Best Budget Spotting Scope for Target Shooting (2023 Guide) (2023)

Introduction

👉 1. BARSKA 15-40×50 Colorado Spotting Scope
[Link] amzn.to/3jGXmPu

👉 2. Rampage 20-60×80 Spotting Scope and Kit by Redfield
[Link] amzn.to/3BjYcrk

👉 3. Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope
[Link] amzn.to/3CnljlY

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In this guide, we're going to share with you our top pick for the best budget spotting scope for target shooting. We'll review the different features and specs of each scope, and help you find the perfect one for your needs.

If you're looking for a spotting scope that you can use to shoot targets at a distance, then this guide is for you! We'll help you find the best scope for your budget and your shooting needs, so you can hit targets with ease!

Video

Hey, guys, it's brent.

Here today, I'm going to be discussing the best budget spotting scopes for target shooting the opinions in this review are that of my own the main factors I look at when reviewing products are popularity quality price durability.

And lastly, verified buyer reviews.

If you want to check out the price of these products, you can view them in the links in the description and make sure to subscribe to the channel for more reviews and content.

And now that's out of the way let's get started with the video, the bar scuff, 15 to 40 by 50, colorado spotting scope.

We love the 15 to 40 by 50, colorado spotting scope for many reasons, it's, a spotting scope that's, lightweight and great for birding and target shooting.

It has multi-coated glass with a premium bk7 poro prism that delivers, rich images.

It doesn't matter if you're zoomed all the way in or out it's going to deliver a rich full image.

It comes with a large 50 millimeter objective lens with a shock, absorbing rubber body.

It also comes with a decent mini tripod.

That is portable if you're a rough trekker, then this spotting scope is for you looking for a spotting scope that isn't going to break the bank, then the barska, colorado spotting scope is for you.

We think this is the best budgeting spotting scope for target shooting that you'll find on the market today.

This size spotting scope can be taken anywhere and isn't going to weigh you down easy to travel with.

And with a good range it'll be a great addition for the amateur spotter pros.

The 15 times zoom level is very easy to use and focus it's a good scope for the money.

But it is difficult to focus fast.

It is lightweight and fairly easy to find things with low magnification.

One thing I really really like about rampage is its user, friendly features.

It has a twist up and down eye cup.

Never got stuck when it was in use for me cons the 40 times zoom will be difficult to use for most people.

A lot of its construction is plastic.

When you screw in the scope mount the threads feel like plastic product features lens coated with poro prism coatings for extra protection lightweight at only 450 grams pocket size, measuring 9.5 inches in length suitable for a variety of uses, including target shooting and bird spotting what others say people that have bought this product say that overall, they bought the spotting scope as a backup or secondary, scope for when they are out.

And about users say, this scope is ideal for short distances and is perfect for anyone who doesn't want to carry lots of additional equipment around with them rampage 20 to 60 by 80 spotting scope and kip by redfield, the rampage 20 to 60 by 80 spotting scope and kit.

By redfield is a great all-in-one option for people looking for a good target shooting scope.

It comes with a pretty tripod and carrying case.

If you are a person on the go, the rampage scope has a multi-coated optical path.

The rampage spotting scope is also extremely lightweight due to the nitrogen-filled polycarbonate housing.

Not only is it light, but it's also durable under weather conditions.

It also has anti-slip technology embedded in the design.

It uses a bak-4 prism glass with an 80 millimeter objective lens to magnify brightness without sacrificing image quality.

The rampage spotting scope has a 20 to 60 times magnification range with a 14 foot close range.

Focus.

In my opinion.

This scope is great for intermediate to long range scopes.

The redfield spotting scope is on the other end of the spectrum when compared to the varsity spotting scope heavier sturdier.

And with a lot more power, this scope is for anyone who is looking to upgrade their equipment or wanting to improve their skill when it comes to shooting or bird watching the redfield rampage extreme has up to 60 times magnification for better vision, further afield.

And the angled aspect of the scope makes prolonged usage more comfortable pros, clear optics, lightweight and easy to use great price point and item for what I would consider an entry-level spotting scope build quality is more than sufficient prisms and glass produce a crisp.

