Starter spotting scope

[Rfranke]

After a number of years I got into an entry level spotter. I went with the Vortex Diamondback 85mm. I think you will find a common theme is if you buy a low end one you will outgrow it quickly. I got mine to see how much I would actually use it before spending a lot on a high dollar spotting scope. In the end the Diamondback worked well for me but I have not looked through much high quality glass to compare it to. If I were you I’d keep an eye out for something on Craigslist or Ebay if you are just looking to test the waters on a spotter. I just upgraded to a compact razor for $300 to try a compact size.

Unless you’re positive you will use a spotter. If that’s the case, get as high quality as you can afford. Everyone told me but once, cry once. I’m still playing around with a few sizes to find out what I like while flipping one for the other and keepig the spend minimal. Once I decided what I like, my plan is to go all in and buy a high quality spotter.

I’ll say this, the 85mm Diamond back is large and for my backpack hunts it takes up a lot of space. I went down to a more compact size but I am starting to think the 65mm might be the best size for backpack hunting. I used it primarily for eastern Montana mule deer hunting. I wasn’t looking for a score so my spotter functionality was to decide if that’s a shooter worth going after or if I should keep looking.

 

[Kwmountainman]

Invest in a good tripod, run your binos on them and save up more $ to buy a quality spotter. Don’t waste $ on a cheaper spotter, you’ll be disappointed.

 

[fmyth]

I needed a spotter for a WY mule deer hunt. I was hunting a unit not known for trophy bucks but had a 3 point antler restriction so a spotter was a must. Bought a first gen Vortex RZR 65mm and was pleased. I could tell a legal buck from 2000 yards with it. Found a buck and dropped my pack and left my spotter and went for it. Got within 300 yards and saw a much larger old 2x2 buck but without a tripod for my binos and no spotter I couldn't be sure he had a brow tine so had to let him pass. Filled my tag and was helping my buddy a day later and saw the old buck again through the spotter. Could confirm at 1500 yards that he was legal through the spotter. The $600 RZR worked well enough for my needs but I can see myself upgrading in the future. If $500 is your hard limit I'd call Doug and buy this Athlon Ares UHD. I think its a little better than my Vortex RZR. https://cameralandny.com/shop/brand...7caa-013a-6f59-00163ecd2826?variation=3157037