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Home > Optics > Spotting Scopes

Spotting Scopes

Spotting scopes are a portable telescope that will enhance your enjoyment of the outdoors. These scopes will allow you to observe at distances far beyond what you could with binoculars. Common features include magnification from 20x-60x, a rugged, rubber armored body, variable zoom eyepiece or a range of eyepieces, and convenient mounting.

You may choose a straight-thru spotting scope (the eyepiece is on the same axis as the body), or an angled spotting scope (they eyepiece is about 45 degrees to the body of the scope). The straight thru spotting scopes are better when moving and angled spotting scopes are better when sharing the view with others of different heights.
Many spotting scopes have camera adaptation, which allows for an even richer experience with the ability to take pictures.

Check our selection of the best spotting scopes: ALPEN Spotting Scopes, BURRIS Spotting ScopesBUSHNELL Spotting ScopesLEUPOLD Spotting ScopesNIKON Spotting ScopesSIMMONS Spotting ScopesTASCO Spotting ScopesVORTEX Spotting ScopesYUKON Spotting ScopesZEISS Spotting Scopes,  and many more (see all Spotting Scope brands).

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Products 1-25 of 98
Firefield FF11018K Spotting Scope
Firefield Firefield 20-60x60SE Spotting Scope Kit (FF11018K)
Item #: FF11018K - The Firefield 20-60x60SE Spotting Scope Kit’s high magnification gives you the ability to see detailed images at long ranges.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$95.99
Our Price:$79.00


Firefield FF11011K Spotting Scope
Firefield Firefield 20x50 Spotting Scope FF11011K
Item #: FF11011K - : The Firefield 20x50 Spotting Scope is equipped with a quick focus system that allows for zeroing in on short or long distances and perfect for shooting on the range.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$35.99
Our Price:$28.99


Firefield FF11016K Spotting Scope
Firefield Firefield 12-36x50SE Spotting Scope Kit (FF11016K)
Item #: FF11016K - The Firefield 12-36x50SE Spotting Scope Kit is perfect for tactical and target spotting. The FF11016K features fully multi-coated optics with a built in sunshade for added protection against the sun's brightness..
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$71.99
Our Price:$57.99


Zeiss 85mm T* FL AOS LT Spotting Scope, Green Angled 17 87 882
Zeiss ZEISS 65mm T* FL AOS LT Straight Spotting Scope, Black Finish
Item #: ZEI-1787880 - The 65mm T* FL spotting scope contains a technologically advanced optical system, providing the same outstanding image quality, and meeting the needs of even the most demanding hunter. The unit features with Zeiss New LotuTec lens coating which simply let water drops pearl off and to repels dirt.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$2,699.00
Our Price:$2,499.99


Zeiss 85mm T* FL AOS LT Spotting Scope, Green Angled 17 87 882
Zeiss ZEISS 65mm T* FL AOS LT Angled Spotting Scope, Black Finish
Item #: ZEI-1787878 - The 65mm T* FL spotting scope contains a technologically advanced optical system, providing the same outstanding image quality, and meeting the needs of even the most demanding hunter. The unit features with Zeiss New LotuTec lens coating which simply let water drops pearl off and to repels dirt.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$2,699.00
Our Price:$2,499.99


Zeiss Spotting Scope Mini 8x20 T
Zeiss ZEISS 6x18 T* Monocular (52 20 51)
Item #: ZEI-522051 - Lightweight and compact the 6x18 T* 522050 monocular has great optical performance. It features the Zeiss's multicoatings upon it elements for genuine color fidelity and high resolution.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$329.99
Our Price:$299.99


Zeiss Spotting Scope Mini 8x20 T
Zeiss ZEISS 4x12 T* Monocular (52 20 50)
Item #: ZEI-522050 - Lightweight and compact the 4x12 T* 522050 monocular has great optical performance. It features the Zeiss's multicoatings upon it elements for genuine color fidelity and high resolution.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$299.99
Our Price:$269.99


Zeiss 85mm T* FL AOS LT Spotting Scope, Green Angled 17 87 882
Zeiss ZEISS 85mm T* FL AOS LT Straight Spotting Scope, Black Finish
Item #: ZEI-1787884 - The 85mm T* FL spotting scope contains a technologically advanced optical system, providing the same outstanding image quality, and meeting the needs of even the most demanding hunter. The unit features with Zeiss New LotuTec lens coating which simply let water drops pearl off and to repels dirt.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$3,499.99
Our Price:$2,999.99


Zeiss 85mm T* FL AOS LT Spotting Scope, Green Angled 17 87 882
Zeiss ZEISS 85mm T* FL AOS LT Angled Spotting Scope, Black Finish
Item #: ZEI-1787882 - The 85mm T* FL spotting scope contains a technologically advanced optical system, providing the same outstanding image quality, and meeting the needs of even the most demanding hunter. The unit features with Zeiss New LotuTec lens coating which simply let water drops pearl off and to repels dirt.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$3,499.99
Our Price:$2,999.99


