Spotting Scope Help

[kazpilot25]

I've decided I finally need a spotting scope to get in and verify creatures I glass with my 15's. I am torn between the the 4 different options in the Vortex Viper lineup. The Vortex Viper's are on sale at cameraland right now, but I'm also thinking the Viper HD would be better, just how much?

 

I also can't figure out if it's worth getting the 20-60x80 over the 15-45x65? This will be my first real spotter so I just want to get a good one.

 

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

[ffm71]

I've used the HD and can vouch for its awesomeness. Very clear glass. My friend tested both HD and non HD versions before buying and he seemed convinced that the extra money was worth it.

[kazpilot25]

Ok, so I've pretty much settled on the HD version. Now what are the pros and cons of the 80mm objective? I don't mind hauling around the extra 1 lb if it gets me more light or wider field of view.

[jarheadhunter]

If I was you I would go look through them. IMO while your there and looking grab the new Razor 50mm and look through that. For the weight and size savings and IMO better glass I would go with that.

[kazpilot25]

Thanks Jarhead, I just might have to do that.

[firstcoueswas80]

I Have A Leica Apo Televid 77, Fov Is Awesome. its Heavy, But Worth It. I Would Definitely Go Hd Glass.

[jarheadhunter]

Thanks Jarhead, I just might have to do that.

My step father had the Viper HD and sold it to get the Razor HD 50 mm and is very pleased with his decision.

[PRDATR]

I've decided I finally need a spotting scope to get in and verify creatures I glass with my 15's. I am torn between the the 4 different options in the Vortex Viper lineup. The Vortex Viper's are on sale at cameraland right now, but I'm also thinking the Viper HD would be better, just how much?

 

I also can't figure out if it's worth getting the 20-60x80 over the 15-45x65? This will be my first real spotter so I just want to get a good one.

 

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

 

Optics Planet has the specs for FOV which is basically dependent on which power setting you are on vs mm objective. The exit pupil factor on the 65 @ 15X is 4.3 where the 80 @20X is 4.

Maybe someone has one you could look through to help nudge your decision. I would read every review I could find. A trip to http://outdoorsmans.com/ might be worthwhile to actually look through some.

[Viper]

I believe it was Western Hunter magazine, or Elk Hunter magazine...current issue, did a review of a bunch of the compact spotters and Vortex Razor HD 50mm came out on top, just ahead of the Nikon ED 50mm. I would seriously consider that one. When you start packing a spotting scope, you will be trying to figure out how to shed some weight. I have a Zeiss 65mm, and I end up leaving it behind most of the time to lighten the load, and just carry a doubler for my binos. I am considering the compact scope idea. If you are going to use the scope near your vehicle most of the time, might as well go with the 80mm. JMO.

[kazpilot25]

Well guys, I stopped by sportsmans to compare a couple scopes side by side. After thinking long and hard about it, I decided to go ahead and order the Vortex Razor HD 65mm. I figured you can't really beat it for the money. I tested it side by side with the 50mm, the Viper HD, and the Swaro. To be honest, it was head and shoulders above the Viper HD. In a side by side comparison I couldn't tell an ounce of difference between the Swaro HD 65mm and the Razor HD 65mm. I chose the 65mm over the 50mm for the extra zoom and eyepiece. I felt that the eyepiece in the 65mm (which is the same eyepiece as in the 85mm) was better quality, and I could really use the extra light transmission in the morning and evening that comes with the 65mm.

 

Thanks for the help guys. I will say, the 50mm is an awesome scope. I just need something a bit larger and more powerful.

[scoutm]

The true measure of any optics is how they perform in the first and last 30 minutes of the day so when possible always do your SxS compare during that time.

[kazpilot25]

Very true. Unfortunately I didn't have that luxury. I had to compare in the parking lot at about 5:30pm. I'm sure I'll be happy with my purchase. I can't wait to get it and take it out scouting.