Best Spotting Scope Reviews | Buying Guides

What Is A Spotting Scope?

A spotting scope is a portable telescope that has been added advanced optics to present an erect image. It is used for bird watching as well as other naturalist activities such as hunting, surveillance, verifying expert shooter’s shorts as well as other applications that require more magnification than a pair of binoculars. In simple terms, a spotting scope can also be defined as telescopes that have been customized and designed specifically for daytime terrestrial viewing.

A spotting scope is very useful for researcher and hobbyist who like hunting and researching on birds and other wildlife. In fact, a spotting scope allows us to safely photograph or view targets that might place us in harm’s way. For instance, when you want to watch a lion chasing a prey, you can set the power of the scope at 20-power magnification, stand a safe distance, and enjoy the whole episode.

Best Spotting Scope | Top 10 Spotting Scope Reviews & Comparison

Reasons for Buying Spotting Scopes over ordinary binoculars

Unlike the binoculars, the spotting scope features advanced optics and higher magnification that shows exquisite details of images within its view. The features in spotting scopes can be found in extra large binoculars that are used by the scientist. However, the scopes are compact making them portable. This means you can travel with them everywhere, whether you are going for hunting, bird watching or doing some kind of research on a specific object. Here additional advantages of buying a spotting scope over ordinary binoculars.

Magnification

A spotting scope has higher magnification than the most advanced binocular. A normal binocular has magnification from 7 to 10 times the actual size of the object. However, a spotting scope has a magnification of 20 to 60. This can provide excellent details when hunting or bird watching.

Eyepieces

Another reason why you would prefer a spotting scope to a binocular is the eyepieces. Normally a binocular has two eyepieces so that both of your eyes are involved in viewing clearer images. However, the scopes have only one eyepiece that can be used with either eye. This will eliminate any uneven images that may result due to poor adjustment between the two eyepieces.

Size

As previously mentioned, the most advanced binocular that may have close features resembling those found in a spotting scope may be heavier and larger than a scope. Although you need a tripod for effective use, the results are far much better than when using binoculars.

Portability

Generally, binoculars are smaller than the scopes hence more portable. However, recent scopes are portable since the come with tripods and other accessories that are detachable for easier portability. In addition, when you compare the results in terms of clarity of the images, you will never use the binoculars. Remember, for you to get the best of everything there must be a small sacrifice.

Angled Body vs. Straight Body Spotting Scopes

When choosing the spotting scopes, many people do not know whether to choose a straight or angled scope. We will try to clarify this so that you can know which is scope is best for you. Straight and angle are the two basic body designs of a spotting scope. A straight spotting scope has the eyepieces aligned together while the angled scope, the eyepiece is placed at an offset of 90 or 45 degrees from the barrel.

Many individuals prefer the straight body scopes since you can easily mount them on the glass window of your car when watching birds or other animals? These scopes are also easy to use when in an elevated position. However, if you are tall, you might prefer the angled scopes. However, the choice of either of the two-body design will depend on how you want to use them. For instance, when you are using the straight body scope your eyes will be in a straight line with the image you are viewing.

However, when using the angled scope you can look down into the object you are observing or observe it sides. This means that an angled scope lets you observe the object at a different height as well as rotate it to watch the objects at any of the sides.

When using the straight body scope you have to bend your knees to look through the scope while you just need to turn your head a little when using the angled scope. An angled scope can be mounted lower for better and steady image formation. This means that you need to carry a smaller and lightweight tripod. However, the straight body scope will require a bigger tripod since it requires to be mounted at the height of your eyes.

Choosing the best spotting scope is rather easy. However, it is very important for you to consider your priorities and identity. For instance, if you are tall an angled scope is likely to suit your needs. However, if you want something that you would mount on your car window, a straight body scope is the best for you.

Main Consideration Before Buying

Apart from the body, designs there are other features that you must consider. Make sure that you go through the review of the scopes and do research on the following features.

Magnification

A spotting scope is often referred to two numbers that are separated by an X. The first two numbers will specify the magnifying power of a spotting scope with a varying power. For example 15 – 45 x 60. With this kind of a scope, the object being viewed will appear to be 15 to 45 times closer than you would see it with the unaided eye. When looking for the best scope you should ensure that you select a scope that has good magnification with the base model being the example we have listed.

