The hunting season is here with us and there is no better way to get ready than getting one of the best budget spotting scopes for hunting. The high magnification found in spotting scopes makes them ideal for hunting game from a distance under any environment. You will also be able to locate the game with ease and increase your shooting precision once you set foot in the hunting fields.
If you are buying your first spotting scope for hunting, you may want to spends hundreds of dollars to get yourself the best quality spotting scope. But this is not always the case. With the modern optical advancements, you can get a quality spotting scope at a budget-friendly price. That in mind, here is our review of the best budget spotting scopes for hunting available on the market today. Let’s take a look.
Our Best Budget Spotting Scopes for Hunting at a Glance
- Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope
- Athlon Optics Talos 20-60×80 Spotter Scope
- Landove HD 20-60×80 Spotting Scope
- SVBONY SV13 Spotting Scope Telescope for Hunting
- Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope
- Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scopes
- Celestron Ultima 65 18 to 55×65 Straight Spotting Scope
Best Budget Spotting Scopes for Hunting
#1) Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope
Bushnell excels in making high-quality optics and the Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope is one of the best budget spotting scopes for hunting out there. It features a variable magnification from 16x to 48x which is sufficient for most hunting applications and a large 48mm objective lens which facilitates optimum light collection for bright image production.
The spotting scope is tough enough to handle anything you throw at it. It has a rubber armor construction which is both shockproof and impact resistant. It is also fully waterproof so you can hunt with confidence in any weather conditions.
Weighing just 1.96 pounds, the spotting scope is ultralight for ease of portability as you move around in the field looking for game. It also has a straight viewing angle which makes it more perfect for glassing targets that are uphill or downhill. Furthermore, it comes with an adjustable sunshade to minimize glare when hunting under direct sunlight and a built-in objective cover which shields the external objective lens from scratches and dirt. In addition to everything else, the scope comes with premium fully multi-coated optics which maximize light transmission for bright and clear sight pictures even at dusk or dawn.
Features
- Porro prism design
- Straight eyepiece design
- Versatile 16-48x magnification
- 100% waterproof construction
- Premium fully multi-coated optics
- Rugged rubber armor
- Adjustable sunshade
- Built-in objective cover
- Lightweight design
#2) Athlon Optics Talos 20-60×80 Spotter Scope
If you are looking for a spotting scope for hunting that offers the best value for money, this is it. The Talos spotting scope is designed with a wide array of user-friendly and quality features at a remarkably competitive price. It is also highly versatile and ideal for multiple outdoor applications.
This spotting scope is made with the avid hunter in mind. It provides ample magnification for long-range viewing and a wide-angle field of view which is what hunters need for easy scanning of game. It also features high-quality optics and fully multi-coated lenses which provide bright, vivid and razor-sharp images at every magnification in any lighting condition.
Moreover, the spotting scope is fully waterproof to protect the optics in harsh weather conditions and purged with nitrogen to provide the necessary fog proof protection. And that’s not all. It is light as feather for convenient portability to and from the hunting field. Furthermore, it has an angled eyepiece design for comfortable glassing during long hunting sessions and a built-in extendable sunshade which reduces glare for comfortable glassing. Above all, you can mount it on any regular camera tripod for steady and comfortable observation.
Features
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Lightweight composite chassis
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Angled eyepiece design
- Built-in extendable sunshade
- Tripod compatible
- High-grade optics
- Wide-angle field of view
- Rotating tripod mounting ring
#3) Landove HD 20-60×80 Spotting Scope
If you are looking to take your hunting skills to the next big level, you should get a quality spotting scope such as the Landove HD 20-60×80 Spotting Scope. It has a wide 20-60x magnification to meet your different hunting needs and an angled eyepiece design for comfortable glassing both uphill and downhill.
Featuring coaxial dual speed focusing dials, the scope allows for quick precision focusing for rapid target acquisition. It also has a large 80mm objective lens which provides optimum light collection as well as a large field of view. Furthermore, the optics feature a multi-coated green film which provides brighter, clear and color-accurate images from sunrise to sunset.
Another good thing about the spotting scope is that it is built ready for hunting. It sealed with O-rings to prevent entry of dust, moisture and debris. It is also nitrogen filled to provide reliable fog proof performance. For added convenience, it comes with an adjustable eyecup for comfortable viewing even with eyeglasses on and a tabletop tripod for more stable glassing. You can also mount your smartphone or camera on the eyepiece and take photos and videos of your hunting trip.
