In outdoor exploration, a reliable spotting scope can be the difference between a memorable experience and a missed opportunity. For those seeking the perfect balance of performance and affordability, the market offers the Best Spotting Scope under 500 and delivers impressive optical quality without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a nature photographer, or a seasoned hunter, join us as we explore some of the best spotting scopes, each offering unique features and capabilities to elevate your outdoor adventures.
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| 1) Leupold SX-2 Alpine 20-60×80 Spotting Scope |  |
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| 2) Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope |  |
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| 3) Vortex Diamondback HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope |  |
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| 4) Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope – 20-60x |  |
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| 5) Bushnell Trophy Xtreme 20-60x Spotting Scope |  |
What is The Minimum Distance for a Spotting Scope?
In general, most spotting scopes have a minimum focusing distance of around 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters). Some high-end spotting scopes may have a closer focusing distance of around 10 feet (3 meters) or less.
Can You take Pictures with a Spotting Scope?
Yes, it is possible to take pictures with a spotting scope, but it typically requires additional equipment. Most spotting scopes do not have built-in cameras. However, you can attach a camera to the eyepiece of the spotting scope using a camera adapter.
Camera adapters are available for many types of cameras, including DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and even smartphones. These adapters allow you to align the camera’s lens with the eyepiece of the spotting scope, enabling you to capture images or videos of distant objects.
Is it Worth Buying a Spotting Scope?
Yes, this is why:
- Nature Observation: Spotting scopes are excellent for observing wildlife, birds, and other natural phenomena at a distance. If you’re a nature enthusiast or bird watcher, a spotting scope can enhance your viewing experience by providing clear, up-close views.
- Hunting: It can also be useful for target shooting, especially at longer ranges.
- Outdoor Activities: If you enjoy activities like hiking, camping, or nature photography, a spotting scope can be a useful tool for observing distant landscapes and wildlife.
- Astronomy: Some spotting scopes can also be used for basic astronomical viewing, such as observing the moon and planets.
- Cost: Spotting scopes can range in price from affordable to very expensive, depending on the brand, features, and quality. Consider your budget and how often you’ll use the scope before making a purchase.
Best Spotting Scope under 500
1) Leupold SX-2 Alpine 20-60×80 Spotting Scope
The Leupold SX-2 Alpine 20-60×80 Spotting Scope is a premium optical instrument designed for outdoor enthusiasts and serious hunters.
Featuring a rugged, lightweight magnesium body, this scope is built to withstand the rigors of the field. Also has 80mm objective lens which provides exceptional light transmission, delivering bright, clear images even in low-light conditions.
With a magnification range of 20x to 60x, it allows for detailed observation of distant subjects. Features Twilight Max HD Light Management System enhances image clarity and color fidelity, making it ideal for spotting game or observing nature.
It is equipped with a retractable lens shade to reduce glare and improve image contrast. It also features a twist-up eyecup and generous eye relief, providing comfortable viewing for extended periods.
Specifications
- Magnification: 20x – 60x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 80mm
- Angular Field of View: 1.7° – 0.9°
- Linear Field of View: 89 – 47 ft/1000 yd
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 1.3mm
- Eye Relief: 17.4 – 17.9mm
- Close Focus Distance: 24.9 ft
- Length: 15.5 in
- Weight: 67.2 oz
- Twilight Factor: 40 – 69.3
- Waterproof/Fogproof: Yes
- Warranty: Leupold Full Lifetime Guarantee
Pros
- Perfect Optical Performance
- Magnification range allows for versatile use
- Lifetime Guarantee
- Durable and lightweight
Cons
- None
2) Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope
The Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope is a versatile and high-performance optic designed for hunters, birdwatchers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
It features a large 85mm objective lens that delivers bright, clear images even in low-light conditions. The scope offers a magnification range of 20x to 60x, allowing for detailed observation of distant subjects.
One of the key features of the Argos HD is its high-definition (HD) optical system, which provides excellent color fidelity and contrast.
Makes it ideal for spotting game or observing wildlife with clarity and detail. Also features fully multi-coated lenses that reduce glare and enhance light transmission for crisp, sharp images.
It is also equipped with a rotating tripod ring and a retractable sunshade, thus adding to its versatility and usability in the field.
Specifications
- Magnification: 20x – 60x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 85mm
- Angular Field of View: 1.9° – 1.0°
- Linear Field of View: 100 – 52 ft/1000 yd
- Exit Pupil: 4.25 – 1.42mm
- Eye Relief: 0.75 – 0.67 in
- Close Focus: 16.4 ft
- Length: 16.7 in
- Weight: 56.5 oz
- Prism Type: BaK4
- Waterproof/Fogproof: Yes
- Coatings: Fully Multi-Coated
- Warranty: Athlon’s Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- It comes with a rotating tripod ring and a retractable
- Good quality
- Lightweight and durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Field of view at 20x magnification (100 ft/1000 yd) is relatively narrow compared to some other spotting scopes.
3) Vortex Diamondback HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope
The Vortex Diamondback HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope is a high-performance optical instrument designed for outdoor enthusiasts, bird watchers, and hunters.
