Best Spotting Scopes in 2022

Last update: December 15, 2022

Are spotting scopes any good?

Yes, spotting scopes are good for bird watching and other outdoor activities. They have a high magnification power and can be used to see things at a distance.

Are spotting scopes more powerful than binoculars?

Spotting scopes are more powerful than binoculars. They have a longer focal length, which means they can magnify objects more than binoculars. They also have a larger objective lens, which allows more light to enter the scope and makes the image brighter.

Can you hand hold a spotting scope?

Yes, you can hand hold a spotting scope, but it is not recommended. A spotting scope is a high-powered telescope designed for long-distance viewing. They are typically mounted on a tripod or other stable platform to minimize shake and get the clearest possible image.

Can you see Saturn's rings with a spotting scope?

Yes, you can see Saturn's rings with a spotting scope. They appear as a bright, thin line across the planet's disk.


Roxant Authentic Blackbird High Definition Spotting Scope with Zoom - Rubber Armor, Fully Multi-Coated Optical Glass Lens + BAK4 Prism. Includes Tripod & Case + Lifetime Replacement Review:


With this scope, I can see targets up to 200 yards away at the range, which is why I got it (max distance in my area).Initial thoughts: I like the packaging. When you initially open the box, the tripod, instructions, and carrying case (which contains the scope) are what you notice. The tripod is composed of metal with a very durable black covering, and it was incredibly robust when I opened it up on my table. The rubber feet absolutely secured it in place; there was no wiggling at all. When tightened down, the arm that allows you to change the scope's angle has a smooth articulation and effectively holds the scope in place. The bag feels like a thin nylon, but it will function perfectly in my range bag to safeguard the scope from anything that could damage it inside. Roxant ought to think about producing a neoprene case for it in the aftermarket!The scale is really small. The scope is 9" long and weighs just under 1lb. 2oz, as shown in the pictures. It feels high-quality in the hand, with the dials having just the right amount of resistance and the caps having just the right amount to ensure they wouldn't just fall off on their own. It'd be pretty sweet if they offered it in coyote tan and od green, too.That weekend, I took it into Manhattan while visiting my sister and was able to get an incredibly clear image of a building peaking over the top of some trees in central park. You can see in the picture how far I was and I didn't have any attachment to connect my phone. I just placed the lens of my phone on the tripod and looked across the street. WOW! The image I had of my neighbors dishTV antenna was incredible.This weekend, I intend to use the scope at the range. I'll upload more pictures and a revised version of my review as soon as I can.While I planned on using this primarily for the range, I could definitely see myself packing it for a day hike with the kids so they can explore our surroundings through the scope during breaks. CONCLUSION: If you're in the market for a range scope, I'd highly recommend this one. The form and function of this product (ESPECIALLY in this price range) is absolutely amazing.I appreciate your interest and hope I was able to assist you in making a purchase.



Binoculars for Kids - High Resolution, Shockproof – 8X22 Kids Binoculars for Bird Watching, Best Gift for Boys, Girls – Real Optics Set for Outdoor Toddler Games – Detective and Spy Kids Toys Review:


These came in three different colors, one of each. My children, who are ages 5, 9, and 12, were being graduated from their "kid" binoculars to what I thought would be only a tiny step higher. Because they were accustomed to using binoculars, the girls opened and set them up on their own without my help. They were shrieking and sqwaking to one another, directing each other's attention to various things. When I eventually asked to see it, I was very astounded. I wasn't prepared for the image to be as crisp and sharp as it was. There isn't much room for eye position adjustment, but they do offer a good diaoptic adjustment. My daughter wears glasses, therefore the eye cups have a rubber seal so she can still use them without taking them off. The center wheel spins easily and adjusts quickly (8x22 is significantly more than they had before. Although the quality is a little lacking, they are definitely an improvement over what they were using and should last just fine with proper usage.