Features
- Adjustable eyecup
- Phone adapter included
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Tabletop tripod
- Large 80mm objective lens
- Fully multi-costed green film optics
- Up to 60x magnification
- Coaxial dual speed focusing dials
- Premium BaK4 prism
- Numerous accessories included
4) SVBONY SV13 Spotting Scope Telescope for Hunting
Another best budget spotting scope for hunting in our list is the SVBONY SV13 Spotting Scope Telescope. It is an all-purpose spotting scope ideal for birding, hunting and target shooting among others. It has a light weight design that makes it easy to carry and an angled eyepiece design which ensures that you are able to locate game more comfortably.
With this spotting scope, you don’t have to purchase a tripod separately. It comes with a high-quality aluminum tripod that is both lightweight and durable. Furthermore, it is IPX7 waterproof and fog proof so you can use it in any weather conditions.
Another strength about the spotting scope is the high-end optical performance. It has a fully multi-coated 80mm objective lens which provides superb light transmission. The large objective also offers a large field of view at 82.9-48ft at 1000 yards for easy scanning of targets. The spotting scope also features quality BaK4 Porro prism optics which provide crisp clear and high-contrast images in any light setting. Other notable features that the scope provides include an extendable sunshade that reduces glare in broad daylight, twist-up eyecup that provides comfortable observation for all users with or without eyeglasses and a camera mount.
Features
- Fully waterproof and fog proof
- Large 80mm objective lens
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Extendable sunshade
- Twist-up eyecup
- High refractive index prism
- 45-degree angled eyepiece
- Adjustable solid tripod included
#5) Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope
As one of the best budget spotting scopes for hunting, the Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope offers a comfortable 45-degree viewing angle which is ideal for glassing targets uphill or downhill. It is compact in size for easy pack-ability and lightweight as well for easy carrying in the field.
Whether you prefer to hunt early in the morning or late in the evening, this spotting scope got you covered. It features a large 80mm objective lens with multiple anti-reflective coatings for optimal light collection and transmission. It is also equipped with premium BaK-4 prisms which provides bright, clear and tack-sharp images in any light setting.
When it comes to construction, the scope has a rugged, rubber armored exterior which provides reliable protection against hard use in the field. It is also filled with dry nitrogen to prevent internal fogging of the lens caused by rapid temperature changes and sealed to prevent moisture and dirt from getting inside the optics. The scope also comes with a T-mount adapter for Digiscoping and a removable eyecup for comfortable glassing.
Features
- Removable rubber eyecup
- Premium BaK-4 prisms
- Multi-layer lens coatings
- 45-degree eyepiece design
- Up to 60x magnification
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Rugged armored exterior
- Compact in size and lightweight
#6) Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scopes
If you are looking for a high-end Vortex spotting that is cost-effective, look no further than the Viper HD 15-45×65 Spotting Scope. It is packed with a wide array of high-end optical features and outstanding performance that every hunter will appreciate.
This Vortex spotting scope features a straight viewing angle for comfortable long-range observation in any hunting position. It also brings to the table fully multi-coated HD premium glass lenses which maximize light transmission for bright image production. The lenses also feature a scratch resistant ArborTech coating which delivers high resolution and color accurate images.
Like any other Vortex optic, the Viper HD spotting scope is fully waterproof and fog resistant for all-weather performance. It is crafted from high-strength composite material for ultimate durability and has a non-slip rubber armor which enhances the durability. It also comes with a built-in sunshade for reducing glare, a multi-position eyecup for comfortable glassing and a smooth helical focus for quick precision focusing.
Features
- Straight viewing angle
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Rugged and non-slip rubber armor
- Multi-position eyecup
- Built-in sunshade
- Fully multi-coated HD premium glass lenses
- Smooth helical focus
- Scratch resistant ArborTech coating
- Lightweight design
#7) Celestron Ultima 65 18 to 55×65 Straight Spotting Scope
If you are beginner looking to start a new hobby in hunting, the 18-55x65mm Spotting Scope suits you. It is not just budget-friendly, but it also user-friendly. It has a lightweight design for easy portability and a straight viewing angle which is perfect for beginners.
The spotting scope is designed to provide exceptional performance in a range of viewing situations. With the adjustable 18x to 55x magnification, you will have the flexibility to engage targets at varying ranges. Additionally, it brings to the table high-quality multi-coated optics which provide bright and clear as crystal image views from dawn till dusk.
