Who makes the best spotting scope for the money?

[muleynuts]

I currently have a Burris fullfield (15-45x60). I have not been very impressed. I am looking for something a litle nicer around the $500.00 range. I know of a few companies that suposedly make decent scopes in that price range. Like Alpen, Vortex, Brunton, and Nikon. However, I live too far away to drive to all the different places that sell these optics. Plus looking at the scopes in the store and using them in the field are completly different. Any feedback to help me narrow my search would be much appreciated.

 

[mustystubs]

I have a 30 power Leupold that I like just fine. I skipped the Leupold tri-pod (too flimsy) for a Bushnell. Leupold offers good value for the money.

 

[imnrut]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (muleynuts @ Jan 29 2009, 11:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div>

I currently have a Burris fullfield (15-45x60). I have not been very impressed.[/b]

Hhhmmmmm... was this before or after your Dad was using it for a rock hammer?

Vortex baby!

 

[bucknut]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (muleynuts @ Jan 29 2009, 11:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div>

I currently have a Burris fullfield (15-45x60). I have not been very impressed.[/b]

You're not happy with your new Burris Custom Kaleidoscope? If you don't like the view, just shake it a little bit and look again.

 

[slanttop357]

Nikon

 

[3springs]

Check out Alpen.

 

[Applbit]

I think nikon is the best bang for the buck.

 

[thance]

I'm also looking for a decent scope. I've had a couple - one Nikon, two Bushnells. I think the first one I had that a buddy of mine left conveniently on the rear bumper of my truck was actually made by B&L... quickly lost on the way home from the range... also have a little Winchester shortie - that's good between 10:00AM and 2:00PM on any day following solar flares in a clear sky.

What's your recomendation - trying to go light - keep the wieght down... but keep em clear too. Like the 45-60 powers - and would like get one between 12-15" long too. I've been to Bass Pro and in a rush - looked at a few - but what a bunch of crap out there... and tough to see what works well picking out antler definition... Short of Ziess, Swars.... whats reasonable for us normal humans and still has some clarity?

 

[Applbit]

look at the leupold VXI series. I believe for the 200 price tag it cant be beat.

 

[6672042]

I like Eagle Optics online, they carry all the brands. call their 800 number and ask to speak to their reps. they will get you a best scope for your price range. They also offer 30 day money back gaurantee. I also recommend the angled scope, more users can enjoy the view (short people like kids and wife) plus you can use it in prone position. once you use angeled, you will be able to find your target real quick.

 

[goatman]

If anybody is interested Cameraland has a special on a Vortex Nomad 20-60x80mm spotter in black on sale for $199.00.

 

[hank4elk]

Leapold. After trying to find some Alpens in stock anywhere,backordered,very hi demand ,I went to local gun shop and got Leapold Greenring 15x45x60 w/kit.Very nice! with Manfrotto tripod it weighs around 4 lbs. I could have gotten just about any mid price scope but for the $ you can't beat Leapold.