Has a large 85mm objective lens that delivers bright, clear, and detailed images, even in low-light conditions. The scope offers a magnification range of 20x to 60x, allowing for versatile use in various viewing situations.
One of the key features of the scope is its high-density, extra-low dispersion glass, which enhances image resolution and color fidelity.
It is is built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors, with a rugged construction that is both waterproof and fogproof. It is also equipped with a rotating tripod ring and a built-in sunshade, adding to its versatility and usability in the field.
Specifications
- Magnification: 20x – 60x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 85mm
- Angular Field of View: 2.2° – 1.0°
- Linear Field of View: 117 – 51 ft/1000 yd
- Close Focus: 22 ft
- Eye Relief: 20 – 16.5 mm
- Exit Pupil: 4.25 – 1.42mm
- Length: 15.5 inches
- Weight: 76.6 ounces
- Waterproof/Fogproof: Yes
- Coatings: Fully Multi-Coated
- Prism System: Porro
- Warranty: Vortex VIP Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- Rotating Tripod Ring and Built-in Sunshade:
- Vortex VIP Lifetime Warranty
- Wide Field of View
- Large Objective Lens
Cons
- Its weight
4) Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope – 20-60x
The Celestron Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope is a versatile and powerful optic designed for outdoor enthusiasts, bird watchers, and hunters.
Featuring an 80mm objective lens, this spotting scope delivers bright, clear, and detailed images, even in low-light conditions.
It offers a magnification range of 20x to 60x, allowing for close-up views of distant subjects. Also features an angled eyepiece design, which provides comfortable viewing for extended periods, especially when observing objects at different angles or heights.
Has a durable and waterproof construction, thus making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. It also comes with a rotating tripod mount and a soft carrying case, adding to its versatility and ease of use in the field.
Specifications
- Magnification: 20x – 60x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 80mm
- Angular Field of View: 2.2° – 1.0°
- Linear Field of View (@1000 yds): 105 ft (35 m) @ 20x, 53 ft (17.7 m) @ 60x
- Eye Relief: 18 mm @ 20x
- Near Focus: 27 ft (8.2 m)
- Optical Coatings: Multi-coated
- Waterproof/Fogproof: Yes
- Dimensions: 18 inches (45.7 cm) in length
- Weight: 56 oz (1587.6 g)
Pros
- Versatile Magnification
- Large Objective Lens
- Durable Construction
Cons
- None
5) Bushnell Trophy Xtreme 20-60x Spotting Scope
Specifications
- Magnification: 20-60x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 65mm
- Prism Glass: BaK-4
- Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated
- Field of View: 110ft/36.6m @ 1000 yards at 20x, 55ft/18.3m @ 1000 yards at 60x
- Eye Relief: 16.5mm
- Close Focus: 32.8ft/10m
- Length: 14.6 inches
- Weight: 42.3 ounces
- Waterproof/Fogproof: Yes
Pros
- Accessories Included
- Has Clear and Bright Images
- Durable Construction
- Compact and Lightweight
Cons
- None
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Best Spotting Scope under 500
- Optical Quality: Look for scopes with high-quality glass and coatings, such as fully multi-coated lenses, for improved image clarity and brightness.
- Durability: Choose a spotting scope that is waterproof, fog proof, and has a rugged construction to withstand outdoor conditions.
- Eye Relief and Eyepiece Design: If you wear glasses, consider a scope with long eye relief. An adjustable eyecup or twist-up eyecup can also enhance comfort.
- Focusing Mechanism: A smooth and precise focusing mechanism is essential for quickly adjusting focus, especially when observing moving objects.
- Size and Weight: Consider the size and weight of the spotting scope, especially if you plan to carry it over long distances or use it for extended periods.
- Accessories: Look for scopes that come with useful accessories such as a tripod, carrying case, and lens covers.
FAQS
- What is the best magnification range for a spotting scope under $500?
A magnification range of around 20x to 60x is considered ideal for a spotting scope in this price range. It offers a good balance between versatility and image quality, allowing you to observe distant objects clearly without compromising on field of view.
- Are spotting scopes under $500 suitable for birdwatching?
Yes, spotting scopes under $500 can be suitable for birdwatching, especially if they have features such as high-quality optics, a large objective lens diameter, and a durable construction. Look for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses and a minimum magnification of around 20x for birdwatching.
- What features should I look for in a spotting scope under $500 for hunting?
For hunting, consider a spotting scope with a rugged, waterproof, and fogproof construction to withstand outdoor conditions. Look for a scope with a large objective lens diameter (around 60mm or more) for bright, clear images, and a magnification range of at least 20x to 60x for versatile use in different hunting scenarios.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the world of spotting scopes under $500 offers a plethora of options that cater to various outdoor enthusiasts.
With features like high-quality optics, durable construction, and versatile magnification ranges, these scopes excel in providing clear and detailed views of distant subjects.
So, go ahead and choose your ideal spotting scope, and embark on your next outdoor adventure with confidence and clarity!
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