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  • Post category:Scopes
  • Post last modified:May 31, 2022
  • Post published:May 12, 2022

Are you in the market for a spotting scope? If so, you’re likely wondering which one is the best. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the top-rated spotting scopes on the market and see how they compare. We’ll also provide a few tips on what to look for when choosing a spotting scope. Stay tuned!

Best Spotting Scope

Table of Contents

Best Spotting Scope Reviews

#1 Athlon Optics Argos HD Spotting Scopes

Athlon Optics Argos HD Spotting Scopes

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Specification

Magnification: 20 – 60 x
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Fogproof: Yes

The Athlon Optics Argos HD Spotting Scopes are a great choice for anyone looking for good optical quality and ease of use. The Argos spotting scope features our wind band fully multi-coated lenses and Porro prisms with phased coating. They bring great clarity and brightness within the reach of all enthusiasts. The lightweight composite chassis protected by rubber armor is fog proof, waterproof, and filled with nitrogen gas to prevent internal fogging and promote better thermal stability.

Pros:
  • Good optical quality.
  • Easy to use.
  • Light-weight composite chassis.
  • Fog proof, waterproof, and filled with nitrogen gas.
  • Comes with a specially designed soft case.
  • Phase Coated Porro prisms reflect a great amount of light to your eyes.
Cons:
  • Heavy.

 

#2 Barska Bench Mark DFS Waterproof Spotting Scope

Barska Bench Mark DFS Waterproof Spotting Scope

Specification

Color: Green
Magnification: 8 – 24 x
Objective Lens Diameter: 58 mm
Eye Relief: 19 – 14.5 mm
Field of View, Linear: 225 – 14.5 ft at 1000 yds
Twilight Factor: 21.54 – 37.3
ED Glass: No
Scope Body Type: Straight
Body Only: No
Close Focus: 10.8 ft
Length: 7.8 in
Weight: 1.54 lb
Included Accessories: Accu-Grip Handlheld Tripod, Tripod, Soft Carrying Case, Lens Cloth
Magnification Type: Variable

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line spotting scope that can provide an extreme level of pleasure and performance, then look no further than the Barska 8-24x58mm Bench Mark DFS Waterproof Spotting Scope. This scope is designed with an innovative Dynamic Focusing System which allows you to focus by turning the objective lens. This system ensures that you always get a clear and crisp image, whether you’re out on a hunt or simply enjoying a nature hike. In addition, the rugged construction of this scope makes it able to withstand any type of weather condition, so you can rest assured knowing that it will perform perfectly no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

Pros:
  • Rugged construction.
  • Stunning performance.
  • Innovative Dynamic Focusing System makes focusing easy.
Cons:
  • Heavy.
  • Uncomfortable to use for long periods.

 

#3 Barska WP Blackhawk Waterproof Spotting Scope

Barska WP Blackhawk Waterproof Spotting Scope

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Specification

Magnification: 20 – 60 x
Eye Relief: 15 – 18 mm
Exit Pupil: 1 – 3 mm
Optical Coating: Multi-Coated
Twilight Factor: 34.64 – 60
Close Focus: 23 ft

The Barska Blackhawk Waterproof Spotting Scope is perfect for anyone looking for a high-quality spotting scope. It features multi-coated optics and a large objective lens, making it perfect for viewing in low light conditions. Plus, it’s portable and lightweight, making it the perfect option for taking with you on outdoor adventures!

Pros:
  • Durable construction.
  • 100% waterproof and fog proof.
  • Multi-coated optics deliver crisp clear views.
  • Variable zoom magnifications.
Cons:
  • May be too large for some users.
  • Some users may find it difficult to use.

 

#4 Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Porro Prism Spotting Scopes

Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Porro Prism Spotting Scopes

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Specification

Magnification: 20 – 60 x
Field of View, Linear: 105 – 60 ft at 1000 yds, 35 – 17 m at 1000 m
Close Focus: 30 ft
Water Resistance Level: IPX-7

The Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Porro Prism Spotting Scope series is perfect for the hunter who wants to be prepared for anything. The fully multi-coated lenses provide bright, high-contrast images with anti-reflective properties, making it easy to spot camouflaged prey and see all the details of your hunting grounds.

Pros:
  • Fully multi-coated lenses.
  • Anti-reflective properties.
  • Bright, high-contrast images.
  • Spot camouflaged prey easily.
  • IPX7 waterproof rating.
  • Fogproof protection.
Cons:
  • May be too heavy for some users.
  • Limited magnification range.

