In this article, we’ll explore some of the best spotting scopes on the market today as well as their key features and components. Spotting scopes are essential tools for anyone who wants to get a closer look at wildlife and nature, but they often come with hefty price tags.
Luckily, there are plenty of quality spotting scopes available for less than $500. We’ll also discuss what to consider when buying a spotting scope in this price range, such as magnification power and optical performance. With this guide and recommendations, you should have no trouble finding the perfect scope without breaking your budget!
Best Overall: Vanguard Endeavor Angled Eyepiece Spotting Scope
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest On Amazon: Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Spotting Scopes
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest With Tripod & Digiscoping Adapter: Gosky Porro Prism Spotting Scope
⇣ Jump to ReviewEssential Features:
1. XR multi-coated lenses
Complemented by an integrated sunshade that extends and retracts, spotting scopes that feature XR multi-coated lenses are engineered with a top-tier lens composition for optimal light transmission.
2. Glass & Coatings
In the near future, ED (Extra-low Dispersion) will become available on the market. Although some spotting scopes may have an “HD quality,” it does not necessarily indicate that they contain ED elements.
Additionally, FMC and enhanced lens coatings formulas are expected to be introduced in order to raise light transmission levels and guard lenses better than before.
3. Magnification & Objective Lens (Configuration)
On average, you’ll find lots of 20-60×80 setups in this budget. The glass quality is pretty decent so sticking with lower magnification should be alright. If, however, more zoom power is desired then the optics need to offer superior performance for it to work out well.
Though it may be rare to find at this price point, a few of the best spotting scopes under $500 come with interchangeable eyepieces. Most of these will include the eyepiece in the package though you can sometimes see them offered separately.
4. Waterproof and fog-proof construction
Moisture is a spotting scope’s worst enemy, so make sure to look for waterproof and fog-proof designs to ensure reliable performance in all environments. Spotting scopes be designed with durable rubber armored housing that makes them shock resistant as well.
5. Eye Relief
When deciding on an eyepiece, eye relief is an important factor to consider. If you wear glasses, aim for 15 mm of minimum acceptable eye relief at the very least, but ideally 19-20 mm in order to stay comfortable during peak magnification.
6. Durability
You can trust that the best spotting scopes under 500 will provide you with excellent glass and reliable performance. Not only that, but these scopes should be waterproof and fog-proof as well, plus come complete with an assurance to guarantee their reliability in the event of any unforeseen incidents.
7. Field of View (FOV)
The field of view can tell you how the spotting scope could be used. High magnification will shrink your FOV but offers precise imagery at a distance, ideal for long-range viewing and surveillance. A wider FOV is great if you’re looking to track moving targets while hunting or birdwatching.
8. Size & Weight
When considering the size and weight of a spotting scope, it’s important to remember that these scopes are much bigger than binoculars; however, they offer exceptional magnification capabilities with an impressive objective lens.
If you’re looking for something ideal for hiking or hunting trips – or even fast glassing – compact scopes should be your top pick.
If you’re a bird watcher, wildlife observer, or amateur astronomer seeking to observe the moon, a full-size scope is your ideal option for tripod mounting. In addition to the quality of performance and aperture size, always remember that weight matters too – make sure it includes the combined mass of both the tripod and any counterweights needed.
Best Spotting Scopes Under 500 Reviewed In This Guide
Vanguard Endeavor Angled Eyepiece Spotting Scope
The Vanguard Endeavor Angled Eyepiece Spotting Scope is the perfect choice for master birders and nature enthusiasts. Featuring a durable magnesium body, rubber armor, and a built-in sun shield, you can enjoy amazing views of wildlife in any season.
The extra-low dispersion glass combined with Bak4 phase-coated prisms provides crisp images with accurate color rendition and minimal fringing. Plus, this spotting scope is 100% waterproof and fog proof making it suitable for all weather conditions.
With an impressive zoom magnification range of 20-60x, objective lens diameter of 82mm, field of view spanning 110 to 52 ft/1000 yards, near focus ranging between 19.7 to 21.33 feet, eye relief measuring 19-20 mm, and a weight of 66.7 ounces – the Vanguard Endeavor Angled Eyepiece Spotting Scope offers unbeatable quality at an affordable price – making it one of the best spotting scopes under 500.
Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Spotting Scopes
Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Spotting Scopes provide the western hunter with all the optical horsepower they need in low light conditions.
Featuring a streamlined exterior, a built-in helical focus wheel, and adjustable eyecups, this scope offers great clarity and sharpness as well as enhanced color fidelity and light transmission thanks to multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Best of all, it is tripod adaptable for easy use on many different mounts or even car windows. The O-ring sealed construction makes it waterproof and fog proof while Armortek coatings protect it from oil, scratches, dirt, and more.
