Anyone who's fired a weapon at a distance understands the importance of having an instrument that can help you zoom in on your target. A spotting scope can help you view your target with great clarity to deliver a shot with precision. But there are many options available, so how do you know which is the best spotting scope for the money? Don’t worry; our guide will help you see through the fog and find the best option for your needs.

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What Is a Spotting Scope?

Spotting scopes are telescopes that are portable and capable of high magnification to view objects in the distance. These are incredible tools for people who hunt, gun enthusiasts, nature lovers, and more.

Find the Best Spotting Scope for Your Needs

Having the right spotting scope can make or break your hunt. Here are five great options to help you fully stock your freezer this season:

1. Vortex Razor HD Straight Spotting Scope - 11-33x50mm

Arguably the best on the market, a Vortex spotting scope provides the quality you expect with the features you need. This model features a triplet apochromatic lens system for high-definition views that take on the whole field of view. You won’t have to deal with color fringing or shoddy resolution when viewing across long distances. Maximum brightness is achieved thanks to the scope’s XR anti-reflective coatings, fully multicoated air-to-glass lens surfaces, and increased light transmission. Vortex spotting scopes always deliver, and the Razor HD Straight model provides clarification, stability, and comfort to the user.

2. Leupold GR 10-20x40mm Compact Spotting Scope

Premium nitrogen sealing provides a waterproof design, and its compact size makes it easy to move with. When you purchase a Leupold spotting scope, you're purchasing quality. Leupold spotting scopes always raise the bar, and the GR compact model provides function and mobility through its BAK4 prisms and Multicoat 4™ lens coatings and lightweight, durable carbon fiber body.

3. Swarovski ATS or STS HD Spotting Scope

The high-performing ATS/STS scope by Swarovski is known for its HD optics provided by its Flouride HD lenses. Your Swarovski spotting scope minimizes color aberrations due to SWAROTOP and SWARODUR lenses and prism coatings assisting in a clearer view with precise focus.

4. Bushnell Trophy Extreme Spotting Scope

If you’re an outdoorsman of any kind, Bushnell is ready for you. Superior optics with a durable black rubber body, High Definition Optical System (HDOS) system, ED Prime Extra-Low Dispersion Glass, fully multicoated lenses, and BAK4 Porro prisms provide you with a tool that's tough and effective.

5. Cabela's Intensity HD Spotting Scope

It may be last on this list, but check the spotting scope reviews, and you'll see Cabela's truly delivers an exceptional instrument here. Featuring a fully multicoated optical HD lens system with 1 ED glass element, an advanced, ultra-wide band coating, helical focus ring, and a rotating body, you can get optimal performance no matter the conditions around you.

What Do the Numbers Mean on Spotting Scopes?

Your scope will have two groups of numbers that help you denote the settings you're viewing under. The first is the scope’s magnification (zoom). Its objective lens diameter is the second number. Spotting scope numbers help you determine your settings and affect how you view an object. Most scopes are equipped with a 60mm to 100mm lens. Higher magnification will provide more detail to your viewing.

Are Spotting Scopes Better Than Binoculars?

The biggest advantage scopes have over binoculars is the superior magnification you'll receive. Though they may not be quite as portable, the high magnification makes them a valuable tool for any hunter. If you’re looking to find the right spotting scope for your needs, Bass Pro Shops has you covered. Get a clearer picture by visiting their website.

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