Hitting a target that is as far as 1000 yards away is no easy feat. You will need a high-quality optic that gives you excellent visibility and a clear view of the target. This is where spotting scopes come in handy. The best spotting scopes for 1000 yards boast high magnification that covers targets at extended ranges. These sighting tools make an excellent companion for by hunters, target shooters and wildlife observers looking to observe different objects at extreme long-ranges.
A quality spotting scope for 1000 yards will give you excellent image detail of the target even in poor light settings. Besides, long-range spotting scopes are simpler to use and much more comfortable on the eye during long glassing sessions.
If you have been looking for the best spotting scopes for 1000 yards to no avail, we are here to help. We have reviewed a few top-rated spotting scopes suitable for various long-range applications. Without further ado, let’s take a look.
The Best Spotting Scopes for 1000 Yards at a Glance
- Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scopes
- Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope
- Pentax PF-80 ED Spotting Scope with Field Case
- Gosky Updated 20-60×80 Spotting Scope
- Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scopes
- Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope
- Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Angled Eyepiece Spotting Scope
Best Spotting Scopes for 1000 Yards
#1) Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scopes
The Razor HD 27-60×85 Angled Spotting scope is one of the best spotting scopes for 1000 yards out there. It offers the best value for money. It is simple to use and ideal for intermediate and long-range hunting and tactical shooting.
Unmatched optical performance awaits you when you get this spotting scope. It features premium ED glass lens which provides excellent resolution and color fidelity. It also boasts a wide 85mm objective lens with XR Plus anti-reflective coatings which optimize light transmission and attenuate glare to yield excellent image brightness and crispness even in poor light settings.
The scope provides great viewing comfort. It has an angled eyepiece that is easy on both the eyes and the neck. It also features a multi-positioning eyecup which ensures a helical focus for better imaging. This eyecup also twists up and down to provide adequate eye relief with or without eyeglasses.
When it comes to construction, this spotting scopes is well-constructed to give you many years of use. It has a rubber armor which cushions it from rough handling and impacts. It also comes with an Armortek coating on the exterior lenses which shields it from dirt, oil and scratches. On top of everything, the scope is sealed with high-quality O-rings and argon purged so you get to use it even in adverse weather conditions.
Features
- Waterproof and fog resistant
- Armortek coatings
- Multi-layer prism coatings
- Rugged rubber armor
- Angled eyepiece design
- Multi-position eyecup
- XR Plus fully multi-coated lens
- Premium extra-low dispersion glass
- Helical focus
- Built-in sunshade
- APO system
#2) Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope
When shooting targets that are as far as 1000 yards away, you need a quality spotting scope like the Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope. The scope provides excellent image views so you are able to know where to aim and place the shot. Whether you are in the range or hunting field, this scope is a valuable item to have.
It features an extra-low dispersion glass which provides true-to-life color with advanced resolution and contrast. The lens is fully multi-coated with Celestron’s XLT coatings which maximize light transmission for bright image generation. Furthermore, the large 80mm objective lens also collects as much light as possible for clear image production.
You can either use the spotting with the included 20-60x eyepiece or any astronomical 1.25” eyepiece if you want to have more magnification power. With the rotating tripod mount included, you can set it on the most comfortable viewing angle for snug observation. Better yet, the scope has a T-mount adapter for attaching a DSLR camera for Digiscoping.
Another strength about the spotting scope is the durable construction. It has a magnesium alloy body which is strong, durable and lightweight. It also features dual focus system for quick focusing and a sliding sunshade that helps alleviate glare when hunting or shooting under direct sunlight.
Features
- Standard 1.25” eyepiece mount
- T-adapter ring for simple Digiscoping
- 20-60x zoom eyepiece
- Magnesium alloy body
- Course and fine focus
- Sliding sunshade
- XLT fully multi-coated optics
- ED objective lens
- 45-degree eyepiece design
- Large 80mm objective lens
#3) Pentax PF-80ED Spotting Scope with Field Case
The Pentax PF-80ED Spotting Scope is a straight spotting suitable for multiple long-range applications. It has a large 80mm objective lens which provides clear images even at every magnification range, a wide field of view and outstanding low light performance which is what most hunters need.
Weighing just 3 pounds, the scope has a manageable weight for ease of portability across the field. Therefore, if you trek for miles looking for game, you will find it easy to carry. Besides, it comes with a resilient field case for safe and convenient transportation.
The scope also provides excellent optical performance. It has a premium ED glass which provides excellent optical resolution, and fully multi-coated lens that deliver bright and tack-sharp images in different light settings. Moreover, the scope is filled with nitrogen to prevent internal fog build up which occurs when there is a rapid temperature change. This way, you are guaranteed of clear target views even in adverse weather conditions. In addition to everything else, the scope has a durable magnesium alloy construction so it will stand rough outdoor handling.
