Spotting Scope?

MidwestAssault

New Member
Jul 19, 2015
25
0
I am planning a trip next year to Colorado for elk and was wondering what size spotting scope everyone suggested to use in mountain terrain. Thanks
 

6mm Remington

Very Active Member
Mar 27, 2011
977
48
Western Montana
I have a fixed 20x Leupold Gold Ring spotting scope I really like, but for the same price the 15-30x50mm Gold Ring is a better scope. I really like the light weight and compact size of it. I eventually plan on selling my 20x and getting the 15-30. Great power range in my opinion. Bitterroot Bulls is a wealth of knowledge on spotters and would be a good guy to ask.
 

Umpqua Hunter

Veteran member
May 26, 2011
3,576
88
61
North Umpqua, Oregon
Thanks for input so far guys. Guess what I should have asked about was what power to get. Not so much size

Is weight not particularly critical? Are you backpacking with it? When you said "to use in mountain terrain" makes us think you may be backpacking with it. Several of the replies are recommending lightweight options. There are better options if weight is not an issue.
 

tdub24

Veteran member
Dec 15, 2011
1,331
558
Carlin, NV
Currently using a Swarovski HD STS 20-60x80 and don't see myself switching anytime soon. At one point, thought about getting the body to a 65mm, but prices are steep and I already plunged once. The weight difference is around 9.5 ounces so that sealed my decision not to get one.
 

Tim McCoy

Veteran member
Dec 15, 2014
1,855
4
Oregon
Is weight not particularly critical? Are you backpacking with it? When you said "to use in mountain terrain" makes us think you may be backpacking with it. Several of the replies are recommending lightweight options. There are better options if weight is not an issue.
Agreed, my favorite weight reduction strategy is to bring a Sherpa, aka a young son...or two. Wives, not so much, they will tell you if their pack is heavy, my sons won't say a word until I do. So get the 80mm, put it in someone else's pack and you have the best outcome. If alone, the 25oz Vortex will become a best friend.
 

Sawfish

Very Active Member
Jun 9, 2011
760
127
Peoples Republik of Kalifornia
Agreed, my favorite weight reduction strategy is to bring a Sherpa, aka a young son...or two. Wives, not so much, they will tell you if their pack is heavy, my sons won't say a word until I do. So get the 80mm, put it in someone else's pack and you have the best outcome. If alone, the 25oz Vortex will become a best friend.
I read this too quick, and thought you said "...or two Wives...". I was thinking that would really slow you down. Not to mention the "noise" factor. (LOL)
 

Tim McCoy

Veteran member
Dec 15, 2014
1,855
4
Oregon
I read this too quick, and thought you said "...or two Wives...". I was thinking that would really slow you down. Not to mention the "noise" factor. (LOL)
Heavens no. I can barely keep up with one wife, if there is any doubt, just ask her, she'll tell you... I only take my bride on easy, sunny, warm weather hunts, by joint agreement. Antelope and early season special depredation cow hunts are in her wheel house.
 

Dustin23633

New Member
Jun 8, 2015
48
0
Chico, Ca
I have the 11-33x50mm vortex razor and I would strongly recommend if you can, drop weight somewhere else and get an 80mm+. I like the razor for 700 bucks but if you have the money id go bigger and better. I can't tell much about about a buck after 600 yards other than the fact that it has antlers.
 

geargrinder

Member
Feb 24, 2015
114
0
Dayton, NV
Vortex Razor. As big as your back can carry or your wallet can afford.

Get a demo from Cameraland. Much cheaper and still has the unbelievable warranty from Vortex.
 

Shooter09

New Member
Dec 31, 2011
28
0
Pacific NW
My advice would be to go with a 20-60x65. It offers more than enough magnification and shouldn't be too heavy when weight is a concern. I'm not a fan of spotting scopes that start at a lower magnification because of the distortion you get when they are on max power.