Top 10 Best Spotting Scopes for Backcountry Hunting: Ultimate Guide 2021
The best spotting scope for backcountry hunting must be lightweight, durable, and have quality optics to help you spot your prey from afar.
When it comes to backcountry hunting, having the right gear can make all the difference. One of the most essential tools for a successful hunting trip is a spotting scope. A spotting scope allows you to see your prey from a distance, giving you a better chance to plan your approach and make an accurate shot. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs?
Firstly, it's important to consider the type of hunting you'll be doing. If you're going to be trekking through rugged terrain and need to keep your pack weight to a minimum, you'll want a lightweight and compact spotting scope. On the other hand, if you'll be stationary for long periods of time and have the luxury of a vehicle or base camp, a larger and more powerful spotting scope might be a better option.
Another factor to consider is the magnification power of the scope. While high magnification might seem like the obvious choice, it can actually be counterproductive in certain situations. For example, if you're hunting in thick brush or heavily wooded areas, a lower magnification can actually be more useful as it allows for a wider field of view and easier tracking of moving targets.
When it comes to optics, the quality of the glass is crucial. Look for scopes made with high-quality materials that provide clear and crisp images even in low light conditions. Additionally, some spotting scopes come with features such as anti-glare coatings and adjustable eyepieces that can make a big difference in your overall hunting experience.
One feature that is often overlooked but can be incredibly useful is the ability to attach a camera to the spotting scope. This allows you to capture high-quality photos and videos of your prey and the surrounding landscape, making for great memories and even better bragging rights.
Of course, the price point is always a consideration when it comes to hunting gear. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality spotting scope can pay off in the long run. Not only will it last longer and perform better, but it can also improve your overall hunting success rate.
So, what is the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting? Ultimately, the answer will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, some top options on the market include the Vortex Optics Razor HD, Leupold Golden Ring HD, and Swarovski STS HD. Each of these scopes offers a range of features and benefits that can enhance your hunting experience.
Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter or just starting out, investing in a high-quality spotting scope is an essential step towards improving your chances of success. By considering factors such as weight, magnification, optics, and price, you can find the perfect scope for your needs and take your hunting to the next level.
Introduction
Backcountry hunting requires the use of specialized equipment, and one crucial piece of gear is a spotting scope. A spotting scope provides hunters with a clearer and more detailed view of their surroundings, allowing them to spot game from a distance. In this article, we will discuss the best spotting scopes for backcountry hunting.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a spotting scope for backcountry hunting, there are several factors to consider. These include magnification, objective lens size, weight, and durability. A spotting scope with higher magnification and a larger objective lens size will provide better image quality but may be heavier and more cumbersome to carry. Additionally, a durable spotting scope that can withstand harsh weather conditions is essential for backcountry hunting.
Leupold Gold Ring 12-40x60mm HD Spotting Scope
The Leupold Gold Ring 12-40x60mm HD Spotting Scope is an excellent option for backcountry hunting. It features high-definition lenses that provide exceptional clarity and brightness, even in low light conditions. The scope has a magnification range of 12-40x and a 60mm objective lens, making it ideal for long-range spotting. Additionally, it is lightweight and compact, weighing only 37 ounces, making it easy to carry on long hunts.
Vortex Razor HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope
The Vortex Razor HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope is another top choice for backcountry hunting. It features high-density, extra-low dispersion glass that provides excellent resolution and color fidelity. The scope has a magnification range of 20-60x and an 85mm objective lens, making it ideal for long-range spotting. Additionally, it is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed, making it waterproof and fog proof.
Swarovski Optik ATS-65 HD Spotting Scope
The Swarovski Optik ATS-65 HD Spotting Scope is a top-of-the-line option for backcountry hunting. It features high-definition fluoride lenses that provide exceptional image quality and clarity. The scope has a magnification range of 20-60x and a 65mm objective lens, making it ideal for long-range spotting. Additionally, it is lightweight and compact, weighing only 47 ounces, making it easy to carry on long hunts.
Nikon Prostaff 5 82mm Spotting Scope
The Nikon Prostaff 5 82mm Spotting Scope is a budget-friendly option for backcountry hunting. It features fully multicoated lenses that provide bright and clear images. The scope has a magnification range of 20-60x and an 82mm objective lens, making it ideal for long-range spotting. Additionally, it is lightweight and compact, weighing only 33.8 ounces, making it easy to carry on long hunts.
Zeiss Victory Harpia 95mm Spotting Scope
The Zeiss Victory Harpia 95mm Spotting Scope is a high-end option for backcountry hunting. It features a triple-lens system that provides exceptional image quality and clarity. The scope has a magnification range of 22-65x and a 95mm objective lens, making it ideal for long-range spotting. Additionally, it is waterproof and fog proof, making it suitable for use in harsh weather conditions.
Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Spotting Scope
The Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Spotting Scope is a versatile option for backcountry hunting. It features high-quality ED glass that provides bright and clear images. The scope has a magnification range of 20-60x and an 82mm objective lens, making it ideal for long-range spotting. Additionally, it is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed, making it waterproof and fog proof.
