Best Spotting Scope for Backcountry Hunting
If you are a hunting enthusiast, chances are that you have been planning to engage yourself in a backcountry hunting trip. Backcountry hunting isn’t just a walk in the park. Wandering alone in the woods in search of a game is certainly a tough job that requires specialized hunting equipment. To have a successful and memorable hunting adventure, you’ll be required to pack the right hunting gear which includes the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting.
The market offers a multitude of backcountry spotting scopes to choose from. From the basic level spotting scopes to the premium quality ones, there is something for everyone. However, with the wide selection available, it becomes challenging to pick the right models especially for those new in this field. If you are having trouble finding the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting, here is a review of the best models you can choose from.
Here is a quick list
| PRODUCT | IMAGE | PRICE |
| #1) Bushnell 12-36x50mm Ultra Compact Spotting Scope |  |
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| #2) Celestron-Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope |  |
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| #3) Gosky 20-60×60 HD Spotting Scope |  |
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| #4) Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scopes |  |
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| #5) Roxant Authentic Blackbird High Definition Spotting Scope |  |
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| #6) CREATIVE XP HD 2021 Spotting Scope |  |
Best Spotting Scope for Backcountry Hunting Review
#1) Bushnell 12-36x50mm Ultra Compact Spotting Scope
This ultra-compact spotting scope from Bushnell is specifically designed for backcountry hunting use where a compact and rugged design is a necessity. Featuring a versatile 12-36x magnification, this spotting scope will effectively take down any target regardless of its size. The multiple layers of anti-reflective lens coating together with the BAK-4 prism deliver excellent light transmission, especially when hunting at dusk or dawn. The field of view is wide and clear, so nothing can stop you from enjoying your hunting views. This impressive hunting scope is also compact, lightweight, and easy to pack in a backpack. To deliver reliable performance in all weather conditions, Bushnell has made this scope 100% waterproof, dustproof, and fog proof. Whichever harsh environment this pocket-sized scope is subjected to, you can trust its shock-absorbing rubber armor to deliver reliable shock and impact resistance, and withstand the test of time. It is the first one on the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting list for its reliability, dependability, and durability. Key Features
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#2) Celestron-Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope
This is an all-around spotting scope suitable for a wide range of shooting activities. Available at a reasonably affordable price, this optic features a rugged construction plus a shock-absorbing armor exterior. Compared with other similar spotting scopes, Celestron-Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope provides better viewing of both close and long ranges. The best spotting scope for backcountry hunting is one that ensures durability and image quality. The Celestron-Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope comes with multi-layer, anti-reflective lens coating that provides superior light transmission needed to produce bright and clear target views. Moreover, the built-in zoom lens produces outstanding image sharpness from 20x -60x. Weighing about 3.6 pounds, this spotting scope is lightweight and easy to carry around. It also features a zero eyepiece that helps you zero in for detailed views of far ways targets in a matter of seconds. With this spotting scope, you are assured of a great companion in any outdoor adventure you are engaged in. Key Features
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Related: Best High End Spotting Scope
#3) Gosky 20-60×60 HD Spotting Scope
For all outdoor activities, Gosky 20-60×60 HD Spotting Scope is here to meet your different observation and hunting needs. Equipped with high-quality, fully multi-coated lens coating, you get to enjoy bright and clear image views regardless of the lighting conditions. The variable 20-60x zoom eyepiece brings those faraway targets closer while making it easy for you to zoom in on any target. Compatible with a wide range of tripods, you get to enjoy a snug view of your target from any angle especially when hunting for extensive periods of time. The retractable sunshade and inside thread help minimize glare when hunting during broad daylight. For all-weather reliability, this spotting scope is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance. Built from high-quality materials, this optic features a sturdy and durable framework with a shock-absorbing rubber armor which also provides a secure, non-slip grip. You can therefore trust it to withstand the toughest outdoor environment it’s subjected to. Key Features
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#4) Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scopes
This is high end spotting scope suitable for multiple outdoor applications among them backcountry hunting. Featuring a sophisticated triplet apochromatic optical system, this spotting scope delivers high-definition target views across all hunting ranges. The XR, anti-reflective lens coating delivers superior image brightness and clarity even when hunting under low light conditions. An Armortek coating on the lens protects the lens from scratches while shedding off dirt, oil, and fingerprints to provide clear views. You can easily adjust the zoom eyepiece magnification while the adjustable eyecups fold up and down to accommodate every user, even those who put on eyeglasses. For reliable performance in all weather conditions, this optic is O-ring sealed and argon purged. Built from high-quality materials, this spotting scope will last a lifetime. Additionally, shock-absorbing rubber armor enhances durability while also providing a secure non-slip grip. Weighing about 4 pounds, this spotting scope is lightweight and easy to move around with. Key Features
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#5) Roxant Authentic Blackbird High Definition Spotting Scope