Clear image in most lighting clarity is had throughout the entire scope of magnification all the way from 20 times to 60 times while it is a full-size scope.

Its weight is totally doable while hunting great lens covers cons, little prism affects the horizon and edges of paper targets, neither distracting nor overbearing a bit of ghosting at full magnification, 60 times viewing of a white paper target at 100 yards or so not a big deal breaker.

The tripod is adequate for tabletop scoping, but other than that.

I wouldn't bring it out to the field product features, 80 millimeters lens is coated to prevent glare and improve sight.

Polycarbonate body makes a super tough and durable, scope bak4, prism lens for a clearer.

Picture, weighing less than three kilograms.

This scope is lighter than some others on the market less than 16 inches long.

So won't take up too much space in your kit bag.

The nitrogen filled body makes this scope fog.

Proof.

What others are saying most customers have bought the scope as an upgrade to their existing spotting scope.

They say that the stronger clearer picture you get from the redfield extreme.

Scope is an amazing product for the price you pay overall.

This spotting scope is a really good value for money.

Merchandise trophy extreme spotting scope.

Even if it's the third choice on the list don't be fooled by the bushnell trophy extreme spotting scope.

I found the image quality to be decent in comparison to the other two above the scope has a full image and brightness quality, plus you can bring it virtually anywhere as you please.

It has multi-coated optics and works very well at night, plus it's, waterproof and fog proof with its shock-absorbing rubber armored body.

It's, pretty durable.

Bushnell also gives you the option to adjust the magnification from to 36 times with its 50 millimeter objective lens for maximum image.

Clarity.

Lastly, the spotting scope comes with an ok.

Compact tripod, plus unlike the others, you get a car window mount a premium hard case and a scope glove.

Fyi.

It also has a lifetime warranty by bushnell.

The bushnell spotting scopes are renowned for their quality products.

They have built a brand that is well known in the shooting community.

And the bushnell trophy extreme spotting scope is yet.

Another one of their products that makes them proud.

This scope has a mid-range price point.

But with some great product features for the price tag.

Pros clarity is sufficient for a 100 yard range in good lighting conditions.

But if you go beyond 45 times it's pushing it, you can see bullet holes better than a high-end 9 times rifle.

Scope the case and bag are also a very nice feature.

It's extremely accurate lifetime.

Warranty cons, small tripod needs to be a bit more sturdy.

It causes the main scope to shake a bit product features.

Poro prism coated the lens with up to 48 times magnification and a close focus of only 25 feet, waterproof armor body making it not only durable.

But also suitable for all weather use ergonomically designed for comfort, weighing in at 900 grams and measuring 18 inches long.

This scope is one of the larger on the market.

What others are saying unsurprisingly, this spotting scope has great reviews from people who own and have used the product, mainly given high ratings by people who use it to shoot.

They say, this is one of the most comfortable scopes that they have used, especially when combined with the bushnell tripod overall while this scope is the largest of our top three.

It is very reasonably priced for the amount of spotting scope you get in conclusion.

So as you can see these three spotting scopes will help you become more accurate improve your skills and hopefully accomplish your target goals.

The best budget spotting scope for target shooting is the scope that fits your exact requirements.

You just need to be clear on what these requirements are so that you don't waste your money buying technology that you don't need remember to check out those customer reviews before you buy, it will help you get a more unbiased view of each scope and how it has helped others.

If you like my personal opinion on the best target shooting spotting scope, it would have to be the barska 15 to 40 by 50, colorado spotting scope.

I found the image quality to be the best of the three plus it's.

The only one I still use to this day, plus the other staff members, still use it as well.

Hopefully you found this video helpful, good luck in your search for your next spotting scope.

If you like this video, make sure to subscribe and visit our website, you.

FAQs

Best Budget Spotting Scope for Target Shooting (2023 Guide)? ›

Target Shooting

This makes it a prime activity for using a tripod with either a spotting scope or binoculars. While binoculars aren't going to have the magnification range that a spotting scope will, they'll be more forgiving on eye fatigue. If you need to see every detail possible though, a spotting scope is for you.

