Today’s spotlight is on the best spotting scopes with reticle. If you like to shoot at long distances, a spotting scope with a reticle will help you to gauge your distance better and improve your accuracy.
Spotting scopes boast higher magnification than rifle scopes and provide clear target views at long distances. This is helpful for long-distance precision shooters and any shooter looking to check a target at the range without having to leave the bench amid a cease-fire.
Finding the best tactical spotting scopes can be taxing for inexperienced buyers. For that reason, we combed through the market and found a top selection of spotting scopes with reticles suitable for long-range shooting applications. Read on and discover the best spotting scopes with reticle.
What Makes a Great Tactical Spotting Scope?
A great tactical spotting scope is made of several things. First, it must have a large objective lens of at least 60mm to provide bright and clear images. Superb glass is paramount for clarity and outstanding glassing sessions. The high-quality glass comes at a cost but paying the extra buck is worth it.
If you plan to use the scope for extreme long-range shooting, it should have a high magnification power and high-quality optics that provide clear images even at maximum magnification.
Additionally, the spotting scope should be well-constructed and be fully waterproof and fog-free for use in both good and bad weather conditions.
How much Magnification Do You Need?
The ideal magnification power largely depends on what you intend to use the spotting scope for and how far you intend to shoot. For close and mid-range shooting, a scope with a moderate magnification will be sufficient. But if you are looking to magnify objects that are extremely, go for a scope with a high magnification of at least 60x.
8 Best Spotting Scopes with Reticle
Finding the best spotting scope with reticle is no easy feat. With so many options out there, it becomes a tricky task to find the best product especially if you are a first-time buyer.
We have compiled a list of the top-rated spotting scopes with reticle to help you choose right one. We also have a guide on how to choose a spotting scope, so let’s get started.
1) Leupold Guide Spotting Scope
The Leupold Guide Spotting Scope is one of the best spotting scopes with reticle. This powerful and versatile spotting scope is made with serious hunters and tactical shooters in mind.
It features a 60x maximum magnification suitable for extreme long-range shooting and a wide 85mm objective lens which provides a wide field of view and HD performance.
The spotting scope is available in two reticle styles. You can choose a model that has a Mil-Dot reticle or TMR reticle. Both reticles are housed in the first focal plane.
Besides that, it brings to the table Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System which not only provides bright and clear images in low light conditions but also reduces glare in harsh light.
Moreover, this optic is well-constructed to give you many years of use. It is built to stand up to shock, blow, drops and impacts. It’s also fully waterproof and fog proof for all-weather reliability.
Furthermore, it has scratch-resistant lenses and a folded light path design that makes it more compact and portable. To top it all, it has an integrated 1/4-20 thread tripod attachment which makes it simple to mount to a tripod.
Features
- 30mm eye relief
- Scratch-resistant lens
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Durable and shockproof housing
- Rubber armor coating
- Folded light path design
- Mil-Dot reticle
- Lightweight and compact design
- 1/4-20 thread tripod attachment
Pros
- Large focus ring to fine-tune images
- Crystal clear glass for viewing pleasure
- A generous eye box eliminates strain when viewing
- Mounts effortless on a tripod adapter
- Rugged construction that withstands harsh weather elements
- Superior low-light performance
Cons
- The neoprene cover makes adjustments slightly stiff
2) SightMark Latitude 20-60×80 XD Tactical Spotting Scope
If you are in the hunt for the best spotting scopes with reticle for the money, you can hardly go wrong with the SightMark Latitude 20-60×80 XD Tactical Spotting Scope. It comes with every feature you need to make your tactical shooting more competitive.
For starters, the spotting scope has a wide 20-60x magnification suitable for shooting targets at varying ranges. It features fully multi-coated ED glass which provides bright and clear images in any lighting conditions and aluminum prims coating that provides a wide field of view and better depth.
This scope comes with a first focal plane mil-radian reticle that’s not just easy to aim, but simple to use as well. The twist-up eyecup accommodates all users with or without eyeglasses, while the straight eyepiece design allows you to comfortably spot for lengthy periods.
Above all, this product boasts a durable rubber-armored coating and it’s fully waterproof, dustproof and fogproof for confident glassing in any weather condition.
