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For those who hunt big, open country, finding game can be one of the most challenging parts of filling their tag. A top-quality spotting scope is just the tool to make that job easier. In fact, spotting scopes can save you a lot of time and effort by giving you an up-close look at that far-away buck, enabling you to rough score him before you start your stalk. To pick the perfect spotting scope, consider whether you need a scope with a straight or angled eyepiece, a compact or full-size model, and whether you need a fixed-power or variable scope.

Top Pick

This item is useful for shooting, hunting, birdwatching or admiring the moon. Amazon

Some people love angled eyepieces on their spotting scopes, while others prefer scopes with straight eye pieces. It’s largely a matter of personal preference. If you can try one of each before making your purchase, it will help you know what works best for you. Many hunters who switch back and forth between their binoculars and spotting scope while glassing an area find the angled eyepiece easier and faster since they can simply lower their binoculars and move their head straight down to the eyepiece.

Great Value

This item can show clear detail from up to 240 feet away. BOBLOV

Excellent spotting scopes are available in both compact and full-size models. If you’re going to be doing most of your spotting from a vehicle, you’ll probably like a full-size scope best, despite its heavier weight. Pair it with a good window mount, and you’re ready to start finding game. That’s also true if you plan to do your spotting at the shooting range, where you’ll be parked close to your shooting area. For those who plan to trek many miles into the backcountry, a compact model is better since every bit of extra weight can make the long walk back a little more difficult.

Also Consider

The rubber casing improves its durability and makes it easier to grip. Amazon

Spotting scope eyepieces come in a number of different configurations, and one important choice to consider is fixed or variable. Fixed eyepieces have just one power, usually quite high. Variable eyepieces, also called zooms, allow the user to quickly and easily adjust the magnification. That’s handy for someone glassing game animals at several different distances at the same time. Most hunters nowadays opt for variable eyepiece spotting scopes for their increased versatility.