How To Choose A Spotting Scope - OpticsPlanet.com

Published on March 5, 2015
Duration: 7:25

This guide, presented by Trevor B, a Product Specialist from OpticsPlanet.com, details how to choose the right spotting scope based on application. Key factors include magnification, objective lens size, body style (straight vs. angled), and the importance of a stable tripod. Specific recommendations are provided for hunting, target shooting, birding, and general use, emphasizing trade-offs between portability, clarity, and field of view.

Quick Summary

Choosing a spotting scope involves matching its specifications to your activity. For hunting, prioritize portability with 15-45x magnification and a 50mm objective. Target shooting benefits from higher magnification (20-60x) and larger objectives (80mm) for long-distance clarity. A stable tripod is essential for all uses to prevent image wobble.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Spotting Scopes
  2. 00:33Hunting Spotting Scopes
  3. 01:38Target Shooting Scopes
  4. 03:43Birding and Optical Quality
  5. 04:37Camping and Sightseeing
  6. 05:27Straight vs. Angled Body Styles
  7. 06:18Tripods and Mounting

Frequently Asked Questions

What magnification and objective lens size is recommended for hunting with a spotting scope?

For hunting, portability is key. Compact, lightweight spotting scopes with 15-45x magnification and a 50mm objective lens are recommended. If glassing from a vehicle, larger scopes can be suitable.

What are the ideal specifications for a target shooting spotting scope?

Target shooting typically involves stationary scopes on tripods, so weight is less of a concern. Higher magnification, such as 20-60x, and larger objective lenses, like 80mm, are preferred for clarity at long distances (500-1200+ yards).

What is the importance of a tripod when using a spotting scope?

A stable tripod is critical for preventing image wobble, especially when using higher magnifications. Most modern spotting scopes feature a standard 1/4x20 thread mounting plate for easy and secure attachment to various tripod heads.

What is the difference between straight and angled spotting scope bodies?

Angled spotting scope bodies are more versatile for groups of different heights and comfortable for seated shooting as the eyepiece can be rotated. Straight bodies are often preferred for digiscoping.

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