The Best Spotting Scopes For Hunting In 2024

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Emarth 20-60x60AE 45 Degree Angled Spotting Scope
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Of The Best: Emarth 20-60x60AE 45 Degree Angled Spotting Scope

It features a powerful zoom magnification range that can be adjusted 20x to 60x for your convenience, and the 45-degree angled eyepiece makes it easy to view the viewfinder comfortably with your head not blocking the view. This spotting scope also has a durable construction with rubber armor and high-quality lens coatings, so you can use it in extreme weather conditions without worry. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scopes

With variable 20x to 60x magnification, the quality BAK4 Porro prism optics will increase the light transmission and make your view brighter, and clearer and deliver crisp images. The scope has a nitrogen-filled waterproof and fog-proof design enabling it to withstand the toughest environments. Read Review

3. Best Versatile: CREATIVE XP Waterproof Spotting Scopes with Tripod & Phone Adapter for Hunting

The Creative XP Scope is a high-quality, water-resistant spotting scope that includes a 60x magnification for perfect image quality. The scope includes an easy-to-use, gimbal head and phone adapter so you can keep your phone powered up and capture impressive images. The scope is also built with a waterproof O-ring sealed outer shell and durable lens that prevents reflections and scratches. Read Review

4. Best Economical: SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scopes

SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scopes is a light, compact spotting scope that allows you to view anything with ease. The lens makes it easy to focus and change magnification while the 70mm tube provides plenty of light and a good view of the target once set. It also features an extendable sunshade built onto the main barrel so you can avoid glare and still get a clear view. Read Review

When you’re looking for the best spotting scopes for hunting, you want something that will be able to perform in all types of lighting conditions. Because of this, you need to choose a scope that has image cut-off and collimation control. These two features protect your reticle from stray light or other ambient light by blocking it out with a bright red dot.

If you’re looking to hunt the next big game animal and are ready to leave everything behind in order to do so, then we have great news for you! The best spotting scopes for hunting are also some of the easiest ones to use if you’re just getting into long-range target shooting. Let’s take a look at what exactly you should know before buying your first scope.

