As a hunter you definitely know that each animal has its unique behavior, stressing unique demand on your gear. For elk hunting, similarly, you need to specifically look at the quality of optics, magnification range, durability, and size and weight. So, be sure to check them before you make a buying decision.
Well, the main reasons for which you’ve been upgraded to a spotting scope from a binocular are optical power and performance. Therefore, good optical quality is a must for your spotting scope. Be sure to look for the fully multicoated optical lens, which will improve the optical quality by a huge margin. Also, check for the right size of the objective lens. In fact, the front lens is one of the main factors for the compactness of your spotting scope. So, you can take a look at the spotters with 50-60mm front lens for lightweight models. However, going for 80mm will definitely give you a great boost in terms of light gathering capacity but only at the cost of heaviness. If you are looking for the ideal magnification size, then go for the variable zoom like 15-45x or 20-60x.
Another thing to consider while choosing a spotting scope is weatherproofing since spotting scope is often used in extremely tough situations. Proper water and fog proofing will give your spotting scope a safeguard in all situations. Also, don’t forget to consider a spotting scope with the reticle. With a spotting scope with ranging reticule, you can actively guess and estimate the size of your target. It’s possible to get the adjustments for your rifle scope and all from your spotter. However, they are often expensive.
Lastly, always remember that there is no other way than to spend some extra bucks for an excellent spotter.
Some brilliant spotters to look for:
Go through this list to find out your spotter. They are selected considering all the aspects of elk hunting. So, it’s a comprehensive list.
Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope: This spotting scope features a great quality optics in an affordable price tag. With a 12-36x adjustable magnification and 50mm front lens, you will get a lightweight spotting scope equipped with decent materials. The best thing about spotting scope is it comes with a soft carrying case, compact tripod, car window mount, premium hard-sided case, and spotting glove.
However, there is one small caveat for you. The eye relief for this spotting scope is only 14 mm. And, you may not find this comfortable if you are an eyeglass wearer. Also, the spotting scope claims to have a multi-coated optics. But be advised that this is not fully multi-coated optics. But, the optical quality of the optics is decent overall. In fact, you can simply pick this spotting scope up if you are looking for a decently priced spotting scope with some standard features.
Landove 20-60x62 Zoom Spotting Scope: Big eyepiece and high magnification—this spotting scope has everything to be an all-round spotter. The variable zoom of 20-60x will especially come in handy for elk hunting. The generous 24mm eyepiece is enough to make you feel comfortable. The objective lens is large at 62mm, which in turn will gather much light, meaning more optical clarity for you. BAK4 prism with fully multi-coated optics will ensure bright, clear, and crisp image in all light condition. Since the optical quality is good, you can have a decent experience even in low light condition.
This spotter also comes with a phone adapter. So, you won’t face difficulty capturing your perfect moment with your smartphone and share with friends and family. Landove 20-60x spotter is fully nitrogen purged. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about using it in different weather condition, for the spotting scope is absolutely water and fog proof. Since you want to use them for elk hunting, the built quality will play a great role in this case. Coming with a shockproof outer layer, telescopic sunshade, spiral-up eyepiece, metal tripod, and carrying bag, this spotting scope has it all to grab your attention.
Vortex Optics Diamondback: This is the legendary spotting scope from Diamondback family—a heavyweight performer in all situations. With this spotting scope, you will get a clear, bright image throughout the magnification. You will hardly see any optical performance drop off while using in low light or bright light situation. The size of the objective lens diameter is 60mm, and the magnification is 20-60x. This angled spotting scope is a superb choice when you look for a performer in an ultralight pack.
Vortex Optics Diamondback comes with fully multicoated optics with built-in retractable sunshade, ensuring the best light transmission. These scopes are O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, so don’t worry about water and fog proofing issue. The rubber armor will increase the durability greatly. With every convenience feature you cherish, simply go for this spotting scope if you can afford it.
Leupold Mark 4 12-40x60mm TMR: The only spotting scope in this list which comes with a Tactical Milling Reticle. But this is another heavyweight performer. The optical quality, the scope being equipped with Xtended Twilight Lens system, is simply outstanding and singular. Practically speaking, you will not notice any change in optical quality throughout the magnification range with virtually no chromatic aberration. You will get brilliant and vivid color, and the edges of the image will never be distorted. DiamondCoat 2 ion-assist lens coating, a proprietary technology from Leupold, is a state-of-the-art facility. It will ensure higher transmission of light, and surprisingly, it gives protection against scratch.
With an actual magnification of 12-40x and a front lens of 60mm, this spotter delivers a stupendous level of optical quality. Also, they are absolutely water and fog proof, ready for the toughest weather that you can imagine. Well, the only problem with this top-of-the-line product is its price. It might seem a bit expensive to you, but as the hunting is concerned, you never want to compromise with the optical quality. This spotting scope will give you a new taste of elk hunting.
Finally, there are several spotting scopes out there in the market. But, the list is meticulously made. So, don’t worry about their reliability. And, remember that to make your elk hunting more enjoyable, you really need a great spotting scope with decent features, optical quality, and compactness.