It is very important to test the performance of the scope or read the customer review on the magnification of the scope. You will find that some models will show an image quality that deteriorates when the magnification increases. Choose a model that offers a quality image at all magnification powers.

Objective lens size

The quality of the image delivered by a spotting scope will depend on the size o the objective lens. When you choose a scope with a larger objective lens, you will have a better quality image. It is also important to check the lens carefully. If the lens is large and is manufactured with inferior glass, the image will be poor.

So if you are looking for a good scope that will deliver good quality image even at higher power ensure that you go for scopes that have objective lenses made from high-quality glass such as APO glass, ED glass or their equivalent.

Eye Pieces

The eyepiece of your scope is one of the most important parts of your device, thus, it is very important to select a good one. A high-quality eyepiece will not only deliver a quality image but also provide excellent eye relief.

Ensure that you select an eyepiece with zoom in it since it will help you to change the magnification faster. This kind of eyepiece will also work well in rough weathers.

Waterproofing and fog proofing

Although these features are not present in all spotting scopes, they are essential requirements if you are looking for a quality scope. The waterproofing seal will not only protect the scope from water but also from dust and dirt. This will increase the longevity of the scope.

In addition, the fog proof feature enables you to use the scope where there is fog. If a scope does not have this feature, it is completely unusable in fog-prone areas.

Prisms type

prisms type is another important consideration that you must take into consideration. Most scopes come with prisms that are made from BAK 4 or BK-7 prism. Remember the prisms together with their constituent as well as their arrangement will determine the quality of the image you will get.

For instance, a roof prism system will have all the prisms arranged in a single line behind the objective lenses resulting in a narrow streamlined effect. The Porro prism system is more advanced and has the prisms little displaced from the objective lens, offering a bigger field of view as well as more depth of perception.

Field of view

Field of view refers to the hemispherical area that one can observe at once or in portions through the scope. Ensure that you select a scope that has a wide view that is ideal for fast moving an object and provide a narrower view when you adjust it to higher magnifications.

Choosing brand

It goes without saying, brands that have even in the production of the spotting scopes have more experience and a likely to offer quality scopes that those brands that have started manufacturing the scopes. However this is not always the case, make sure that you do proper research on the quality of the materials used to make the scope, as well as the features, installed.

Set your budget

When deciding on which type of scope to purchase, it is very important to make sure that you set a price range. Some of the scopes are quite expensive and offer features that are almost the same with the inexpensive ones. Scopes especially those manufactured by reputable companies tend to be expensive and are not different from those manufactured by upcoming companies. Do proper research before purchasing the scope.

Final Argument

In conclusion, remember to select compact spotting scopes for portability. The scope you select must be small and lightweight. This will make it possible for you to carry it for long distances especially if you are hunting. It is also very important to purchase a scope that is made of quality material so that it can give your quality for an extended period.

The Best Hunting Backpack | An Essential Kit for Hunter

Selecting the best can either make or break your hunting experience. We realize the importance of having a great hunting backpack after our first hunting expedition with my friends was a total disaster. We had a limited budget so instead of purchasing a hunting backpack, we simply hauled all that we needed in a duffle bag. When we arrived at the Brooks Range, Alaska, we met a group of other hunters. Well instead of blending in and sharing our hunting experience, all the other hunters looked at us suspiciously, and we just could not fit in.

Although sometimes we were first to spot the prey, everyone would beat us to it since we took a lot of time getting the perfect shot. We had a crossbow, and each time I ran out of quivers, I had trouble finding the extra quivers in the crowded duffel bag. To help you learn from our mistakes, we have prepared a detailed guide on the hunting backpacks that allows you to pick the most appropriate choice.

Benefits of the Hunting Backpacks

Having the hunting backpack is crucial for all hunters. Here are some of the benefits of selecting a good hunting backpack.

• This backpack is more comfortable to wear, as they are easily adjustable to comfort to your body size
• Well-padded shoulder strap and back enhances user comfort especially when trekking for long
• These backpacks are well constructed with tear-resistant materials
• Camouflage effect allows you to blend seamlessly with the surrounding
• Versatile as they allow you to carry your hunting rifle, crossbow, bow, and other hunting weapons with ease.

