Binoculars vs. spotting scope

[zhartman]

I plan on taking my first trip out west this coming fall to hunt elk and antelope. Should I purchase a spotting scope? Or is a quality pair of binoculars enough? Anybody have any product suggestions for best value? Would like to stay around $300 or less. Thanks!

 

[Bitterroot Bulls]

I use a spotting scope constantly, and having something is better than nothing, IMO.

One of the members (hardstalk) here has a little Minox 50mm spotter for sale under your price range, and would be a usefull tool for your trip.

Here is the thread:

http://www.eastmans.com/forum/showthread.php/4218-My-used-quot-starter-glass-quot-for-sale

 

[Umpqua Hunter]

Hunting the west without a spotting scope would be almost like taking your rifle and leaving the shells at home. One thing to consider, high quality optics tend to hold their value well, especially if you get a good deal on used opticso if you find it's something you don't really need, sell it and recoup your cash.

 

[bigmoose]

I think you will find a spotting scope very useful on your antelope hunt. A pair of high quality binoculars is a "must have" for any hunting out West.

Moose

 

[Muleys 24/7]

Depending on the area I'm hunting, I bring both almost all the time. If I don't, I'll wish I would have.

 

[wolftalonID]

Well I live in Idaho. Most of the time, I hunt elk or deer in deep timber. Even binos are not often used but when I need better eyes they are more than plenty.
I have on occasion hunted the more dry areas. This last November specifically, I had a big ol muley out at 600 yards. My 10x binos just were not getting me anything more than a tease. Was like the SI swimsuit edition on microfiche and only wearing reader specs!(this illustration only approved for ages 35 and older)!
So.. That said, bring both.... Pack for the day what you need.

 

[Ikeepitcold]

Well I live in Idaho. Most of the time, I hunt elk or deer in deep timber. Even binos are not often used but when I need better eyes they are more than plenty.
I have on occasion hunted the more dry areas. This last November specifically, I had a big ol muley out at 600 yards. My 10x binos just were not getting me anything more than a tease. Was like the SI swimsuit edition on microfiche and only wearing reader specs!(this illustration only approved for ages 35 and older)!
So.. That said, bring both.... Pack for the day what you need.

Hahhahahahahha good one! Always take a spotter. You will wish u had if you don't.

 

[zhartman]

Thanks for the input everyone! Sounds like I will be purchasing a spotting scope before I go. Now all I need to do is convince my wife...maybe I will print off all the responses and use them as ammo to convince her... haha!

 

[MtnBoy]

Cabelas has the Vortex Nomad spotter on sale right now for $199, it's a great deal and should be more than adequate

 

[Ikeepitcold]

Buy the best you can afford!

 

[Ikeepitcold]

Thanks for the input everyone! Sounds like I will be purchasing a spotting scope before I go. Now all I need to do is convince my wife...maybe I will print off all the responses and use them as ammo to convince her... haha!

Ha I have done this before. It worked for me. Good luck!

 

[Drhorsepower]

I usually do the buy now ask for forgiveness later route. It works for me until she finds out

 

[wolftalonID]

I usually do the buy now ask for forgiveness later route. It works for me until she finds out

haha...Yes I have tried that too. Quote the line,.."it was on sale and I need it!"....then only with the walk of shame take it back to get a refund because its just not the same comeing from me at Cabelas as it is from her over clothes...dang it....

 

[Never in Doubt]

For $300 you can get Redfield Binocs AND their spotting scope.