If you are looking to track game across long distances and in search for the best lightweight spotting scope for hunting, you have come to the right place. Spotting scopes have higher magnification than rifle scopes and their two-eye cousins which makes them appropriate for long range hunting particularly in wide, open fields. Even with the high magnification, spotting scopes deliver high-quality and stable image views for accurate and ethical shot placement.
However, with plenty of models out there, finding the best spotting scope for hunting is no easy feat especially if you are looking for a lightweight model. But we are here to help. We have done our homework and put together a list of lightweight spotting scopes for hunting available on the market today. These spotting scopes will help make your hunting trip more competitive, fun and rewarding. Let’s get started.
What Makes a Good Spotting Scope for Hunting?
A good spotting scope for hunting is made of several things. For starters, a good spotting scope has a broad and versatile magnification needed for hunting game at varying ranges. When a spotting scope provides the right magnification, you will be able to get closer to the distant game so you can plan where to place the shot. This increases your odds of hitting the target accurately.
Furthermore, the spotting scope needs to have high-quality glass and multi-coated optics. This way, you are guaranteed crisp sight images even in poor light conditions like dawn or dusk.
Additionally, a good spotting scope for hunting should have a good-quality housing to stand rough hunting conditions. It should also be lightweight for convenient portability and fully waterproof and fog proof for all-weather reliability.
The 8 Best Lightweight Spotting Scope for Hunting
1) Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope
The Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope is the best lightweight spotting scope for hunting. This spotting scope is not only lightweight, but also compact in size. This enhances both its portability and packability especially when you are going to hunt in the west where you need to pack lots of gear.
While this spotting scope is compact, it is very powerful. It provides a variable magnification from 12x to 36x which makes it suitable for hunting at varying ranges. It boast a large 50mm objective lens to complement the broad magnification power by providing good image clarity at every zoom range. In addition to that, the scope has multi-coated optics which optimize transmission of light to give your great visual command even in low light settings such as dawn and dusk.
Another impressive thing that makes the scope shine is the fact that it is built ready for hunting. It is made with high grade materials and housed in a rugger rubber armor which cushions it from shock and impacts. It is also 100% waterproof and fog resistant so you can use in virtually any weather condition.
To top it all, all Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scopes come with a waterproof hard-sided case for convenient transportation and a compact tripod so you don’t have to purchase a tripod separately.
Key Features
- Rugged rubber armored housing
- Compact and lightweight design
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Multi-coated optics
- Variable 12-36x magnification
- Porro prism design
- Adjustable sunshade
Pros
- Compact tripod with window mount included
- Generous eye relief
- Cost effective
- Carry case included
Cons
- Less stable images at highest magnification
2) ROXANT Blackbird Compact Spotting Scope
When it comes to versatility, it is hard to go wrong with the ROXANT Blackbird Compact Spotting Scope. Its affordability, compact and ultralightweight design makes it appropriate for a wide range of applications such as hunting, watching sports, birding and viewing wildlife among others.
This spotting scope features a 45-degree angled eyepiece which helps alleviate neck and eye strain during lengthy hunting sessions. Besides, the eyepiece is designed to extend and retract to accommodate all users, with or without eyeglasses. Also, the spotting scope comes with a tripod that you can use for hands-free viewing and a handle which folds up into a small size for convenient packing.
Moreover, this scope magnifies images from 12x to 36x while maintaining clarity and brightness. It is also equipped with fully multi-coated all-glass lens which enhances light transmission for bright and crisp clear viewing. It also has an extendable sunshade to reduce glare in broad day light settings and a shock-absorbing rubber armor which provides an ergonomic, non-slip grip.
Key Features
- 45-degree angled eyepiece
- Extendable sunshade
- Variable 12-36x magnification power
- Fully multi-coated all-glass lens
- Adjustable eyepiece
- Premium BAK4 prism
- Non-slip armored housing
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight, compact and portable
- Tripod and carrying case included
- Multi-purpose application
Cons
- Ordinary Packaging
3) Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56mm ED Micro Spotting Scope
Celestron makes good quality optical devices ranging from telescopes to binoculars, and this quality is well maintained in the Hummingbird 9-27x56mm ED Micro Spotting Scope. If you are a looking for a top-performing and a travel-friendly alternative to a full-size spotting scope, this micro spotting scope is a perfect choice.
Weighing just 1.43 pounds, this scope is as light as some binoculars. This enhances its portability and ease of use. It also comes with a variable magnification that spans from 9x to 27x so it is ideal for hunting at varying ranges. Moreover, it provides exceptional image clarity and brightness even at the highest zoom setting thanks to the ED optical system and the fully multi-coated optics.
Another impressive feature that makes the spotting scope stand out is the versatile mounting options it offers. You can mount it easily on a tripod, monopod or car window mount. Even better, it comes with a helical focus dial which is centrally placed for ease of access.