Top 10 Best Hunting Backpack Comparison & Short Review​​​​​

Below are some of the ideal hunting backpacks designed to allow you in storing all your gear in one convenient place? They boost your chances of having a successful hunting trip. Going through each of the product and comparing the features will help you in narrowing down your choices. Here are our top 10 best hunting backpack reviews.

ALPS OutdoorZ Commander + Pack Bag

Pros

• Holds all your hunting gear
• Sturdy construction
• Well padded and lightweight

Cons

• The price might be high especially if you are looking for your first hunting backpack

Our Review

Are you looking for a backpack that puts comfort before anything else? This is a tough backpack designed for rugged and longer hunting expeditions. The foundation of this modular design is strong yet lightweight frame that brings unmatched durability and functionality all the way up to an expedition level service.

Top Features

Unique fastening system

With this unique fasting system, you can easily secure your crossbow, rifle, or bow on to the back. This makes it easy to carry your safety gear while still enhancing your safety and that of your friends.

Excellent padding

As mentioned earlier, this backpack puts safety and comfort of the user before anything else. We love the generously padded straps and back that keeps the bag comfortable even when trekking for long.

Front zippered wing pockets

These pockets are also very essential as they assist you in holding your weapons as well as other gear when hauling. Besides the backpack, have several compartments to enable you in organizing your hunting gear with ease. You are also provided with a quiver Holder on each side of the pack.

TETON Sports Talus 2700 Backpack

Pros

• Designed for extreme outdoors
• Fully adjustable straps​
• High-quality construction materials

Cons

• No special fastening straps to hold your rifle

Our Review

Hunting is one of the most exciting activities for just anyone, but it can be a nightmare if you don’t need the right backpack. The TETON 2700 Backpack is an excellent choice for beginners as gives you all the space you need to carry all your hunting gear. Although the bag is not designed specifically for hunting, it’s a decent choice at it is extremely sturdy and comfortable to carry for long distances.

Top features

Innovative design

The backpack has a thickly padded split waste pad that has separate top and bottom hip adjustment. This offers you with a more customizable fit. The bag is also spacious with multiples compartments assisting you in organizing all the stuff you need.

High-quality material

Constructed using 420D nylon materials, this backpack will do well for the most rugged adventures. You will love the mesh fabric covers that wick the moisture away and integrated rainfly to keep your items from getting soaked.

Lightweight

Despite its sturdy construction, the backpack is still light in weight meaning that it does not add any extra weight on the baggage you need.

ALPS OutdoorZ Trail Blazer Hunting Pack

Pros

• Camouflage effect
• Includes a rain cover
• The bar-tacked webbing offers numerous attachment points

Cons

• Few external pockets

Our Review

Well, this versatile backpack has a functional design making it a great choice for a long hunting expedition. Let’s say you have planned for a hunting expedition in Montana this year and you would want it to be perfect. We have picked Montana because of the enormous mountain ranges, thickets, and availability of various types of game.

However, for you to enjoy your hunting, you need a backpack that organizes all your gear well and has a sturdy construction to withstand constant brushing against tree branches and thickets. If this is what you need, the ALPS Outdoors is a top contender.

Top features

Expandable pocket

This is an important feature included in this backpack as it helps to carry your bow and rifle securely. The pocket is expandable so it can hold any of your hunting rifles easily regardless of their size.

PE frame sheets

Unlike other models that are fitted with heavy metal frames, this backpack has PE frame sheets that give it with unrivaled stability and support.

Spacious

 This is a 41 liters backpack, which is enough for carrying everything you need when traversing the hunting grounds.

Remington Twin Mesa Daypack

Pros

• Very lightweight
• Numerous compartments and pockets for secure storage
• Sturdy internal frame for durability

Cons

• Not an excellent choice if your hunting trip takes more than three days

Our Review

We have chosen this particular pack because of its unique design. This backpack has a tactical design that allows for strategic wearing making your hunting trip as comfortable as possible. The backpack also boasts many useful features.

It is an excellent choice for individuals looking for a backpack with ergonomic design, giving you the flexibility you need during the hunting period. In addition, this backpack has a lot of extra attachment points as well as pockets for added storage and accessories.

Top features

Integrated long gun carry system

One of the features that make a hunting backpack to stand out is the inclusion of a safety system that enables carry your rifle with ease. This backpack has a long gun carry system that ensures that your gun is secure all the time

Densely padded straps

Even if you are caring heavy stuff, you will find this backpack easy to carry for long distance thanks to its densely padded shoulder and hip straps.

