Our Top Picks
If you’ve been searching for a piece of equipment that will offer a better view, then a good-quality spotting scope will solve all your problems that a binocular cannot – it will allow you to see the birds in much detail and help you keep focus. To find a bird spotting scope, you must first identify your needs.
Every birder has a unique need. Our chosen list of the best spotting scopes for bird watching will not only give you a great view but can also be used for other things apart from bird watching, such as stargazing or hunting.
This article will provide you with detail about the different types of scopes and their magnification options, all based on quality and value for money. Let’s get right into it!
1. Swarovski Optik HD-ATS 20×60 (85mm)
If you’re on the lookout for the best in the market with a robust exterior and resilient glass, this is the one to choose. It will satisfy all your birdwatching views. This birdwatching scope will offer you all the extras you need to have an unforgettable birdwatching experience.
Features
- It offers a 20-60x magnification
- It has an 80mm objective lens diameter
- It weighs 45.2 ounces
- It is 13.98 inches in length
Pros
- Waterproof
- Fog proof
- Angled body design
- High-quality
- Premium quality glass
- Advanced technology
- Durable
- Offers crisp, bright, and exceptional image
Cons
- The price might put off most birders
- The objective lens and angled zoom eyepiece are not sold with the spotting scope
2. Kowa TSN- 883
Want a durable spotting scope that is built to last? It is the one for you. Not only is it lightweight, but it will also offer a high-quality 88mm spotting scope. It comes with three eyepieces and dual focus and is truly a great piece of equipment to have.
Features
- Offers you a top-class 88mm spotting scope
- It weighs 53.5 ounces
- It is 13.5 inches in length
- It is waterproof to a JIS class 7 protection standard
- Magnesium alloy body
- Large lens
Pros
- Waterproof
- Fog proof
- Long-lasting
- lightweight
Cons
- The eyepiece is sold separately
3. Athlon Optics Ares UHD 20-60×85
Designed to last you in all types of weather – providing you with bright images and has an advanced full multi-layered coating. Carry it around wherever you go, regardless of the weather conditions. If you’re looking for something to handle it all – this makes a great choice.
Features
- Offers eye relief 0.75 – 0.63 inches
- Magnification of 20-60x
- Objective lens diameter 85mm
- Prism glass Bak 4
- Close focus of 29.5
- It weighs 66.5 oz
Pros
- Waterproofing and thermal stability
- It comes with a multi-layered lens
- It has a multi-coated prism layer that helps get bright and clear pictures
- It has an ED glass for sharp images
- Has an apochromatic lenses system
Cons
- Some users complain that the eyepiece may not be for everyone and can have focusing issues
4. Celestron Ultima 80
If you’re on a tight budget, however, you still want the best – this birding scope is what you need. It offers you a refractor style scope along with an 80mm lens and a magnification of 20x to 60x. It is a great option for a beginner.
Features
- Refractor style scope with an 80mm lens
- Zoom from 20X to 60X
- Offers both angled and straight designs
- Weighs about 3.6 pounds
- Long-distance viewing
Pros
- Weighs less
- Waterproof
- Multi-coated optics
- Comes with a padded carrying case
- Sharp zoom eyepiece function
Cons
- Does not offer an expensive glass to help avoid blue fringing at a high magnification level.
5. Roxant Blackbird
The plus point of getting this scope is that it comes with everything to get started right away. It is a great value-priced scope for people who are just getting into the birdwatching field.
Features
- It has an optical glass
- BAK-4 prism
- The fully multi-layered all-glass lens
- 45 degree angled eyepiece
Pros
- The rubber armor construction is rugged and non-slip
- Offers top quality military grade optics for fine viewing
- It comes with a set of accessories
- It doesn’t weight much
- Magnifies to 12x and 36x without losing the focus or clarity
- Offers a lifetime replacement guarantee
Cons
- The field of view might not be as good as the other high-priced models
What’s Your Pick
These five best spotting scopes for bird watching will allow you to enjoy your time, get excellent shots, focus on every detail, etc. These bets options will allow you to focus, clarity, and magnification will allow you to have a life-changing experience with them. Before you know it, you’ll be homing in on all those birds you love and learning much more about them.
So, what’s it going to be?
