Vortex is a well-known brand when it comes to the world of optics. Their spotting scopes are lightweight, compact and perfect for land and sea viewing. Vortex Diamondback spotting scopes are one of their finest and top-performing line of optics.
With a Vortex spotting scope, you can see clear image views even at long distances and notice details that can be seen with naked eyes. To accommodate the needs of every optic user, Vortex brands offers a wide range of spotting scopes.
While these spotting scopes models are from the same manufacturer, each model has its unique features and hence different functionality. Vortex Diamondback spotting scopes are among the best spotting scopes from this brand.
They are equipped with a superb optical power that every outdoor enthusiast requires and do well particularly in low light conditions. If you are in the market for a quality spotting scope, here is a review of the best Vortex Diamondback spotting scopes.
1) Vortex Optics Diamondback 20-60×80- Angled Spotting Scope
Specially designed for hunters who want to advance their shooting skills, the Diamondback 20-60×80- Angled Spotting Scope is highly accurate and ideal for group viewing. This angled spotting scope provides superb image brightness and clarity even when shooting under low light conditions.
Its unlimited eye relief provides comfortable views with or without eyeglasses. Moreover, the XR fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and with a built-in retractable sunshade, you get clear image views even when shooting during broad daylight. The eyecup twists up and down for comfortable viewing.
And that’s not all. This spotting scope has shock-absorbing rubber armor to enhance durability while offering a comfortable, non-slip grip for the user. It’s also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged so it’s fully waterproof and fog proof.
Weighing just 2.94 pounds, the scope is lightweight, packable, and ideal for travel. Simply mount it on a tripod to enjoy a snug, long viewing sessions.
Key Features
- Intuitive and easy to use.
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor.
- XR, fully multi-coated lenses.
- Waterproof and fog proof.
- Lightweight, packable and perfect for travel.
- Secure, non-slip grip.
- Built-in retractable sunshade.
- Excellent eye relief.
- Superb image brightness and clarity.
- Tripod adaptable.
- Twist-and-lock collar that enables you to easily change the scopes for different glassing positions.
- Adjustable eyecup.
2) Vortex Optics Diamondback 20-60×80 Straight Spotting Scope
Vortex makes super optics and the Diamondback 20-60×80 Straight Spotting Scope is no exemption. Built to last a lifetime, this optic features high-quality composite material construction which makes it durable and strong. It’s lightweight, portable, and perfect for travel.
For all-weather reliability, this optic is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver exertional waterproof and fog-proof performance. Its close focus is 22 feet and its eyecups twist up and down to optimize comfort during use.
Well, that’s not all. This straight spotting scope features shock-absorbing rubber armor that enhances both the durability of the optic and a secure, non-slip grip for the user. A twist-and-lock collar will enable you to easily change the scopes for different glassing positions.
Furthermore, its lenses feature multi-layer anti-reflective lens coating to enhance light transmission. A built-in retractable sunshade reduces glare and shields the objective lens from mechanical damage. This spotting scope is a heavyweight performer ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities.
Key Features
- Excellent low-light transmission.
- 100% waterproof and fogproof.
- Lightweight, portable and perfect for travel.
- Adjustable eyecups to accommodate eyeglass wearers.
- Unlimited eye relief.
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor.
- Extremely sturdy and durable.
- Secure, non-slip rubber grip.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Retractable, built-in sunshade.
- Powerful zoom eyepiece.
- Smooth and easy-to-focus wheel.
- Close focus: 22 feet.
3) Vortex Optics Diamondback 16-x48x65 Angled Spotting Scope
The Diamondback 16-x48x65 Angled Spotting Scope is a high-end Vortex spotting scope with impressive features at a reasonably affordable price tag. In line with the Vortex optics, this angled spotting scope is fully waterproof and fogproof to deliver reliable all-weather performance.
Built from high-quality aluminum, this optic is not only lightweight but also very durable. The angled design makes it ideal for group viewing and with generous eye relief, every user is accommodated even those who wear eyeglasses. A built-in tripod mount attaches easily to most tripods, so you can enjoy comfortable, long viewing sessions.
With an HD optical system, you are assured of superb image brightness and clarity while the several anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces enhance light transmission to deliver superior edge-to-edge image sharpness.
This optic also features an Armortek lens coating that protects the lenses against scratches and dirt, and a shock-absorbing rubber armor that enhances durability and a comfortable, non-slip grip for the user.
Key Features
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Versatile zoom range.
- Superior edge-to-edge image clarity.
- HD optical system.
- Armortek lens protective coating.
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor.
- Adjustable eyecups to accommodate even those who put on eyeglasses.
- Tripod adaptable.