 

#5 Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide Spotting Scope

Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide Spotting Scope

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Specification

Magnification: 20 – 60 x
Field of View, Linear: 91.7 ft at 1000 yds
Field of View, Angle: 1.8 – 1 degrees
Close Focus: 22 ft
Weather Resistance: Fog Resistant
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof

If you want to take down the best game in the backcountry, you need to scout out prime opportunities using a top-of-the-line spotting scope like the Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide 20-60×85. Leupold has crafted this scope with an integrated sunshade that drastically reduces glare, making it easier to spot your game. The SX-4 is also fog-proof and has scratch-resistant lenses to survive harsh conditions and challenging environments. The Twilight Max HD Light Management System ensures the brightest views for longer glassing sessions, and the large eyepiece is comfortable to use all day long.

Pros:
  • The integrated sunshade eliminates glare.
  • The lenses are scratch-resistant.
  • The Twilight Max HD Light Management System ensures brighter views for longer.
  • The eyepiece is comfortable to use all day long.
Cons:
  • High price.
  • Difficult to use for people with glasses.

 

#6 Leupold Golden Ring Compact Spotting Scope

Leupold Golden Ring Compact Spotting Scope

Specification

Magnification: 15 – 30 x
Field of View, Linear: 89 – 136 ft at 1000 yds
Field of View, Angle: 1.7 – 2.6 degrees
Close Focus: 13.5 ft
Weather Resistance: Fog Resistant
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof

The Leupold Golden Ring Compact spotting scope is perfect for anyone who wants the performance of a larger spotting scope without the extra weight. Carbon fiber construction keeps it ultralight and incredibly tough, while our fully multi-coated lens system ensures maximum brightness for clarity, contrast, and color fidelity.

Pros:
  • Lightweight and durable.
  • Carbon fiber construction.
  • Fully multi-coated lens system.
  • Advanced Optical System.
  • Fogproof, waterproof, and guaranteed to perform for life.
Cons:
  • Heavy.
  • Prone to glare.

 

#7 Leupold Mark 4 Tactical Waterproof Spotting Scope

Leupold Mark 4 Tactical Waterproof Spotting Scope

Specification

Magnification: 20 – 60 x
Field of View, Linear: 42 – 121 ft at 1000 yds
Weather Resistance: Fog Resistant
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof

The Leupold Mark 4 Tactical Waterproof Spotting Scope is perfect for the most demanding environments and situations. Its expansive field of view and ability to track targets with ease make it a great choice for anyone looking for a quality spotting scope. The folded light path lens and mirror optical system provide an extended optical path, while the index-matched lenses eliminate glare and promote a crystal clear view.

Pros:
  • Rugged construction for tough environments.
  • The expansive field of view.
  • Easy tracking of targets.
  • Comfortable to use for long periods.
  • Treated with DiamondCoat2 for superior abrasion resistance.
Cons:
  • Pricey.
  • Heavy.

 

#8 Leupold HD Golden Ring Spotting Scope

Leupold HD Golden Ring Spotting Scope

Specification

Magnification: 12 – 40 x
Field of View, Linear: 52 – 168 ft at 1000 yds
Field of View, Angle: 1 – 3.2 degrees
Weather Resistance: Fog Resistant
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof

Leupold’s 12-40x60mm Golden Ring spotting scope offers the ultimate in resolution, color, and contrast. This high-definition optic is perfect for identifying subtle color variations and physical features that distinguish species. The fluoride-based objective lens is eco-friendly and produces a substantially enhanced image quality.

Pros:
  • HD lens offers substantially enhanced resolution, color, and contrast.
  • Made in Leupold’s facility.
  • A unique feature of ultra-high quality optics in compact dimensions thanks to their designs.
  • Comes with Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee.
Cons:
  • Pricey.
  • Only comes in one color.

 

#9 Vortex Razor HD Spotting Scope

Vortex Razor HD Spotting Scope

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Specification

Magnification: 27 – 60 x
Field of View, Linear: 68 – 117 ft at 1000 yds
Field of View, Angle: 1.3 – 2.2 degrees
Close Focus: 16.4 ft
Weather Resistance: Fog Resistant
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof

Vortex Razor HD Spotting Scope is the perfect tool for serious outdoorsmen and women. With its precision-ground HD glass lenses, this spotting scope delivers razor-sharp, true-to-life views of your target. The Vortex Razor HD also features excellent color accuracy and edge-to-edge sharpness, letting you see everything in a whole new light.

Pros:
  • Premium HD glass lenses are precision-ground to Vortex’s exacting standards.
  • Razor-sharp, true-to-life views of your target.
  • Excellent color accuracy and edge-to-edge sharpness.
Cons:
  • Heavy.
  • Expensive.

