This is an incredible scope in an extremely compact package for an incredible value. I researched spotting scopes for months. I started looking through Vortex and Leupold then Swarovski. Eventually I discovered Kowa. Everything I read online described a product optically on par with Swarovski but for literally thousands less. I decided to go to an optic store in which I could look at the 883, 773, 663 and 553 side by side and see for myself. The build quality is excellent. Silky smooth focus excellent adjustment in the eyecups and sturdy magnesium body. This was consistent for the 883, 773 and 553. The overall quality of the 663 was good but noticeably not as excellent as the previous three mentioned. As expected the image of the 883 was the best and in my opinion better than any Swarovski I had looked through. I was unable to compare the image to a Leica or Zeiss but image quality is as good if not better than Swarovski. The micro focus is superior to the Swarovski barrel focus in my opinion as well. Chromatic aberration was non existent for the 883 and 553 containing the fluorite crystal. Ultimately, I decided to go with the compact package of the 553. I am a backpack hunter so this was very important to me. It would not be an exaggeration to say this is probably the best compact spotting scope in the world and if size weight is a major factor you will not be disappointed.
Mountain Goats from 4 miles away in Kodiak.
Mountain goats spotted on the mountain 4 miles away using phone skope and eagles from approximately 400 yards.