- Built-in retractable sunshade.
- Sturdy and durable aluminum construction.
- Streamlined exterior for a sleek profile.
4) Vortex Optics Diamondback 16-48×65 Straight Spotting Scope
Investing in a spotting scope doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. The Diamondback 16-48×65 Straight Spotting Scope is equipped with a wide range of reliable features all at a reasonably budget-friendly cost.
Suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, this spotting scope is lightweight, portable, and great for travel. The versatile zoom power is ideal for both close and long-range target viewing while the HD optical system delivers exceptional image resolution and color fidelity.
Additionally, the several anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces enhance light transmission to deliver bright and clear target views. For worry-free all-weather reliability, this spotting scope is fully waterproof and fogproof.
It also features shock-absorbing rubber armor which enhances durability while also providing a secure, non-slip grip for the user. The adjustable eyecups accommodate all users with or without eyeglasses while the built-in retractable sunshade minimizes glare and protects the objective lens from weather elements such as rain and snow. Simply mount the scope on a tripod to enjoy snug, long viewing sessions.
Key Features
- Durable and sturdy aluminum construction.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Versatile zoom range.
- Superior edge-to-edge image clarity.
- HD optical system.
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor.
- Adjustable eyecups to accommodate users with or without eyeglasses.
- Tripod adaptable.
- Built-in retractable sunshade.
- Ergonomic, non-slip rubber grip.
- Reasonably affordable.
5) Vortex Optics Diamondback 20-60×85 Angled Spotting Scope
If you are in the market for a new spotting scope or an upgrade to a worn-out one, Diamondback 20-60×85 Angled Spotting Scope should be an ideal option for you.
With this angled spotting scope, you get reliable all-weather performance thanks to the waterproof and fogproof features. With the new upgraded design, this spotting scope has a streamlined exterior which is not only stylish but also very comfortable to hold.
The HD optical system paired with the multiple anti-reflective lens coating delivers superior image brightness, clarity, and color fidelity. These lenses are Armortek coated to protect them from scratches, dirt, and oil.
Crafted from high-quality aluminum, this scope is not just durable, but also lightweight. To enhance durability, this optic also features shock-absorbing rubber armor which also provides the user with a secure, non-slip grip.
The adjustable eyecups twist up and down for snug viewing with or without eyeglasses. The scope is also tripod mountable and comes with a built-in retractable sunshade to minimize glare and protect the objective lens from weather elements such as rain and snow.
Key Features
- Lightweight, portable and perfect for travel.
- Tripod mountable.
- Great for group viewing.
- Adjustable eyecups.
- All-weather reliability.
- Durable, shock-absorbing rubber armor.
- Armortek lens coating.
- HD optical system delivers superior edge-to-edge image brightness.
- Built-in sunshade.
- Streamline exterior that’s stylish and snug to hold.
- Built-in helical focus wheel for quick and smooth adjustments.
6) Vortex Optics Diamondback 20-60×85 Straight Spotting Scope
Lastly, we have the Diamondback 20-60×85 Straight Spotting Scope. This straight spotting scope got you covered in a wide range of outdoor activities. With the versatile 20-60x zoom power, this optic is perfect for multiple activities including birding, hunting, wildlife and ocean viewing.
Its user interface is intuitive and easy to use, therefore ideal for beginners and professionals alike. Equipped with an HD optical system, this scope excels in low-light performance making it ideal for hunting at dawn or dusk.
All its air-to-glass surfaces feature multiple anti-reflective coatings to increase light transmission and deliver bright and clear image views. For reliable performance in all weather conditions, this optic is fully waterproof and fogproof as well.
Moreover, its tripod is adaptable to provide snug, long viewing sessions and has a built-in sunshade that minimizes glare and protects the objective lens from weather elements. Also included is a shock-absorbing rubber armor that not only enhances durability but also provides the user with a comfortable, non-slip grip.
Key Features
- Versatile 20-60x zoom power.
- Adjustable eyecups.
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor.
- Intuitive and easy to use.
- Streamline exterior that’s stylish and comfortable to hold.
- Built-in helical focus wheel for quick and smooth adjustments.
- Ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
- Built-in sunshade minimizes glare under broad daylight.
- 100% waterproof and fogproof.
- HD optical system.
- Tripod adaptable.
- Armortek coating protects the lens from oil, dirt, and scratches.
Further Reading
- Best Spotting Scopes for Hunting
- Spotting Scopes for Backcountry Hunting
- Best Spotting Scopes with Reticle
- Spotting Scopes for Target Shooting
- Best Spotting Scopes for Elk Hunting
Vortex Diamondback Spotting Scopes Buying Guide & FAQs
Factors to Consider when Choosing Vortex Diamondback Spotting Scopes
Prior to buying a Vortex Diamondback spotting scope, make sure that you consider the following important factors.
