Spotting scopes have been an essential tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike for many years now. These devices have been designed to allow the user to see things that would otherwise be impossible to see with the naked eye. But the question is, are they a worthy investment?
In general, spotting scopes are handy tools when you’re trying to spot animals from afar. Some people even use them for birdwatching. The choice of whether to buy a spotting scope will depend on your needs as a hunter.
Whether you are a hunter, bird watcher or wildlife enthusiast, there is no denying that spotting scopes can be an invaluable tool for your outdoor adventures. However, it’s not always clear whether they are worth the investment. We’ll explore everything you need to know about spotting scopes so that you can make an informed decision.
Why Do I Need a Spotting Scope?
If you’re new to hunting, you’re probably wondering, “Why would I need a spotting scope when I could use a pair of binoculars?” You’re not alone. Many people think that binoculars will do the trick for spotting game from a distance. However, there are a few key reasons you should invest in a spotting scope instead. These include:
It’s Perfect for Dedicated Glassing
Binoculars are perfect for scanning an area for game and are ideal for spot-and-stalk scenarios. However, they’re not ideal for glassing. This is because you have to move them around and adjust the focus every time you want to look at something.
With a spotting scope, all you need to do is set it up on a tripod and position yourself so that you can see what you’re looking for. Not to mention, they have standard features like zoom lenses and angled eyepieces that make it easy to get a good view of your target. This is especially beneficial when trying to spot animals from a distance or glassing for shed antlers.
A Spotting Scope Offers Effortless Target Shooting
Another reason why investing in a spotting scope may be a good idea is that they provide effortless target shooting. Instead of trying to hold your rifle up and line everything up, you can just set it on the tripod and use the spotting scope for magnification or as a knock-off laser range finder (if it has one built-in). This makes it much easier to take down your targets without having to worry about your form or rifle’s stability.
It’s Perfect for Beginners
A spotting scope can also be an excellent tool for teaching beginners how to shoot. By seeing the target in detail, shooters can learn where their rounds are landing and make necessary adjustments.
This may be harder to do with a pair of binoculars, as they offer a much narrower field of view. Not to mention, you have to keep your eye on the target and the binoculars the entire time, which can be difficult when there’s a lot of action going on.
Detailed Close Up Photographs
Modern spotting scopes often feature magnification levels of 20x or more, which means you can see your target in incredible detail. This is perfect for taking close up photographs of your targets, which can be used as reference points later on.
Some spotting scopes even come with digital cameras built right in, so you can capture all the action without having to fumble with another device. This is a perfect feature for hunters and photographers alike.
Wrapping Up
So, are spotting scopes worth it? The answer to that question depends on what you plan to use the scope for. If you’re looking for a device that will help you see your target with a high degree of magnification, a spotting scope is certainly worth it.
If you want to use the device for photography or hunting purposes, definitely yes! The features that come with today’s models are simply too good to pass up. You will be hard-pressed to find another piece of equipment that helps you see your target as well as a spotting scope.
However, if you’re just looking for something to help you see your target or you’re a beginner hunter who wants to try out hunting, you might want to consider other options. Spotting scopes are generally costly, and for a beginner hunter who is not sure if they’re going to stick with the sport long enough, it’s probably just an unnecessary expense that can be avoided.