 

#10 Vortex Razor HD Spotting Scope

Vortex Razor HD Spotting Scope

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Specification

Magnification: 11 – 33 x
Field of View, Linear: 96 – 191 ft at 1000 yds
Field of View, Angle: 1.8 – 3.6 degrees
Twilight Factor: 23.5 – 40.6
Close Focus: 6.6 ft

Introducing the Vortex Razor HD spotter – the ultimate in compact, high-performance spotting scopes. Featuring a triplet apochromatic lens system, this spotter delivers stunning HD views across the entire field of view. Argon gas purging ensures superior fog-proof and waterproof performance, while adjustable eyecups allow for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.

Pros:
  • Super lightweight.
  • Durable.
  • Reliable.
  • Sealed with O-rings.
  • Argon gas purging.
  • Adjustable eyecups.
Cons:
  • The body of the spotting scope is made from plastic, which may not be as durable as metal.

 

#11 Vortex Viper HD Spotting Scope

Vortex Viper HD Spotting Scope

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Specification

Magnification: 20 – 60 x
Field of View, Linear: 101 – 50 ft at 1000 yds
Field of View, Angle: 1 – 1.9 degrees
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Prism System: Porro
Fogproof: Yes

The Vortex Viper HD 20-60x Spotting Scope is the perfect scope for anyone looking for an edge on the competition. With incredible optical performance, you’ll be able to see distant targets with amazing clarity and detail. The Vortex Viper HD Porro Spotting Scope is also waterproof, fog-proof, and features ArmorTek coatings so it can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Pros:
  • Razor-sharp clarity.
  • Incredible optical performance.
  • Smooth helical-style focus.
  • Waterproof, fog-proof, and features ArmorTek coatings.
  • Withstand harsh elements, rain, snow, and rugged terrain.
Cons:
  • May be too expensive for some.
  • Some users report difficulty with focusing.

 

#12 Kowa Prominar Spotting Scope

Kowa Prominar Spotting Scope

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Close Focus: 5 m

This Kowa Prominar Spotting Scope features an impressive 88mm objective lens, making it perfect for birders and hunters who demand the very best in terms of clarity and resolution. With the C3 fully multi-coated lens system, you’ll enjoy the unparalleled performance in any lighting condition. Whether you’re glassing for the game at dawn or scanning the horizon for birds at dusk, the Kowa Prominar Spotting Scope will help you make the most of every moment outdoors.

Pros:
  • Huge objective lenses offer astounding resolution and contrast.
  • C3 fully multi-coated lens coating system provides superior image clarity.
  • The rugged magnesium alloy body is waterproof and nitrogen purged for a lifetime of hard use.
  • Dual focusing system for easy adjustments.
Cons:
  • Pricey.
  • May be too large for some users.

 

#13 Pentax PF-80ED-A Spotting Scopes

Pentax PF-80ED-A Spotting Scopes

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
ED Glass: Yes
Scope Body Type: Angled

Sight in your prey and pull off the perfect shot with the compact and lightweight Pentax PF-80ED-A Spotting Scope. This powerful scope is designed with high-resolution ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass that provides sharp, vivid images while greatly reducing chromatic aberrations. The tough magnesium-alloy body is rugged and resistant to shock, protecting the internals from damage. So you can take this scope anywhere without worry. And at just 3.1 pounds, it won’t weigh you down on your next hunting or camping trip. Get the Pentax PF-80ED-A Spotting Scope and be ready for anything.

Pros:
  • ED Glass provides sharp, vivid images while greatly reducing chromatic aberrations.
  • The lightweight magnesium-alloy body is rugged and resistant to shock.
  • The integrated lens hood shields excessive light and protects the objective lens surface.
  • Waterproof and fog-proof to provide clear views in any weather.
Cons:
  • Price.
  • Size.

 

#14 Hawke Sport Optics Nature Spotting Scope

Hawke Sport Optics Nature Spotting Scope

Specification

Magnification: 24 – 72 x
Field of View, Linear: 42 – 84 ft at 1000 yds

The Hawke Sport Optics Nature 24-72×70 Spotting Scope Kit is the perfect choice for those who are just getting into spotting scope use. With fully multi-coated optics, this scope provides crisp, bright images that are sure to impress. The hard storage case, soft carry pouch, and included tripod make this a complete kit that is ready to use right out of the box. The Nature 24-72×70 is a great option for those who want increased image detail at greater distances. With a twist-out sunshade, this scope is equipped to handle any lighting condition.

Pros:
  • Supplied with an adjustable mini tripod.
  • Fully multi-coated optics for crisp, bright images.
  • Close focus – see detail from 23ft/7m.
  • BK-7 Porro prisms for intense color and contrast.
Cons:
  • It may be too powerful for beginners.
  • Tripod is not very sturdy.

