Basic questions about spotting scope size and power

[gunsrfun1]

I’ve read a lot of posts on spotting scopes but don’t think this issue has been covered, so here goes. I am looking for a spotting scope that will enable me to see bullet holes in the target up to 200 yards. I’d like to keep the cost at $200 or less. I would like an angled viewpiece but I’m flexible on that. Anyway, here are my questions: 1) What’s the minimum objective lens size I should buy, 50 mm or 60mm? 2) How much power will I need, 45x or 60x, to see clearly at 200 yards. 3) Any brands you recommend or don’t recommend based on personal experience? Bushnell seems to have a comprehensive line, so I am considering one of theirs, but I am open to suggestion. (I’ve seen their Spacemaster with the adjustable eyepiece, but darn it’s ugly.) I also saw an ad for a scope made by Konus of Italy – looks good on paper, but anyone heard of them? Thanks and good shooting.

 

[DJW]

Look at Champion's Choice. Their house brand has an angled eye piece and the 22 power objective is just fine for spotting .22 holes at 200 yds. The objective diameter is 60 mm. I have one and have also used it at 300 yds. for the prone rapid fire as well as prone slow fire stage of the highpower match. I believe it costs $220 and will do the job for you without having to incur the expense of the Kowa which can be considerable. Favor center.
DJW

 

[rick_reno]

I had a Champion Choice scope - it sounds exactly like the one being described in the previous post. The lenses inside the scope came loose, making the thing useless. It couldn't be fixed and I ended up throwing it in the trash. Mine was marginal for seeing .22 holes at 100 yards, at 200 it would have been hopeless. I've had Tasco, Champions Choice, Nikon, Burris, Leupold, Kowa and now a Leica scope. I'm keeping the Leica, it's very good. Try to find at least a 50mm objectlive lens scope. With that $200 limit you've set, look around for a big objective/fixed power scope. You might get lucky and stumble on a used one. I sold all the scopes I've previously owned pretty cheap (with the exception of the CC, which I tossed), I recall the Leupold was the only one that sold for close to what I paid for it. They don't seem to retain much value used.