Long range target shooting is a thrilling sport that is practiced by many gun enthusiasts. However, it is no mean feat. For one to be successful at this activity, having the right equipment is indispensable. A spotting scope is one of the most valuable sighting tools to have and in this post, we shed a light on the best spotting scope for long range target shooting available on the market.
While target shooting is a thrilling outdoor expedition, it is often tedious when you have to walk to see where the rounds have landed after a series of shot. This is where a spotting scope comes in to play. For long range target shooting, these sighting tools not only provide a clear point of aim and but also eliminate the hassle of walking back and forth to see if you have hit the target.
With the multitude of spotting scopes available on the market, we have taken our time and put together a handful of the best models for long range target shooting. This way, you are able to find the best unit for your individual needs. In addition, we have put together a comprehensive buyer’s guide to give you a better idea on the factors you should consider before settling on any product.
Without any further delays, let’s get started.
8 Best Spotting Scopes for Long Range Target Shooting
1) Burris Signature HD Spotting Scope
Our first spotting scope recommendation for long target shooting is the Burris Signature HD Spotting Scope. The scope is designed with advanced technology and an array of high-end features to meet your long-range shooting needs and take your glassing to a higher level.
With a variable 20x to 60x magnification power, you will be able to save time and energy finding and evaluating targets at any distance. Besides, the spotting scope boasts a large 80mm aperture that when coupled with the high-quality glass elements makes the magnification power useful at every range.
Another facet that makes this optic the best spotting scope for long range target shooting is the rugged housing. It has an armored die-cast magnesium body that sturdy enough to take in the beating. Additionally, it is waterproof, fog proof and shockproof to go anywhere, anytime.
For added convenience, the spotting scope has a lightweight design and a built-in sunshade to limit glare. It is also built with an adjustable eyecup, angled eyepiece design and a rotating tripod mount.
Features
- Built-in sunshade
- Angled eyepiece design
- Durable magnesium frame
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Ruggedized armoring
- Coarse and fine focusing adjustment
- HD glass elements
- Index-matched lenses
Pros
- Perfect clarity at all magnification
- Lightweight design
- Rugged and reliable construction
Cons
- Pricey
2) Vortex Viper 20-60x85mm HD Angled Spotting Scope
Long range target shooting requires a high-quality optical equipment like the Vortex Viper 20-60x85mm HD Angled Spotting Scope. It is packed with stunning features that are responsible for yielding incredible optical performance no matter the lighting or weather conditions.
The versatile 20-60x magnification power brings far off subjects closer so the shooter is able to plan their shot. Furthermore, the scope has an oversized 85mm objective lens to enhance low light performance. It is also built with an HD optical system and anti-reflective lens coatings to boost light transmission.
Vortex optical instruments are made with durability in mind and this model isn’t any different. It has a robust housing that is rubber armored for added protection from shock and elements. Other than that, the spotting scope features a smooth helical focus which maintains a small profile for the best packability.
For use in all weather conditions, the scope is argon purged and O-ring sealed against water and dust. Over and above that, it has an Armortek coating that protects the exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt.
The other essential features included are a multi-position eyecup which provides proper eye relief and a locking collar that you use to rotate it into different viewing positions.
Features
- Smooth helical focus
- XR anti-reflective lens coatings
- 20-60x magnification range
- Multi-position eyecup
- Waterproof and argon purged
- Locking collar
- Rubber armored body
- HD optical system
Pros
- Crisp clear optics
- Robust construction
- Excellent picture quality
Cons
- Poor eye relief
3) Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope
Third on our list of the best spotting scope for long range target shooting is the Argos HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope. The scope is designed with good optical quality and ease of use in mind. As such, it is good for all users, no matter the level of experience or shooting skills.
A defining feature of the scope is optical finesse. Thanks to the oversized 85mm objective lens, it yields stunning picture quality even at the highest magnification levels. Furthermore, it boasts a wide band of fully multi-coated lenses and phase-coated Porro prism to enhance image brightness and clarity.
In terms of construction, the spotting scope has an angled eyepiece design and a lightweight composite chassis whose durability is hard to beat. Furthermore, the optical tube is purged with argon and sealed to be fully waterproof and dustproof.
In addition to all, the Argos HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope is compatible with regular camera tripods to provide a steady mount during long shooting sessions.