Kids Binoculars,10x25 (not 8x21) Outdoor Binoculars for Kids, (BAK4 Prism) Folding Spotting Telescope for Bird Watching, Camping and Hunting,Best Christmas Children Gifts for Boys and Girls Review:


I got these for my 6-year-old son and waited to write about them until after he had used them a few times. in order for him to become accustomed to utilizing them. He frequently requested to use my binoculars when we were out hunting, but I was obviously scanning, and mine were too wide for his face. We also have a property where we frequently go to look at the animals and look for coyotes. Note that I didn't want a toy; instead, I wanted something he could use to feel included.Pro =They were a fantastic suit for his face.decent caliberInexpensiveCons =I had hoped to go a little further away from them, as my range was just about 200 yards.His focus requires a lot of spinning the dial; mine only requires a slight adjustment to the left or right to get it; nevertheless, these require more and continue to require more as the object moves.I agree that they are easier to find if they are white and aren't really necessary for deer, but one of our fellow hunters stated he stood out in the turkey blind.In the end, I'm happy, although I didn't anticipate how quickly he would outgrow them. They do suit his face beautifully, and he does like them. I anticipate that he will be ready for an upgrade in a few years, at which point we will pass them on to his brother.



Emarth 20-60x60AE Waterproof Angled Spotting Scope with Tripod, 45-Degree Angled Eyepiece, Optics Zoom 39-19m/1000m for Target Shooting Bird Watching Hunting Wildlife Scenery (20-60x60) Review:


I measured a house at 780 yards across a lake. I could clearly see the looks on a boy and girl who were seated next to each other thanks to this spotting scope.Additionally, I could read the phrases on the shirt of an adult male who was working in the yard at the house next door (same distance).On typical paper targets,.224-sized bullet holes might be seen from 150 yards away. On that particular day, we did not shoot beyond 150 yards. Splatter targets, in my opinion, would allow you to see the holes from a far greater distance.I typically aim at steel targets. Even though I haven't tried it yet, I genuinely don't believe that seeing impacts on steel at 1000 yards will be a problem.I've included a photo of the moon I captured using this spotting scope. My 4 1/2-year-old Droid phone, which is not firmly mounted to the scope, was used to take the photo. It was almost impossible for me to hold it still enough with just my hands. Even if the picture is generally clear, viewing the moon through a scope with your unaided eye was noticeably clearer than viewing it on a phone.Edit:My mind is completely blown after reading over some of the comments on this spotting scope. Perhaps the difference is that I never utilized the tripod that was included with the scope. I could read the numbers on mailboxes 400 yards away no difficulty (I didn't attempt longer), which really surprises me since folks say this is merely a 100 or 200 yard spotting scope. I could read the clothing on that guy from about 800 yards away.The next time I fire my 30-06 at the 500-yard range, I'll attempt to keep this in mind and see if I can see the holes in regular paper or if I require splatter targets. I wouldn't be surprised by the outcomes either way. This spotting scope is really quite good.There were some inquiries and remarks on the eyepiece's lack of rotation as well. That won't be a problem either if you just plan on investing in a good tripod. Tripod mounting bases will be angled in your direction, which is what I do. When I use this scope, I also use a tripod for my chronograph.The only improvement that could be made to this spotting scope is the addition of a first focus plane Milliradian reticle. However, I prefer that, not 90% of other people. :)



Spotting Scope,Huicocy 20-60x60mm Zoom 39-19m/1000m Fully Multi Coated Optical Lens Fogproof and Movably Eyepiece Rubber Design Telescope with Quick Smartphone Mount Kit and Tabletop Tripod for Target Review:


A spotting scope was necessary for me for a few reasons. 1. I have a few guns to sight in, and I don't like having to move back and forth after each shot. 2. Predators. I have laying hens, ducks, and a tiny dog who, regrettably, requires the protection of an armed bodyguard at night when she goes pee before bed at my remote country home. Currently, the coyote population is out of control, and they prefer the night. I have a flashlight that is incredibly strong and has a throw distance of well over a thousand meters. Before, if I noticed eyes blazing at me from across the field, I would use a Leupold VX-III rifle scope to try to identify the species. I was considering my options and trying to choose a spotting scope. I couldn't decide whether to purchase a Leupold or a Swarovski. My wife advised me to start with a less expensive model and upgrade if necessary. After extensive investigation, I chose this Huicocy. I was astounded when I tried it out for the first time. Exceptionally clear, light, and user-friendly. My first night using it, I noticed four sets of eyes glowing back at me from the opposite side of the field. About 700 yards separated them from us. I seized my gun and spotting scope. It was surprisingly simple to locate the light trail from my flashlight and track it back to the glowing eyes using this spotting scope. It despised four stunning deer that were munching on ryegrass in our field. One of the finest prices on Amazon right now is for this spotting scope. I'm soooo happy I followed my wife's advice and purchased this spotting scope. I'm in no rush to get one of the more expensive models. I couldn't be happier with this spotting scope's performance and couldn't suggest it more.