Features
- Focusable eyepiece
- Distortion-free clarity
- 20-60x magnification
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Waterproof, dustproof and fogproof
- First focal plane mil-radian reticle
- Rugged rubber-armored coating
- Folded light path
- Straight eyepiece design
- Twist-up eyecup
Pros
- Outstanding light-gathering ability
- Rugged to outperform harsh weather conditions
- Weatherproof performance
- In-built sunshade
- Ideal for long-range shooting up to 2,000 yards
- Great price for a tactical spotter
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a table tripod stand
3) Leupold Golden Ring 20-60x80mm Spotting Scope
Leupold makes high-quality optics and the Golden Ring 20-60x80mm Spotting Scope is no different. This spotting scope stands out among the best spotting scopes with reticle because of its outstanding performance.
It boasts high-definition lenses that provide sharp image detail even at the highest magnification level. It also provides excellent low-light performance. With the unique folded light path system, the scope is more compact and lightweight for easy portability.
The spotting scope has a scratch-resistant lens that stands up to rough conditions and a waterproof and fog-proof construction for all-weather reliability. Add the rugged magnesium housing and you get a spotting scope that will last for generations.
Another good thing about the scope is the straight eyepiece design. It helps you spot long-range subjects comfortably and reduces eye strain during extended glassing sessions.
Furthermore, the scope boasts a first focal plane impact reticle for fast and accurate shot placement. Overall, it’s a quality spotting scope that offers excellent performance both at the range and hunting field.
Features
- Compact, lightweight design
- A folded light path system
- Waterproof and fogproof
- First focal plane impact reticle
- Scratch-resistant lens
- Rugged magnesium housing
- 30mm eye relief
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Straight eyepiece
- A fully multi-coated lens system
Pros
- Enhances shooting accuracy
- Stellar low-light performance
- Superior glass for edge-to-edge clarity
- Can be tethered with a digital camera
- Tripod ready
- Reliable performance in all weather conditions
Cons
- Expensive
4) Newcon Optik Spotter ED Spotting Scope
As one of the best spotting scopes with reticle, the Newcon Optik Spotter ED Spotting Scope boasts a large 85mm objective and a variable 20-60x magnification. It features fully multi-coated optics and BaK4 prisms which facilitate maximum light transmission for brighter and clear views even in dismal environments.
The scope has a lightweight yet durable polycarbonate housing that’s nitrogen-filled to provide reliable waterproof and fog performance. It also comes with a rubber armor that shields the scope from shock and provides a positive grip in wet conditions.
Better yet, the scope features a built-in retractable dew shield that protects the objective lens from moisture and reduces glare by blocking stray light.
For added convenience, this product comes with a 1/4”-20 socket which makes it easy to mount on most photo tripods and quick-release plates. The long eye relief fits all users with or without eyeglasses, while the straight-viewing eyepieces reduce eye fatigue during long glassing sessions.
Features
- Waterproof and fog-free
- Corrosion and impact-resistant polycarbonate chassis
- Lightweight design
- Protective rubber armoring
- 1/4”-20 tripod mount
- Straight-viewing eyepiece
- Long and snug eye relief
- Variable 20-60x magnification
- Fully multi-coated optics
- ED glass and BaK4 prism
- Retractable dew shield
Pros
- Clear and crisp spotter
- Great price and value
- The Mil reticle is easy to use
- Excellent performance
- Comes with a case
- Outstanding build quality
Cons
- No drawbacks
5) Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope
Vortex is renowned for its top-tier optics and the Viper HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope is no exception. It’s packed with high-end features for excellent optical performance making it one of the best spotting scopes with reticle.
Outstanding resolution and crystal-clear glassing experience are some of the benefits of using a dedicated spotter like the Viper HD spotting scope.
This spotting scope is lightweight for easy portability and maintains a compact profile for ultimate packability. Featuring a variable 20-60x magnification, this angled spotting scope is perfect for shooting targets at varying ranges.
It provides clear views even at maximum magnification and offers a wide field of view for easy target spotting. It also boasts a smooth helical focus for ultra-sharp viewing and a multi-position eyecup that provides generous eye relief.
This spotting scope offers unbeatable durability. It has rubber armor that enhances durability and provides a secure, non-slip grip even when you are wearing gloves.
