Spotting Scope recommendations

[84B20]

I’m looking for a spotting scope for range use only. I really just want it to zero in my scope which is a Nikon ProStaff 3-9x40. I shoot .223 and .303 primarily in the 100-300 yard range. I don’t want to spend more than $100. I know this is asking a lot but I’m not an avid long gun shooter, mostly hand guns, and that’s why I want to keep the price down. Any suggestions besides get lost?

 

[MarineTech]

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but you're just not going to find something to do what you're looking for in that price range.

I went through 5 different $100 spotting scopes before I came to that realization. Manufacturers included Winchester, BSA, Tasco, New Yukon, and another "no-name" brand I can't remember. All of them had plenty of magnification, but none had the optical clarity to see bullet holes past about 125 yards.

You would be much better served looking at the Burris Landmark series or the Leupold Wind River scopes. Both can be found for about $150 - $250 with a little digging and both are perfectly adequate for locating .223 impacts out to 250 yards.

I found my Burris Landmark on sale at Midway about 2 years ago for $180 and it included a tripod and case.

You definately want to get at least a 60mm objective for the better light gathering and field of view. Also, a decent STABLE tripod is a must.

 

[hillbilly]

There is a certain syndicated radio talk show host who talks about guns who has perhaps the best quote about optics.

With optics, it's all just math.

And optics with better math in them cost more money.

I agree with MarineTech.

With optics, you really do get what you pay for. There is no such thing as a "good one" that costs less than $100.

I've tried the hard way, too.

Quit eating fast food for two months, and scrounge up the cash that way.

hillbilly

 

[84B20]

Bite the bullet

I've also come to that conclusion. I really should know better. I've been a photographer for over 30 years and have a full compliment of Nikon lenses but I just couldn't see spending $200-$300 on another "lens" when my Nikon ProStaff 3-9x40 was only $150. I just missed out on an Ebay auction for a BUSHNELL SPACEMASTER 15-45X60 for $152.00! I think I'm going to try and find a good deal on the Bushnell and get back to shooting.

 

[84B20]

Konus Scope

I just purchased and received a Konus spotting scope after recommendations from several members of this board about a small dealer in Alabama named Jim Owens and I'm glad I took their advice.

It is a 20-60X80mm scope that is supposed comparable to a Kowa. I can't compare it directly because I don't have a Kowa but this dealer has (he is also a Kowa dealer) and after looking through the scope I'm impressed. I've been a photographer for over 30 years (both professional and now amateur) and optically it is quite good.

For more info on the scope visit his site at:

http://www.jarheadtop.com