LET'S GO! DIMY Binocular for Kids Review:


These kids' binoculars are nice. The absence of a useful neck strap is the one thing that disappoints me. It does have a strap, however it is built extremely shoddily and wraps around the wrist. It has repeatedly come off by itself, which is annoying. If you don't care about such things, you'll probably be satisfied with these binoculars.



Gosky 2019 Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scope with Tripod, Carrying Bag and Smartphone Adapter - BAK4 Angled Telescope - Newest Waterproof Scope for Target Shooting Hunting Bird Watching Wildlife Scenery Review:


The Roxant Blackbird Scope is one I've had and used with pleasure. I chose this Gosky 2019 model since the mountains behind our property are around 4 miles away and I needed something that could focus a little better for viewing wildlife. I'm awestruck. The Gosky is superior to the Roxant in almost all respects except size, where it is roughly twice as big.The Roxant is fantastic for its portability; you could take it and perch on a car's hood while sightseeing. Although this Gosky is a little bigger, it performs very well. It has a noticeably superior capacity to focus on distant things than the Roxant. The Gosky's focus wheel is also simpler to use. One thing I did observe with the Gosky is that if you zoom in or out on any item, you must also refocus (not so much on the Roxant). However, the simplicity of focussing makes this a non-issue.The tripod is not the best, as others have mentioned. It does, however, perfectly well for my needs. The tripod that comes with the Gosky and Roxant is, incidentally, essentially the same.I enjoy the Roxant since it is compact and practical for traveling small distances (several hundred yards or less). However, the Gosky is now my preferred scope for my situation (which usually involves sitting in my backyard with the scope propped up on a table). It stands out due to its clarity and focus at a distance.It would be like comparing apples and oranges to compare these two models. Since these are the only two I have expertise with and because doing so might aid someone else in making a decision, I only compare the two. The Gosky costs about $140, but the Roxant costs about $80. The Roxant is specified at 12-36x50 whereas the Gosky is specified at 20-60x80, therefore the specifications are plainly different as well. Save your money and choose the Roxant if the distance is only a few hundred yards. The Gosky may be a good option if you're seeking for a scope that can focus clearly at a distance (or a competitor that has similar specs).When I compare the specs of certain scopes that cost 15 times as much as this Gosky, I wonder what those scopes offer that this Gosky doesn't (maybe a better tripod or night vision?). It would be beneficial if a spotting scope expert could explain how the models that are substantially more expensive compare.



20-60X 80 Prism Spotting Scope- Waterproof Scope for Birdwatching Target Shooting Archery Outdoor Activities -with Tripod & Digiscoping Adapter-Get The Beauty into Screen (20-60x80 Spotting Scope) Review:


This 20-60 X 80 Landove was put up against a 20-60 X 80 Gosky and a smaller Celestron 12-36 X 60, and for my purposes, the Landove easily triumphed.The Landove and the far more affordable, portable Celestron both produced reasonably crisp images that only marginally declined at higher powers. However, the Landove 20-60 X 80 (and the Gosky) appeared to have a bigger apparent image size at its lowest magnification of 20X and was, of course, clearer, sharper, and brighter than the Celestron at its highest magnification of 36X Mag. Additionally, the Tripod that came with the Celestron was awful—almost useless. In order to view the image you want to see, you would need to aim much higher than what you are currently viewing and set the control knowing that the scope would drop much more. The table top tripod that comes with this Celestron scope is incredibly inadequate, especially when attempting to adjust at higher powers. The Landove Tripod was reliable and stable.The 20-60 X 80 Landove's tripod works well, locks in position, and does not keep vibrating at the least touch up and down like the fidgety tripod with the Gosky or fall like the Celestron tripod, allowing you to focus around 10 feet closer than the Celestron at near objects (about 20 Ft). In comparison to the Landove and Gosky 20-60 X 80 at 17", the Celestron is just about 11" long.Along with having the finest tripod of the three, the Landove appeared to have substantially better optics than the Gosky 20-60 X 80.If the larger size is not a concern, I believe the Landove 20-60 X 80 is a clear winner for the extra $50 it costs compared to the lesser powered budget Celestron (keep in mind that you must add at least $25 for a new table tripod with the Celestron). Therefore, I strongly advise you to invest the extra money and purchase the more potent Landove for budget scopes. For the majority of uses, it's difficult to picture a more expensive scope doing all that much better than the Landove. In fairness to the frequently praised Gosky, I believe I may have received a defective scope, which is being returned, as the Landove's magnification collar spun erratically and did not focus as sharply.The Landove is the one to keep out of the three. I'm eager to experiment with digital photos with the included cell phone adaptor.