Features
- Large 80mm diameter lens
- Premium-quality ED glass
- Compatible with 1.25” eyepieces
- Lightweight design
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Durable magnesium alloy construction
- Straight eyepiece
- Porro prism
#4) Gosky Updated 20-60×80 Spotting Scope
As one of the best spotting scopes for 1000 yards, the Gosky Updated 20-60×80 Spotting Scope has virtually every feature that outdoor enthusiasts need. It has a powerful magnification, a stable focusing system and excellent optical performance.
This is an all-purpose spotting scope. It is perfect for birding, archery, hiking, hunting, target shooting, wildlife watching and many more. It has a reliable waterproof, fog proof and shockproof performance which makes it ideal for use in all weather conditions.
With the large 80mm objective lens, the scope provides clear sight pictures at every zoom range. It maximizes light collection and provides a large field of view for easy target identification. Moreover, the eyepiece lens is fully multi-coated to maximize light transmission for brighter and clearer views.
In terms of construction, the scope features an aluminum and magnesium alloy body which enhances its durability while remaining lightweight. The body is covered with a rubber armor which shields it from shock and weather elements. It also brings to the table a retractable sunshade that helps minimize glare while protecting the eyepiece from scratches and dirt. Above all, the scope comes with a quick aligned cell phone adapter that you can use to you capture the beauty of the distant world if you like to document your outdoor excursions.
Features
- 45-degree angled eyepiece
- Rotatable eyepiece
- Retractable sunshade
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- High-quality rubber armor
- Durable framework
- Fully multi-coated green film eyepiece lens
- Variable 20-60x zoom
- Quick aligned cell phone adapter included
#5) Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scopes
Vortex makes high-quality optics and the Viper HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope is no different. This high-end spotter offers best value for money. It brings to the table a wide array of quality and nice features at a remarkably competitive price tag.
The spotting scope delivers unmatched optical performance from sunrise to sunset. It boasts a HD optical system which generates clear and high-definition images. It also boasts an XR anti-reflective coating on the external lens surface to enhance light transmission which is needed for bright image production even in low light conditions.
Like any other Vortex optic, the scope is fully waterproof and fog resistant for all-weather use. It also has a rubber armor that shields the optic from weather elements, shock and impacts. The rubber armor also provides a secure grip even when you are wearing gloves or when you are using the scope in wet conditions.
Another good thing about the spotting scope is that it is eyeglass-friendly. It has a multi-position eyecup which provides adequate eye relief with or without glasses. For comfortable glassing, this optic comes with a built-in sunshade for reducing glare and a locking collar that allows you to rotate it into different viewing angles. Other noteworthy features found in the scope are an Armortek coating and a smooth helical focus.
Features
- Built-in extendable sunshade
- Ultrasmooth and sleek helical focus
- Flexible viewing angles
- HD optical system
- Rugged rubber armor
- XR anti-reflective lens coatings
- Armortek coating
- Multi-position eyecup
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Versatile 20-60x zoom
#6) Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope
Another best spotting scope for 1000 yards on our list is the Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope from Celestron. This scope suits you if you are looking for the best budget long range spotting scope. It is remarkably affordable and it doesn’t compromise on its quality.
The scope is made with ease of use in mind. It is compact in size for easy portability and has a 45-degree viewing angle which reduces eye fatigue and neck strain during lengthy long-distance glassing session. It also comes with an integrated T-adapter for Digiscoping and a zoom eyepiece that helps you zero in for clear and detailed views of distant targets in seconds.
The scope also provides excellent optical performance. Every lens surface features several layers of anti-reflective coatings to maximize light transmission and minimize glare. The result is bright, crisp clear and ultra-sharp images even in low light conditions. The scope also features a green optical tube which allows for subtle glassing in any nature environment.
Features
- 20-60x zoom eyepiece
- Integrated T-adapter
- Compact and portable design
- 45-degree viewing angle
- Green optical tube
- Large focus dial
- Extended tripod mounting table
- Multi-layer anti-reflective coatings
- BaK-4 Prisms
#7) Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Angled Eyepiece Spotting Scope
The Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Spotting Scope is a great addition to every outdoor enthusiast’s tool set. It offers outstanding long-range visibility to help you experience nature up close. Whether you are hunting, shooting targets, birding or you are engaged in any other outdoor activity, this scope will meet your needs.
It comes with an ED glass which provides excellent color rendition and reducing fringing. In addition to that, this optic has phase-coated BaK4 prism and multi-coated lenses which maximize light transmission for bright and clear as crystal image production.
