A spotting scope is equipment that needs to be in your hunting regimen. This tool provides high magnification and clarity making it suitable for detecting targets from long distances. Despite its high price, it is one of the most crucial gears every serious hunter should have.
Getting the correct model determines whether you go home empty-handed or with a successful harvest. In this article, we will have an in-depth look at crucial factors to pay attention to when choosing a scope for hunting.
Besides that, we’ll look at the types and benefits of spotting scopes. All this will help you choose the best model that suits your needs and requirements.
Types of Spotting Scopes for Hunting
Spotting scopes are divided into categories based on their construction. Their body construction determines their pros and cons. That is why you should comprehend what you are getting into. Let’s dive in.
Straight Spotting Scopes
Straight spotting scopes resemble a large rifle scope or a tiny telescope. Many hunters prefer them because of their compact, easy-to-pack form.
This design also allows you to line up the target before heading to the glass, which speeds up the process. You can also keep a lower profile, which comes in helpful when hunting.
On the other side, they are hard to use on an uphill but more comfortable looking downwards People of varying heights experience a more difficult time getting to eye level with this type.
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Angled Spotting Scopes
This type of scope is usually shorter end-to-end than a straight scope, but it takes up more space. An angled eyepiece is simpler to bend over than a straight one for most people. For guides who use cameras or digital displays with their spotting scopes, an angled eyepiece is the best solution.
The trade-off for being simpler to use on an elevation is that using these spotting scopes downward necessitates harsh neck contortions. When mounted to a vehicle window, the scope can be weighty. Moreover, you have to be concerned about rain and snow to prevent buildup on the eyepiece.
Spotting Scopes with a Reticle
The reticle on most spotting scopes isn’t marked. They ensure a clear view of the goal. Some, on the other hand, include a reticle similar to that found on a riflescope. MIL and MOA markers are two examples of distinct types.
A reticle can be used to estimate range and is especially useful when directing a shooter to a target. This is essentially how shooters converse with one another.
It is significantly advantageous to have a reticle on your spotting scope, but a majority of people choose not to utilize this one. This type of scope necessitates some digging, and using one with maximum effectiveness takes practice.
Read: Best Spotting Scopes with Reticle
Benefits of Spotting Scopes for Hunting
- Identification of Targets
Having a spotting scope helps you locate the target and helps have finer details. It does so by improving your vision so that you can engage the targets with more effectiveness.
- Time-Saving
Because you don’t need a cease-fire to examine the shot placement with a spotting scope, you save time at the range. You can tell whether the distant object is the game you’re looking for or a rock on the ground. You can summon game animals and adjust your position as they approach from any direction with enough room.
- Shot Adjustments
Seeing precisely where your shots land goes a long way when in the field. The amount of magnification you have at your disposal is what makes a difference. It is possible to watch bullets travel toward the target if you set up appropriately at a long enough range.
This is beneficial when you want to shoot accurately at long ranges, but it is just as beneficial when zeroing a new optic. By allowing you to check as you go and dial-up modifications, a spotting scope eliminates the inconvenience of running back and forth to inspect the last bunch.
Read: Best Spotting Scopes for Long Range Shooting
Factors to Consider when Choosing Spotting Scopes for Hunting
Magnification
The basic purpose of a spotting scope is to look further than conventional optics allow. The device allows you to detect a game from great distances, allowing you to proceed in the right direction and know what to expect when you arrive.
Some variable-power spotting scopes start at a low magnification of ten times. The majority of the devices have a 30-40 power range. Some of the higher-end ones feature magnification of up to 60 times. In broad environments, where targets may be far away when you first identify them, that kind of power is a game-changer.
Clarity
Clarity is another essential consideration to have in mind. It is pretty hard to make a material that magnifies images without adding color or blurriness. Making a material that amplifies pictures without adding color or blurriness is difficult.
Less expensive spotting scopes might do an excellent job while saving you money. They may have some flaws, may not provide true-to-life color, and may have distortion, particularly around the edges. The high-end glass will save you from these changes, but it will cost you a significant amount of money.
Read: Best Spotting Scopes for Target Shooting
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens diameter is the last number on a spotting scope. For instance, a 20×60 means a 30-power magnification and a 60mm objective lens diameter.
Larger objective lenses allow more light, resulting in a more precise image and a wider field of view. The disadvantage of this is a heavier scope.
Weight
A lightweight scope is easier to pack and move around with. A scope weighing below 5 oz is considered lightweight and comes in handy when hunting game that is difficult to draw, such as deer and elk. Heftier spotting scopes need a suitcase or tripod. Larger objectives may be good for the image but make scopes substantially larger and weightier.
Read: Best Spotting Scopes for Backcountry Hunting
Price
Many people believe that the more expensive the scope is, the better. However, this is not always true. Finding top-rated spotting scopes for hunting requires you to go through specifications and reviews.
Regarding affordability, don’t settle for an affordable unit too quickly. Be sure not to compromise quality for affordability. Spending more money and having a top-notch spotting scope from a reputable manufacturer is better.
Warranty
A spotting scope is a considerable investment. So, it is best to ensure that your model comes with a warranty. A warranty is an emblem that the manufacturer trusts the quality of the product and is ready for repair or replacement in case of any defects.
Read: Best Spotting Scopes for Elk Hunting
Conclusion
A spotting scope lets you have a closer look at a target before taking a shot. Taking down targets from a far distance is easier with a spotting scope. To help you choose the proper spotting scope, we have provided information to enlighten you about this equipment. If you have gone through it, choosing your model will be like a walk in the park.