Our team had to focus on researching for 14 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. In addition, Emarth 20-60x60AE 45 Degree Angled Spotting Scope is one of the most wonderful models available, and it comes highly recommended by us. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below, especially Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scopes.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Emarth 20-60x60AE 45 Degree Angled Spotting Scope
Our Score:
9.7
Emarth
  • ✅【High Magnification】This spotting scope features a powerful zoom magnification range that adjustable 20x to 60x magnification,45 degree angled eyepiece ergonomic design allows more comfortable viewing. Field-of-view is 39-19m/1000m, brings nature closer to you than ever. Perfect for target shooting, hunting, bird watching wildlife, spotting moon, traveling, hiking, camping, archery, astronomy etc
  • ✅【Durable Construction】High-quality rubber armor provides non-slip grip, shock-proof grip and durable external protection. Built-in retractable sunshade reduces glare, come with tripod allows rotation of the eyepiece to a sideways position, providing adjustable viewing angles
  • ✅【Fully Multi-coated Lens】The lens are all fully multi-coated and features BAK4 roof prism to increases light transmission and delivers bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions. For long range viewing, a dual focus wheel system enables fast and fine-tuning focus adjustment,allows you to lock onto your target and zoom in for more detail clearly
TOP Choice #2 Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scopes
Our Score:
9.5
Gosky
  • Fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens provides a field of view at 82.9-48ft/1000yards. The quality BAK4 Porro prism optics increases light transmission and make your view brighter, clearer and delivers crisp images
  • A smartphone digiscoping adapter included enables you to take photos and videos of what you have observed. Bring the nature closer to you and you can explore the distant world easily through the phone screen. A tripod provides you a more stable observation from any angles. A carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain
  • Includes tabletop full metal tripod and tripod mount for steady observations. The carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain.
  • CLEAR VIEWING - While other spotting scopes for target shooting and hunting get blurry the farther you zoom in, our scope offers a 60x magnification without any chromatic aberrations.
  • SET INCLUDES - Our spotting scope comes with a tripod (compatible w/ Vortex, Leupold, Nikon, and Bushnell tripods), a protective case, a phone adapter, and a photo clicker.
  • EASY TO USE - See nearby planets, follow elusive birds, and see your bullet holes from up to 300 yards away with our spotter scope! Zoom in with ease and focus clearly with the 2 Fine Focus knobs.
4 SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scopes
Our Score:
9.3
SVBONY
  • 25-75x zoom;SV28 spotting scope is easy to focus and change magnification;easily set up when looking at birds and scenery;A great spotting scope for beginner to novice
  • IP65 waterproof;Can avoid sudden environmental changes to damage the SV28 spotting scope;The finish is made of a seamless Non-Slip material so it doesn't feel like it would slip out of your hands if wet
  • Includes phone adapter and portable desktop tripod;the desktop tripod is perfect for range spotting;Phone adapter makes it easier to share videos and photos
5 Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scope
Our Score:
9.2
Gosky
  • Waterproof Design: O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the scope for reliable performance in all environments. Nitrogen gas purging delivers further waterproof performance
  • Durable Magnalium Framework and Rubber Armor - Its tight fitting protection makes it usable to withstand the toughest weather conditions. The shock-absorbing rubber armor for maximum protection. And the eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece
  • Full range of accessories: A phone digiscoping adapter for smartphone, T-ring and M42 T mount Compatible included enable you to take photos and videos by smartphone or camera. A tripod provides you a more stable observation from any angles. A carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain
6 Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotter Scope
Our Score:
9.1
Athlon Optics
  • Sport type: Hunting
7 Gravitude 20-60x80mm HD Spotting Scope
Our Score:
8.9
Gravitude
  • 【𝗘𝗡𝗝𝗢𝗬 𝗕𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗦𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗣 𝗜𝗠𝗔𝗚𝗘𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗢𝗥𝗙𝗨𝗟 𝗪𝗜𝗟𝗗𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘】Fully Multi-Coated Lenses eliminate reflections and a premium high-density BAK-4 Prism offers superior optical quality. Experience vibrant high-contrast images at full magnification without chromatic aberration. The 80mm objective lens offers brighter, clearer field of view even in low-light conditions compared to smaller lenses.
  • 【𝗙𝗨𝗟𝗟 𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘 𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗩𝗜𝗧𝗨𝗗𝗘 𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗬】You have several choices when purchasing a spotting scope, know that we are a USA based company with undeniable 𝗨𝗦 𝗖𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗥 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗩𝗜𝗖𝗘 and a product built to last. We are so confident you will love our products, that if you are not happy for any reason, Gravitude will replace your item or provide a full refund. It’s that simple!
  • 【𝗥𝗨𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗗 𝗪𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗢𝗙 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦】Nitrogen Purged Optics and O-Ring Seals make it 100% Waterproof, Fog proof and Shockproof. Field tested in cold snowy mountains and triple digit desert heat. Extendable Sunshade eliminates sun glare and utilizes Alignment Features to help locate wildlife and targets at distance.
8 Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope
Our Score:
8.7
Athlon Optics
  • Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses and Porro Prisms provide the HIGHEST level of LIGHT TRANSMISSION to bring you OPTIMUM BRIGHTNESS and TRUE COLOR across the entire light spectrum.
  • Application: Target Shooting, Hunting, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Monitoring, Bird Watching, Hiking, Astronomy & Stargazing
  • Built for maximum comfort – Argos HD spotting scope has a RUBBER ARMOR making it DURABLE and EASY TO HANDLE at any given moment. A ROTATING RING allows you to rotate the scope for the MOST COMFORTABLE and CONVENIENT angle of observation.
9 Gosky New 20-60x60 Spotting Scopes
Our Score:
8.6
Gosky
  • 【FULLY MULTI-COATED LENS】: Fully multi-coated 60mm green film objective lens. The quality BAK4 Porro prism optics increases light transmission, delivers bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions. 45 degree angled eyepiece provides more comfortable viewing.
  • 【WATERPROOF DESIGN】: O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the scope for reliable performance in all environments. Nitrogen gas purging delivers further waterproof performance.
  • 【Retractable hood 】 When observing under backlight, sidelight or other stray light, the retractable hood can reduce the entry of unnecessary light and improve the clarity of imaging. The spotting scopes is also equipped with a professional protective tripod, cover and phone adapter, so that it can be carried around and recorded easily.
  • O-ring sealed and argon purged, the Viper delivers waterproof and fogproof performance. Armortek coatings protect the lenses from oil, scratches, and dirt. Rubber armor enhances both durability and grip for the user.
  • The HD optical system comprised of premium components generates vivid high-definition images. XR anti-reflective coatings on exterior surfaces help obtain brighter views in low-light situations.
  • A multi-position eyecup provides proper eye relief while a locking collar allows the scope to rotate into different viewing positions.

What to Look For in a best spotting scopes for hunting?

When selecting a suitable best spotting scopes for hunting, a variety of factors have been found. Information sources are available in a wide range of forms.  As a basis, we are doing it to support, inform, and solve your demands.

Please keep these things in mind before selecting the best spotting scopes for hunting:

Straight Or Angled View

There are two versions of many spotting scopes: straight and angled. The eyepiece orientation is what this refers to. Although you can use both effectively, you may prefer the spotting scope.

