Spotting scopes are powerful optical instruments that allow you to see distant objects in detail. They are popular with birdwatchers, hunters, and nature enthusiasts, but they can also be used for other purposes, such as astronomy and surveillance.
| PRODUCT NAME | BUYING LINK |
|---|---|
| 1. Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Angled Spotting Scope | BUY ON AMAZON |
| 2. Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scopes | BUY ON AMAZON |
| 3. Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope – 20 to 60x80mm Zoom Eyepiece | BUY ON AMAZON |
| 4. Kowa TSN-501 Spotting Scope | BUY ON AMAZON |
| 5. Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope – Fully Multi-Coated Optics | BUY ON AMAZON |
When choosing a spotting scope, there are a few factors to consider, including the magnification, aperture, objective lens quality, and eye relief. Magnification is the number of times the scope enlarges an object. Aperture is the diameter of the objective lens, which determines how much light the scope can collect. Objective lens quality is important for image resolution and clarity. Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece lens and your eye. It should be long enough to allow you to see the full field of view without having to press your eye against the eyepiece.
Some of the best spotting scopes on the market include:
1. Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Angled Spotting Scope
The Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A is a high-quality spotting scope with excellent image quality, a wide range of magnification, and durable construction. It is a good choice for birders, hunters, and nature enthusiasts who need a reliable and versatile scope.
Key Features:
- Extra-low dispersion glass virtually eliminates color fringing
- Advanced coatings give improved light transmission rate
- Fully waterproof and fogproof with strong yet lightweight magnesium housing
- Built-in sunshade with peep sight
- Supplied with stay-on case with detachable carry strap
Pros:
- Excellent image quality
- Wide range of magnification
- Durable and lightweight
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Comes with a stay-on case
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Bulky and heavy
2. Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scopes
The Vortex Optics Viper HD spotting scope is a high-quality spotting scope with excellent image quality, a wide range of magnification, and durable construction. It is backed by Vortex’s lifetime warranty, making it a great value for the money.
Key Features:
- HD optical system for vivid, high-definition images
- XR anti-reflective coatings for brighter views in low-light
- Smooth helical focus for ultra-sharp viewing
- Built-in sunshade to reduce glare
- Multi-position eyecup for proper eye relief
- Locking collar for rotating the scope into different viewing positions
- O-ring sealed and argon purged for waterproof and fogproof performance
- Armortek coatings to protect the lenses from oil, scratches, and dirt
- Rubber armor for durability and grip
Pros:
- Excellent image quality
- Wide range of magnification
- Durable and lightweight
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Backed by Vortex’s lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Bulky and heavy
3. Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope – 20-60x Zoom Eyepiece
The Celestron Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope is a great all-around spotting scope for birdwatchers, hunters, and nature enthusiasts. It offers good image quality, a wide range of magnification, and durable construction at an affordable price. It is also waterproof and fogproof, making it suitable for use in all weather conditions.
Key Features:
- 80mm objective lens
- 20-60x zoom magnification
- 45° viewing angle
- Multi-coated optics
- Waterproof and fogproof construction
- Soft carrying case included
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Good image quality
- Wide range of magnification
- Durable and lightweight
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Comes with a soft carrying case
Cons:
- Not as sharp as some higher-end spotting scopes
- Zoom eyepiece can be a bit stiff
4. Kowa TSN-501 50mm Angled Spotting Scope
The Kowa TSN-501 50mm Angled Spotting Scope is a great compact spotting scope for birdwatchers, hunters, and nature enthusiasts. It offers excellent image quality for its size and price, a wide range of magnification, and durable construction. It is also waterproof and fogproof, making it suitable for use in all weather conditions.
The TSN-501 is a good choice for anyone looking for a lightweight and portable spotting scope that offers good image quality. It is also a good choice for budget-minded buyers.
Key Features:
- 50mm objective lens
- 20-40x zoom magnification
- 45° viewing angle
- Multi-coated optics
- Waterproof and fogproof construction
- Compact and lightweight design
Pros:
- Excellent image quality for its size and price
- Wide range of magnification
- Durable and lightweight
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Compact and easy to carry
Cons:
- Not as sharp as some higher-end spotting scopes
- Zoom eyepiece can be a bit stiff
5. Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope – Fully Multi-Coated Optics
The Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope is a great all-around spotting scope for birdwatchers, hunters, and nature enthusiasts. It offers excellent image quality, a wide range of magnification, and durable construction at a reasonable price. It is also waterproof and fogproof, making it suitable for use in all weather conditions.
If you are looking for a high-quality spotting scope that offers excellent image quality and value for the money, the Celestron Regal M2 80ED is a great choice.
Key Features:
- Extra-low dispersion (ED) objective lens for sharp images with superb color correction
- Fully multi-coated optics with Celestron’s proprietary XLT optical coatings for maximum light transmission
- Rotating tripod mount for comfortable viewing angles
- Includes a 20-60x zoom eyepiece, padded view-through case, objective cover, eyepiece cover, storage covers, T-mount adapter, cleaning cloth, and instruction manual
- Backed by Celestron’s Limited Lifetime warranty and unlimited customer support
Pros:
- Excellent image quality, especially for the price
- Wide range of magnification
- Durable and lightweight construction
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Zoom eyepiece can be a bit stiff
- Can be expensive for some buyers
Final Verdict
The best spotting scope for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. However, some of the best spotting scopes on the market include:
- Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III 27-60x85mm Angled Spotting Scope (high-end)
- Swarovski ATS 65 HD Angled Spotting Scope (high-end)
- Kowa TSN-883 PRO Spotting Scope (mid-range)
- Leupold BX-4 Rogue 12-42x50mm Spotting Scope (budget-friendly)
- Celestron Ultima 80mm Spotting Scope (entry-level)
If you are looking for the best possible image quality and performance, the Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III 27-60x85mm Angled Spotting Scope is the best choice. However, it is also the most expensive spotting scope on this list.
If you are looking for a more affordable option, the Celestron Ultima 80mm Spotting Scope is a great entry-level spotting scope that offers good image quality and a wide range of magnification.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right spotting scope for you is to read reviews and compare different models before you make a purchase. You should also consider your budget and your specific needs. For example, if you are planning on using your spotting scope for birdwatching, you will want to choose a model with a high magnification and good color correction. If you are planning on using your spotting scope for hunting, you will want to choose a model that is durable and lightweight.
No matter what your needs are, there is a spotting scope out there that is perfect for you.