Spotting Scope Recommendation (sub-$400)?

[DanColorado]

Hi,
I am looking to get my first spotting scope. I live (and primarily hunt) in Colorado and often am miles from the truck. While my binoculars do a good job I am looking for something that I can get better detail at long, long distances. This will be used for hunting and scouting (at the range is just an added bonus). Thanks!

So far my short list:
Leupold SX-1 Ventana 2 15-45x60mm
Redfield Rampage 20-60x60 (Is the Leupold Marksman that angled version of this or are they different?)
Minox MD 50 W
Vortex Diamondback 20-60x60
Bushnell Trophy XTL

Bonus points for a decent lightweight tripod recommendation.

 

[Daddy2four]

Hi,
I am looking to get my first spotting scope. I live (and primarily hunt) in Colorado and often am miles from the truck. While my binoculars do a good job I am looking for something that I can get better detail at long, long distances. This will be used for hunting and scouting (at the range is just an added bonus). Thanks!

So far my short list:
Leupold SX-1 Ventana 2 15-45x60mm
Redfield Rampage 20-60x60 (Is the Leupold Marksman that angled version of this or are they different?)
Minox MD 50 W
Vortex Diamondback 20-60x60
Bushnell Trophy XTL

Bonus points for a decent lightweight tripod recommendation.

I’m thinking you can’t go wrong with vortex due to glass quality and warranty. Rarely hear negative things.

 

[Mosby]

I would look at the Kowa Tsn 501 or the Leupold 50 mm compact.

 

[thinhorn_AK]

Dosent kowa make something in that price range.

 

[JohnnyB]

Take a look at the Vanguard Endeavor 65mm. It was recommended to me by people on this forum and it has been pretty solid for something in the 350 dollar range.

One day I want a high end spotter but thanks to the Vanguard I am filling other needs with that money.

 

[Carr5vols]

I am in the exact same boat.

 

[scottmarine]

I have a vortex viper 15x45-65 I would sell for $375 shipped in great condition.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[kboatman107]

I would take that deal for $375 if I were you. That’s a good deal for a good spotter in that price range. I bought the diamondback a few years ago and wish I would’ve saved up for the viper.

 

[cornfedkiller]

I've looked through that Redfield a little bit and found it to be awful. Couldn't get it to focus at higher magnifications at all.

I have the Vanguard Endeavor ED and its pretty good for the price. A friend has a Leupold 15-30x50 and its also very good for the price as long as you dont need more magnification than 30.

Also heard good things about the Kowa 501.

 

[gr8fuldoug]

The little Kowa 20-40x50 is the way to go. On special for $299.99. Give us a call to get yours on the way, 516-217-1000

 

[pods8 (Rugged Stitching)]

I have an ED 60mm opticron mm3 angled in the classifieds at $390 FYI: https://www.rokslide.com/forums/threads/opticron-spotters-60mm-and-80mm.125330/

 

[Bones]

I would go Vanguard Endeavor 65mm in that price range as well or the little Kowa from Doug.

 

[idahohikker]

Athlon Ares or Vortex Viper. Bump up your price range a little bit or find one used. I would not go entry level on your spotter.

 

[generalist]

I've worked my way up through the Vortex line. When you get to the Vipers, you'll see the biggest jump in quality. They're good value for the money. You can find a lot of quality used ones in your price range.

 

[gr8fuldoug]

have you read this review on the Ares spotter

 

[Napperm4]

Take a look at the Vanguard Endeavor 65mm. It was recommended to me by people on this forum and it has been pretty solid for something in the 350 dollar range.

One day I want a high end spotter but thanks to the Vanguard I am filling other needs with that money.

This^^^

Out of the others you mentioned I was most impressed with the rampage. The vanguard blows it out of the water (comparable to a razor)

Call the guys at cameraland too. Great sponsors and they can fill you in on other such as the athalon and Kowal’s

 

[gr8fuldoug]

Always our pleasure to chat optics.

 

[Napperm4]

Vanguard endeavor 65A

WTS - Vanguard endeavor 65A

Everything is brand new. Vanguard endeavor 65A spotting scope, soft fitted scope cover, hard plastic case, and short bench tripod. 300$ tyd please text 575-595-5097 for more info Paypal f&f or please ad 3%

r.tapatalk.com

 

[Poltax]

You might also try A&A Optics. They are the authorized refubished resellers of Vortex. Buy the Viper at $450 plus you get the full Vortex warranty.

 

[Kyle Wheeler]

I have a vortex viper 15x45-65 I would sell for $375 shipped in great condition.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Is this still available?