Best Spotting Scope for Long-range Target Shooting
Having the ability to shoot at a target at a further distance without missing can be a fulfilling experience for any shooting enthusiast. To do this, you need to have the right equipment. A good-quality scope is a valuable investment to every shooter. A spotting scope is equipped with high magnification power and a massive objective lens. This differentiates it from binoculars and riflescopes. Therefore, the best spotting scope for long-range target shooting is what you need as it can do what other optics can’t.
The next time you indulge in target shooting at long ranges, ensure that you have a spotting scope with you. After you are done, I’m sure you will attest to how better your shooting experience was. However, finding the best model for target shooting at long-range can be daunting, as there are so many spotting scopes available on the market. We have compiled a review of the best spotting scopes for long-range target shooting in this buying guide. Have a read.
Here is a quick list
| PRODUCT | IMAGE | PRICE |
| #1) Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scopes |  |
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| #2) Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60×85 |  |
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| #3) Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A |  |
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| #4) Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scopes |  |
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| #5) Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope |  |
Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Spotting Scope For Long-Range Target Shooting
1. Glass quality
Having good quality glass implies better results and color rendition. It allows you to see those bullet holes clearly from a distance. Fully multi-coated lenses are a good choice as they allow maximum light transmittance, leading to bright and clear images. ED glass and anti-reflective coatings are also a plus.
2. Magnification
Target shooting doesn’t require you to have high magnification. Your target will be up to 100 yards or less in most cases. A spotting scope with good quality optics will be better, and a flexible magnification range of 20-60x will be adequate.
3. Field of view
Target shooting doesn’t need a spotting scope with much field of view. Your entire focus is on the target ahead, but you will have a higher field of view if you have sprinkled target points. However, this is only essential when you want a wider view. A suitable field of view range for a target shooter ranges from about 60 feet to 120 feet at 1000 yards.
4. Eyepiece
Eyepiece settings come in two different types; a straight and angles eyepiece. You look straight at the target through the lens for the straight eyepiece. This type of eyepiece allows you to easily see objects in front of you. On the other hand, an angled eyepiece has mirrors and provides light from the object to enter your eye at a 45-degree angle. It is the best choice when seeing objects that are above your eye line.
It is worth mentioning that the straight eyepiece is commonly used as a rifle scope if you don’t want to use tripods. An angled eyepiece works better if you are a target shooter and want to use a tripod.
5. Weatherproof
The weather can change abruptly when in the shooting ground. Because of that, you need to have a waterproof spotting scope and fog proof. This makes it capable of resisting water, moisture, dust, and debris that may damage the scope’s internal components.
Best Spotting Scope for Long-range Target Shooting Reviews
#1) Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scopes
When you are determined to make your long-range target shooting more fun and rewarding, you must have a spotting scope that is made for precisely that. The Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope will suit you and your needs. Not only is the Viper HD affordable, but it is packed with unique features and optical performance as well. Thanks to its lightweight construction, it is easily portable, hence will give an easy time in the shooting ground. Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope is made with durable materials that handle anything that comes in its way. It is rubber armored for maximum protection and a secure grip for comfortable use even in wet conditions. On the waterproof and fog proof scopes list, the Vortex Viper HD is not left behind. This is besides being shockproof. All this is made possible by the O-ring seals and argon purging present. The HD optical system of the Vortex Viper HD spotting scope delivers crystal clear images, no matter the lighting condition. There are also XR anti-reflective coatings that improve light transmission; as a result, the brightest and clearest views are produced even in dismal conditions. Buying the Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope also has a built-in sunshade, a smooth helical focus, and eyecups that can be placed in multiple positions. Key Features
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#2) Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60×85
If you are looking for the best spotting scope for long-range target shooting that is an absolute powerhouse, the Athlon Optics Argos Optics 20-60×85 Spotting scope is what you need. This scope comes with multi-coated lenses and Porro Prisms. These ensure superior light-gathering capabilities, leading to the brightest and clearest images ever seen on an optic. The Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope is durably made. So, you are guaranteed many years from it. It has rubber armor that provides a firm and secure grip even in rainy conditions and maximizes durability. Besides that, it has argon purging and is sealed. As a result, the Athlon Argon HD 20-60×85 is entirely waterproof and fog proof. You thus don’t have to worry about sudden changes in the weather when on the shooting grounds, as it will get the job done, no matter how extreme the weather is. It is nevertheless shockproof so that it will withstand drops and bumps. Another exciting feature of the Athlon Argos HD 20-60x 85 is that it can be mounted on a tripod. This gives you a stable observation, even when viewing during extended sessions. Also, it has a rotating tripod mounting ring. This lets you rotate the scope to your desired angle. The Athlon Argos HD 20-60×85 spotting scope also features an in-built stretchable sunshade that reduces glare and reflection, resulting in better image clarity. All these incredible features make the Athlon Argos HD 20-60×85 spotting scope an excellent option for you. Key Features