The Ultima spotting scope is built to provide unmatched durability. It has a durable housing that is both waterproof and fog proof. Additionally, it is filled with dry nitrogen gas to prevent build of fog on the internal lenses and sealed to prevent entry of dirt, dust and moisture. It also comes with a large focus dial for sharp focusing, a built-in T-adapter for Digiscoping and an eyepiece lens cap.
Features
- Lightweight design
- Sharp zoom eyepiece function
- Multi-coated optics
- Built-in T-adapter
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Adjustable 18x to 55x magnification
- Portable and durable housing
- Straight eyepiece
See Also
How to Choose the Best Budget Spotting Scopes for Hunting
Even on a budget, it is important that you get a well-made spotting scope that doesn’t compromise on quality. The following are some of the important factors you should consider when choosing the best spotting scopes for hunting.
Design
Spotting scopes are available in two different designs; angled and a straight. Typically, your ideal design will largely depend on your hunting style as well as your individual preference.
If you are looking to glass for long hours, it is best to get a scope with an angled eyepiece design. It will be easy on both your neck and the eyes. You should also get an angled spotting scope if you want to capture photos and record videos of your hunting trip.
One other hand, it is best to get a spotting scope with a straight angle if you hunt a lot and you are always on the go. They are more compact, packable and portable. They are also comfortable to glass in any hunting position and ideal for hunting beginners.
Weight
The weight of a spotting scope determines how comfortable your hunting trip will be. If you will be trekking for miles looking for game or you plan to use the spotting scope handheld, make sure that you get a lightweight unit. It will be easy to carry and more comfortable to hold. However, if you plan on looking for game on a stationary position, you don’t have to worry much about the weight.
Durability
A scope that is durable will give you many years of field use. Look for a spotting scope that is made using high-quality materials such as aluminum/magnesium alloy. Also make sure that you get a scope that has a rubber armored body. It will cushion the delicate optics from shock and impact and also give you a secure, non-slip grip. It is also wise to get a unit that is built to offer reliable performance in any weather condition.
Aperture
Aperture refers to the size of the objective lens. For hunting especially in low light settings, it is best to get a scope with a large aperture. It will maximize light collection and transmission for bright and clear image production. Additionally, a large aperture provides a wide field of view which is what every hunter needs for fast target scanning.
Eye Relief
To get the most out of your hunting trip, a spotting scope with a long eye relief is a must have. It will allow you to glass comfortably even if you wear eyeglasses. It will also aid in quick target identification for easy and rapid acquisition.
Magnification
In spotting scopes, high magnification makes it easy for you to locate targets at long distances swiftly. It will also give you images views that are rich in detail and increase your odds of making an accurate shot depending on how far the target is. However, budget scope with high-power may have subpar optics which might result in poor image quality. Therefore, look for a scope with moderate power up to 60x.
Glass Quality
For you to have accurate target acquisition, you must have a clear view of the game you are hunting. This calls for a scope with high-quality glass. Go for a scope that utilizes ED, HD glass or better. Such a scope will provide high-quality images full of color contrast. Also make sure that the scope has its optics coated with quality coatings for optimum light transmission.
Advantages of Budget Spotting Scopes for Hunting
- Multi-purpose use. Spotting scopes for hunting are also ideal for other outdoor activities such as birding, target shooting and wildlife observation not just hunting.
- Quality construction and excellent optical performance.
- Less expensive
- Higher magnification which is ideal for long range hunting in any environment
- More steadiness and superior image clarity than binoculars and rifle scopes
FAQs
- How much should I spend on a spotting scope?
This will depend on your budget. If money is no object, you should get a high-end model with top-tier features. However, if you are not willing to spend a lot of money, there are plenty of spotting scopes under $300 that are quality and cost-effective.
- Do I need a spotting scope for hunting?
It depends. You need a spotting scope for hunting if you are looking to hunt at extreme long ranges. Spotting scopes have high magnification which helps you scout or pattern game from a distance.
- Which is better, a straight or an angled spotting scope?
Both designs are ideal for hunting. If you are looking to get a sight of target quickly, you should get a straight scope. On the other hand, if you are looking to hunt for lengthy hours, an angled spotting scope is more comfortable. If size and weight are a concern, both designs are similar, so it trickles down to personal preference.
Final Thoughts
We do hope that this post has given you the insight into the best budget spotting scopes for hunting and you are now able to make an informed buying decision. Remember that a quality spotting scope for hunting will make your hunting expedition more pleasant and a lot more successful. Use our buying guide above to make a selection that will work best for both your hunting needs and hunting style.