Spotting Scopes

[blacksn95]

Been thinking of getting a new spotter ever since mine got stolen a few years back out of the truck.. Been tossing up the idea of getting either a Vortex Razor or a used Swaro or Leica in the 30-60 range.. I know optics can be quite subjective in regards to clarity and brightness and the price can be limitless in what you want to spend.. Overall what do you guys all use and what are you thoughts? I don't really want to break the bank on a spotter but I also don't want to have something that is mediocre either.. my old one was a Nikon Fieldscope which was pretty decent for it's time

[VLD43]

Depends on what you are using it for. There is no argument when it comes to good optics. Just look at what the guides are using and what experienced hunters are using. You really can't beat Swaro, Leica or Zeiss. These brands have the reputation they do for a reason. You can buy lots of cheap optics over your lifetime and end up spending the same money you would have buying quality once. I like the Swaro 65 with the 20 x 50 eyepiece. Compact and it works. Great clarity in all light conditions, never fogs up, and is rugged and dependable. Ya I know, Swaros aren't cheap, but you pay for quality. When your up in the mountains trying to determine legality of an animal from distance, good spotting scopes pay their way and save a lot of boot leather. Buy what you can afford or justify, but be sure you won't be disappointed by good glass. Cheers

[KodiakHntr]

I carry a Swarovski 20-60x65, and it is not bad glass. If I were doing it over again, I would wait and save more money and buy the Leica.

That said, I have used the Vortex Razor side by side at last light a few times with my Swarovski, and the image to my eye was a bit sharper. That was likely due to the fine focus on the Vortex vs the slightly coarser single focus ring of the Swarovski.


If you are a sheep hunter, and going to be using it every year, spend the money. If you aren't super serious about it then the Vortex will likely do fine for counting tines on muleys or moose.

[HarryToolips]

I carry a Swarovski 20-60x65, and it is not bad glass. If I were doing it over again, I would wait and save more money and buy the Leica.

That said, I have used the Vortex Razor side by side at last light a few times with my Swarovski, and the image to my eye was a bit sharper. That was likely due to the fine focus on the Vortex vs the slightly coarser single focus ring of the Swarovski.


If you are a sheep hunter, and going to be using it every year, spend the money. If you aren't super serious about it then the Vortex will likely do fine for counting tines on muleys or moose.

I have the Vortex Razor 65 mm and really like the fine focus knob...I am very impressed with the quality of the scope but then again I've never compared it to higher end spotters...

[KodiakHntr]

I have the Vortex Razor 65 mm and really like the fine focus knob...I am very impressed with the quality of the scope but then again I've never compared it to higher end spotters...

Yeah, they definitely got the fine focus correct on the Vortex. It is reasonable glass for sure, when you consider the price point.

[albravo2]

I went through this dilemma earlier this year and ended up buying a Vortex Razor although I may yet change my mind.

I seem to be able to baby my rifle scope but my binoculars take a beating so the Vortex warranty is important to me. I applied the same logic to my spotting scope-- it will be strapped on the outside of my pack in very inhospitable conditions. I don't want the worry of maintaining it in perfect condition all the time.

A Leica with a few scratches is worth a significant discount from the price of a brand new one. A Vortex Razor with a few scratches is literally exchangeable for a brand new one.

Like I say, I may still change my mind. There is a herd of bighorns across the lake from my cabin at about 1000 yards and I'm not 100% convinced the Razors are the level of detail I'm looking for.

[HankBC]

Pretty happy with my ATX 65.. That being said I don't necessarily think there's a $2,000 difference between that and my partners ATS 65.. I'd be tempted to put that 2k to better use elsewhere I think, but if you have it you wont regret it either. Don't think I could downgrade.

Started with a Razor 65. They work but I don't prefer them.

I prefer Swaro glass, things pop better for me. Go look through a few scopes or find guys in your area to try theirs, once Covid blows over anyways.

My .02

[sako79]

Apparently the kowa are on par with Swarovski for less money but there are a bit heavier. Except if you go with the kowa 553. Amazing glass ultra lightweight but only 50 mm objective

[VLD43]

Something to also keep in mind with Swaro is that their warranty if needed is excellent. Same for any repairs. Leica on the other hand although a good scope, takes a long time for warranty and repairs, and availability is not great. When I was purchasing my scope, I had decided on a Leica, but the dealer I was working with, who sells lots of scopes to birders, suggested I consider Swaro, because of their availability and service. Although he carried Leica, he said any after purchase service was painful at best, and usually costly.

[Thunderstix]

I 100% agree on the Kowa. Brought my new Kowa Prominar TSN-883 to camp last year, a camp where there was two brand new Swaro’s, side by side comparison, 7 people in camp, all agreed the Kowa was the winner, even the Swaro owners....of course there is absolutely nothing wrong with a Swaro and would be proud to own one. One thing that probably skewed opinions was that my scope has an 88mm objective and both Swaro’s were 60 I believe, maybe 65. Heavier yes, but we are talking ounces and not pounds.

Apparently the kowa are on par with Swarovski for less money but there are a bit heavier. Except if you go with the kowa 553. Amazing glass ultra lightweight but only 50 mm objective