What should I look for in a spotting scope?

[Socratactical]

I need a spotting scope for use with .223. I'd like something that I can use out to 200 yards so I don't have to keep running down range to check my impacts. What magnification/qualities should I seek?

Does a decent scope exist for under $150?

Thanks.

 

[FreeWillie]

Look at a Meade ETX70 scope. They are made as a low end astronomy scope. You can find them refurbed for very small money ($125-$200), the optics are incredible, they are very portable and 200 yards is nothing for them. They will make your target look like it's 3 feet away.

 

[JayD]

I have been looking for one for when I shoot .22 thanks for the info!

 

[Zeke]

Been looking for the same type of scope. Probably going to buy the Barska Blackhawk 20-60x 60mm with case and tripod for $100 plus shipping from Midway unless someone has something bad to say about it. Check it out.

 

[Squished]

overstock.com always has good prices on spotting scopes. Tons to choose from.

 

[BossHarley]

I purchased one of these Konus scopes from Jim Owens http://www.jarheadtop.com/KONUS.htm
It works nicely. They make both an 80mm and 100mm scope, the 80mm is about $200. I have the older 80mm and use it for service rifle shooting mostly at 200yds and it works nicely.
Check out the website link, Jim Owens knows his stuff. If you afford this scope it is quite nice.

 

[wolf223]

I need a spotting scope for use with .223. I'd like something that I can use out to 200 yards so I don't have to keep running down range to check my impacts. What magnification/qualities should I seek?

Does a decent scope exist for under $150?

Thanks.

i can see my holes fine with a 10x scope up to 200 yards with shoot-n-see or targets with a white background. for 200+ (300 yards max) and targets with a black background, i grabbed a pair of Bushnell Binos from Dicks for like $70 bucks. they are 10 - 24x 60mm (i think)... they work great.

-definatley NOT a spotting scope, but they suit my needs.

edit: http://www.northeastshooters.com/vbulletin/threads/116029-WTS-Spotting-Scope

it's calling you!

 

[Rob Boudrie]

I purchased one of these Konus scopes from Jim Owens http://www.jarheadtop.com/KONUS.htm
It works nicely. They make both an 80mm and 100mm scope, the 80mm is about $200. I

$270 from Jim Owens; $218 from Optics Planet (both with shipping included)

 

[USMA-82]

I used this one all highpower season, and it worked well. It's no Kowa, but neither is the price:

http://www.amazon.com/Celestron-522...TZ70/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290809172&sr=8-1

It's actually cheaper now than when I bought it at the beginning of the year.

Good Luck!

*

 

[Cabin Fever]

$270 from Jim Owens; $218 from Optics Planet (both with shipping included)

And 179.99 (plus shipping) at BH Photo/Video (that is where i bought mine... great scope for the price!).

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/289759-REG/Konus_7120_Konuspot_80_3_1_80mm_Spotting_Scope.html

EDIT: I did the shipping calculator and it offered free UPS ground shipping! Maybe it is just a black friday deal though.

 

[Brian5582]

I recently bought a Redfield 20-60x60 for about $220 at Bass Pro and it works fine for me. I use it for .223 and .308 out to about 300 yards. I don't have the use for a expensive one for as often as I need it. It works for me.

 

[Mallard]

Just ordered one of these - heard good things for the price and you can't beat nearly 50% off!

http://www.opticsplanet.net/celestr...-scope-package-52250-op-ultima-80-spotti.html