Features
- Extendable sunshade
- Angled eyepiece design
- 20-60x magnification
- Waterproof and argon purged
- HD glass
- Fully multi-coated lenses
Pros
- Multifunctional
- Durable and reliable construction
- Great value
- Excellent picture quality
Cons
- Slight chromatic aberration
4) Leupold SX-5 Santiam HD 27-55×80 Spotting Scope
In the industry of optics, Leupold is synonymous with optical quality. It is well-known for its rugged and high-quality quality optical tools and this is clear in the SX-5 Santiam HD 27-55×80 Spotting Scope.
The scope employs high-quality optical features that yield bright and crystal clear views of targets no matter the distance. The advanced HD optical system maximizes resolution and color accuracy, while the large objective lens ensures more light is drawn inside the optics.
Another feature that makes the spotting scope ideal for target shooting is premium build quality. It is built tough to outperform the rest under the toughest conditions. Besides, it is 100% waterproof and fog resistant to ensure unimpeded field use.
And that’s not all. This spotting scope has a long eyeglass-friendly eye relief and a smooth focusing system for ease of focusing. It also brings to the table a retractable sunshade for limiting glare.
Features
- Smooth focusing
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- Advanced HD lens system
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Angled body design
- Waterproof and fog resistant
- Retractable sunshade
Pros
- Outstanding optics quality
- Great warranty
- Premium build quality
Cons
- Few accessories included
5) Pentax PF-80ED-A Spotting Scopes
Another best spotting scope for long range target shooting on our list is the Pentax PF-80ED-A Spotting Scope. It has a large and highly effective 80mm aperture that produces a bright field of view with crisp clear sight pictures. It also incorporates ED glass elements that enhance image resolution.
The overall build quality of this spotting scope is outstanding. It boasts a heavy-duty magnesium alloy to reduce the overall weight without compromising on quality. Furthermore, the rugged rubber armor enhances performance and shock resistance for added durability.
To complement the solid build quality, the spotting scope is built ready for use in all environments. It has a JIS Class 6 waterproof construction for worry free use in the less-than-ideal weather conditions. Additionally, the body tube is filled with dry nitrogen gas to prevent fog build up.
Pentax also offers four wide-angle XW-series eyepieces for added versatility. All the eyepieces feature a long eye relief to enhance glassing comfort, even for the eyeglass wearers.
Features
- Heavy-duty magnesium alloy construction
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- 45° angled body
- Built-in sunshade
- Large 80mm objective lens
Pros
- Quality construction
- Bright and clear optics
- Ease of use
Cons
- Heavy
6) Maven S.1A 25-50 X 80mm FL Spotting Scope
Maven S.1A 25-50 X 80mm FL Spotting Scope uses state-of-the-art optics to provide long target shooters with a highly reliable sighting tool. It brings the faraway targets closer for a more detailed look with minimal strain on your eyes even during lengthy shooting sessions.
The spotting scope is built ready for use in virtually all lighting conditions. Thanks to the fluorite glass, it yields tack-sharp sight pictures even in dismal environments. Furthermore, the large objective lens ensures that the images generated are rich in quality and clarity at every magnification level.
Another defining facet of this spotting scope is the heavy-duty construction. It is built with post space-age magnesium and polymer frame which offers the perfect blend of packability and durability. An angled eyepiece is also included so you don’t have to incur additional costs buying one.
Features
- Broad 25-50x zoom
- 80mm fluorite objective lens
- Schmidt-Pechan prism
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Waterproof and fog proof
Pros
- Excellent color fidelity
- Lifetime warranty
- Solid construction
- Exceptionally clear and bright image views
Cons
- High price tag
- Slightly heavy
7) Kowa 77mm High Performance Spotting Scope
If you want to take your target shooting skills a notch higher, the Kowa 77mm High Performance Spotting Scopes suits you. It is packed with an oversized objective lens and a ton of other top-notch features that set it apart from other models with a similar price.
The spotting scope is built for use in all weather conditions. It is nitrogen purged to prevent build up of fog whenever you move the spotting scope to a location with a high temperature gradient. It is also sealed with strong O-rings to be waterproof and dust proof.
Not only is the spotting scope weatherproof, but also built to be nearly indestructible. It features a rugged magnesium alloy body that is not just rugged, but also lighter in weight compared with models made from polycarbonate or aluminum alloy.