Objective Lens Diameter

The objective lens diameter refers to the area of your scope's viewing field. Smaller backpacking spotting scopes can be up to 40mm in diameter, while bigger stargazing scopes are around 100mm. Although larger scopes are generally more effective because they allow in more light, heavier scopes will usually be costlier and weigh more. You will need to know how the scope is going to be used. If you have the opportunity, you should also spend some time looking at different scopes to help you find the right one for you.

Price

A spotting scope can be expensive, costing anywhere between several hundred and several thousand dollars. Scopes come in all price ranges. While I cannot say if $3,000 is worth it, I can assure you it will not be worth the cost of $100. Low-quality scopes are often frustrating and you don't get the intended purpose of the scope.

Magnification

It depends on the range of your choice whether you choose a binoculars or spotting scope. Most scopes will pick up from binoculars and fall within the 12 to 80 power magnification range. They are almost always "zooms," which means they can offer multiple magnifications, such as 20-60x.

Clarity

The glass is probably the reason why two scopes have similar features, but very different pricing. It's one thing to make durable scope tubes, but it is very difficult to create material that magnifies images without adding colour or distortion. Clarity is an important factor, just like with camera lenses and diamonds.
Spotting scopes that are inexpensive can still do the job and save you money. These scopes will have imperfections and may not show true-to-life color. They can also cause distortion around the edges. These distractions are gone with high-end glass, though you will have to spend a lot of money for it.

Weight

Some people, such as hunters who use their scope mostly from a car or day hikers with basic supplies, consider weight a minor issue. Others find it a significant concern. A smaller, lighter scope might be the best choice if you are looking to hike miles up remote mountains to see stars, or climb 14,000 foot peaks for bighorn sheep hunting,

Aperture

SpottingScopeAn aperture in a spotting scope is the size of the objective lens. It's usually measured in millimeters. The aperture size for hunting purposes will typically range from 50 to 90mm. The instrument's size and weight will directly affect the aperture size. However, the focal length and optical design play an important role. With a larger objective lens, the light entering the optical system will be more concentrated. This can lead to greater detail and clarity. The actual observed brightness of an image depends on several factors, including the transmittance (coatings), how the aperture is related to magnification (exit pupils), and the focal length of objective lenses.

Optical Design

Two types of optical design are used in spotting scopes. The refractor is the most common and the catadioptric the least. One difference is in the lens used to focus the image. Refractor uses optical glasses lenses to bend light, while catadioptric uses mirrors to reflect light. Although the differences in material are not significant, they can each produce distinct optical characteristics.

FAQs

What Makes A Spotting Scope Good For Hunting?

Scoring scopes enable hunters to see further than what is possible using binoculars or riflescopes. These scopes are much more effective than lesser-powerful optics and allow for better target identification. They can also scan faraway terrain with much greater accuracy.

What Do The Numbers On A Spotting Scope Mean?

The number before the X indicates the magnification range, either fixed or telescopic. Numbers after the X indicate the size of the objective lens in millimeters. The scope 10-20x40 zooms between 10- and 20, power magnification, and features a 40-millimeter objective lens.

How Should I Carry My Spotting Scope?

Scopes for hunting are made to be carried on rugged terrain and in any weather. They are still precision optics, so it is a smart idea to protect them with a case.

Can I Attach A Camera To My Spotting Scope?

It is, indeed. This allows you to make the most of your experience. This technique is used by both hunters and wildlife guides to capture pictures of animals that they encounter. It's possible to be amazed at how good the photos turn out.

What Is A Spotting Scope Used For?

Scopes can be used to view objects at close range. They are used by wildlife tour guides and hunters to identify and observe animals from a distance. Spotting scopes are used at the range to help shooters evaluate the placement of their shots without having to leave the bench.

Can You Use A Telescope As A Spotting Scope?

Although it is possible, we don't recommend it. Telescopes are typically larger and less fragile than a spotter scope.

What Magnifications Are Typical For Spotting Scopes?

The majority of spotting can be done at 30- to 40-power magnification. Many spotting scopes can be extended beyond this range, but there are occasions when it is useful. More powerful optics can be used by people in open areas with calm, clear air.

With new information arriving, our editor will usually update the best spotting scopes for hunting frequently. Please constantly check our site for the most up-to-date material.

We will try our best to help you with more best spotting scopes for hunting. You are supposed to be free to ask for assistance with your problems.


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About Katie Finn

Katie Finn

Katie Finn is a freelance writer who loves to explore the world and go camping. She's also an editor for CampfireHQ, where she enjoys writing about wildlife and camping tips. She also has a passion for reading and learning new things, which she often incorporates into her writing.

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