Spotting scope

[BT]

I have an Athlon Talos 20-60x80. Very inexpensive and suits my needs at the bench, which is its primary purpose. A little bulky for using in the field, but the style of deer hunting we did in Wyoming last year, it worked well.

[PeterBrodbeck]

Athlon Talos 20-60x80: This is a more affordable option that still offers good performance. It's a little bulkier than the Minox, but it's still a good choice for hunting.

[Stumpkiller]

Nikon Prostaff 3 16-48x60. Not horrible, but not great, either. Around $330. I only use it at the range (or on the deck bird & deer watching) so I have plenty of time to get it set and focused. My neighbor (with very deep pockets) elk hunts in CO annually and he has a Swarovski that is 10X brighter and 20X clearer. At 15X the price.

Where I hunt 8X binoculars are plenty.

[PeterBrodbeck]

A larger objective lens will gather more light, which will give you a brighter image, especially in low light conditions. For a spotting scope, an objective lens size of 60mm or more is ideal.

[Alguapo]

Vortex Diamondback 20-60x60. Pretty reasonable price. I can see 17 cal. holes at the 100 yd. mark. I wish I had waited a few months and bought the Vortex 2-60x85, a friend bought one and it's so better then mine. Look around and you can buy refurbished for a great price with the full warranty.

[prdatr]

I have an Athlon ARES G2 UHD 15-45x65 I bought last year from Doug at CameralandNY. He was running a sale and after reading the reviews it would fit my needs. It was 571.99 I just use it for the range. It is nice and clear and I have three pairs of Swarovski binoculars and one of their scopes on my 7 Mag.

[bsekf]

Buy someplace where you can return. Eye relief is critical on a spotting scope. Some are so short you almost dirty the lens because you have to be so close. I have a couple of higher end chinese scopes and their glass has improved, but usually you get what you pay for.