Barska Benchmark 25-125x88 Spotting Scope

I purchased this scope with high hopes thinking it would be a great deal for the money. First off, it is not a totally bad scope however I ended up much happier with a smaller objective lens of a higher quality "B" brand for about $30-$50 more. Even a 60mm objective lens with better glass will make this rig look like a cheap toy. The biggest complaints I have with this scope is the focus and the zoom. The focus is actually on the front by the big front lens and is really a pain to adjust while looking through the scope without moving it all over the place. You have to turn that big ring A LOT in order to focus, this is a big drag. Most other scopes have the focus knob located near the eyepiece so you can roll it with your finger(s) while looking through the eyepiece and do it quickly. The BIG focus ring makes this scope not very fun to use when changing targets. The zoom function works, however when you zoom in it seems the field of view gets very small and blurry - much worse than other manufacturers. Lastly, the main reason why I couldn't live with this scope is that comparing it to others - it has darker glass and just is not as clear. I went to a major outdoor outfitters store and actually tried various other scopes they had on display. It was immediately clear that this particular scope cannot hold a candle to other's glass quality and ease of focus/zoom. Get a scope with a smaller objective, better glass, and easier focus. Barska should include less "goodies" (case, bag, etc) and a better product. All in all,not bad but just pony up a few extra dollars and get something easier to use/more compact/better glass/easier focus.