It’s sealed with O-rings to prevent dirt and moisture entry, and argon purged to provide fog-proof properties. Moreover, the exterior lenses have an Armortek coating that protects them from dirt, oil and scratches.
Features
- Locking collar
- Multi-position eyecup
- Rubber armor
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Protective Armortek coating
- Smooth helical focus
- HD optical system
- Durable aluminum construction
- XR anti-reflective lens coatings
- Variable 20-60x magnification
Pros
- Incredible performance for hunters and shooters
- Incomparable clarity, resolution and color fidelity
- Trimmed profile for easy packability
- The body can be rotated to enhance visibility
- Sunshade locks out stray light for the ultimate glassing experience
- Smooth adjustments to bring image into sharp focus
Cons
- Weight and size are a concern for backcountry packing
6) Bushnell Legend T-series 15-45x60mm Spotting Scope
When it comes to affordability, it’s hard to beat the Legend T-series 15-45x60mm Spotting Scope from Bushnell. It offers the same performance as high-end scopes at only a fraction of the cost.
In addition to the reasonable price tag, the versatility accorded by the variable power makes the Legend T-Series spotter one of the best spotting scopes with reticle. Featuring fully multi-coated optics and HD prime glass, the scope provides bright, vivid and sharp images even in low light conditions.
This scope has a 45x maximum magnification which is perfect for long-range shooting. The FFP MIL-hash reticle helps you range targets and make the correct wind and drop calls. Even better, the scope has several Picatinny rails that you can use to mount different accessories like red dots and rangefinders.
It’s fully waterproof and fog-proof for use in any weather condition and comes with a water-repellent Rain Guard HD which provides clear views even in rainy weather conditions. Lastly, it’s backed by Bushnell no question asked lifetime warranty.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 100% waterproof and fog-free
- Rain Guard HD coatings
- Folded light path
- FFP MIL-hash reticle
- Lightweight and compact
- 15-45x magnification
- HD prime glass
- Multiple Picatinny rails
- 35’ close focus range
Pros
- A resourceful reticle
- Budget-friendly spotter
- Excellent light transmission for bright images
- Weatherproof construction
- Easy to mount
- Comes with a protective coating and cover
Cons
- Clarity shrinks when using higher powers
7) Vortex Razor HD 27-60×85 Spotting Scope
The Razor HD 27-60×85 Spotting Scope is another premium scope that offers excellent performance. It utilizes high-end optical technology and precision craftsmanship which make it one of the best spotting scopes with reticle on the market.
This spotting scope is well-constructed to give you many years of use. It’s waterproof, fogproof and shockproof for ultimate durability. It also has a rubber armor that gives you a non-slip grip and Armortek coatings which protect the lenses from oil, scratches and dirt.
Another notable feature about the spotting scope is the excellent optical performance. It has a Triplet Apochromatic lens and HD, extra-low dispersion glass that delivers unmatched resolution and color fidelity.
The lenses also come with XR anti-reflective coatings that increase light transmission for maximum brightness in low-light conditions. The scope also boasts a built-in sunshade for reducing glare and a multi-position eyecup that provides comfortable views with or without eyeglasses.
Features
- Long eye relief
- Durable rubber armor
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- XR anti-reflective coatings
- Triplet Apochromatic lens
- Multi-position eyecup
- Armortek coatings
- High-end optical technology
- Wide 85mm objective lens
- Broad 27-60x magnification
- Smooth helical focus
Pros
- A high-end spotter with superior features
- Unmatched light transmission for crisp images
- In-built sunshade for comfortable glassing
- Excellent for long-distance shooting and hunting
- Versatile spotter
- High-quality construction
- Weatherproof construction
Cons
- A little pricey
8) Barska AD11430 Compact Targeting 11-33×50 Spotting Scope
If you are looking for a compact spotting scope that you can carry around with ease, look no further than the Barska AD11430 Compact Targeting scope. Though compact, this spotter is powerful and versatile.
It has an adjustable 11-33x magnification which allows for easy targeting. It also comes with a Mil-Cross range-finding reticle ideal for target shooting and other sports.
The compact spotter is well-built to provide great durability. It has a solid construction and a rubber exterior that shield the scope from weather elements, shock, impacts and more. Even better, this product is fully waterproof and fog proof for reliable performance in bad and demanding weather conditions.
