What is a spotting scope ?
A spotting scope is a small portable telescope with optics for presenting an erect image and used for observing objects on land . They are used primarily for bird-watching , hunting , target-shooting and surveillance when binocular magnification is insufficient . Their magnification is typically in the order of 20x to 60x . Below the 20x range , magnification is provided by good binoculars and above 60x -magnification can lead to poor brightness , narrow field of view and too much image-shake , even when mounted on a tripod .
Their light-gathering power and resolution is determined by the diameter of the objective lens which can range from 50mm to 80mm
The bigger the objective , the more massive the scope body and the more costly the scope will be .
The optical arrangement will have a small refracting objective lens , an image erecting assembly that uses relay lenses or prisms and an eyepiece . These prisms can be Porro prisms or roof prisms . The eyepiece can be removable and interchangeable to provide different magnifications .
The eyepiece mounting layout can either be straight or angled at a 45 degree angle .
My Personal Use Of This Spotting Scope
I have used this model for many years while hunting , bird-watching and target-shooting and I have to say that I am very pleased with the Bushnell Elite . This is a mid-level spotting scope , offering excellent edge to edge detail .
Bushnell 20-60×80 Elite RAINGUARD Angled Waterproof Spotting Scope w/ ED Glass gives you the advantage from the world’s high point of brightness, clarity and edge-to-edge detail, whether you’re birding at sea level or hunting above timberline. Details have never looked so perfect as with this Bushnell spotting scope! Destined to set new standards of clarity and dependability, Bushnell 80mm Elite Spotting Scopes are engineered with only the finest materials, including ED Prime Extra-Low Dispersion glass, premium BaK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated lenses that deliver flawless color fidelity, ultra-crisp images and optimum light transmission. This waterproof spotting scope features theBushnell RainGuard HD coating to keep things clear. Bushnell ED Glass delivers amazing color resolution and contrast, and virtually eliminates chromatic aberration and color-fringing to bring out the most distinct details possible in low-light conditions. From bull elk on a snow-covered mountain to birds on a wind-swept beach, the Bushnell Elite Spotting scopes are an easy choice for optimum viewing. Save yourself some legwork and start at the top, with a Bushnell Elite Angled Spotting Scope .