With excellent sighting capabilities and reliable parts such as rubber armor for durability, Vortex’s Diamondback HD Spotting Scopes are an ideal choice for any outdoor enthusiast looking for reliability without breaking the bank.
Gosky Porro Prism Spotting Scope
The Gosky Porro Prism Spotting Scope is a top-of-the-line spotting scope perfect for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and scenic observation.
With a fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens as well as an eyepiece and quality prism inside, it delivers crisp images that are brighter and clearer than ever before.
A variable magnification of 20x to 60x coupled with the dynamic lens focusing system makes zooming in on a target quick and easy. The sturdy Magnalium framework and rubber armor ensure that your scope will withstand all types of weather conditions while the waterproof design offers superior sealing properties.
Best of all, this entire package comes with a digiscoping adapter, carrying case, protective covers for both lenses and eyepieces, cleaning cloths, and handy straps – all for under $500.
Types Of Spotting Scopes:
Straight spotting scope
For most hunters, binoculars are typically used to first spot a target before switching to a spotting scope for an intimate view.
Most will concur that it is much faster and simpler when re-discovering the animal with a straight rather than angled spotting scope due to its ability to look down the line of sight.
To do so, they merely position their eyes along the same trajectory as the scope and then adjust accordingly until achieving optimal alignment near their original destination.
Angled spotting scopes
The angled scope’s benefits are considerable, even if they may seem subtle. With a rotatable eyepiece design that can be customized for your eye level, you won’t have to struggle with standing or bending down every time.
Thanks to its adjustable nature and flexibility, this particular modular device is suitable for myriad positions – from prone to crouched and all the way up to standing! Not only does it help you avoid any neck or back pain but also saves energy in the long run.
Common Questions:
Can you see planets with a spotting scope?
Spotting scopes are a breeze to operate and come with magnifications ranging from 60x up to 70x, which makes them ideal for all general observation tasks as well as observing prominent astronomical objects such as the moon or nearby planets.
What is the difference between a full-size and a compact spotting scope model?
Before you buy a spotting scope, it’s important to be aware of the different lengths, weights, and powers available. A higher power option may provide greater range when observing large animals but this benefit comes with additional bulk and weight.
When selecting a spotting scope, consider the size, weight, and shape as these will vary depending on the type and amount of glass used. Hefty scopes can be overwhelming to carry in your pack during backcountry hikes. As you look for bigger telescopes with more power, remember that they are likely going to weigh more too – like carrying around a ton of bricks.
How far can you see with a 20-60x spotting scope?
This spotting scope offers an expansive field of view – 91 feet at 1,000 yards with 20X magnification and 45 feet at 1,000 yards when set to a 60X magnifier. With this kind of range, you will be able to capture more detail than ever before.
What are the types of optical design in spotting scopes?
When it comes to spotting scopes, two optical designs exist – the refractor and catadioptric. The distinction between them lies in their material of choice for bringing an image into focus.
With the refractor using optical glass lenses to bend light and the catadioptric primarily relying on mirrors for its reflections, these two types of optics differ in their material compositions. Nevertheless, each instrument has an array of unique optical qualities that set them apart from one another.
What are the types of focusing mechanisms used in spotting scopes?
The unique qualities that each type possesses can greatly impact how well it accommodates your particular application.
- Helical focusers, with their knurled or rubberized collars around the scope barrel, make it easy to quickly adjust the focus. This is incredibly useful when you’re trying to observe moving objects from near to far in a short amount of time.
- Astronomical telescopes are typically equipped with rack and pinion designs, providing swift and seamless focusing. Unfortunately, these pieces of machinery have external components that can be prone to deterioration due to dust particles or moisture if used in outdoor conditions.
- Knob focusers grant you the capability to precisely and accurately direct your lens, although it does take more effort than other focusing methods.
Will any tripod work with a spotting scope?
Compact spotting scopes are an ultra-convenient tool because you can use any spotting scope tripod and head that fit your needs. The spotter is so lightweight yet dense enough to sit steady in the center of a pistol grip-type tripod.
How to store your spotting scope and spotting scope parts?
Safeguarding your investment is an intelligent move, so take the extra step and grab a spotting scope case or spotting scope cover to make sure your optic lasts for years of use.
Video Review:
If you’re an avid birdwatcher or hunter, you know that having the right equipment can make all the difference. Check out the youtube video below to learn more about the top 10 spotting scopes currently on the market now.
Final Thoughts
Overall, when it comes to finding spotting scopes, there are a lot of great options available. Whether you’re looking for something with an impressive zoom range or just want something that’s lightweight and easy to use, there is certainly something out there for everyone.
With some research and careful consideration of what your individual needs are, you can find the perfect scope that fits both your budget and personal preferences.
Don’t forget to invest in quality spotting scope parts as well; these will ensure your equipment stays in top condition for years to come.