Do I need a spotting scope for target shooting? ›

Target Shooting

This makes it a prime activity for using a tripod with either a spotting scope or binoculars. While binoculars aren't going to have the magnification range that a spotting scope will, they'll be more forgiving on eye fatigue. If you need to see every detail possible though, a spotting scope is for you.

How far can you see with a 15 45x65 spotting scope? ›

Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65
Magnification15 to 45x
Objective Lens Diameter65 mm
Field of View15x: 136.5' @ 1000 yd / 45.4 m @ 1000 m 45x: 67.8' @ 1000 yd / 22.6 m @ 1000 m
Minimum Focus Distance23.0' / 7.0 m
Exit Pupil Diameter15x: 4.3 mm 45x: 1.4 mm
1 more row

How far can you see with a 20 60x60 spotting scope? ›

The field of view for this spotting scope is a very comfortable 91 feet at 1,000 yards with 20X magnification, and 45 feet at 1,000 yards with 60X magnification. This is more than enough field of view for birding, checking your shots at the range, or spotting in the field when hunting.

What spotting scope for target shooting? ›

An 18-36x is enough to see bullet holes at 25 yards. A good 50 mm lens is often enough for spotting multiple hits on the target. However, a 60mm lens will give you a more accurate picture and is still portable and affordable.

What magnification scope for target shooting? ›

Usually, for most shooting within 2-300 yards 4x to 6x magnification is all you need.

How far can a 20 60x80 spotting scope see? ›

With this Gosky spotting scope and its 20-60x magnification, you can easily see your target at over 200 yards.

How far can a 6 24X50 scope see? ›

The 6-24X50 SF IGF scope can focus from 10 yards out to infinity as well as provide illumination to the etched reticle in either red or green.

How far can you see with a 16 48x65 spotting scope? ›

It gets high marks for image quality in both good and low light and when the heat waves are minimal it is very useful for spotting wildlife at least out to 3,200 yards (1.8 miles, 2.9 km).

How many yards is a 3 9x40 scope good for? ›

FAQ. What range is a 3-9×40 scope good for? For this model, a range of 50 yards to 300 yards is ideal. There may be more advanced scopes for long-range shooting.

What is the best size for a spotting scope? ›

Look for an objective lens of at least 60 mm in diameter to provide a bright image. If you want to do a lot of digiscoping, you'll want your scope to deliver the brightest image possible to your camera. Look for an objective lens around 85 mm. Beware of cheap spotting scopes.

What size spotting scope do I need for 200 yards? ›

The good news is that most 60mm objective spotting scopes to 80mm objective spotting scopes at $200 and up have enough optical quality to handle 200 yard scoring, assuming reasonable observing conditions. This distance is as much as most shooters need for sighting in and/or to check load performance.

How far can you see with 45X spotting scope? ›

A compact spotting scope often means a narrow field of view, but this model is a bit of an exception. From 1,000 yards, you'll be able to see 42 feet of terrain at 45X magnification, or a full 125 feet at 15X power.

What does 20 60x85 mean on a spotting scope? ›

The first set of numbers refers to its magnification (or zoom). For example 20-60x means 20x to 60x variable zoom. The second number refers to the diameter of its objective lens. A spotting scope will usually have a 50mm to 80mm lens.

Do spotting scopes tell range? ›

Spotting scopes often have higher magnification ranges, a narrower field of view, and provide more detail at longer distances. They're usually paired with tripods more often and are great for long-range target shooting, hunting, and far observations.

What is the best inexpensive spotting scope? ›

Budget Spotting Scope Top Picks
  • GoSky 20-60x80mm– “exceptional price/performance ratio on this budget scope”
  • Emarth 20-60x60mm– “great piece of budget kit”
  • Barska Colorado– “an absolute bargain”
  • Roxant Blackbird HD– “clear right through the zoom range”

Is a target scope better than a hunting scope? ›

Hunting riflescopes are meant to be used for hunting, tactical scopes are intended to be used in all the tactical situations and target scopes are used for precision and sports shooting. These three groups are getting more and more mixed, but there are still some distinguishable traits that remain.

What is better straight or angled spotting scope? ›

No matter how much you practice with an angled spotting scope, it's always going to feel more natural to use a straight spotting scope. This intuitive design is often the difference between slower and faster target acquisition. You'll be quicker to the draw, which in turn will make tracking much easier.

