Best vortex spotting scopes.
If you are an avid hunter or shooter you understand that the equipment you use determines whether it’s a hit or miss when you want to spot your target. A spotting scope is a big and worthy investment and the next logical step up from a pair of binoculars.
If you don’t have a spotting scope, you are missing out on one of the most versatile and effective pieces of equipment a hunter/shooter can take to the field.
A spotting scope saves you time, energy, and unnecessary wear on your boots. Vortex spotting scopes are some of the best on the market.
Vortex Spotting Scopes and Accessories
- Razor HD-Features the highest level of performance. One of the best features is the sophisticated triplet apochromatic lens system for high-definition views in the entire field of view. Forget color fringing, resolution degradation, or even color fidelity dilution at longer distances.
- Viper HD-This is a high-end spotter and an affordable one. This spotting scope has incredible optical performance for hunters and shooters that brings far-off targets closer with clarity, resolution, and color fidelity.
- Diamondback HD-This is an optical horsepower for all your western hunting needs and performs marvelously even in low light. The exterior is sleek in a helical focus wheel.
- Eyepieces-used together with spotting scopes for better performance
- Accessories- such as protective cases.
Best Vortex Spotting Scopes
1) Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scopes
Spotting Scope | Features | Best Price |
1) Vortex Razor HD 11-33×50 Angled / Straight
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2) Vortex Razor HD 22-48×65 – Angled/Straight |
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3) Vortex Razor HD 27-60×85 – Angled/Straight |
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2) Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting scopes
Spotting Scope | Features | Best Price |
1) Vortex Viper HD 15-45×65 – Angled/ Straight
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2) Vortex Viper HD 20-60×85 Angled/Straight
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3) Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Spotting Scopes
Spotting Scope | Features | Best Price |
1) Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 16-48×65 – Angled/Straight
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2) Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 20-60×85 – Angled/Straight
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Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Vortex Spotting Scopes
Objective lens-This is the glass at the far end of the scope. It plays a significant role in the ability of the scope to gather light. The larger the objective lens, the more light transmitted which leads to a larger exit pupil. However, larger lenses usually mean additional weight and cost.
Magnification-Magnification ranges generally range from a low of 12x up to 60x or more. Higher magnifications allow you to see objects in greater detail when there are favorable weather and light. However, increased magnification could lead to the size of the light beam that reaches your eye to decrease reducing the scope’s performance in low light conditions. There is also a greater mirage effect which causes distortion of the image and can happen under many light and weather conditions. Variable magnification is more recommended than fixed magnification,
Tripods-Spotting scopes perform best when they are steady. Consider where and how you will use your scope and select a tripod that is appropriate. You may want a full-length tripod that allows you to stand for the range. A short but sturdy tripod is best for a windy mountainside. A window mount is the best for you if your scope will be used from the vehicle.
Eyepiece-The construction and finish of the eyepiece are important especially when it comes to interchangeable eyepieces. Removable eyepieces that allow you to change magnification range can be advantageous but cost extra and compromise waterproofing. You can choose either a straight or angled eyepiece. Angled eyepieces are more comfortable for extended viewing sessions, especially from a sitting position. Straight eyepieces on the other hand are best if quick target acquisition is key. They are also most preferable if the scope is used at eye level, as with when on a range or from a vehicle. They also pack a little easier.
Cost-Just like all optics, there is a wide price range for spotting scopes. Angled or straight run roughly the same. Your price could rocket up depending on zoom and lens strength. You can find a decent spotting scope in different price ranges.
Focusing-There are three focusing mechanisms used in these scopes which are single knob, dual knob, and helical. A single knob is the most common. It tends to be a bit slow but is very precise. The double knob has two knobs with different drive ratios for the same internal focusing gear. The fast knob enables quick focusing travel while the slow knob gives precision once you are close to the proper focus. Helical focus consists of a collar around the scope body to drive the focusing gear. They are perfect for rapid focus changes.
Vortex Spotting Scopes Advantages
- Enables you to observe sensitive animals such as deer and bucks from a friendly distance
- Waterproof and fog proof-these scopes are argon purged and have o-ring seals. This means that they can be used in all weather conditions
- Durable-able to withstand impact and serve you for a long period of time
- Lightweight
FAQs about the Best Vortex Spotting Scopes
- What is a spotting scope?
A spotting scope is a telescope with a high magnification that is used for observing at long distances or for seeing detail at medium distances.
- Are spotting scopes better than binoculars?
While binoculars aren’t going to have the magnification range that a spotting scope has, they will be more forgiving on eye fatigue. A spotting scope is what you need if you want to see every detail possible.
- Can spotting scopes be used to see planets?
Spotting scopes can be used to view stars and planets such as Jupiter and Saturn as they are bigger. A telescope normally has an eyepiece angle of 90 degrees, while spotting scopes are designed to view objects on the ground or in a downward direction.
- What do the figures on the spotting scope mean?
Typically, you will see two numbers on your spotting scope such as ‘40×62’ or ‘15x 50’. The first figure is the magnification while the second shows the diameter of the lens in millimeters.
Conclusion
Vortex is a leading optics manufacturer. Vortex spotting scopes are known for their performance, reliability, and durability. Our review is comprehensive for all your Vortex Spotting scopes needs.
See Also: Best Vortex Binoculars for Hunting