To top it all, it is waterproof to provide reliable performance in wet weather conditions and nitrogen filled to keep both the internal and exterior lenses fog free.
Key Features
- Ultralightweight design
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- ED optical system
- Variable 9-27x magnification
- Large 56mm objective lens
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Centrally-located helical focus dial
Pros
- Versatile mounting options
- Sharp, clear and high-quality images
- Wider field of view
Cons
- Expensive
4) Gosky 9-27X 56mm ED Spotting Scope
Next up is the Gosky 9-27X 56mm ED Spotting Scope. The versatility of this compact and lightweight spotting scope makes it ideal for a wide range of outdoor applications such as hunting and bird watching in addition to archery, hiking, traveling and any other outdoor fun activities.
This spotting has a magnification that ranges from 9x to 27x for both close up and long-range hunting. It features an ED objective lens which maximizes resolution and color fidelity to give you high-quality image views. It also has fully multi-coated optics which optimize light transmission to provide bright, sharp and crisp clear image views even in subpar lighting environments.
Furthermore, this scope brings to the table a multi-position eyecup which provides adequate eye relief for comfortable observation with or without glasses. It also has a tripod hole for easy mounting on the tripod and a centrally-located helical focus dial for precision focus.
When it comes to construction, this spotting scope has an angled eyepiece design which is ideal for hunting game at uphill and down hill positions and a rubber coated surface which ensures a secure grip even when it is raining. It is also fully waterproof and fog free to offer protection and reliable performance in any weather condition.
Key Features
- Multi-position eyecup
- Centrally-located helical focus dial
- Variable 9-27x magnification
- ED objective lens
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Angled eyepiece design
- Rubber coated body
Pros
- Tripod ready
- High-definition images
- Affordability
- Multi-purpose application
Cons
- Smaller magnification
5) Bushnell Spotting Scope Engage DX 20-60x80_SENDX2680A
If you are looking for a lightweight spotting for extreme long range hunting, look no further than the Bushnell Engage DX spotting scope. It offers a powerful magnification which spans from 20x to 60x without the bulk. It only weighs 153g/5.4oz so it you will have the best time carrying it around from one place to another.
This scope is designed to offer exceptional optical performance. With the large 80mm objective lens, you are guaranteed of excellent image clarity from sunrise to sunset. The large objective lens also provides a wide and unobstructed field of view for convenient target scanning. Better yet, this optic has an angled eyepiece design and a rotating tripod collar that you can easily rotate to a position that is most comfortable for you.
Furthermore, this spotting scope is ruggedly built to offer unmatched durability. It has a durable aluminum chassis covered with a rugged rubber armor. The armoring protects the optical system from impacts and shock to offer a lifetime of reliable use in harsh environments. The spotting scope also has an EXO barrier lens coating which repels dirt, oil, fog, dust and moisture so you get clear views of your target regardless of the weather condition.
Key Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Durable aluminum chassis
- Hydrophobic EXO barrier lens coating
- Rugged rubber armor
- Premium BaK-4 prism
- Angled eyepiece design
- Rotating collar
- Integrated Picatinny rail
Pros
- Ultralightweight design
- Great visibility in low light settings
- Multi-purpose application
Cons
- High cost
6) BARSKA 15-40×50 Colorado Spotting Scope
Long range hunting gets better when you have a high powered and quality optic like the 15-40×50 Colorado Spotting Scope. This spotting scope is you best choice if you are in the market for the best lightweight spotting scope for hunting for the money. It is remarkably affordable and it doesn’t compromise on quality.
It is crafted from aluminum which optimizes its durability while remaining light as feather. It also has a shock-absorbing rubber armor which prevents slippage in wet environments. Furthermore, the scope has multi-coated glass which offer bright, vivid and color accurate images throughout the whole 15-40x zoom range, and an adjustable objective lens which aids in precision image focusing. Last but not least, this spotting scope has an on-board tripod mount which is compatible with most standard tripods.
Key Features
- Variable 15-40x zoom range
- Durable aluminum housing
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor
- Integrated tripod mount
- Adjustable objective lens
- Non-slip grip
- Straight eyepiece design
- Fully coated optics
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Cheap
- Weather resistant
Cons
- Images less clear in poor light settings.
7) SVBONY SV410 Mini Spotting Scope
Another best lightweight spotting scope for hunting on our list is the SVBONY SV410 Mini Spotting Scope. It has a compact design which allows for easy one hand viewing and a lightweight construction so it won’t be an extra burden for you as you maneuver around looking for game.
If you wear eyeglasses, this spotting scope suits you. It has a twist-up eyecup which provides a long eye relief so all users with or without eyeglasses get a comfortable viewing experience. Besides that, this spotting scope offers exceptional optical performance from sunlight to sunset and it is compatible with standard tripods so you can take the weight off your hands.