What type of sight is most accurate and gives the best view of the target? ›

Telescopic sights provide the most accurate aiming, which makes them popular for hunting.

What magnification is best for 300 yards target shooting? ›

The answer is really simple: a 3-9X riflescope provides an additional level of magnification for every 100 feet, all the way out to 300 yards (900 feet). For many years, 300 yards was about the limit of what most big-game hunters considered to be an ethical shooting distance.

What size scope do military snipers use? ›

The requirements for the military are different. While their standard 10x scope is the ideal magnification for target at medium to long range, it’s best suited for 250 to 1000 yards. When shooting under this distance, the 10x scope is more of a disadvantage because the range of view is decreased.

How far can you see with a 6 18x50 scope? ›

Specs
IDBU-616185
Field of View (ft @ 100 yds)17 ft. @ 6X to 6 ft. @ 18X
Lens CoatingFully Multi-Coated
Ultra Wide Band CoatingYes
EXO BarrierNo
19 more rows

How far can you see with a 20x50 spotting scope? ›

Firefield 20x50 Spotting Scope
Magnification20x
Objective Lens Diameter50 mm
Angle of View20x: 3.2° (Actual)
Field of View168.0' @ 1000 yd / 51.0 m @ 1000 m
Minimum Focus Distance20.0' / 6.1 m
2 more rows

How far is a 3x9x32 scope good for? ›

400+ Yards

What is the range of a 4 16x50 scope? ›

With easily adjustable 4-16 magnifications and distance, you can target successfully up to 100 yards.

Is a 6 24x50 too much for hunting? ›

You can basically hunt anything you want with it depending on the caliber of the rifle. Although it would be better suited for longer range game with up to a 24x magnification and the 50mm glass would give it excellent low light performance, depending on the quality of scope anyway.

How far can a 2.5 10x40 scope see? ›

100 yd.

How far is a 4 16x42 scope good for? ›

The RESPONSE 4-16x42 Rifle Scope is built to help you maximize the performance of your AR10 whether you're on the range or in the woods chasing big game, predators, or hogs. The glass etched BDC reticle with windage correction compensates for bullet drop out to 800 yards.

How far can a 4 16x42 scope see? ›

Diamondback HP 4-16x42 Dimensions (in inches)
Magnification4-16x
Field of View23.8-6.1 ft/100 yds
Eye Relief4.0 inches
Length12.5 inches
Weight18 oz
9 more rows

How far can you see with vortex spotting scope? ›

LIFETIME WARRANTY.
Magnification27-60x
Linear Field of View117-68 ft/1000 yds
Angular Field of View2.2-1.3 degrees
Eye Relief16.7-17 mm
Length15.5 inches
3 more rows

Should I get a 4X32 or 3-9x40? ›

The 4×32 scope is a great choice for long-range shooting and precision shooting. The 3-9×40 is a good choice for general shooting and hunting. This will be more than enough magnification for most shots at medium to long-range; however, it will lack the precision of the 4x scope when compared to other scopes.

Is 4x12 scope better than 3x9? ›

A: 4x12 is more powerful than 3x9. Remember, scopes are not accurate, guns and humans are. IF the objective is to get the target larger than 4x12 is the choice.

What is a 4x12x40 scope good for? ›

The Diamondback 4-12x40 riflescope is one of multiple configurations in the Diamondback lineup and is ideal for big game, predator/varmint, muzzleloader, slug shotgun, and long range applications.

What is a good spotting scope for Yellowstone? ›

Parking in a pull-out and watching wolves or bears in Yellowstone, your options would be unlimited. The best spotting scope on the market today is the Zeiss Diascope 85. This model features an angled view, which is great when you have people of different heights all using the scope.

What is the most common scope size? ›

The most common objective lens size for hunting rifle scopes is about 40mm wide. Some hunters prefer the wider field of view of 50mm objective lenses. They also transmit more light during early morning and late evening, possibly giving a hunter a few extra seconds to make a shot.

What size spotting scope for elk? ›

What is the best spotting scope for elk hunting? Larger magnification and objective lenses allow plenty of light and detail to be seen from a greater distance. 20-60x65 and 20-60x80 are perfect options for elk hunting.