Conclusion
When it comes to backcountry hunting, a spotting scope is an essential piece of equipment. The Leupold Gold Ring, Vortex Razor HD, Swarovski Optik ATS-65, Nikon Prostaff 5, Zeiss Victory Harpia, and Vanguard Endeavor HD are all excellent options for backcountry hunting. When choosing a spotting scope, consider factors such as magnification, objective lens size, weight, and durability to ensure that you choose the best option for your needs.
The Best Spotting Scope for Backcountry Hunting: A Comprehensive Guide
Backcountry hunting can be challenging and exhilarating. It requires a lot of preparation, planning, and the right equipment to be successful. One essential piece of equipment that every backcountry hunter needs is a spotting scope. A spotting scope is a specialized telescope designed to provide high magnification and clarity, allowing hunters to spot game from a distance. In this guide, we will discuss the key factors to consider when choosing the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting.Magnification and Lens Diameter: What You Need to Know
Magnification and lens diameter are two critical factors to consider when choosing a spotting scope. Magnification refers to how much an object appears to be enlarged, while lens diameter refers to the size of the objective lens. The larger the objective lens, the more light it can gather, resulting in a brighter and clearer image.For backcountry hunting, a spotting scope with a magnification range of 20x to 60x and a lens diameter of at least 60mm is recommended. This combination provides enough magnification to see distant targets while allowing enough light to get into the scope to produce a bright and clear image.Lightweight and Compact Design: Essential for Backcountry Hunting
When choosing a spotting scope for backcountry hunting, it is essential to consider the weight and size of the scope. Backcountry hunting involves a lot of hiking and carrying heavy gear, so a lightweight and compact spotting scope is necessary. The scope should be easy to carry and pack.A spotting scope with a weight of around two pounds or less and a compact design that fits easily into a backpack is ideal for backcountry hunting.Durability and Weather Resistance: The Key to Longevity
Backcountry hunting exposes equipment to harsh conditions such as rain, snow, dust, and extreme temperatures. Therefore, a spotting scope that is durable and weather-resistant is crucial for longevity and reliability.The best spotting scopes for backcountry hunting are made of rugged materials such as aluminum or magnesium alloy and are sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture and dust from entering the scope. Additionally, some scopes are coated with rubber armor to protect against impacts and provide a non-slip grip.Prism Coatings: How They Affect Image Clarity and Brightness
Prism coatings are another important factor to consider when choosing a spotting scope. Prisms are used in spotting scopes to reflect light and produce a right-side-up image. The quality of the prism coatings affects the image clarity and brightness.The best spotting scopes use high-quality prism coatings such as dielectric coatings or phase-corrected coatings. These coatings provide maximum light transmission, resulting in a brighter and clearer image.Eye Relief: A Must-Have Feature for Eyeglass Wearers
Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye when the entire field of view is visible. This feature is essential, especially for eyeglass wearers, as it allows them to see the full field of view without having to remove their glasses.For backcountry hunting, a spotting scope with an eye relief of at least 14mm is recommended. This feature ensures that eyeglass wearers can see the entire field of view without any obstruction.Focusing Mechanisms: Which Type Works Best for Hunting?
There are two main types of focusing mechanisms used in spotting scopes: a knob or a lever. A knob is turned to adjust the focus, while a lever is pushed or pulled to make the adjustment.For backcountry hunting, a focus knob is preferred as it provides finer adjustments for precise focusing. However, some spotting scopes come with a dual-focus mechanism that combines both the knob and lever for quick and accurate focusing.Tripod Compatibility: Important for Steady Viewing
A spotting scope must be stable to provide a clear and steady image. Therefore, tripod compatibility is an essential feature to consider when choosing a spotting scope for backcountry hunting.A spotting scope with a standard tripod mount is ideal as it allows for easy attachment to a tripod. Additionally, some spotting scopes come with a built-in tripod adapter, eliminating the need for an additional accessory.Reticle Options: Which One is Right for You?