When it comes to the construction quality, the scope is composed of high-quality materials which enhance its durability. It also has an IPX5 waterproof rating so you can use it even when it is pouring heavily and the optics won’t be damaged.
Key Features
- Wide field of view
- Durable carrying case included
- IPX5 waterproof rating
- Twist-up eyecup
- Fully multi-layer antireflective coatings
- Variable 8-24x zoom
- 18mm eyepiece
- 50mm objective lens
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Good optical clarity
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Zoom eyepiece not great for wide field views
8) Leupold GR 10-20x40mm Gold Ring Spotting Scope
If you are looking for the best low light hunting spotting scope, the Leupold GR 10-20x40mm Gold Ring Spotting Scope is your ideal model. It offers unprecedented low light performance thanks to the high-quality optics and the Twilight Max HD Light Management System.
Leupold made this spotting to lighten your load while offering high-end performance found in high-powered and larger models. the variable 10-20x zoom is ideal for hunting at varying ranges and in different environments as well. Besides, the scope has a straight eyepiece design which allows for hunting in different positions. It also offers a generous eye relief which aids in comfortable observation even with your eyeglasses on.
This compact spotting scopes boasts the legendary Leupold ruggedness. It has a durable and lightweight carbon fiber construction shrouded in a rugged rubber armor to stand anything Mother Nature throws as it. It also has scratch resistant lenses for added protection as well as a waterproof and fog proof housing to provide a lifetime of all-weather performance.
Key Features
- Straight eyepiece design
- Fully multi-coated lens system
- 100% waterproof and fog proof
- Leupold’s advanced optical system
- Lightweight but tough carbon fiber construction
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- Rugged rubber armor
- Military grade scratch resistant lenses
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Exceptional low light performance
- Compact and portable
Cons
- High Cost
See Also
Criteria for Choosing the Best Lightweight Spotting Scope for Hunting
Here are some of the important factors you should always consider when you are looking for the best lightweight spotting scope for hunting.
Magnification
Magnification is the primary factor to put into consideration. With the market offering a wide variety of spotting scopes, your ideal magnification will depend on the distance you would want to cover and your hunting environment.
For most hunting applications, it is recommended that you get a minimum of 30x max zoom. Anything less than that and you might as well use a rifle scope or binoculars. For greater versatility, pick a scope that offers a broad magnification so you will be able to engage targets at varying ranges and in different environments.
Eyepiece Design
Spotting scopes have two eyepiece designs, straight and angled. Choosing between an angled eyepiece and a straight eyepiece is largely a matter of personal preference.
If you are looking to acquire targets as quickly as possible, it is best to try out a straight eyepiece. On the other hand, an angled eyepiece allows for comfortable observation during lengthy hunting sessions. It is also ideal for hunting game at uphill and down hill positions. Moreover, it allows for group sharing for people with different heights.
Eye Relief
Eye relief refers to the distance from the spotting scopes lens to the tip of your eyeball. Just like binoculars and rifle scopes, it is important that you select a spotting scope that offers a long eye relief. This way, you will be able to observe your targets comfortably with or without eyeglasses. A tip is to get a spotting scope that has at least 17mm eye relief.
Image Quality
Another important thing to consider is the quality of images the spotting scope produces. To have a clear shot on your targets, you must first have a clear view of them. This is particularly the case if you will be hunting in subpar lighting conditions such as dawn or dusk.
A tip is to get the best glass you can afford. Look for spotting scopes that boast ED, HD glass or better. Such scopes offer excellent image quality and high resolution. Also try to look for a spotting scope that has its lenses fully coated or multi-coated with proper coatings.
Price
Hunting is an expensive sport whereby you get what you pay for. With the market offering so many options, you are can rest assured that you will get a model that suits both your hunting needs and budget needs. Start by getting a unit that you can afford at the moment, then upgrade as your budget increases and your hunting skills get better.
Best Lightweight Spotting Scope for Hunting FAQs
- Do I need a spotting scope for hunting?
Yes. A spotting scope is a valuable tool for hunting. They offer higher magnification which makes it easy for you to spot targets at extreme long ranges quickly. Spotting scopes for hunting are also highly versatile and ideal for other outdoor activities not just hunting.
- What spotting scope magnification do I need for hunting?
Your magnification needs will largely depend on the type of game you will be hunting, your hunting environment as well as how far you will be hunting. A tip is to get a scope with at least 30x maximum magnification.
- Should I use an angled or a straight spotting scope?
Choosing between an angled or a straight spotting scope is largely a matter of individual preference. A straight spotting scope offers quick target acquisition while an angled spotting scope is ideal for glassing objects uphill or downhill.
Final Thoughts
It is our hope that the information provided in this article has given you some insights into the best lightweight spotting scope for hunting. Knowing the features and build quality of each scope listed above will help determine whether it fits you. Whatever you have planned, there is a spotting scope for hunting out there for you.