birds with greater clarity and bring you closer to the wonders of nature.
Protection and value...
Any faults due to material or manufacturing defects will be rectified or parts replaced without charge for a period of 5 years from the date of purchase.
Verdict
The Hilkinson Natureline 80 Telescope will enhance your birding experience. Having used it extensively, I can confidently say that this telescope is an excellent choice for beginner birdwatchers. It combines affordability with decent optical performance, making it a great entry-level option for nature enthusiasts.
★★★★★★★★★ 8.5/10
Testing scores
📦 Buy now: www.hilkinson.co.uk
🏷 Price: £219.95
First up, I've had the pleasure of the Hilkinson Natureline 80 for the last two weeks, here's my opinion on this one...
What's in the box?
- Hilkinson Natureline 80 Telescope
- Eyepiece cover
- Objective lens cover
- Carrying strap
- Cleaning cloth
Images and coatings...
First and foremost, the Natureline 80 boasts an 80mm objective lens, which provides a respectable amount of light-gathering capability. This feature allows for better visibility of birds in various lighting conditions, including low-light situations.
The telescope's multi-coated optics ensure that images appear sharp and vibrant, offering a pleasing viewing experience.
One of the standout features of this telescope is its ease of use. Setting it up is a breeze, even for those with limited technical knowledge. The scope is very easy to attach to most tripod's and is sturdy and stable, allowing for smooth and steady panning to track birds in flight.
The Natureline 80 comes with a superb and 'non-fiddly' 20-60x zoom eyepiece, providing versatility in observing different bird species. The zoom capability allows for easy adjustment of magnification, enabling you to focus on distant birds or zoom out for wider views of bird habitats. The eyepiece is comfortable to use and provides a decent field of view, a big thumbs up when given the overall price point.
Performance and handling...
The Natureline 80 is a rugged scope that is also great in any weather thanks to the fully waterproof and nitrogen filled construction. The stay on case is well made and provides adequate protection, while the scope is lightweight (1252g) and will pack down easily in your backpack.
While the Natureline 80 performs admirably in most situations, it does have a few limitations. The image quality at higher magnifications can be slightly compromised, resulting in some loss of clarity and detail. However, considering its affordable price point, this compromise will be totally acceptable for beginner birdwatchers.
Another minor drawback is the absence of a smartphone adapter in the package. With the rising popularity of digiscoping (capturing images or videos through the telescope with a smartphone), including an adapter would have been a valuable addition for those interested in documenting their birding experiences.
Overall, the Hilkinson Natureline 80 Telescope is an excellent choice for beginner birdwatchers. It offers a good balance between affordability and optical performance, making it a worthwhile investment for those starting their birding journey. With its ease of use, portability, and decent magnification range, this telescope will help you observe birds with greater clarity and bring you closer to the wonders of nature.
Protection and value...
Any faults due to material or manufacturing defects will be rectified or parts replaced without charge for a period of 5 years from the date of purchase.
Verdict
The Hilkinson Natureline 80 Telescope will enhance your birding experience. Having used it extensively, I can confidently say that this telescope is an excellent choice for beginner birdwatchers. It combines affordability with decent optical performance, making it a great entry-level option for nature enthusiasts.
★★★★★★★★★ 8.5/10
Testing scores
- Design: ★★★★★★★★ 8/10
- Performance: ★★★★★★★★ 8/10
- Durability: ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10
- Weight: ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10
- Value: ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10
📦 Buy now: www.hilkinson.co.uk
🏷 Price: £219.95
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