Recommendations on a spotting scope

[codeman671]

I am looking for a decent spotting scope to put on a tripod in our living room to look out at the lake. Definitely looking for something higher powered than binoculars (already have those). Binos get finicky when getting into higher power unless they are stabilized.

Currently using a cheap Amazon Galileo telescope now. Its hard to even look through it with the limited eye relief, and the camera adapter is useless.

https://www.amazon.com/Galileo-Astro...3-0e5c1a776d5d

I have been looking at the Vortex Diamondback HD line of scopes. Not sure about straight or angled viewing. Any other recommendations?

https://vortexoptics.com/optics/spot...ct_family=2188

[ishoot308]

I am a big fan of Kowa spotting scopes. Been using them for years. Recommend one of theirs with the 100% solid fluorite lens for light gathering capability and crystal clear definition. They aren’t cheap but well worth it.

I prefer the angled lens over the straight but only because I used it while shooting long range in the prone position. If you’re going to mount it on a tripod and only use it that way you will be fine with a straight scope.

I also recommend a 25x long eye relief eye piece. Don’t waste your money on anything more powerful and definitely don’t get an adjustable power eye piece.


Edited to add: My scope is is Kowa TSN-883 Prominar with a 25X LER (long eye relief). It’s probably 15 years old and still an amazing scope compared to what some of these new cheaper models offer.

Dan

[boat_guy64]

I bought a fairly cheap Landove a few years ago on Amazon specifically for the shooting range. I then bought a tripod and do exactly what you said. I take great pictures of things on the lake, bobcats, Eagles, Loons etc... At 60X, I get some great pictures and have caught some awesome moon rises as it comes over the hill across the bay. I'm sure that there are much better but a $129 version has done very well for me.

[ChasesIslandOkie]

We just got back from a trip to Costa Rica and the naturalists we were with all used Swarovski spotting scopes. They were amazing as we were able to see a group of toucans on a tree about a 1/4 away! Critters that were closer were visible in incredible detail. The first time I peered into it, I was astounded by the image. But I think those scopes are a serious investment.

[sunfishman]

Codeman, I have a barely used scope w/tripod for sale if you are interested. Please check your p.m.

[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by codeman671

I am looking for a decent spotting scope to put on a tripod in our living room to look out at the lake. Definitely looking for something higher powered than binoculars (already have those). Binos get finicky when getting into higher power unless they are stabilized.

Currently using a cheap Amazon Galileo telescope now. Its hard to even look through it with the limited eye relief, and the camera adapter is useless.

https://www.amazon.com/Galileo-Astro...3-0e5c1a776d5d

I have been looking at the Vortex Diamondback HD line of scopes. Not sure about straight or angled viewing. Any other recommendations?

https://vortexoptics.com/optics/spot...ct_family=2188

Sent you an email through this site.

[shifthappens]

I've heard great things about the Vortex Diamondback HD series, so that seems like a solid choice. As for straight vs. angled, it's really a personal preference. Straight scopes are easier for quick spotting, while angled ones can be more comfortable for extended viewing sessions.

[bigdog]

How about a scope for my rifle ? Long distant shooting, maybe out to 300-400 yards Looking for a decent one but not to break the bank..... Suggestions ?

[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by bigdog

How about a scope for my rifle ? Long distant shooting, maybe out to 300-400 yards Looking for a decent one but not to break the bank..... Suggestions ?

Leupold is the “every man’s” high end scope and they can be pricey as well. You can Wade into the very high end market and Swarovski and Zeiss and others. I would think for long range shooting you would want something with a higher power and a large objective lens. Most hunting scopes for New England would max out at 3-9x (variable power)
What rifle and caliber are you shooting?

[ishoot308]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

Leupold is the “every man’s” high end scope and they can be pricey as well. You can Wade into the very high end market and Swarovski and Zeiss and others. I would think for long range shooting you would want something with a higher power and a large objective lens. Most hunting scopes for New England would max out at 3-9x (variable power)
What rifle and caliber are you shooting?

Welcome back and nice to see you Hill!!

Dan

[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Welcome back and nice to see you Hill!!

Dan

Thanks Dan! Finally got rid of my dunce cap and came out of corner! 😂

[Major]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

Leupold is the “every man’s” high end scope and they can be pricey as well. You can Wade into the very high end market and Swarovski and Zeiss and others. I would think for long range shooting you would want something with a higher power and a large objective lens. Most hunting scopes for New England would max out at 3-9x (variable power)
What rifle and caliber are you shooting?

I had the privilege back in the day to write a couple of patent applications on Swarovski rifle scopes. The precision and quality were amazing. Good luck!