A spotting scope is a small and portable telescopic sight that is ideal for observing terrestrial objects like birds, game, shooting targets, and landscape features. In fact, spotting scopes are used extensively in birdwatching, hunting, and target shooting for tactical ranging and surveillance. Paired with the right rifle shooting tips, you can use a spotting scope to make you an amazing shooter.
Spotting scopes are more powerful than rifle scopes. They tend to have much greater magnification range (up to 60x) and bigger objective lenses for gathering light (up to 100mm). This enhanced resolution and ability to acquire targets at very far distances makes them a valuable asset for hunters and long range shooters.
The compact and portable design of spotting scopes also makes them ideal for hiking, camping, and hunting excursions that cover a lot of area. Basically, a spotting scope is best suited for any activity that requires higher magnification and resolution than a binocular.
The magnification and objective lens size will likely be the most important features that influence your purchase decision. For example, a “10-20x40mm” means the scope is capable of a 10-20x magnification range with an objective lens that is 40mm in diameter. This would be a smaller and less powerful spotting scope compared to others, and it will be able to fit nicely in the palm of your hand.
If you’re a hunter, keep in mind that a higher magnification will decrease your field of view. If you’re just wanting to cover your immediate surroundings then a lower magnification will give you a better overall picture.
The Best Spotting Scopes Reviewed
Burris Signature HD Spotting Scope
This next-level spotting scope has been on the market for just a couple years and is probably one of the best spotting scopes you can buy for under $2000. The Burris Signature HD Spotting Scope takes glassing to another level.
Complete visual command of the landscape is at your hands. You will be evaluating prime targets from a mountain away with the 20-60x magnification range and HD apochromatic lens system provided by this amazing spotting scope. Premium HD glass for optimal resolution and light transmission from early morning to sunset — it delivers crystal clear edge-to-edge resolution and eliminates color fringing at any magnification. Burris scopes are always made of the highest quality materials.
You can see .30 caliber bullet holes at 300 yards. Additionally, the Burris Signature HD Spotting Scope features a built-in sun shade to reduce glare and provide protection from the elements, an angled eyepiece and rotating tripod, a forward mounted focus knob for coarse or fine adjustments, and a lightweight and durable design with an armor-protected magnesium body for toughness in the field.
Another great feature of this spotting scope is its ability to attach a Burris FastFire red dot sight on either side of the body to assist you in performing incredibly efficient target acquisition and verification. An optional fixed power 30x eyepiece is available with a SCR Mil or SCR MOA reticle (or no reticle) while still keeping the overall price of the scope below $2000.
The Burris Signature HD probably has the most features and best clarity for its price point. You can even view the craters on the Moon or adapt this optic for photography if you desire.
Konus KonuSpot-100 20-60×100 Spotting Scope
A great spotting scope for birdwatchers, the KonuSpot-100 is a powerful angled spotting scope that offers the best high image resolution and clarity/brightness in its category at a reasonable price.
This glass optic has multi-coated lenses and a special 2” high-definition eyepiece that can connect to any reflex camera. This spotting scope has a wide 100m objective diameter and powerful 20-60x magnification range.
The metal body has an anti shock rubber covering and a high precision mechanical construction guarantees precision and stability. Additionally, the Konus KonuSpot-100 has an eyepiece located at a 45° angle with respect to the optical axis and has extendable sun shades complete with a photo adapter (to be used with an optional T2 ring).
Excellent spotting scope for birding.
Sig Sauer Victor 3
The Sig Sauer Victor 3 10-20x30mm is a revolutionary mini spotting scope featuring all the advanced technologies you would expect from Sig Sauer’s riflescopes.
This remarkable piece of glass has a rugged and compact, lightweight polymer body design with durable rubber armor that gives a strong grip and fits snugly in the palm of your hand like a canteen. Unlike a lot of spotting scopes, the Victor 3 features advanced electronic image stabilization that eliminates the need for a tripod.
This proprietary technology utilizes gyroscopic stabilizers to maintain optic focus and cancel out shaking and vibrations from hand movement. A low dispersion multi-coated glass with BAK4 prism offers maximum, crystal-clear optical clarity and ultra-crisp resolution. The optical focus on the front lens is about 1.5 times the size of an average range finder.
The Victor 3 is ideal for backpacking, hunting, and wildlife observation, or military reconnaissance. Sig Sauer considers everything that a professional or civilian would use and develops it into a compact and sophisticated device.