Moreover, the scope has an angled body design which is Digiscoping-ready and more comfortable to use for users of different heights as well as long glassing periods. The eyepiece also comes with a lock mechanism that secures it in place during use.
Features
- Dual focusing system
- Rugged magnesium alloy body
- 77mm objective lens
- Angled body design
- Waterproof and nitrogen purged
- Fully multi-coated lens system
- Eyepiece locking mechanism
Pros
- Built to last
- Superb picture quality
- Manageable weight
Cons
- Big budget but worth it
8) Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 Spotting Scope, 30-60x85mm
Lastly on our list of the best spotting scope for long range target shooting is the Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 Spotting Scope. Zeiss is renowned for its best value sighting tools and this model is not any different.
The scope has a variable magnification power from 30-60x for easy target identification even at extreme long ranges. Furthermore, the large 85mm lens diameter makes each zoom setting useful even in remote locations by optimizing light collection. The spotting scope also boasts fully multi-coated high-density lens system that ensures high levels of light transmission.
For added convenience, this optical tool comes with a universal tripod base. Additionally, it has a removable eyepiece that allows use with optional eyepieces depending on the application. It is also equipped with a sighting line on the objective bell for fast and easy finding of objects.
In addition to everything else, the spotting scope is waterproofed and nitrogen filled to ensure thermal stability which prevents fog build up in the exterior and interior lenses.
Features
- 30-60x zoom eyepiece
- Compact roof prism optical path
- Removable eyepiece
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Angled body design
- Fully multi-coated HD lenses
- Sighting line on the objective bell
Pros
- Versatile
- Super optical performance
- Premium build
- Tripod-ready
Cons
- Costly
Read Also
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Angled Vs Straight Spotting Scope for Target Shooting
There are two types of spotting scopes, straight and angled. In a straight spotting scope, both the eyepiece and the objective lens are in the same line. On the other hand, angled spotting scopes have the eyepiece set at angle with the objective lens.
Each type has its pros, cons and the applications it is best suited for. In most cases, the best spotting scopes for long range target shooting are angled. The angled eyepiece design enables the shooter to take shots of targets at any position, even uphill or downhill. Besides, they are more comfortable on both the neck and eye when you are glassing for a long period of time.
Criteria for Choosing a Spotting Scope for Long Range Target Shooting
Spotting scopes for target shooting come in different sizes and designs. The following are the important factors you need to take into consideration when making a purchase.
Magnification
The magnification power of a spotting scope has a direct impact on distance reach. For long range target shooting, you need a scope whose zoom power is high enough to cover the distance with ease. We recommend that you get a device with as high magnification as 60x magnification.
Objective Lens
The higher the magnification a spotting scope has, the larger the objective diameter should be. A model with a large aperture will draw in more light inside and make the magnification useful even at the highest levels. A large aperture is also beneficial in providing a spacious field of view.
Glass Quality
Overall, the best spotting scope for long range target shooting should be made with premium glass to keep up with long range viewing demands. Go for a product that employs either premium HD, ED or fluorite glass.
Furthermore, look for a spotting scope that uses quality lens coatings. Lens coatings matter a lot as they determine how bright and clear the images generated will be.
Build Quality
Spotting scopes for long range target shooting don’t come cheap. As such, you will want to invest your hard-earned money in a product that is optimized for longevity. Look at the nature of construction and the quality of materials used, then pick a model that is built to last.
Not only should the spotting scope be durable but also operable in all weather conditions. So, be sure to pick a device that is fully waterproof, dust proof and fog proof.
Eye Relief
The other thing to take into account is eye relief. You will need a scope that is comfortable to use with or without eyeglasses. Long eye relief is also important in ensuring that eye strain is alleviated during the long glassing sessions.
FAQs
- What is a good spotting scope for long range target shooting?
A good spotting scope for long range target shooting is one that comes with all the features you require based on your shooting habits. Overall, the spotting scope should have a powerful magnification and a large aperture, in addition to premium glass elements, solid lens coatings and sturdy construction.
- How far can you see with a 20-60×60 spotting scope?
About 1,000 yards. However, this distance can increase or decrease depending on several factors which include the quality of glass the scope uses, size of the objective lens as well as the weather and lighting conditions.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best spotting scope for long range target shooting should not be hard. When you are well informed, it is easy to find the right a scope that blends best with your individual needs. Look at the specs, features and ratings of each spotting scope and go for the model that will revolutionize you experience in tactical shooting this season.