With this spotting scope, you don’t have to buy a tripod separately. It comes with a mini-tripod that provides steady and comfortable views. It also has a built-in tripod mount that’s compatible with standard tripod mounting screws and a side focus knob with ribbed rubber focus rings.
Features
- 100% waterproof and fog proof
- Compact, light and portable
- Mil-cross rangefinding reticle
- Fully multi-coated BK-7 optics
- Side focus knob
- Integrated tripod mount
- Durable and shockproof construction
- Foldable mini-tripod included
- Rugged rubber armor
- Versatile 11-33x magnification
Pros
- Unbeatable price
- Decent light transmission
- Compact design eases portability
Cons
- Less power for long-range applications
- Fuzzy at high magnification settings
See Also
- Best Vortex Spotting Scopes
- Best Long-Range AR Scope
- Best Scopes for 1000 Yards
- Best Compact Binoculars for Hunting
Considerations when Choosing Best Spotting Scopes with Reticles
Intended Use
When shopping for the best spotting scope with reticle, you must consider what you intend to use the scope for. Is it for hunting or target shooting?
If you are using the scope solely for rifle hunting, look for a model that offers superb low-light performance and all-weather performance. However, if you want a multi-purpose scope, look for a model that offers great versatility in all aspects.
Magnification
Magnification is the other important factor you should consider. The spotting scope’s overall magnification will determine how far you’ll be able to shoot.
If you’ll be using the scope to find subjects that are extremely far away, a scope with 60x magnification will be sufficient. But if you are looking to shoot objects that aren’t so far away, look for a scope with lower magnification powers.
Image Quality
A spotting scope will do you no good if it provides poor-quality images. Look for a scope that offers virtually no distortion or color fringing. This is only achieved if the scope has high-quality optics and good-quality lens coatings.
As you shop around for the best scope, look for a model that has ED glass and fully multi-coated optics as they offer the best image quality.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the other important factor you should consider particularly for those users who put on eyeglasses. It’s difficult to use a scope with glasses on if it doesn’t have a long eye relief.
Some spotting scopes allow you to adjust eyeglass-wearers. Though such spotting scopes are expensive, they will save you from having to remove your glasses every time you want to use the scope.
Durability
Spotting scopes with reticles are pretty costly. As you invest your hard-earned money on a specific product, you’ll want it to serve you for years. Therefore, you must look for a scope that’s well-constructed with high-quality materials.
Go for a spotting scope that’s made from aluminum, magnesium alloy or polycarbonate as they offer great durability. Also, make sure that the scope you chose is fully waterproof and fog proof for all-weather reliability.
Objective Lens Diameter
The other factor to consider is the size of the objective lens. Bigger objective lenses collect more light than smaller ones. The result is brighter and clearer images even in low light situations. However, bigger isn’t always the best. Spotting scopes with big objective lenses are heavier, cumbersome to carry around and costlier.
Related Posts
- Best Spotting Scopes for Hunting
- Elk Hunting Spotting Scopes
- Best Spotting Scopes for Backcountry Hunting
- Best Vortex Viper Spotting Scopes
Best Spotting Scopes with Reticle FAQs
Q: What Do Numbers on a Spotting Scope Mean?
A: The numbers in a spotting scope represent the magnification power and the size of the objective lens. For a 20-60×60 model, the first two numbers represent the magnification which means that the scope can zoom from 20x to 60x. The last number which is 60 represents the size of the objective lens in millimeters.
Q: How Powerful Should a Spotting Scope Be?
A: In most cases, a spotting scope will have a variable magnification of 15x to 60x. With such magnification, you’ll be able to see more detail of your targets even at long distances.
Q: How Far Can You See with a Spotting Scope?
A: It depends on several factors such as the quality of the optics and magnification power that the scope has and the weather condition. Generally, a spotting scope with 15-60x magnification will give you clear views of a target that’s as far as 500 yards away if the weather conditions are ideal.
Conclusion
We hope that you have found this detailed buying guide helpful. A spotting scope with a reticle will help you see distant targets clearly so you can make an accurate shot placement. All the products listed above are quality and a great companion when it the battlefield or range.