This rock solid spotting scope is dependable and provides a stabilized image at all times for easy target acquisition. Its small size and extended range capabilities make it light enough to hang around your neck and ideal for scouting.
Leupold Gold Ring 10-20x40mm
The Leupold GR 10-20x40mm Gold Ring is a compact spotting scope that delivers relentless performance and quality that is comparable to larger, more expensive models. Check out more optics reviews.
Designed for professionals and civilians in mind, the Gold Ring is easy to use, has a wide view, and offers superior low-light performance and premium edge-to-edge clarity in a rugged body that is fully weatherproofed. Up to 30 minutes of extra glassing light at dawn and dusk is offered by the Twilight Light Management System.
Makes a great gifting idea for gun lovers.
A proprietary multi-coated lens system delivers optimal clarity, crisp resolution, depth, and color fidelity at all magnification levels. Assembled in the USA, the rugged and reliable Leupold Gold Ring will lighten your load wherever you go with its carbon fiber construction and scratch resistant lens.
Leupold pioneered waterproofing technology in their optical devices and the Gold Ring spotting scope is an example of extreme water and fog proofing, making it great for backpacking and scouting.
Bushnell Sentry Spotting Scope 12-36x50mm
The Bushnell Sentry Spotting Scope is a very affordable and ultra-compact optic that provides full-range brightness and clarity. With a 12-36x magnification range that makes it ideal for hunting or target shooting and multi-coated lenses to deliver great visual awareness from dawn to dusk.
It is designed for hunting applications where compactness is important. It is not the best option for long range glassing but it stays sharp and reliable up to 200 yards (you may need to make some adjustments beyond that distance to maintain focus). Other than that, the Bushnell Sentry Spotting Scope 12-36x50mm is an overall great quality package for the price.
This is a great budget spotting scope for casual hunters, shooters, or birdwatchers needing to verify shot placements without buying an expensive rifle scope; and it fits perfectly into a hidden gun coffee table.
Best Selling Spotting Scopes on Amazon
- Variable 20x to 60x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system - makes it easy to zoom in on target. Perfect for target shooting, archery, hunting, bird watching, wildlife watching, hiking, camping, scenery, outdoor sporting, astronomical observation etc
- Fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens provides a field of view at 82.9-48ft/1000yards. The quality BAK4 Porro prism optics increases light transmission and make your view brighter, clearer and delivers crisp images.
- Nitrogen filled waterproof and fog-proof design enables the scope to withstand the toughest environments. Durable Framework and Rubber Armor provide non-slip grip, shock-proof grip and durable external lasting protection. The eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece
- A smartphone digiscoping adapter included enables you to take photos and videos of what you have observed. Bring the nature closer to you and you can explore the distant world easily through the phone screen. A tripod provides you a more stable observation from any angles. A carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain
- Includes tabletop full metal tripod and tripod mount for steady observations. The carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain.
- 【POWERFUL MAGNIFICATION】: Adjustable powerful 20-60x zoom magnification allows you to lock onto your target and zoom in for more detail. Perfect for target shooting, archery, hunting, bird watching, wildlife watching, hiking, camping, scenery, outdoor sporting, astronomical observation etc
- 【FULLY MULTI-COATED LENS】: Fully multi-coated 60mm green film objective lens provides a field of view at 50-110ft/1000 yards. The quality BAK4 Porro prism optics increases light transmission, delivers bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions. 45 degree angled eyepiece provides more comfortable viewing
- 【DURABLE CONSTRUCTION】: Durable framework and high-quality rubber armor provide non-slip grip, shock-proof grip and durable external protection, which enables the scope to withstand the toughest weather conditions. The eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece
- 【WATERPROOF DESIGN】: O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the scope for reliable performance in all environments. Nitrogen gas purging delivers further waterproof performance
- 【FULL RANGE OF ACCESSORIES】: A smartphone digiscoping adapter included enables you to take photos and videos of what you have observed. Bring the nature closer to you and you can explore the distant world easily through the phone screen. A tripod provides you a more stable observation from any angles. A carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain
- ★[WIDE VIEW RANGE WITH FOGPROOF DESIGN] 60 mm objective lens to ensure the light-gathering power and resolution, as well as large view range. The spotting scopes’s fogproof design allows you to observe the target easily in rainy and fogy weather.