What scope is better Vortex or Leupold? ›

Leupold may have a slight advantage with the quality of their scopes' build, while Vortex has the price advantage. Both brands have excellent reputations, even with Vortex's relative lack of experience. Ultimately, if you're in the market for a scope, your choice will probably come down to personal preference.

How far is a 1 6 scope good for? ›

Long battery life. Smaller, lighter scope. Quick and easy target acquisition. Crisp, clear picture at 50-100 yards.

Do I need a spotting scope for long range shooting? ›

Getting into ELR Shooting

Extreme long range (ELR) shooting requires ELR optics. In order to accurately define your bullet's point of impact, you need optics that can hone in on small spots from long distances. It's a convenience, really. Rather than using the rifle scope for shooting and spotting.

How important is a spotting scope? ›

Spotting Scopes For Hunting

These devices are an essential item for any hunter since they allow you to see things that would otherwise be invisible to your naked eye. The best spotting scopes are designed with the hunter in mind, and they often have several features that other types of telescopes lack.

Is it worth buying a spotting scope? ›

The extra weight and bulk of a spotting scope is worth it to many especially when it's quality glass. That extra crispness and clarity can fill the gap that fixed power binoculars can't offer.

What scope do scout snipers use? ›

Scout Sniper Day Scope (SSDS)—Schmidt and Bender PM II 3–12×50. Each M40 is built from a Remington Model 700 bolt-action rifle, and is modified by USMC armorers at Marine Corps Base Quantico, using components from a number of suppliers.

What scope for deer stalking? ›

Modern rifle scopes like the 2.5-16x42 or the classic 2.5-15x50 are always a good choice for deer stalking.

What size scope is best for all around hunting? ›

The most common objective lens size for hunting rifle scopes is about 40mm wide. Some hunters prefer the wider field of view of 50mm objective lenses. They also transmit more light during early morning and late evening, possibly giving a hunter a few extra seconds to make a shot.

Is angled or straight spotting scope better? ›

Straight spotting scopes are preferred by hunters mainly because there is little to no adjustment required to your tripod when switching between binoculars and spotting scopes. Straight spotting scopes are also easier to take in and out of your hunting pack's side pockets which I prefer.

Can you use a rangefinder as a spotting scope? ›

Consider Your Options: Spotting Scope or Laser Rangefinders

Some companies are actually trying to create spotting scopes with a rangefinder. However, most are just crappy and will not measure distance accurately. You just have to decide what best suits your needs between a spotting scope and a laser rangefinder.

Is a spotting scope better than a monocular? ›

Is a monocular or spotting scope better? A spotting scope is clearly the superior tool when it comes to specifications such as field of view and magnification, but the monocular's value is in being lightweight, compact, and good for night vision.

How much should I spend on a spotting scope? ›

Know how much you're willing to spend as spotting scopes range from $350 to $6000 without a tripod. There is a noticeable quality difference every time you step up a level.

What is the minimum focus distance for spotting scope? ›

The minimum possible distance to observation is also included as a criterion when testing spotting scopes. With most spotting scopes, the closest focusing distance is less than ten meters. At short distances, numerous spectacular details can become visible if the spotting scope is optimally processed.

Why is my spotting scope blurry? ›

Common Issues. The image of my target is blurry at long range. Cause: It is normal for the image of a target to be less clear at 500 yards than it is at 100 yards. For example, the image of more distant targets will be degraded by several factors which include dust, haze, and heat distortion (mirage).

Can you see the moon with a spotting scope? ›

A spotting scope is perfect for viewing the Moon near the horizon, where atmospheric distortion would disrupt the view in a larger telescope. With its simple tabletop alt-azimuth mount and a total weight less than five pounds, my spotting scope is always ready for instant use; no cool-down time needed!

Can you see planets through a spotting scope? ›

In practice, unless your interest is very serious astronomy, a spotting scope will be a good choice. Spotting scopes are easy to set up and use and with magnifications of up to around 60x or 70x can be used for all general observation and most basic astronomy – moon, near planets and other bright night sky objects.

Do expensive scope rings make a difference? ›

Quality scope rings make a difference in accuracy and producing consistent groups.

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