7 Best Budget Tripods for Spotting Scopes

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In this guide, we are going to walk through the best budget tripod for spotting scope recommendations available on the market.

A spotting scope is a versatile sighting tool that every outdoor enthusiast should have. Designed for use across vast ranges as well as different environments, spotting scopes require a solid foundation to operate optimally.

Unlike binoculars and monoculars, spotting scopes are larger in size and heavy. As such, one needs to invest in a quality tripod to take the weight off their hands. Mounting a spotting scope on a tripod provide steady views and maximizes glassing comfort during lengthy glassing sessions. A tripod is also an indispensable tool to have if you want to use your spotting scope for Digiscoping.

In this day and age, the market of tripods is so diverse to try and meet the diverse needs of users all over. If you are having a hard time finding the best budget tripod for spotting scope, we are here to help. We have done some research and put together a list of the most promising designs that are compatible with spotting scopes.

But before we take a look at each tripod in detail, let’s begin by taking a look at the facets that make a great tripod for spotting scope.

Attributes of a Great Tripod for Spotting Scope

There are tons of facets that make a great spotting scope tripod. They include:

Stable Design

The first feature that separates a great spotting scope tripod from a cheap one is stability level. Spotting scopes are quite heavy so you will need the tripod to be stable enough to hold that weight without tipping over.

Pan/Tilt Head

When using the spotting scope, you will want to have the flexibility to rotate it into different viewing positions easily. To achieve that, the tripod should be built with a smooth pan/tilt head.

Quality Construction

Sturdy and quality construction is another feature that the best budget tripod for spotting scope should have. It should be made with top-tier materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber that guarantee longevity.

Lightweight Design

Last but not least, a great tripod for spotting should be built light for ease of portability. Lightweight tripods also have the additional benefit of being easy to set up and use.

Best Budget Tripods for Spotting Scopes

A tripod that is specifically designed for spotting scopes will be easy to use, durable, and sturdy enough to support the scope well even in less-than-ideal outdoor conditions.

Listed below are the very best budget models available on the market. Let’s have a look.

1) Amazon Basics 50-inch Lightweight Camera Mount Tripod

best budget tripod for spotting scope

 

 

First up, we have the Amazon Basics 50-inch Tripod which is built with a 3-way pan head to allow for both tilt and swivel motion. Additionally, this tripod comes with a quick-release plate that helps ensure rapid transitions between shots.

The build quality of this tripod is remarkable. It is crafted with lightweight but high-strength aluminum to guarantee durability. With the robust construction, the tripod is able to hold steadily 4.4 pounds of total equipment weight.

Another feature that makes it the best budget tripod for spotting scope is the extendable length. It measures 16.5” when collapsed and extends up to 50 inches to be usable by people of different heights. A 3-section, lever-lock is also included for easy height adjustment on each leg.

Features

  • Quick release plate
  • Adjustable height
  • 3-way pan head
  • Robust aluminum construction
  • 3-section, lever-lock

Pros

  • Lightweight construction
  • Stable and sturdy
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • None

 

2) Vortex Optics High Country II Tripod Kit

best budget tripod for spotting scope

 

 

 

Vortex High Country II Tripod offers the ultimate balance between functionality and value. It is easy to set up and works well with a multitude of spotting scopes from various brands not just Vortex.

This tripod is built with users of different heights in mind. The three legs are extendable in height from 11.3” to 62.5”. Furthermore, each of the legs can be adjusted into three different angles 70°, 49° and 25°.

The tripod is built light to ensure convenient portability. Though lightweight, it does not compromise on quality. It is built sturdy to promise longevity and prevent toppling during use. On top of that, it has a 22lbs max load and a detachable counterweight hook that comes in handy when you need to attach additional weight and make the tripod more stable.

What’s more the in-the-field adjustments are seamless and precise for added convenience. Besides, the 2-way pan head included makes glassing much more convenient. A quick-release system is also included for quick and straightforward mounting and dismounting.

Features

  • 2-way pan head
  • Detachable counterweight hook
  • Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release system
  • Three leg sections
  • 22lbs max load
  • Sturdy aluminum design

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Great value for the money
  • Stable and sturdy

Cons

  • Not ideal heavy spotting scopes

 

3) UBeesize 67” Camera Tripod

UBeesize 67”

 

 

Third on our list of the best budget tripod for spotting scope is UBeesize 67” Camera Tripod. This tripod is optimized for versatility. It is compatible with a wide range of optical devices including spotting scopes.

It is designed to collapse to a tabletop height of 20.1” and extends to 67.3”. As such, users of different heights are able to use it comfortably. On top of that, the tripod is designed with several angles of use to maximize versatility.

In terms of construction, it combines high-quality aluminum alloy and ABS resin materials to maximize durability and longevity. The sturdy construction coupled with the non-skid horseshoe pad ensures stable and secure footing on all surfaces.

The other noteworthy features included are an accessory hook, a built-in spirit level, and a rotary lifting rocker.

Features

  • Built-in spirit level
  • Accessory hook
  • High-quality aluminum alloy and ABS resin construction
  • Multiple shooting angles
  • Non-skid horseshoe pad

Pros

  • Multi-functional
  • Easy to set up
  • Lightweight and stable

Cons

  • None

 

4) Vanguard VS-82 Table Top Tripod

Vanguard VS-82

 

 

 

Vanguard makes a ton of top-tier items from sighting tools to accessories and the VS-82 Table Top Tripod is not any different. This tripod offers the best spotting scope support for a wide range of activities including wildlife watching, birding, and target shooting.

It is built with a two-way pan head that rotates all around. This gives you the flexibility to rotate the spotting scope into different viewing angles with ease. In addition to that, the height extends up to 9 7/8” to ensure comfortable glassing for users of different heights.

