A spotting scope is a small portable telescope with added optics to present an erect image, optimized for the observation of terrestrial objects. They are used for bird-watching, land viewing and other naturalist activities, for hunting, verifying a marksman's shots, surveillance, and for any other application that requires more magnification than a pair of binoculars. With a scope you can view across great distances and notice details that are nearly impossible to see with binoculars.
2. What is a Spotting Scope
A spotting scope is a small portable
telescope with added optics to
present an erect image, optimized for
the observation of terrestrial objects.
They are used for bird-watching, land
viewing and other naturalist
activities, for hunting, verifying a
marksman's shots, surveillance, and
for any other application that
requires more magnification than a
pair of binoculars. With a scope you
can view across great distances and
notice details that are nearly
impossible to see with binoculars.
3. Binocular, Spotting Scope or Telescope
If you are just getting started with birding or hunting
then binoculars would probably work best. Binoculars
are more compact, portable and intuitive to use. They
are also good for travel and a variety of other uses. As
you become more serious about your outdoor activity
you will, sooner or later, want a spotting scope and
tripod. For bird watching, the high magnification and
better stability will allow you to see details on birds
that cannot be seen with binoculars. Hunters use
them to effectively spot, follow and identify wildlife
while target shooters use them for scoring.
Telescopes are designed for astronomy and viewing
the night sky. Spotting scopes on the other hand are
also designed for viewing subjects on land. A spotting
scope would work great if you want to see boats in
the bay for example. Or simply observe subjects from
a very long distance.
4. The Ideal Lens Size
You simply need to choose if you prefer a better image quality or a smaller and lighter
spotting scope. A spotting scope with a larger lens (60mm to 80mm) will have better
light-gathering capability than a smaller 50mm lens spotting scope. This means that the
image you see will be brighter and clearer. You will also enjoy a wider field of view. On
the other hand the bigger the lens is the larger and heavier your spotting scope will be.
Larger spotting scopes are also more expensive.
Think about where you will be using the spotting scope the most. If you normally stay
at a fixed location for a long period of time or don’t need to worry about extra weight
then go for an 80mm scope (if you can afford it of course). If you like to travel light or
move around more then a 50 to 60mm scope will suit you better. Some 50mm scopes
can even be used without a tripod when needed.
5. Best 4 Spotting Scopes @ Procular
Bushnell SpaceMaster 15-45X50
This is handy little spotting scope by Bushnell and a very popular
choice. Although its smaller lens it provides an excellent image
quality.
Celestron Ultima 20-60X80
Extremely durable and waterproof design, adjustable angled
eyepiece and suitable for use with or without glasses. Super-
Smooth focusing mechanisms.
Barska 30-90X100 WP Spotting Scope
This scope is an excellent performer at dusk, night and low light
conditions. A solid long range spotting scope that is waterproof
and durable in all weather conditions.
Vortex Razor HD 16-48X65
The highest quality available today for hunting or
birdwatching. Vortex’s flagship scope designed to compete
with the world’s best European .