Barska 22-67X100 Blackhawk Straight Spotting Scope w/ free Tripod (AD10364)
Barska Barska 22-67X100 Blackhawk Straight Spotting Scope w/ free Tripod (AD10364)
Item #: BAR-AD10364 - BARSKA’s popular Blackhawk spotting scopes still set the standard for portability, optical performance and most important --- value. Our newest addition to this feature-packed series is a 20-60x60 model with an angled eyepiece. Like all Blackhawk spotters, this new model is at home at the target range, on birdwatching outings or on treks into the wilderness.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$910.75
Our Price:$429.99


Barska 12-36X50 WP Naturescape Spotting Scope w/ tripod (AD11104)
Barska Barska 12-36X50 WP Naturescape Spotting Scope w/ tripod (AD11104)
Item #: BAR-AD11104 - BARSKA’s Naturescape ED Series models take spotting scope optics to a higher level. Phase coated BAK4 prisms and fully multi-coated premium ED (Extra Low Dispersion) glass provide you with views of exceptional clarity and resolution.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$446.50
Our Price:$209.99


Barska 15-45X60 WP Naturescape Spotting Scope w/ Tripod (AD11106)
Barska Barska 15-45X60 WP Naturescape Spotting Scope w/ Tripod (AD11106)
Item #: BAR-AD11106 - BARSKA’s Naturescape ED Series models take spotting scope optics to a higher level. Phase coated BAK4 prisms and fully multi-coated premium ED (Extra Low Dispersion) glass provide you with views of exceptional clarity and resolution.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$635.75
Our Price:$299.99


Barska 15-45X65 WP Naturescape Spotting Scope (AD11108)
Barska Barska 15-45X65 WP Naturescape Spotting Scope (AD11108)
Item #: BAR-AD11108 - BARSKA’s Naturescape ED Series models take spotting scope optics to a higher level. Phase coated BAK4 prisms and fully multi-coated premium ED (Extra Low Dispersion) glass provide you with views of exceptional clarity and resolution.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$742.50
Our Price:$349.99


Minox MD 50 Straight Spotting Scope Picture1
Minox MINOX MD 50 Straight Spotting Scope (62226)
Item #: MIN-62226 - Travel friendly dimensions, a variable power top-of-the-range optical system and highest precision mechanics, these are the characteristics of the brand new Minox MD 50 W Spotting Scope, representing the classic design and production values of the brand Minox at a very high level.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$339.00
Our Price:$299.00


Hawke 20-60x60 Spotting Scope (HT3641)
Hawke HAWKE Nature Trek 24-72x70 Spotting Scope (HT3643)
Item #: HT3643 - The Hawke Nature spotting scopes have fully multi-coated optics providing a crisp, bright abd sharp image. Accompanied with either 24x-72x or 20x-60x zoom magnification. The tough rubber coating provides a waterproof body.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$179.99
Our Price:$159.99


Hawke 20-60x60 Spotting Scope (HT3641)
Hawke HAWKE Nature Trek 20-60x60 Spotting Scope (HT3641)
Item #: HT3641 - Nature-Trek ED spotting scopes are designed so that you can use optional fixed eyepieces. These type of eyepieces are available from Hawke. Extra eyepieces will allow varying levels of fixed power, wider fields of view and other factors.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$139.99
Our Price:$124.99


Hawke 22-67x100 Spotting Scope (HT3694)
Hawke HAWKE Nature Trek 22-67x100 Spotting Scope (HT3694)
Item #: HT3694 - Nature-Trek ED spotting scopes are designed so that you can use optional fixed eyepieces. These type of eyepieces are available from Hawke. Extra eyepieces will allow varying levels of fixed power, wider fields of view and other factors.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$419.99
Our Price:$379.99


Hawke 20-60x80 Spotting Scope (HT3693)
Hawke HAWKE Nature Trek 20-60x80 Spotting Scope (HT3693)
Item #: HT3693 - Nature-Trek ED spotting scopes are designed so that you can use optional fixed eyepieces. These type of eyepieces are available from Hawke. Extra eyepieces will allow varying levels of fixed power, wider fields of view and other factors.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$289.99
Our Price:$259.99


Hawke 18-55x65 Spotting Scope (HT3692)
Hawke HAWKE Nature Trek 18-55x65 Spotting Scope (HT3692)
Item #: HT3692 - Nature-Trek ED spotting scopes are designed so that you can use optional fixed eyepieces. These type of eyepieces are available from Hawke. Extra eyepieces will allow varying levels of fixed power, wider fields of view and other factors.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$239.99
Our Price:$214.99


Hawke 20-60x80 Spotting Scope (HT3701)
Hawke HAWKE Endurance ED 20-60x80 Spotting Scope (HT3701)
Item #: HT3701 - Endurance ED spotting scopes feature twist up eyecups as standard on the zoom eyepiece. You can use the eyecup at any position between the full up or down position, whatever is more comfortable.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$799.99
Our Price:$719.99


