Spotting Scope: Angled or Straight?

[Bowhuntr64]

I am considering getting a spotting scope, and am wondering what the pros and cons of the straight vs angled models are. Can you please educate me a bit?

 

[Matt Cashell]

Typically the arguments go like this:

Straight:

1. Easier to get on target.
2. Easier to glass from above.
3. Easier to glass from a vehicle.

Angled:

1. Easier on the neck.
2. Easier to glass up.
3. Easier to use with multiple people of different sizes.
4. You can use a shorter/lighter tripod.

I use angled, because most angled scopes have a rotating color that more or less evens the field with the straight, except about getting on target easier. After some practice, though getting on target with an angled scope is second nature.

 

[bowuntr]

I use a straight for the single reason that it's easier to get on target. Sometimes a few seconds is too late... I have no neck issues as I adjust my tripod accordingly. Personal preference. I suggest you try both and decide for yourself. Ed F

 

[RosinBag]

I second what Ed said...

 

[Matt Cashell]

I forgot: Angled also supports a digiscoping setup better.

Certainly a preference thing.

 

[Whisky]

BB nailed the pros and cons pretty well. I prefer straight.

 

[dotman]

I would say try one, only you will know the pros and cons for you with this. Personally I can't use a straight without my neck getting sore but the angled is very comfy.

 

[a3dhunter]

I use a straight because I can lay my binos on top and use the tripod to stabilize my binos without attaching them to the tripod. Then it's easier to transition to spotter to further check something out, and spotter is already on target.

 

[luke moffat]

BB laid out the +/- of each pretty well. After owning a couple of both I prefer angled but certainly no right or wrong choice.

 

[shaun]

I prefer angled but it's personal opinion