Durable Construction
In all outdoor activities that necessitate the use of a spotting scope, you’ll be required to move from one location to the other. Since you’ll be carrying the spotting scope across miles on uneven surfaces, odds are that you will occasionally bump or accidentally drop the scope along the way.
This calls for a spotting scope that’s rugged and sturdily made to withstand any shock or impact without sacrificing its performance. The Vortex spotting scope that you choose should also be all-weather reliable.
This means that the spotting scope must be fully waterproof, dustproof, and fog proof. Most of the scope listed above feature shock-absorbing rubber armor which also enhances durability. For you to have great value for your money, look for a spotting scope that’s capable of lasting for years.
Light Gathering Ability
Like any other scope, the light-gathering ability of a Vortex spotting scope is indicated by the size of the objective lens. Most Vortex diamondback spotting scopes objective lenses vary in size from 50mm to 100mm. In general, large-sized objective lenses will produce brighter image views, however, they make the optic much heavier and difficult to pack.
Eye Relief
Eye relief refers to the maximum distance between the eyepiece lens and the position at which your eye rests. Eyeglass wearers should pay keen attention to the amount of eye relief offered by the spotting scope.
An optic with long eye relief directs the focal point farther behind the eyepiece so sunglass/eyeglass wearers have a complete field of view. Given in mm, the best spotting scope should have at least 12-15mm of eye relief. This way, every user with or without eyeglasses will be assured of comfortable viewing.
Straight vs Angled
Choosing between a straight or angled scope is mostly a matter of personal preference. An angled scope is better when it comes to birding, especially if you are looking into treetops. On the other hand, a straight scope is ideal for hunting as it makes tracking of the game simple and quick.
The other important factor that influences which scope style you’ll choose is if you are engaged in group viewing. If you’ll be viewing alone, you can opt for the straight scope since you won’t have to worry about adjusting your height.
On the other hand, if you have a group of people, be it, friends or family members, an angle’s scope is better suited to everyone’s varying heights.
Magnification
The ideal magnification power will depend on the activity you are engaged in. While many people think that the higher the magnification the better the scope, this is not always the case.
The more powerful your lens is, the clearer your image views become. However, at the highest magnification, images start to become blurry.
The best spotting scopes have a magnification power that ranges from 15x to 60x. Anything more than this will affect your field of view and result to blur images.
Portability
All outdoor activities that require the use of a spotting scope require you to constantly move around from one point to the other. This means that you’ll be required to carry your spotting scope with you for miles and set it several times especially if you are engaged in hunting.
For your convenience, look for an optic that’s lightweight, packable, and ideal for travel. If you’ll be engaged in an activity that requires multiple setup and takedown of the spotting scope, go for one that’s easy to mount and easy to take down as well.
Also, look if the scope is tripod mountable especially if you plan to engage yourself in long viewing sessions.
Related Post: Best Vortex Viper Spotting Scopes Review
Vortex Diamondback Spotting Scopes FAQs
Q: What Does Digiscoping Mean?
In spotting scopes, Digiscoping refers to the process of paring up a camera with a spotting scope. This allows you to not only have a clear close-up view of far-away targets but also record some of the photos and videos to show off.
Q: Which is Better, Straight or Angled Spotting Scopes?
Angled spotting scopes have the advantages of using a lower tripod height which enhances stability as well as being a much better setup for Digiscoping. On the other hand, straight scopes are known to enhance rapid target acquisition while spotting.
Q: What Do Numbers on the Spotting Scope Represent?
If you are new to the world of optics, you might be wondering what the numbers on the spotting scope represent. For instance, in a 20-60×80 spotting scope, the first two numbers. That is 20-60x indicates the magnification power of that scope. The third number which in this case is 80, indicates the diameter of the objective lens.
Q: Which is The Best Magnification for a Spotting Scope?
This greatly depends on the outdoor activity you engage yourself in. For birding, a spotting scope between 20-30X will do. For a wide range of outdoor applications, look for a spotting scope with a magnification power that ranges from 15x to 60x. Anything more than this will negatively affect your field of view and result to blur images.
Conclusion
The Vortex diamondback spotting scopes are as good as any other Vortex spotting scopes. Each one of the products listed above is quality and it represents the height of reliable and quality performing optics from the Vortex brand. They are easy to use and dependable in all weather conditions.
If you are in the market for a new spotting scope or hopefully looking to upgrade the current one, going through this review should help you find one that perfectly meets your needs. Which Vortex Diamondback spotting scope captured the attention of your eye?