A variety of exterior pockets

 The exterior pockets do not only offer you with added space but also makes it easy to access your stuff.

In Sights Realtree Xtra Multi Weapon Pack

Pros

• Easy to carry​
• Amazing quality
• Comfortable to carry along

Cons

• A great choice for archers only

Our Review

Designed specifically for hunting, this weapon pack has a lot to give to on the go hunting geeks. It is a good choice whether you are thinking of enjoying wilderness horse hunt in Montana or hunting for Pheasants in South Dakota. This is a durable backpack engineered to survive any hunting trip. This backpack will carry your rifle, bow, and a crossbow.

Top features

Patented weapon enclosure

This is one of the few hunting backpacks that have a patented weapon enclosure with the aim of keeping your hunting weapons safe.

Revolutionary archery hunting pack

If you are looking for a hunting backpack that helps you in using your crossbow, you do not need to look further. You will love a revolutionary archery hunting pack that makes your trip more enjoyable.

Ergonomic comfort design

Last but not the least; the backpack has an ergonomic design will well padded back, straps, and waist adjustment strap for maximum comfort.

Badlands Superday Camouflage Hunting Backpack Daypack

Pros

• Nicely padded for a comfortable fit​
• Allows you to carry all your hunting weapons safely
• Hydration pack compatible

Cons

• High price tag

Our Review

If you are going to be moving with a hunting weapon, whether a rifle or a bow, then it is essential for you to carry a backpack that can assist you in transporting the weapon safely. Dragging around your hunting weapon is not only a clumsy but also causes you to react slowly should you come across your prey. The Badlands Hunting Backpack is a great choice as it helps you in securing your gun or bow efficiently while allowing you to access it quickly.

Top Features

Ultimate Hunting daypack

 This backpack has everything you need for a day back. Even better, this backpack has a convenient pocket placement that allows you to focus on hunting with minimal distractions.

Camouflage

The backpack has a neutral color pallet that adapts to your surroundings and current lighting. This makes it easy for you to blend seamlessly into a wide array of environments.

 Versatile

 Regardless of the hunting weapon, you are thinking of bringing along; this backpack has got you covered. The bag has a built-in pistol holder as well as five compression straps that offers you with a for various gear attachments.

Eberlestock X1A2 Backpack Nylon

Pros

• Its quiet design makes any hunting trip a success
• Large capacity
• Easily adjusted

Cons

• On the expensive side

Our Review

Incorporating high strength materials in all the high-stress parts, this hunting pack ensures durability as well as protection against tears and rips. Weighing only 6 pounds, this backpack offers you with large load hauling capacity, ensuring that you have carried all the hunting essentials. This backpack also comes with sturdy compression straps that offer the user with a lot of stability when carrying heavier loads.

Top feature

Patented Back scabbard

 This feature allows for on the fly access of your shotgun or rifle whole the Ripcord Bow tether enables the user to carry a gun and remove it without having to get the bag off.

Straps and pockets that hold your hunting weapons

 This backpack will take the users hunting to the next level once you get the ability to move with your hands-free from carrying any weapon. The variety of pockets and straps helps to hold your gun, knife, bow, and other hunting weapons with ease.

Padded back and straps

The straps are adjustable for added comfort. Also, both the back and the straps are generously padded allowing you to carry the bag without problems even when carrying heavy stuff.

Slumberjack Hone Backpack Kryptek Highlander

Pros

• Blends seamlessly with the surrounding
• Multipurpose backpack
• Transport your hunting weapon easily

Cons

• This is a daypack, so it’s not ideal for trips lasting for more than 1-2 days

Our Review

If you are looking for a  high quality and durable hunting backpack to assist you in carrying all your gear for your next hunting expedition, this backpack is an excellent choice.

This is a versatile pack that is ideally suited to multi-day remote hunt. The padded hip support channeled air cooled back as well as the wide padded shoulder straps help in distributing weight evenly giving you with all-day comfort even when carrying a heavy load.

Top features

Stowable multi-weapon carry system

This backpack integrates a multi-weapon system that assists you in transporting your rifle or bow. The backpack also has an inbuilt riffle rest that gives you the much-needed stabilization for enhanced accuracy.