Gosky 20-60x60 HD Spotting Scope with Tripod, Carrying Bag and Scope Phone Adapter - BAK4 45 Degree Angled Eyepiece Telescope for Target Shooting Hunting Bird Watching Wildlife Scenery Review:


I joined this one very carefully and with little expectations. I was quickly shown to be mistaken: as soon as I unpacked the scope, it demonstrated to me what it is capable of doing with no effort (see the attached photo!).At 80mm, the optics are clear, and high light transmission is to be expected. Even though you won't use it that way, I was able to test it indoors with artificial light, and it produced a really respectable image.With the provided adapter, digitizing is simple to set up and use. The generated photographs have some chromatic aberration, but this may be easily fixed using a variety of free tools and apps. A Bluetooth remote for your phone is essential if you intend to digiscope because it will make your life easier at all magnifications.The DSLR adapter needs to be tested, but it seems strong and well-built. The tripod is solid and more than sufficient to the task of supporting the scope, and it works well for a tabletop or other surface.Overall, a fantastic product!ADDED: A couple of images. Still very much liking this!



Vortex Optics Diamondback Spotting Scopes Review:


Since I don't have any prior experience with spotting scopes to compare and contrast, this is essentially my experience and current thinking about using a spotting scope to conduct some light scouting during the off-season. I've had mine for a few weeks, and initially I only used it to zoom in on the trees and bushes in the field next to my house. This scope's crystal clear clarity and magnification pleased me at the moment, but I didn't fully understand the quality until I had the opportunity to use it on some whitetails. Since it is still early in June, the deer in our area are only now beginning to develop certain features in their racks as they develop this year's set. I recently had the opportunity to observe three deer eating in a bean field just in front of my position. I stopped on the side of the road about 300 yards distant to observe them emerge from the woods and move down the border of the bean field. That far away, I could clearly see three dollars. Only two of them had antlers that were more than 4-5 inches long and had begun to separate into their brown and primary beam. The third had already grown by around 8 to 10 inches. I'll be the first to admit that a spotting scope is hardly necessary for whitetail deer hunting in Ohio, but having one has increased my enjoyment of driving around the neighborhood in search of deer in immeasurably greater amounts. Instead of just noticing some deer movement, I can now tell whether a deer is a doe, buck, or has a certain number of points, for example. I am extremely happy with the purchase, and even though I may only use it sometimes to drive around the block or glass the field across from my house, I am certain that I will always have a high-quality scope on hand in case I ever get the chance to go on any other types of large game hunts.


Can you see the moon with a spotting scope?

Yes, you can see the moon with a spotting scope. The moon is one of the brightest objects in the sky, so it is easily visible with a spotting scope. You can see the moon's craters and mountains with a spotting scope, and sometimes even the shadows of these features.

Do I need a spotting scope for birding?

No, you don't need a spotting scope for birding, but it can certainly be helpful. A spotting scope allows you to get a closer look at birds, and can help you identify them more easily. If you're serious about birding, or if you're just getting started, a spotting scope is a great investment.

How far can you see with a 20 60X80 spotting scope?

A 20-60x80 spotting scope is a powerful tool for long range viewing. With a 20x magnification, you can see objects up to 60 miles away. With a 60x magnification, you can see objects up to 80 miles away.

How much does a good spotting scope cost?

A good spotting scope can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. It all depends on the quality of the optics and the features that you want. If you just need a scope for occasional use, then you can get away with spending less. But if you plan on using it frequently or for more serious applications, then you'll need to spend more.

Is a scope or binoculars better for bird watching?

Binoculars are the better option when bird watching because they provide a wider field of view than a scope. A scope is better for looking at distant objects, but binoculars allow you to see more of the area around the bird.

What distance are red dot sights good for?

Red dot sights are good for short to medium range distances. They are not as accurate as scopes at long range, but they are much faster to acquire a target.