- ★[TABLE TRIPOD AND PHONE MOUNT KIT WITH STANDARD TRIPOD SCREW BASE] Spotting scope comes with the free table tripod and phone mount kit. The spotter scope’s screw base is a standard 1/4-20 taped hole which is universal of most floor tripod. That means you may install this scope on any floor tripod you own meets the standard tape hole.
- ★[HIGH MAGNIFICATION IDEAL FOR TARGET SHOOTING RANGE] This HUICOCY spotting scope offers a powerful zoom magnification runs from 20x to 60x power. 45° angled eyepiece offers a more comfortable viewing. Field-of-view is 39-19 m/1000 m, brings nature closer to you than ever. It is an ideal spotting scope for target shooting.
- ★[RUBBER ARMOR CONSTRUCTION:Rugged Non] Slip with a large "Smooth Glide" textured focus ring on the main barrel + No slip comfort molded grip. Special features - extendable/retractable eyepiece for use WITH Or WITHOUT glasses + extendable sunshade built onto the main barrel to reduce glare. Large objective lens allows superior light transmission and a bright wide view for shooting range, moon view, bird watching, hunting, wildlife sincerely, etc.
- ★[100% RELIABLE HUICOCY CUSTOMER SERVICE] Reliable and friendly customer service within a 24-hour time frame. We Completely stand behind our 'HUICOCY' spotting scope. We promise to take care of you with professional service. If you meet any issues, welcome to contact us, and we'll reach out directly soon.
- ✅【High Magnification】This spotting scope features a powerful zoom magnification range that adjustable 20x to 60x magnification,45 degree angled eyepiece ergonomic design allows more comfortable viewing. Field-of-view is 39-19m/1000m, brings nature closer to you than ever. Perfect for target shooting, hunting, bird watching wildlife, spotting moon, traveling, hiking, camping, archery, astronomy etc
- ✅【Fully Multi-coated Lens】The lens are all fully multi-coated and features BAK4 roof prism to increases light transmission and delivers bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions. For long range viewing, a dual focus wheel system enables fast and fine-tuning focus adjustment,allows you to lock onto your target and zoom in for more detail clearly
- ✅【Durable Construction】High-quality rubber armor provides non-slip grip, shock-proof grip and durable external protection. Built-in retractable sunshade reduces glare, come with tripod allows rotation of the eyepiece to a sideways position, providing adjustable viewing angles
- ✅【Waterproof Fogproof 】The waterproof spotting scope provides exceptional performance in the most rugged conditions. the spotter scope optics are sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the spotting scope, fogproof barrel is filled with nitrogen gas to inhibit internal fogging, completely protection for all weather conditions
- ✅【Emarth VIP Customer Service】 - Emarth offers lifetime VIP customer service for our customers, you are welcome to contact us if any problem with our optics products, our special line service will work hard to put a smile back on your face
- 25-75x zoom;SV28 spotting scope is easy to focus and change magnification;easily set up when looking at birds and scenery;A great spotting scope for beginner to novice
- 70mm large object lens;More powerful light gathering ability;70mm tube allows plenty of light and decent view of the target once set;extendable sunshade built onto the main barrel to reduce glare
- IP65 waterproof;Can avoid sudden environmental changes to damage the SV28 spotting scope;The finish is made of a seamless Non-Slip material so it doesn't feel like it would slip out of your hands if wet
- Includes phone adapter and portable desktop tripod;the desktop tripod is perfect for range spotting;Phone adapter makes it easier to share videos and photos
- Lightweight and portable weight;Very suitable for carrying when going out for observation; can also be easily put into the car for use in family camping
- 【𝗦𝗘𝗘 𝗕𝗨𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗧 𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗘𝗦 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗕𝗜𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗟𝗢𝗡𝗚 𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗘】The Raptor HD offers powerful magnification between 20x – 60x eliminating long walks to view your target! Adjustable Eye Relief and Eyepiece Angle provides comfortable viewing while the two Fast Focus Knobs quickly sharpen your perspective. The perfect spotter scope for shooting range outings and ideal choice for anyone browsing spotting scopes for bird watching!
- 【𝗘𝗡𝗝𝗢𝗬 𝗕𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗦𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗣 𝗜𝗠𝗔𝗚𝗘𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗢𝗥𝗙𝗨𝗟 𝗪𝗜𝗟𝗗𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘】Fully Multi-Coated Lenses eliminate reflections and a premium high-density BAK-4 Prism offers superior optical quality. Experience vibrant high-contrast images at full magnification without chromatic aberration. The 80mm objective lens offers brighter, clearer field of view even in low-light conditions compared to smaller lenses.