High-quality construction

The unit is constructed of tough fabric that withstands wear and tear. It also has a lightweight internal frame for improved durability and stability.

All in one pack

Besides hunting, this backpack is a great choice for hiking, camping, and glassing ridgelines. This means you can use it for more than one use. If you are an outdoor lover, purchasing this unit will save you a lot of money.

HORN HUNTER "G2" Daypack, Mossy Oak Infinity

Pros

• Solid pack for durability
• Gear grippers make carrying hunting weapons easy
• Multiple compartments

Cons

• Will need a few modifications to optimal use

Our Review

The HORN HUNTER "G2" Daypack is probably one of my favorite all time hunting backpack. I dig this versatile and affordable backpack with Sportsman's Outdoor Products.

Looking at the features that come with this backpack, it is obvious that the G2 daypack is serious. It includes zippered pockets on the outside and the inside as well as multiple compartments. This makes it easy to haul large items a breeze, while still provides you with plenty of space to keep all your items organized and readily available.

 Top features

 17 pockets and compartments

Well, with 17 separate pockets, organizing your stuff has never been easier. The compartment is zippered to enhance the security of your items

Gear grippers

The backpack also comes with gear grippers that make it simple to carry your gear as well rifle

Superb construction

The quiet yet rugged materials make this a decent choice for hunting. We found this backpack very quiet when rubbed against tree branches. This is important, especially when creeping to find the best shot to take your prey down.  Moreover, the pack is strong and durably built.

Tenzing TZ 4000 Hunting Backpack, Kryptek Highlander 01

Pros

• Ample for interior space
• Extra pockets for better organization and accessibility
• Aluminum internal frame for durability

Cons

• Large, not ideal for one-day hunting expeditions

Our Review

Tenzing TZ 4000 strikes a balance between absolute rigidity and balance as it enables you to carry a heavy load while moving around comfortably. This backpack is designed to keep the load close to your body while placed on your hips comfortably.

It starts with the tough fabric and lightweight aluminum frame for added stability. We also love the hunt-specific features including the spotting scope pocket as well as ability to carry a rifle, pistol, or bow.

Top features

Fully adjustable Torso Suspension

 Are you into deer hunting and you are looking for a large hunting backpack to transverse the beautiful scenery of Alaska? Well, this is a large backpack with plenty of space giving with all the stuff you need to make your deer hunt successful. The fully adjustable torso suspensions make it easy for you to carry heavy luggage with ease.

Channeled air cooled back

With this feature, you can carry heavy hunting gear for long without the uncomfortable feeling of hot and sweaty back

Rigid internal aluminum frame

Additionally, this unit is fitted with lightweight yet strong aluminum frame that makes it durable without sacrificing its weight. The foldout bow, as well as gun-carrying boot, is also a nice addition.

How to choose best hunting backpack

Choosing the classy hunting backpack can be tricky especially if you are starting out. Before on settling on the best choice, you should start by thinking about the location of hunting, the duration, the weather condition as well as your prey. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or an advanced hunter, the following are the fundamental considerations to make when picking a hunting pack.

• Size

Well, you should not just get larger backpack just because it has more room. In fact sometimes getting a large backpack could lead to some complications. Remember since you have more room most people tend to bring excess stuff. This may reduce your flexibility especially when you have to keep up with the pace the game you are hunting. The best thing is to find a backpack that fits only the essentials you need for hunting. Furthermore, hunting is a fun exercise so you shouldn’t be too hard on yourself if you are not lucky to catch the largest game.

• The Frame

Hunting backpack uses plastic, metal, foam, and carbon to come with the pack structure. One of the best things about backpacks with internal structures is that they are easier to balance since they are closer to the body. However, one downside is that your bag does not get much ventilation. On the other hand, backpacks with external frame have more rigid structures making them ideal for hauling a lot of gear. Additionally, these backpacks tend to offer better ventilation and various pockets, making it easier for you to organize your stuff.

• Design

Most of the hunting backpacks are designed to take care of both women and men needs. For the best results, going for models with camouflage is great as it helps you to blend seamlessly with the surrounding. Another important thing to consider is the rain cover to prevent your gear from getting soaked, should you be caught in the rain.