Built to withstand the harshest outdoor conditions, this high-definition spotting scope from Roxant performs incredibly well when it comes to backcountry hunting. Its 50mm objective lens is fully multi-coated to produce well-differentiated, clear, and distortion-free views of the farthest game that you are hunting. With a 45 degrees angles eyepiece, you get to enjoy snug views of the target. Furthermore, this optic features a built-in sunshade which minimizes glare when hunting during broad daylight. And that’s not all. A retractable eyepiece ensures comfortable use with or without eyeglasses while the high definition optical glass with superior BAK-4 prism enhances light transmission even when hunting at dusk or dawn. For reliable performance in all weather conditions, this optic is 100% weatherproof. No moisture, dust, or uneven terrain can be the ruggedness of this compact spotting scope. Key Features
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#6) CREATIVE XP HD 2021 Spotting Scope
Lastly on this list is the CREATIVE XP HD 2021 Spotting Scope. Featuring the latest optic technology, this HD spotting scope instantly pairs with your phone or camera so you can capture all the shots that you make. Designed to withstand the harshest outdoor environments, this spotting scope is made of high-quality materials. Non-slip rubber armor absorbs shock and impacts while the fully coated lenses and BAK-4 prism enhance light transmission to deliver bright and clear image views. The versatile 20-60x zoom provides crisp images and it’s easy to focus even at the highest zoom range. For reliable performance in all environments, the optic is fully waterproof, fog-proof, and dustproof. It also features an adjustable large eye relief that provides a snug view of the game you are hunting, with or without eyeglasses. Key Features
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Criteria for choosing the Best Spotting Scope for Backcountry Hunting
Wondering what makes the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting? Here are some of the important factors to consider when buying one.
- Lens quality
The optical system is what makes or breaks a spotting scope. The best spotting scope for backcountry hunting comes with high-quality lenses. You should never overlook the quality of the lens in a spotting scope. The best spotting scope for backcountry hunting should have its optical system made of the highest quality lenses. The lenses should be fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission even under low light conditions. The scope should also contain HD lens qualities as they provide bright and clear images, true-to-life colors.
2. Portability
Backcountry hunting requires you to pack all your hunting gear before you head out to hunt. You’ll therefore be required to carry your spotting scope with you for miles and set it multiple times. For this reason, you need a model that’s not only lightweight but also easy to pack. The optic should also be easy to mount and easy to take down as well. When backpacking, every ounce matters, and finding lightweight scopes plays a major role in keeping the weight down. You can get the best spotting scope for backcountry and it can still be easy to carry around.
3. Durable construction.
Backcountry hunting involves movement from one point to the other. You’ll be carrying your spotting scope across miles on uneven surfaces and chances are that it will occasionally be bumped or dropped along the way. This calls for a spotting scope that’s rugged and sturdily made to withstand whatever is thrown at it without sacrificing its performance. For reliable performance in all weather conditions, the optic you choose should be fully waterproof, dustproof, and fog proof. It should also be recoil resistant and shockproof as well. This is why you need to invest in the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting.
4. Ergonomics
Since you’ll be spending most of your time moving across fields or mountainsides, make sure that the spotting scope that you choose is snug to use for extended periods. Depending on how long you intend to stay hunting, you’ll need to choose between a straight or angled scope. Straight spotting scopes feature a higher profile because you’ll require it to be at eye level when seated. On the other hand, angled scopes are easier on your neck and back, and they provide a snug view for extended viewing sessions. On this one, the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting entirely depends on your preference.
5. Cost
Last but not least, the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting is available at different prices. If you are on a tight budget, you don’t have to break the bank to buy a spotting scope. The market offers a wide range of reasonably affordable yet quality spotting optics you can choose from. While the best scopes might have a high price tag, such optics come with a kind of warranty to protect your investment.
Best Spotting Scope for Backcountry Hunting FAQs
- Can I use a spotting scope without a tripod?
Yes. However, this isn’t the ideal situation. Mounting the spotting scope on a tripod provides better eye relief, greater stability, and better sighting. Even though some users are hesitant to add the extra weight that comes with a tripod, to have a remarkable backcountry hunting experience, you should use a tripod.
- Is sunshade important for hunting spotting scopes?
Yes, it is. Hunting during the day exposes you to bright and scorching sunlight. A spotting scope with a built-in sunshade provides an easy solution in reducing glare. Additionally, if your scope has a retractable sunshade, you won’t have to put on sunglasses when hunting under broad daylight.
- Should I invest in a high end spotting scope?
Absolutely. If you are not on a tight budget, go ahead and invest in a high-end spotting scope. Such optics deliver better optical performance in all environments. They have multiple impressive features worth the investment.
Conclusion
Backcountry hunting is a truly adventurous hunting activity enjoyed by many. If you are a hunting fanatic who loves to explore different hunting fields or mountainsides, it will be ideal if you invested in the best spotting scope for backcountry hunting. We hope that after going through this review you’ll be able to find your next back-country hunting scope.
See Also: 6 Best Spotting Scopes for 500 yards