Have you ever been on a hunt and wished you could see that trophy buck just a little bit clearer, from way over there? Spotting scopes are like having super-powered eyes! They let you see details that are too far away for your regular binoculars. For hunters, this can be the difference between a successful hunt and going home empty-handed.
Choosing a spotting scope, however, can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many different kinds, with confusing numbers and features. What magnification do you need? What size lens is best? How much should you spend? It’s easy to feel lost in all the choices. Picking the wrong scope can lead to blurry images and missed opportunities, which is frustrating after all the time and effort you put into hunting.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about hunting spotting scopes. You’ll learn about the important features, how to choose the right one for your needs, and avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll be ready to pick the perfect spotting scope and increase your chances of spotting that prize-winning animal.
Let’s dive in and explore the world of hunting spotting scopes, starting with the basics of magnification and lens size!
Our Top 5 Hunting Spotting Scopes Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Hunting Spotting Scopes Detailed Reviews
1. SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scopes with Tripod
Rating: 9.5/10
The SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scope is a great tool for seeing things far away. It comes with a tripod and a phone adapter. You can use it for bird watching, target shooting, or looking at wildlife. This scope is perfect for beginners and people who like to explore.
What We Like:
- 25-75x zoom lets you see things up close. It is easy to change the zoom.
- The 70mm lens gathers lots of light. You get a clear view of your target.
- It is waterproof. This is good if the weather changes. The grip is non-slip.
- It has a phone adapter and a small tripod. You can share pictures and videos.
- It is light and easy to carry. You can take it camping.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included tripod may not be suitable for all terrain.
- The image quality may diminish at the highest zoom levels.
This SVBONY spotting scope is a good choice for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. It is easy to use and comes with everything you need to get started.
2. Nexiview 25-75×80 HD Spotting Scope with 64in Tripod and Upgraded Phone Adapter
Rating: 8.9/10
The Nexiview 25-75×80 HD Spotting Scope is a powerful tool for seeing things far away. It comes with a 64-inch tripod and a special phone adapter. This spotting scope is great for target shooting, bird watching, hunting, and looking at wildlife. The green color makes it easy to spot in nature. It helps you see more details.
What We Like:
- Adjustable 25-75x zoom lets you see things up close.
- The large 80mm objective lens gives you a wide and clear view.
- BAK4 prisms make the images bright and clear.
- The upgraded tripod and phone adapter make it easy to use.
- It comes with a 12-month warranty and good customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- (No cons are mentioned in the features.)
The Nexiview spotting scope is a great choice for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. It is a good product for seeing things from a distance.
3. Gosky Updated 20-60×80 Spotting Scopes with Tripod
Rating: 8.7/10
The Gosky Updated 20-60×80 Spotting Scope is a great tool for seeing things far away. It’s made for bird watching, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the scenery. This scope has a strong zoom, a clear lens, and is waterproof. It also comes with a tripod, phone holder, and a carrying case. You can use it to take pictures and videos of what you see.
What We Like:
- The zoom lets you see things from 20x to 60x closer.
- The lens is clear and bright, thanks to the BAK4 prism.
- It is waterproof and fog-proof.
- It comes with a tripod for steady viewing.
- You can take pictures and videos with your phone.
- It includes a carrying case and lens covers.
What Could Be Improved:
- The phone adapter is only for certain phone sizes.
This Gosky spotting scope is a good choice for anyone who likes to watch nature. It is easy to use and gives you a good view of the world around you.
4. Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope
Rating: 9.1/10
The Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope, Green, 20-60 x 65mm is a great tool for spotting things far away. This spotting scope is made for outdoor adventures. It is great for bird watching, hunting, or looking at distant objects. The scope comes in green, and it has a 20-60x magnification range. This allows you to see things up close and personal.
What We Like:
- It has a powerful zoom. You can see things from far away.
- The scope is easy to set up and use.
- It includes a tripod mount. This lets you keep the scope steady.
- The scope is durable. It can handle tough outdoor conditions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The package is a bit heavy. It weighs about 8.7 pounds.
In conclusion, the Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope is a solid choice for anyone who needs a good spotting scope. It is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts who want to see things clearly from a distance.
5. Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Spotting Scopes (12-36×50 Angled)
Rating: 8.7/10
The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Spotting Scope (12-36×50 Angled) is a great tool. It’s perfect for hunters and nature lovers. It helps them see far away objects clearly. This spotting scope gives you great performance without breaking the bank. It has a strong build and clear optics.