• Materials used

Most of the avid hunters can attest to purchasing a nice looking backpack t only to fall apart in the middle of your hunting trip. Most of the catastrophic failures are usually because of poorly constructed backpacks made from mediocre materials. Ensure that the backpack is constructed using high-quality materials for durability.

• Convenience

Suppose you are intending to go to Arizona for your hunting expedition. Well we know that Arizona can be quite chilly during the night so carrying your Coffee percolator can be a good idea. Ensure that your backpack is spacious enough to carry your hunting gear as well as handy equipment like these.

• Weight and number of compartments

Finally, yet importantly, you should look at the weight of the backpack. Although heavy hunting packs tend to be durable, selecting a model that is too heavy will affect your flexibility. Similarly, you should also look at the compartments the bag has. Although this will depend on preference, a backpack with atlases three external pockets and three internal compartments is an excellent choice as it is easy to organize. 

    User guide

Using a hunting backpack is pretty much like using any other backpack you have. However, considering that the hunting ground is covered with rocks, trees, thickets, and bushes, you need to take special care of your backpack. Remember, a good backpack for hunting will cost you in excess of a hundred bucks. It would be very expensive for you to purchase a new pack everytime you are going on a hunt. The following tips will help you to get the best of your bag for many years to come.

• Although the hunting backpacks are constructed using heavy-duty materials, you should avoid brushing it against sharp tree branches and rock edges. Doing so will accelerate wear and tear, and if you are not careful, it can even fall apart before you finish your hunt.
• Always ensure that you have wrapped the sharp edges of your hunting equipment. The sharp edges may cut through the material, making big holes. If you do not patch up these holes, you may end up losing your valuables.
• Don’t exceed the weight capacity of the bag. This is a no-brainer; doing so will make it straps to buckle.
• Clean it well after a hunt. This will help you to remove the dust, animal blood, and any other dirt. Check the manufacture instruction to find whether the bag is machine washable.

Last word

Despite the fact that you are going for hunting for only one day, you will still need the right backpack for your trip to be a success. Getting any of the best hunting backpacks above can help you in keeping your gear organized and hold your firearm or bow securely. The above models come with different styles, design, and features designed for any hunter. We hope that the guide will help you to buy the bag that offers you with the best hunting experience.

Nikon 20-60x82mm ProStaff 5 Fieldscope Spotting Scope Review

The Nikon 20-60x82mm ProStaff 5 Fieldscope Spotting Scope with Eyepiece, with Tripod + Monopod + Kit is an entry-level addition to Nikon’s ProStaff series of spotting scopes. At a affordable price, the scope is clearly meant for amateur or occasional birders and shooters with some changes in design and optics when compared with the RA III series of fieldscopes that came before the ProStaff.

Objective lens:

The 82mm objective lens gives you a balance between size and brightness. The larger the lens, the brighter is the image but the scope gets heavier. 82mm is good enough for low light viewing, and to support the 60x magnification without making the Prostaff 5 too heavy. It’s also good enough for some digiscoping.

Prism:

The prism used is a Porro prism, which is rarer (and less expensive) than a roof prism today but dollar for dollar gives you better quality of images. In the Porro prism, the objective and eyepiece are offset instead of in a straight line, which is what gives the scope its elongated S-shape. The prism makes the scope light-efficient and offers a good contrast of images.

Optical coating:

The scope lens and prisms are not made of Nikon’s excellent ED glass used in the brand’s premium fieldscopes, but they are fully multi-coated to give good clarity and brightness. To compare, some of the best quality fieldscopes and spotting scopes (often priced over $3000) use the superior ED (extra-low dispersion) glass or HD (high density) glass for better image quality. The Porro Prisms are barium crown glass (BAK4), which is the highest quality that is available today.

Field of view:

Using the included 20-60x82mm eyepiece, the fieldscope’s field of view at 1000 yards is 104.8 feet (or 32m) at 20x magnification. To put this into context, you will find some of the more expensive scopes have a field of view of 37 meters at 1000m. Note that field of view is essentially the width of the image you see through the scope.

Focusing:

With a focal length of 377 mm, the ProStaff 5 fieldscope has a close focusing distance of 6.1m, which is a bit better than the best (high premium spotting scopes have minimum focusing distances of 5m).