Hawke 16-48x65 Spotting Scope (HT3700)
Hawke HAWKE Endurance ED 16-48x65 Spotting Scope (HT3700)
Item #: HT3700 - Endurance ED spotting scopes feature twist up eyecups as standard on the zoom eyepiece. You can use the eyecup at any position between the full up or down position, whatever is more comfortable.
[more info...]
Availability: In Stock
MSRP:$599.99
Our Price:$539.99


VOTRS-2
Vortex VORTEX Optics Tactical Reconnaissance System Kit 2(VOR-VOTRS-2)
Item #: VOR-VOTRS-2 - The ultimate long-range glassing system in a fast-handling package. Each VOTRS (Vortex Optics Tactical Reconnaissance System) kit includes the powerful 20-60x85 Razor HD spotting scope for resolving distant details. The VOTRS positions the scope and binocular side-by-side on the tripod—permitting lightning-fast transitions between the optics.
[more info...]
Availability: Special Order
MSRP:$4,489.00
Our Price:$3,689.99


VOTRS-4
Vortex VORTEX Optics Tactical Reconnaissance System Kit 4(VOR-VOTRS-4)
Item #: VOR-VOTRS-4 - The ultimate long-range glassing system in a fast-handling package. Each VOTRS (Vortex Optics Tactical Reconnaissance System) kit includes the powerful 20-60x85 Razor HD spotting scope for resolving distant details. The VOTRS positions the scope and binocular side-by-side on the tripod—permitting lightning-fast transitions between the optics.
[more info...]
Availability: Special Order
MSRP:$4,299.00
Our Price:$3,579.99


VOTRS-3
Vortex VORTEX Optics Tactical Reconnaissance System Kit 3(VOR-VOTRS-3)
Item #: VOR-VOTRS-3 - The ultimate long-range glassing system in a fast-handling package. Each VOTRS (Vortex Optics Tactical Reconnaissance System) kit includes the powerful 20-60x85 Razor HD spotting scope for resolving distant details. The VOTRS positions the scope and binocular side-by-side on the tripod—permitting lightning-fast transitions between the optics.
[more info...]
Availability: Special Order
MSRP:$4,999.00
Our Price:$4,079.99


VOTRS-1
Vortex VORTEX Optics Tactical Reconnaissance System Kit 1(VOR-VOTRS-1)
Item #: VOR-VOTRS-1 - The ultimate long-range glassing system in a fast-handling package. Each VOTRS (Vortex Optics Tactical Reconnaissance System) kit includes the powerful 20-60x85 Razor HD spotting scope for resolving distant details.
[more info...]
Availability: Special Order
MSRP:$5,199.00
Our Price:$4,199.99


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Products 1-25 of 98

SPOTTING SCOPES

A Spotting Scope is a portable telescope, optimized for the observation of terrestrial objects. The magnification of a spotting scope is typically on the order of 20X to 60X. Other common features include:
  • somewhat "rugged" or rubber-armoured design
  • convenient mounting for attaching to a tripod
  • ergonomically designed and located knob for focus control
  • tethered elastomeric lens cap
  • a range of eyepieces to give different magnifications, or a variable "zoom" eyepiece to give a range of magnifications (e.g. 20-60X)

The light gathering power of a spotting scope is determined by the width of the objective lens, typically between 55 and 80 mm. All else being equal, the larger the objective, the more heavy and expensive the telescope.

There are three types of spotting scope: "straight-through" spotting scopes (the eyepiece is one the same axis as the body of the spotting scope), "angled" spotting scopes (the eyepiece is at an angle of about 45 degrees to the body of the spotting scope), and, rarely, a more complex, shoulder-mounted design. Straight-through spotting scope are easier to use from, say, inside a car, while angled spotting scopes are more comfortable for tall people and more easily shared by people of different heights.

The choice of the eyepiece lens determines the overall magnification. The best magnification is decided by a number of factors. Magnifications of less than 20X are unusual, as (much cheaper and lighter) binoculars or monoculars can provide this. Magnifications of more than 80X lead to poorer brightness and, even on a tripod, shake can be a problem. The field of view is also limited.

Usually for birdwatching, 20X or 40X spotting scopes are favoured. This gives a good field of view and a bright image. Amongst aircraft spotters the term "pole" is used as a shorthand expression meaning telescope. The related verb "to pole-off" therefore means reading some identication marks of an aeroplane by using a telescope. Other users might employ the same slang term.

Spotting scope manufacturers fall into several groups. At the top end of the market, it is generally accepted that three manufacturers compete strongly for the ultimate in quality: Swarovski are the most expensive of all, closely followed by Leica, and Zeiss. Several manufacturers produce spotting scopes that are generally thought to be of almost equal quality to the top three, but at about half the price, among them Alpen, Nikon and Yukon.