Making Sense of Spotting Scope Specifications: A Simple Guide
Spotting scopes are excellent tools for nature lovers, bird watchers, and photographers. If you've ever shopped for one, you've likely come across a range of numbers and terms in their specifications.
Are you finding these jargon a little confusing? Don't worry, you're not alone.
Let's find out and understand what really matters when choosing a spotting scope.
Magnification
First off, let's look at magnification. This is usually the first number you'll see in the scope specifications, and it shows how much closer your target will appear compared to the naked eye. For example, a 20x magnification means the object will appear 20 times closer.
Spotting scopes often have a range, of 20-60x. This means you can adjust the magnification from 20 times closer to 60 times.
Remember, a higher magnification isn't always better. Higher magnifications can sometimes mean darker images and shakier views, especially if you're handholding the scope.
Objective Lens Diameter
The second number you'll usually see is the objective lens diameter. This is measured in millimeters. A larger lens lets in more light, which can give you brighter and clearer images.
So, a 60mm lens will generally give you a better picture than a 50mm lens. However, larger lenses can also mean a bigger, heavier scope.
Field of View
Field of view is another key specification. It tells you how wide an area you can see through your scope, usually measured in feet at a thousand yards. A larger field of view makes it easier to track moving objects, like birds in flight.
But it often comes with a trade-off in magnification - a wider field of view usually means lower magnification.
Eye Relief
The final term we'll cover is eye relief. This is especially important if you wear glasses. Eye relief is the distance from the eyepiece where you can still see the full image.
If you wear glasses, look for a scope with longer eye relief, so you can see the whole field of view without pressing your glasses against the eyepiece.
Spotting Scope: A Closer Look
Taking the specifications of spotting scopes a step further, let's consider a real-world example: the Gosky 20-60x80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope. This is a highly versatile scope that pairs well with birdwatching, target shooting at the archery range, or any other outdoor activities.
The Gosky spotting scope has a magnification range of 20x to 60x, which is ideal for varying your level of detail based on the situation. With a large 80mm objective lens, it promises bright and clear views even in less-than-optimal lighting conditions.
In addition, its fully multi-coated lens and quality prism further enhance the clarity of your viewing experience.
This scope boasts a field of view of 115.2 to 57.6 feet at 1000 yards, allowing for a broad view of your surroundings, which is particularly useful when watching wildlife. The eye relief is between 17 to 13.5mm, making it a comfortable option even for those who wear glasses.
Durability is another strength of the Gosky scope. It features a sturdy magnalium framework and rubber armor for maximum protection, ensuring it can handle tough weather conditions. It's also waterproof, meaning you don't have to worry about rain or fog interfering with your activity.
One standout feature of this spotting scope is the inclusion of a digiscoping adapter, which allows you to capture and share what you observe. Paired with a robust metal tripod, the Gosky scope offers stability, whether you're using it on a table or a window base.
In essence, understanding the specs helps to paint a more detailed picture of what to expect from a spotting scope. With the Gosky 20-60x80 Porro Prism
Spotting Scope, you can anticipate excellent magnification flexibility, bright and clear images, a broad field of view, and a rugged design that’s ready for any adventure.
Final Words
When choosing a spotting scope, remember to consider where and how you'll use it. A smaller, lighter scope might be best for bird-watching hikes.
If you're planning to spot wildlife from your backyard, a larger scope with a higher magnification might be perfect.
Understanding these specifications can help you choose the right tool for your needs. And remember, the best spotting scope is the one you'll use and enjoy!
