Spotting Scope help?

Joined
Aug 17, 2015
Messages
2,266
Location
Iowa
Hey guys-

Been noticing over the last few months (years maybe?) that I dont ever use my spotting scope because I am always disappointed whenever I use it. I can usually see what I'm looking at through my binoculars more clearly and brighter. 90% of my hunting/scouting is glassing fields for deer or turkeys, so I'm not using it out west like most of you guys, but I plan to someday.

Anyways, the only scope I've owned is a Nikon ProStaff from about 6-8 years ago. It does not do well at lower light, and will hardly focus on higher power. It seems to get mixed reviews online, and people either rate is 5 stars or 1 star.

Is this how all spotting scopes are, or if I get something a little better, am I going to be happier with it?

I'm not spending $800+ on one because I just don't use them THAT much, but I was looking at the Vortex Diamondback line.

Also, can anyone give me some advice as to choosing straight-bodied vs angled?
 
I have two. One is a cheap leupold that I only use at the range. The other is a nikon ed50 that Ive used in the field a handful of times. Ive found that the scope has a 'minimum' useful distance thats about 1000 yards or so. Less than that binos are a better choice.
I dont know about the prostaff but my cheap scope os useless in the field. Too dark. Details dont pop.
I use a straight but mostly glass down from ridges. Ive heard an angled is better for glassing up or from a vehicle.
I also use mine just to take a closer look when I spot something with my binos.
 
All scopes start to get a little fuzzy or hard to focus when you zoom into the high magnification of the scope. But there are times when everything works out perfect and can see things with that high magnification. But in your case living in Southeast Iowa I can see where you seldom need a spotting scope and I dont blame you for not wanting to spend a lot of money on one. I cannot comment on the Diamondback line of scopes but you have the right idea and are headed in the right direction. Not too expensive but better quality than what you currently use. Goodluck and I'm sure somebody who is familiar with the Diamondback line will answer. fatrascal.
 
If you spend less than 1k, you're going to end up with the same poor performance you've experienced in the past. I have a Razor HD and I'm not real happy with it either. Check out some 15x binos, Nikon makes decent ones for around 800. I carry my 15s everywhere and leave the spotter home now.
 
Look at the vanguard hd. Plenty of great reviews on this site for them. Have one and have been impressed with it and yes I glass with some guys that have more money than kids aka they can afford German glass
 
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