 

#15 Newcon Optik Spotter ED Spotting Scope

Newcon Optik Spotter ED Spotting Scope

Specification

Magnification: 20 – 60 x
Field of View, Linear: 105 – 53 ft at 1000 yds
Twilight Factor: 41.23 – 71.41
ED Glass: Yes
Reticle: Mil-Line reticle
Close Focus: 7 m

Are you looking to take your long-distance shooting skills to the next level? Then check out the Newcon Optik Spotter ED Spotting Scope. This precision instrument is designed to deliver exceptional image quality at distances that would give most other scopes trouble. With its 20-60x magnification and 85mm objective lens, the Spotter ED will let you see every detail of your target with stunning clarity. Whether you’re at the range or in the field, this scope is up for any challenge.

Pros:
  • Bright and detailed image.
  • Fully multi-coated optics.
  • Powerful lens.
  • Lightweight and shock-resistant.
  • Waterproof, fog-proof, and nitrogen-filled.
Cons:
  • Weight may be a bit much for some.
  • May not be as durable as other scopes.

 

FAQ

What makes a good spotting scope?

There are a few key factors to consider when looking for the best spotting scope for your needs. The most important thing is to find a scope that offers high-quality optics. You’ll want to make sure the glass is clear and sharp, with no chromatic aberration or distortion. In addition, you’ll want to find a spotting scope that offers a wide range of magnification. This will allow you to view objects both near and far with ease. And finally, you’ll want to find a scope that is lightweight and portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go.

What to look for in buying a spotting scope?

When choosing the best spotting scope for your needs, you’ll need to consider a few factors. First, you’ll need to decide on the spotting scope you want. There are two main types: fixed and variable. Fixed spotting scopes have a specific magnification that cannot be changed, while variable spotting scopes can have their magnification adjusted to suit your needs.

Next, you’ll need to decide on the size of the spotting scope. This will depend on what you plan to use it for. If you’re mostly going to be using it for birdwatching, then you’ll likely want a smaller scope. However, if you’re planning on using it for hunting or target shooting, then you’ll likely want a larger scope.

Finally, you’ll need to decide on the price. Spotting scopes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. It all depends on the features and quality you’re looking for.

How much magnification do I need for the spotting scope?

Spotting scopes are designed to give you a closer view of objects that are far away. The level of magnification you need will depend on what you plan to use the scope for. If you’re mostly interested in bird watching, then a lower level of magnification will suffice. If you’re looking to use the scope for hunting or long-distance viewing, then you’ll need a model with a higher level of magnification.

Which spotting scope is strongest?

The strongest spotting scope on the market is the NightForce SHV 20-60x85mm spotting scope. It has been designed to provide shooters with the clearest image possible, regardless of the lighting conditions.

How far can you see with a 60x spotting scope?

Spotting scopes are optical instruments that are used to view objects at a distance. They are often used by birders, hunters, and wildlife enthusiasts to get a closer view of their target. Most spotting scopes have a magnification power of 20x-60x, which means that they can enlarge an object up to 60 times its original size.

With a 60x spotting scope, you should be able to see objects that are up to 1800 yards away. However, the actual distance that you can see will vary depending on the type of spotting scope that you use, the weather conditions, and the type of terrain that you are viewing.

Can a spotting scope be used as a telescope?

A spotting scope can be used as a telescope, but it will not have the same power as a telescope. A spotting scope is designed for short- to medium-range viewing, while a telescope is designed for long-range viewing.

Are spotting scopes worth it?

This is a question that many people ask when looking to purchase a spotting scope. In general, spotting scopes are worth the investment if you plan to use them frequently. They can be used for a variety of activities, such as bird watching, hunting, or nature observation. There are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing a spotting scope. First, consider the size and weight of the scope. If you plan to travel with it often, you’ll want to choose a model that is lightweight and portable. Next, consider the magnification power of the scope. The higher the magnification power, the closer you will be able to see objects. Finally, think about your budget and what features you want your scope to have.

What can you do with a spotting scope?

A spotting scope is a great tool to have for bird watching, hunting, nature observation, and more. They are typically used to see objects or animals at a distance that are difficult to spot with the naked eye. Spotting scopes can also be used for astronomy applications, such as viewing the moon or planets.

What is a good magnification for bird watching?

This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on what you want to use the spotting scope for. Generally, the higher the magnification, the smaller the field of view (the area you can see through the scope). This can be a problem when trying to watch birds as they can move quickly and you may not be able to follow them if your field of view is too small. Therefore, I would recommend a lower magnification (around 20x-30x) for bird watching.

Conclusion

When you’re looking for the best spotting scope, it’s important to consider a variety of factors. Our buyer’s guide will help you make an informed decision about the features that are most important to you and provide tips on how to find the right spotting scope for your needs. With so many options available, we know it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve included reviews of some of the top-rated spotting scopes on the market. We hope this article provides all the information you need to choose the perfect spotting scope for your next outdoor adventure!

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