This 1000-yard scope has a durable magnesium alloy body which is covered with rubber for greater durability. The rubber armor shields it from shock and weather elements. It also provides a secure, non-slip grip for the user even in wet conditions. Furthermore, the scope is sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dirt, dust and any other debris from entering the optics. It is also purged with nitrogen to prevent fog build up in extreme weather conditions.
Features
- Fine focusing
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Advanced MultiGuard coatings
- Premium ED glass
- Detachable angled eyepiece
- Built-in sunshade
- Rugged rubber armor
- Multi-coated lenses
- Durable magnesium alloy body
See Also
- Best Spotting Scopes for Astronomy
- Best Budget Spotting Scopes for Bird Watching
- Best Angled Spotting Scopes
Criteria for Choosing Best Spotting Scopes for 1000 Yards
Finding the best spotting scopes for 1000 yards is not something to do on a whip. These spotting scopes are made with high-quality materials which makes them cost more. Therefore, you will want to ensure that you get the right scope the first time. Here are some of the most important factors you should keep in mind as you work towards finding the best possible spotting scope for 1000 yards.
Magnification
Magnification is the primary factor you should factor in when choosing a scope for 1000 yards. If you want to have clear and detailed views of targets that are as far as 1000 yards away, you will need a scope with a high zoom of not less than 20x.
Majority of 1000-yards spotting scopes have a variable zoom power suitable for identifying targets at varying distances. Most of the scopes listed above have 20-60x magnification which is more than enough for looking at objects in the 1000-yard range.
Field of View
After magnification, you should look at the field of view the scope has. Field of view and magnification are inversely related. With high magnification, you get a smaller field of view and vice versa.
For spotting scopes, it is important to find a perfect balance between field of view and magnification depending on the outdoor activity you will be engaging yourself in. For bird watching, hunting and wildlife viewing, you will need a scope with a wide field of view. On the other hand, if you are using the scope for target shooting, high magnification that provides richness of every detail will be more important than a wide field of view.
Weight
The other important factor to consider is the weight of the spotting scope. If you intend to use the scope for hunting, it is best to get a unit that is lightweight and portable. This way, you will be able to move around with ease as you look for game. However, if you going to use the scope on a stationary position, then you don’t have to worry a lot about the weight.
Quality Glass
A spotting scope that is made with quality glass will provide clear sight pictures which is very essential when viewing objects at a distance. For long-range applications, it is best to get a scope that uses extra-low dispersion glass. It offers excellent resolution and color contrast. Also make sure that the lenses are fully multi-coated with high-quality coatings for optimal light transmission.
Angled Vs Straight Design
Spotting scopes are available in two designs: angled and straight eyepiece design. Both designs are equal in terms of image clarity, brightness and optical performance. However, each one of them is more suitable for varying circumstances.
If you intend to use the spotting scope primarily for hunting, a model with a straight eyepiece will do. It allows for quick spotting of fast-moving targets. Additionally, it allows for comfortable glassing in any shooting position.
On the other hand, an angled spotting scope is more versatile and ideal for target practice, bird watching and wildlife viewing. An angled spotting scope is also better for Digiscoping, group sharing and viewing targets at an uphill or downhill position.
Price
Spotting scopes for 1000 yards are available at varying price tags to meet the needs of different buyers. If money is not an object, there are numerous high-end models you can choose from. On the other hand, if you are on a budget, there are budget-friendly scopes available as well. Set a budget depending on how much you are willing to spend then look for a scope that suits your budget and individual needs.
FAQs
- What is the best spotting scope magnification for 1000 yards?
To hit the 1000-yard mark, you will need a spotting scope with at least 20x magnification. The scope should also have a large objective lens and high-quality optics to provide clear views of the target even at the high magnification.
- Can you take pictures with a spotting scope?
Yes. Most angled spotting scopes allow you to mount a camera or a smartphone on the eyepiece for Digiscoping. Once you have set up the camera, you will be able to capture every detail of your outdoor excursion and later share it with your family, friends or on your social media platforms.
- Are spotting scopes worth it?
Absolutely. Spotting scopes are an important tool that every outdoor enthusiast should have. They are great for both intermediate and long-distance applications. They are also all-round optics ideal for birding, archery, hunting, target shooting, wildlife observation and many more.
Final Thoughts
Spotting scopes offer excellent optical performance when you need to engage a target at long ranges. Hopefully, this post has helped you gain an insight on how to choose the best spotting scopes for 1000 yards. Identify what features you need in a spotting scope, then use our guide to select the model that works best for your individual needs.