Eye Relief:

The scope has an eye relief of 16.5mm, which is pretty good and should be enough for people who wear glasses.

The kit comes with the following accessories – eyepiece, Nikon’s 60-inch tripod, a Kodak M720 Monopod for use on the go, a Nikon FogKlear Cleaning Cloth, PD Spudz Microfiber Cloth and the Nikon Lenspen Mini for cleaning your lens system. All these accessories make a fine kit that is a great addition to your travel scoping and digiscoping needs.

The scope has a zoom eyepiece with a magnification of 20x-60x. If you’re using it as a rifle scope, you will be able to clearly see the staples holding a target 200 yards away, and the grouping is clear at 300 yards. Birding clarity is great at 20x to 30x. When approaching max zoom, however, there may be a slight loss in clarity.

The Final Word

Overall, this is a good scope for its price: lightweight, cost-effective, and offering high magnification with trustworthy Nikon lens clarity. If you are an occasional or amateur birder, this is good enough. The image clarity at high magnifications may not be the best for heavy digiscoping. It is a good enough rifle scope as well if you buy the mount for it.

Celestron LandScout 60MM Spotting Scope Review

Whether you are a bird watcher, hunter, target shooter or a participant in activities that require enhanced vision, a spotting scope should be your perfect investment. You will be happy to learn that Celestron LandScout 60MM Spotting Scope Backpack Kit Green (52325) comes with everything you need for your outdoor activities. It’s the current or updated version of Celestron 52324 LandScout 10-30×50 Backpack Kit (Olive Green). This article covers everything you would like to know about this spotting scope backpack kit and touches on some of the differences between the two kits.

Key Features of Celestron LandScout 60MM Spotting Scope

Body Design

Angled-Shaped

All Landscout spotting scopes available in the market are angled shaped. The 12-36 spotting scope’s eyepiece is positioned at 45degrees angle. This makes it easier to look up into the sky or share the scope between individuals with different heights.

Furthermore, you don’t need a tall tripod to raise the spotting scope up to your eye level, as in the case of a straight scope.

Compact and Lightweight Design

This scope is designed as a great backup option when you don’t want to carry a larger and heavier scope. Lens and chassis are smaller and contributes to its low weight, which is only 18.1oz (513g). However, if 18.1oz is not lightweight enough for your needs, you can buy the older version, Celestron 52324 LandScout 10-30×50 Backpack Kit (Olive Green) that comes with Celestron Landscout 50mm Scope, which weighs 14.2oz (403g).

Smaller Dimension to Full Sized Versions

Celestron Landscout 60mm scope has a length of 10.75inches (27.3cm), which is shorter than the measurements of the full-sized spotting scopes. If you are looking for a more tiny scope, then Celestron 50mm scope will be a good option as its length measures only 8.75inches (22.2cm).

Great Exterior Design

The exterior of this spotting scope features rubber coatings which cover most parts, except a few on the mounting collar and the eyepiece. The coatings give you a more secure surface that to hold onto and also offers protection to the scope.

Objective Lens

The 60mm objective lens is permanently set deeply within the end of the barrel with an approximate depth of 2.5cm. This scope produces an exit pupil of 5mm in diameter, (60/5=12) at 12X magnification which is large enough to supply the eye with adequate light even in poor light conditions. However, when using higher magnifications, the exit pupil reduces up to 1.7mm at 36X (60/36=1.7), and this can be less than ideal in low lighting conditions.

BK7 Prism Glass

Celestron 60mm scope uses roof prism that turns around the image once it passes through the objective lens. The prism is made from BK7 glass, which is common with the cheaper scopes.

Fully Coated Optics

When the light comes into contact with any scope, it’s likely to reflect some of it away, or direct it to an unwanted direction, leading to a less bright or distorted final image. Celestron 60mm scope is fully coated to reduce these problems. All the glass surfaces have at least a layer of anti-reflection materials added to them.

Rotating Tripod Mount

The mounting plate measures (9.5cmx 2.6cm), offering a steady platform to work from. You will be able to set up your eyepiece in a perfect position once you mount the scope on the included tripod. A small circular section appears around the rubberized standard sized thread that increases the level of grip. The tripod mount rotates fully, (360 degrees), meaning that your eyepiece will also be able to move a full 360 degrees once you set it up.