A reticle is a crosshair or aiming point in the field of view of a spotting scope. It is used to help hunters accurately aim at their targets. There are several types of reticles available, including duplex, Mil-Dot, and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation).For backcountry hunting, a duplex reticle is recommended as it is simple and easy to use. The reticle consists of a thin crosshair that becomes thicker towards the center, making it easy to aim accurately. However, some hunters prefer a Mil-Dot or BDC reticle for long-range shooting.Price vs. Quality: Finding the Best Balance
The price of a spotting scope varies depending on the quality and features. While it is essential to consider your budget, it is also crucial to prioritize quality and features over price. A high-quality spotting scope with advanced features may cost more, but it will provide better performance and last longer than a cheaper alternative.It is recommended to choose a spotting scope from a reputable brand that offers a warranty and excellent customer service. This ensures that you get a quality product that is backed by the manufacturer.Extra Features: Rangefinders, Image Stabilization, and More
Some spotting scopes come with additional features such as rangefinders, image stabilization, and more. While these features are not necessary for backcountry hunting, they can be helpful in certain situations.A rangefinder allows hunters to calculate the distance between themselves and their target, making it easier to aim accurately. Image stabilization reduces the effects of hand tremors, resulting in a steadier image. Other features such as angled eyepieces and interchangeable eyepieces provide added flexibility and comfort.Conclusion
Choosing the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting requires careful consideration of several factors. Magnification and lens diameter, lightweight and compact design, durability and weather resistance, prism coatings, eye relief, focusing mechanisms, tripod compatibility, reticle options, price vs. quality, and extra features are all essential considerations when choosing a spotting scope.By carefully considering these factors and prioritizing quality and performance, you can select a spotting scope that will provide excellent results and last for years to come.Best Spotting Scope for Backcountry Hunting
Point of View
As an experienced backcountry hunter, I believe that a good spotting scope is essential for success in the field. A spotting scope allows you to get a closer look at game from a distance, which can be especially important when hunting in rugged terrain. However, finding the right spotting scope can be a challenge, as there are many factors to consider, such as magnification, objective lens size, and weight.Pros and Cons
Pros:- Allows you to get a closer look at game from a distance
- Can help you make more accurate shots
- Useful for scouting areas before the hunt
- Can be used for other outdoor activities, such as bird watching or wildlife observation
- Can be heavy and cumbersome to carry in the backcountry
- May require a tripod or other support to use effectively
- Higher quality spotting scopes can be expensive
- May not be necessary for all types of hunting
Comparison Information
When comparing spotting scopes for backcountry hunting, it's important to consider factors such as magnification, objective lens size, weight, and price. Some popular models to consider include:| Model | Magnification | Objective Lens Size | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortex Optics Viper HD | 15-45x | 65mm | 49.5 oz | $849.00 |
| Swarovski ATX/STX | 25-60x | 85mm | 68.8 oz | $3,918.00 |
| Leupold GR HD | 10-20x | 50mm | 37 oz | $1,399.99 |
Best Spotting Scope for Backcountry Hunting
Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best spotting scopes for backcountry hunting. We hope you found it informative and helpful in your search for the perfect spotting scope for your next hunting trip. Before we say goodbye, we wanted to provide you with a few closing thoughts and reminders.
First, when it comes to backcountry hunting, having a good spotting scope can make all the difference. Not only can it help you spot game from a distance, but it can also help you determine the size and quality of the animal, which is important when deciding whether or not to take the shot.
Secondly, when choosing a spotting scope, there are several factors to consider, including magnification, objective lens size, and overall weight. You want to find a spotting scope that is lightweight and compact enough to carry with you on your backcountry hunt, but also powerful enough to provide clear and detailed images.
Thirdly, it's important to invest in a high-quality spotting scope from a reputable brand. While it may be tempting to go for a cheaper option, you'll likely end up regretting it in the long run. A good spotting scope can last you for years and provide you with countless successful hunting trips.
Fourthly, don't forget to consider the accessories that come with your spotting scope. Many spotting scopes come with additional features such as tripod mounts, carrying cases, and lens covers. These can all add value to your purchase and make your backcountry hunting experience more enjoyable.
Lastly, it's important to practice using your spotting scope before heading out on your hunting trip. This will help you become familiar with its functions and capabilities, ensuring that you're fully prepared to use it when you need it most.
Overall, we hope this article has helped you in your search for the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting. Remember to take your time when choosing a spotting scope, and don't be afraid to invest in a high-quality product that will last you for years to come.
Thank you again for reading, and happy hunting!
People Also Ask About Best Spotting Scope for Backcountry Hunting
What is a spotting scope?
A spotting scope is a type of telescope used for observing terrestrial objects, especially at long distances. It is commonly used by hunters, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
What factors should I consider when choosing a spotting scope for backcountry hunting?
- Magnification power
- Objective lens diameter
- Size and weight
- Optical quality
- Weather resistance
- Price
What magnification power do I need for backcountry hunting?
The magnification power you need depends on the distance you will be observing your target from. A magnification of 10x to 20x is usually sufficient for most backcountry hunting applications.
What is the best objective lens diameter for backcountry hunting?
A larger objective lens diameter allows more light to enter the scope, which can improve image quality in low-light conditions. A diameter of 60mm to 80mm is recommended for backcountry hunting.
What is the ideal size and weight for a spotting scope for backcountry hunting?
An ideal spotting scope for backcountry hunting should be compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in your backpack. A scope that weighs less than two pounds and is less than 12 inches long is recommended.
What is the importance of optical quality in a spotting scope?
Optical quality is crucial for producing clear and sharp images, especially at long distances. A high-quality spotting scope with superior optics will allow you to see details that may not be visible with a lower quality scope.
What features should a spotting scope have to be weather-resistant?
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Durable construction
- Rubber armor coating
- Nitrogen purged to prevent moisture buildup
What is the price range for a good spotting scope for backcountry hunting?
A good spotting scope for backcountry hunting can range from $200 to $1000 or more, depending on the brand, features, and optical quality.