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#3) Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A
If you want a budget-friendly spotting scope that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Angled Eyepiece Spotting Scope suits you. The scope has a 20-60x magnification that produces lucid images and high-quality color rendition. Color rendition is pertinent for target shooting as it enables you to see different rings on your shooting board and lets you assess your game. The gigantic 82mm objective lens of the Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A allows superior light into the scope and provides a vast field of view. Regarding construction, Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A has a rubber-armored housing that ensures superior durability and a firm grip even in wet conditions. It is additionally waterproof and fog proof. Therefore, it will deliver relentless performance no matter how bad the weather is. What is more, the Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A is much loved by long-range hunters and shooters as it has a Bak-4 prism that is phase-coated for clear images and accurate colors. This is in addition to having a fully multi-coated lens that delivers sharp and clear pictures for an extraordinary viewing experience. Extra-low dispersion glass provides brilliant detail and unmatched colors. These features make the Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A spotting scope the best for long-range target shooting. Furthermore, it has a built-in sunshade for glare reduction. A long eye relief protects your brow from recoil and helps you view with both eyes open. Key Features
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#4) Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scopes
Another Vortex spotting scope perfect for long-range target shooting is the Vortex Optics Razor HD. Its 27-60x magnification will do wonders in long-range distances. Its massive 85mm objective lens provides clear views. The Vortex Razor HD also comes with an APO system that includes an apochromatic triplet lens combined with HD glass. This leads to exceptional color sharpness. The triplet achromatic lens offers a clear magnification, even in poor lighting. There are also XR Plus anti-reflective coatings for superior brightness. Vortex Optics HD performs better at close range, just as it does at 1000 yards. You can use the magnification ring effortlessly and adjust to different distances. Additionally, the spotting scope is small, making it a favorite for shooters who walk for long distances. The Vortex Razor HD also hosts a highly durable, robust glass. The lens has Armortek coatings that protect oil, dirt, and scratches. Another plus of the Vortex Razor HD is the locking eyepiece that comes in handy when changing the zoom. Key Features
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#5) Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope
The Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope concludes our review of the best spotting scope for long-range target shooting. The scope is ideal for use during the day and at night. It comes with a dual focus mechanism system that allows faster image focus. It also helps you make easy adjustments while viewing the image. The lens of the Celestron Regal M2 80ED is coated with multiple layers to enhance the light transmission. This means that even in dismal conditions, the scope will not disappoint. Additionally, Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope is highly resilient as it has a durable magnesium alloy. The alloy body is also made of aluminum, and as a result, the spotting scope is lightweight. Being lightweight, the scope will not add unnecessary weight that may impede your performance. Another great feature of the Celestron Regal M2 80ED is the 16-48x magnification that makes it ideal for diverse applications. Its objective lens enhances the image’s contrast and provides more brightness and sharpness. The Celestron Regal M2 80ED can have a close focus up to 5 meters from your point of observation. Not only that, the Celestron Regal M2 80ED comes with a rotating tripod that aids in rotating the spotting scope in the tripod to your desired position. Thanks to the T adapter ring present, the Celestron Regal M2 80ED gives you better image clarity. Above all, the Celestron Regal M2 80ED spotting scope is perfect to use in all weather conditions. This is because it has a combination of waterproof and fog proof features. It nonetheless has a sighting line that prevents moisture from damaging the lens. Key Features
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BEST SPOTTING SCOPE FOR LONG-RANGE TARGET SHOOTING:FAQs
1. How powerful should a good spotting scope be?
Your spotting scope should have at least a 60mm objective lens diameter to deliver a clear and bright image. If you intend to do a lot of digiscoping, your scope should produce the most brilliant image possible. For this, an objective lens of about 85mm will be adequate.
2.Are spotting scopes good for astronomy?
Spotting scopes provide remarkable flexibility and durability for terrestrial viewing and astronomical viewing. So, you can use it to observe open clusters, the moon, and planets.
3.Do I need a spotting scope for long-range shooting?
Binoculars and riflescopes can get the job done in short ranges. However, it would help if you had a spotting scope for viewing fine details and seeing clearly in long-range distances. It is worth noting that environmental conditions matter more in long-range distances. So, it would be best to have a high-quality spotting scope if your intended target is at a more extended range.
Conclusion
The best spotting scope for long-range target shooting comes in handy when you are target shooting at long distances. It helps you see your target more accurately. It gives you the ability to view the tiniest details in unmatched clarity. This makes your shooting experience change for the better. Also, you can trust any of the models expounded above. They are great choices if you plan on buying a spotting scope for long-range target shooting.