Large Focus Wheel

All the Celestron Landscout Spotting scopes feature large focusing wheels that wrap around the body. The focus ring features a rubberized track that allows you to adjust it, even if you are wearing winter gloves. It is easy to reach from any position, and you can control it with either your left or right hand. You will enjoy a smooth action, without sticking points.

The scope also features a 12-36X eyepiece which is fixed to the scope’s body. You will be able to adjust the magnification from 12X to 36X and get close to the action by simply rotating it.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

The warranty covers repairs and replacements of the spotting scope for its usable lifetime. It’s effective in cases of defective components, but this does not include damages from normal wear and tear.

Optical Stats

Eye Relief

If you put on glasses, the eye relief of this scope will allow you to view the image without having to remove your glasses. Its eye relief ranges from 18mm at 12X magnification to 14mm at 36X magnification.

Field of View

The field of view is based on the magnification you use, but this scope offers a very wide field of view. At 1000 Yards the field of view goes from 157ft (52m) wide at 12X magnification to 84ft (28m) wide at 36X magnification.

Close Focusing Distance: The close focusing distance is 33ft/10m away.

Other Items That Comes With Celestron LandScout 60MM Spotting Scope Backpack Kit Green (52325)

1. Camouflage Backpack: The backpack carries and safely secures all the elements. It features multiple accessory pockets, buckles to carry the tripod, PALS compatible webbing and internal straps that will help you keep the items organized and in place. The adjustable chest/waist straps and the shoulder-padded straps, make it comfortable to carry the backpack.
2. Tripod: The tripod heads and metal legs are steady, and provide added stability that allows you to use the spotting scope for extended periods.
3. Objective Lens Cap: Protects the objective lens
4. Eyepiece Cap: Protects the eyepiece.
5. Soft Carrying Case: The well-made case features an adjustable shoulder/hand strap that’s un-padded as well as a long zip that allows you to access the interior.

Final Impression

I always try to give you details of the product. What I usually do just suggest you what fit your bill. This scope is good in respect of its price.

Best Spotting Scope For Target Shooting

The best spotting scope is which that leaves you satisfied by a single shot and wins the game. It is evident that shooting with bare naked eyes is subjected to errors that can cost you in losing the game and the target altogether. The idea is to have that single shot.

Features for target shooting

Magnification and zooming

The magnification and zooming the target makes it easy for you to achieve the set standard. Distance should never be a bother as the scope will entirely deliver at long last.

Easy to install

A good featured spotting scope should be easy to install into the riffle, be compatible and provide the user with almost clarity and accuracy. The magnification range and the objective lens should be wide to provide the user with maximum coverage. The eye is the subject and the defining phenomenon and thus the cups should never hurt, but provide a maximum eye relief in aiming the target.

Water, dust and fog proof

The lens ought to be dust, water and fog proof and not to trigger the target or provide any slight objection while aiming as it is calculated as a miss.

 Light weight

The light weight provide an easy and more flexible, handling mechanisms as the user doesn’t feel the added weight to the riffle. It makes it easy to run with and go for quite a distance without tiring.

Light and the direction of the sun won’t make your targeting hard. A better spotting scope for target is excellent at any light condition high or low. Image clarity at any given light condition is the most observed features by most buyers as it is the core reason why they intend to purchase a spotting scope for target.

How can a person enjoy target shooting?

Without doubt shooting is the most amazing game that is gaining popularity in the recent days. It brings much pride especially when one wins and is able to hit the target as many times as possible, leaving the competitors with a gap to sweat and fill. It is also exciting when pouching in the field, as it gives you no trouble in bringing down the target and neither will you run around chasing the animal.

The scope does all the work for you and amazingly the only required characteristics is you and the trigger. With the naked eyes it is a straining job and requires a lot of concentration that at most leaves you tired and worn out. The scope used for shooting making the whole work easier.

You will certainly enjoy shooting when you can zoom and magnify the target with ease from any position and distance. The exciting thing is that you shoot as the animal grazes unexpectedly, or when running for safety and as you are highly positioned brings it down.

Conclusion

There are many scope variety in the market and it requires you as the user to identify the best spotting scope basing with magnification and zooming. Identifying the best features in correspondence with the use is the best thing to consider. The whole purpose is the accuracy and bringing the target close. With the best scope in place spotting the target is and will always be seconds away.