In terms of construction, the tripod boasts sturdy aluminum legs that guarantee steady use on all terrains. Moreover, it boasts non-slip rubber feet that ensure solid and secure footing during use. It also features a compact form and lightweight design for ease of portability.

Features

  • 5 pounds maximum load capacity
  • Non-slip rubber feet
  • Extendable height
  • Two-way pan head
  • Sturdy aluminum legs

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Versatile
  • Stable and reliable

Cons

  • Weight capacity could be better (2.5 kg)

 

5) Amazon Basic 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod

Amazon Basic 60-Inch

 

 

If you are looking for a tripod that offers unmatched reliability and versatility, look no further than the Amazon Basic 60-Inch Tripod. It is compatible with most optical devices from spotting scopes to cameras and GoPro devices.

The long, adjustable height is the selling point of this tripod. During use, you can easily extend it from 25 to 60 inches depending on your height and glassing needs. Besides, two built-in view levels are included to help ensure accurate setup.

For added convenience, the tripod is built light so you will have an easy time carrying it around. Furthermore, it comes with rubber feet that are non-slip. A quick-release mounting plate is also included to aid in fast transitions between shots.

Features

  • 6lbs/3kgs maximum load
  • 25-60” extendable height
  • 3-way head
  • Quick-release mounting plate
  • Non-slip rubber feet
  • Built-in levels

Pros

  • Lightweight design
  • Versatile
  • Stable and full-featured

Cons

  • None

 

6) Bushnell Advanced Tripod

Bushnell Advanced

 

 

 

Another best budget tripod for spotting scope on our list is the Bushnell Advanced Tripod. This is a full-featured, stand-up tripod that supports virtually all spotting scopes. It has a maximum height of 61 inches and a folded length of 26” for convenient portability.

Unlike the other tripods we have listed above, the Bushnell Advanced Tripod is ideal for situations where portability is not essential. It is extremely sturdy and durable to withstand rough handling and repetitive use. With the quality construction, the tripod is able to accommodate a load capacity of up to 11 pounds with ease.

What’s more, is that the tripod has a three-way pan/tilt head with a spacious mounting platform. Each leg is individually adjustable so you are able to find the perfect height during use. The tripod also brings to the table three padded leg cushions, rubber leg tips, and a corrosion-resistant finish.

Features

  • 11 pounds load capacity
  • Rugged corrosion-resistant finish
  • Three-way pan/tilt head
  • 3 leg sections
  • Durable aluminum construction
  • Non-slip rubber feet

Pros

  • Versatile height and capacity
  • Easy to set up
  • Durable and reliable

Cons

  • None

 

7) KINGJOY 75” Camera Tripod

KINGJOY 75” Camera Tripod

 

 

KINGJOY 75” Camera is another high-quality tripod with wide compatibility. It comes with 1/4” quick-release plate which is compatible with a wide range of binoculars and spotting scopes in addition to cameras and camcorders

The versatility of this tripod is attributed to its robust construction. Made of high-quality aluminum, it offers unmatched durability and strength. Furthermore, the sturdy design guarantees stability even in windy environments.

When collapsed, the size of this tripod is only 19”. It then extends to 75” to fit users of different heights. Other than that, it has a max load of 5kg/11lbs which is more than sufficient for most spotting scopes.

The other important features included are anti-slip foot pads, dual level bubble system, and metal foot nails, all of which are essential to master the balance.

Features

  • High-quality aluminum construction
  • Smooth 3-way pan head
  • Dual-level bubble system
  • 5kg/11lbs maximum load
  • Upgraded trapezoidal flap lock

Pros

  • Wide compatibility
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Lightweight and portable

Cons

  • Fragile

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Criteria for Choosing the Best Tripod for Spotting Scope

Durability

in spotting scope tripods, durability is directly proportional to the quality of materials used. When making your selection, take a look at the nature of construction and pick a model that is built with durability in mind. With solid and sturdy construction, you are guaranteed of a stable place to mount your spotting scope in any terrain.

Height

The next important thing to consider is height. The best budget tripod for spotting scope comes with an easily adjustable height for comfortable glassing at different positions. A scope with adjustable height is also ideal for users who often share the tripod with people of different heights frequently.

Stability

Stability is another essential feature that a tripod for spotting scope should have. Look at the design of the tripod and go for a model that is designed with wide base and sturdy legs. These two features are essential in ensuring that the tripod holds the weight of the optic without tipping over.

Weight

Weight if tripods varies from one equipment to the other based on the materials used during construction. A lightweight tripod is essential for ensuring ease of portability from one point to another. In addition, light tripods are much more easy to set up and use, compared to the large and bulky counterparts.

Head

Last but not least, consider the head. Whether you are using the spotting scope for birding, target shooting, hunting or wildlife viewing, you will want to adjust it into different viewing angles during use. That way, you are able to get the best views possible. To achieve this, be sure to get a tripod with a smooth pan/tilt head.

FAQs

  • How tall is the perfect tripod for spotting scope?

50-63”/ 126-160cm is the perfect tripod height. Virtually all of the best tripods for spotting scopes are adjustable in height. This gives users the flexibility to set them at a height that is most comfortable for their glassing needs.

  • What is the ideal tripod angle?

60 degrees to the level ground is the most ideal angle to set a tripod. If you set the legs too steep, the tripod might tip over when you add the optic. Additionally, a tripod that is set too wide can easily slip on the dirt or surface.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a spotting scope tripod is the first step to making your glassing sessions more comfortable and enjoyable. A tripod takes the weight of the spotting scope off your hands and guarantees stable views even at the highest zoom setting.

Choosing the best budget tripod for spotting scope requires one to do their research thoroughly, but irrespective of how tight your budget is, there is a tripod out there for everyone.