- 【𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗙𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗚𝗜𝗙𝗧 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗦𝗟𝗘𝗘𝗞 𝗖𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗬 𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗔𝗖𝗖𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦】Each high power spotting scope kit includes a Carrying Case and Shoulder Strap that protects and organizes the Range Scope, Table Top Tripod, Spotting Scope Phone Adapter and Photo Clicker. Other brands use small thin bags that won't protect or organize. If you are shopping for bird watching gifts, a gun range spotting scope for a loved one, or checking out spotting scopes for hunting look no further!
- 【𝗥𝗨𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗗 𝗪𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗢𝗙 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦】Nitrogen Purged Optics and O-Ring Seals make it 100% Waterproof, Fog proof and Shockproof. Field tested in cold snowy mountains and triple digit desert heat. Extendable Sunshade eliminates sun glare and utilizes Alignment Features to help locate wildlife and targets at distance.
- 【𝗙𝗨𝗟𝗟 𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘 𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗩𝗜𝗧𝗨𝗗𝗘 𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗬】You have several choices when purchasing a spotting scope, know that we are a USA based company with undeniable 𝗨𝗦 𝗖𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗥 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗩𝗜𝗖𝗘 and a product built to last. We are so confident you will love our products, that if you are not happy for any reason, Gravitude will replace your item or provide a full refund. It’s that simple!
- Gosky’s top of line spotting scope - 80mm big objective lens and fully multi-coated optics with BAK4 Porro Prism and 9pcs/5groups lens increase light transmission, deliver bright, clear, crisp images even in low-light conditions
- Dual speed focus system - New design coaxial two-speed focusing wheels allow for SMOOTH & ACCURATE focusing. Fast focusing wheel helps you lock the target quickly, fine focusing wheel zooms in on the target and gets more detail
- Variable 20x to 60x zoom magnification allows you to view a wide field of view at a lower power and zoom in on details at a higher power. Perfect for target shooting, archery, hunting, bird watching, wildlife watching, hiking, camping, scenery, outdoor sporting, astronomical observation etc
- Nitrogen filled waterproof and fog-proof design enables the scope to withstand the toughest environments. Durable Framework and Rubber Armor provide non-slip grip, shock-proof grip and durable external lasting protection. The adjustable eyecup folds up and down for comfortable viewing with or without glasses
- Comes with a New Design Large smartphone digiscoping adapter,enables you to take photos and videos of what you have observed. Bring the nature closer to you and you can explore the distant world easily through the phone screen. A carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain
- Zoom Magnification 20X-60X - Powerful zoom magnification runs from 20x to 60x allows you to lock onto the target and zoom in for more details. 45 Degree angled eyepiece offers comfortable viewing. Wide Field of View brings nature closer to you.
- FMC Optical Lens & BAK4 Prism - Fully multi-coated lens and high quality BAK4 prism increase light transmission, deliver bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions.
- Compact, Lightweight & Durable - Compact and Lightweight Spotting Scope is ideal for adults and kids for travel, hiking and camping. Durable framework and high-quality rubber armor provide non-slip grip, shock-proof grip and durable external protection, which enables this spotting scope to withstand the toughest weather conditions.
- Stable Tripod & Carrying bag - The tripod provides you stable observation from any angles. The rugged, specially designed carrying bag holds the spotting scope and all accessories for easy traveling and storage.
- Universal Smartphone Adapter - Comes with a universal smartphone adapter that you can use cell phone for video camera and image capturing to explore the nature of the world easily through the phone screen.
Some Afterthoughts
Spotting scopes can really take your hunting to the next level. And they’re essential if you’re an avid birdwatcher. These devices are supposed to be versatile and rugged optical tools that can be used in any terrain and consistently provide the user with optimal clarity, resolution, and depth. These best spotting scopes will deliver those features and more.
Remember to consider things like eye relief, magnification power, and glass quality when budgeting for one of these best spotting scopes. Some of the models may require a tripod and others can fit in your hand. The more expensive scopes tend to be the best, but there are perfectly capable budget scopes as well.
Surprised to see that the Bushnell Sentry Spotting Scope is such a lower price, it’s a nice spotting scope. I would highly recommend it for beginners because of cost, but otherwise I think it does the job fine. Couldn’t believe how light it was when I tried out my friend’s last year. He had brought it camping just to have on hand, in case we wanted to do some hunting.
We have a Konus and it is very reliable.
Good to know, was planning on getting something by them for my .270