What We Like:
- The Arca-Swiss compatible foot is easy to use on most tripods.
- It has a high-definition (HD) optical system. This gives you sharp images.
- Anti-reflective coatings make the images bright. This is good for low light.
- It has a wide view, so you can find targets fast.
- The focus is easy to adjust.
- The eyecups are adjustable for comfort.
- It’s shockproof and has rubber armor for protection.
- It’s waterproof and fogproof.
- It has a lifetime warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included sunshade is only on the larger models.
The Vortex Crossfire HD spotting scope is a fantastic option. It is a good choice for anyone who needs a clear and reliable spotting scope.
Hunting Spotting Scope Buying Guide: See Your Target Clearly
Hunting spotting scopes help you see far away. They are like powerful telescopes for hunters. This guide will help you choose the best one.
Key Features to Look For
You need to understand what makes a good spotting scope. Here are the most important things:
1. Magnification and Objective Lens Size
- Magnification: This tells you how much closer the scope makes things appear. A scope with 20x magnification makes objects look 20 times closer.
- Objective Lens Size: This is the diameter of the front lens (the big one). It’s measured in millimeters (mm). A bigger lens lets in more light. This makes the image brighter, especially in low light.
- Example: 20-60×60 means 20x to 60x magnification and a 60mm objective lens.
2. Lens Coatings
- Coatings on the lenses reduce glare and improve image quality.
- Fully Multi-Coated: This is the best. All lens surfaces have multiple layers of coatings. This gives you the brightest and clearest view.
3. Field of View
- This is how wide the scene is that you can see through the scope. A wider field of view is helpful for finding your target.
4. Eye Relief
- Eye relief is the distance your eye must be from the eyepiece to see the full picture. More eye relief is good, especially if you wear glasses.
5. Waterproofing and Fog Proofing
- Hunting often happens in bad weather. A waterproof and fog-proof scope is essential. Look for scopes filled with nitrogen or argon gas.
Important Materials
The materials used make a big difference in quality.
1. Lens Glass
- ED Glass (Extra-low Dispersion): This glass reduces color fringing (color around the edges of objects). This makes the image sharper.
- BK-7 Glass: This is a common type of glass. It works well but isn’t as good as ED glass.
2. Body Material
- Aluminum: This is a strong and lightweight material.
- Polycarbonate: This is a durable plastic. It’s less expensive but can be less rugged.
Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect how good a spotting scope is.
1. Construction
- A well-built scope will last longer. Check for a sturdy body and smooth adjustments.
2. Lens Quality
- Better glass and coatings mean a better view. ED glass and fully multi-coated lenses are the best.
3. Brand Reputation
- Some brands are known for quality. Do some research before you buy.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do hunters use spotting scopes?
1. Scouting
- Spotting scopes help hunters find game from a distance. This is important for planning a hunt.
2. Evaluating Game
- You can use a scope to see the size and quality of an animal. This is important for making a decision about whether to take a shot.
3. Shooting at Long Distances
- Spotting scopes help you see where your bullets hit. This helps you adjust your aim.
Hunting Spotting Scope FAQs
Q: What magnification is best for hunting?
A: It depends on where you hunt. A magnification of 20x to 60x is usually good. You should be able to change the magnification.
Q: What is the best objective lens size?
A: A larger objective lens (like 60mm or 80mm) lets in more light. This is good for low-light conditions.
Q: What does “fully multi-coated” mean?
A: It means all lens surfaces have multiple layers of coatings. This improves image brightness and clarity.
Q: Is a spotting scope waterproof?
A: Many spotting scopes are waterproof. Always check the specifications before you buy. Make sure it is also fog-proof.
Q: What is eye relief?
A: Eye relief is the distance your eye must be from the eyepiece to see the full picture. More eye relief is better.
Q: What is ED glass?
A: ED glass reduces color fringing. It makes the image sharper.
Q: What body material is best?
A: Aluminum is a good choice. It’s strong and lightweight.
Q: How do I clean a spotting scope?
A: Use a lens cleaning cloth and solution. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: Can I use a spotting scope with a tripod?
A: Yes, most spotting scopes need a tripod for stability.
Q: What’s the difference between a spotting scope and binoculars?
A: Spotting scopes give you a more powerful view, but they have only one eyepiece. Binoculars have two eyepieces and are easier to carry.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.