The best spotting scope under 2000 combines high-quality optics, durability, and advanced features to provide clear and detailed views, these spotting scopes are ideal for birdwatching, wildlife observation, target shooting, and many more outdoor activities
A good spotting scope just like any other optic, comes at a cost. Spotting scopes make a handy companion for a ton of outdoor activities. The high and broad zoom range they offer makes them ideal for hunting, birding, ocean viewing, and astronomy among other applications. They get the user closer to their targets and ensure that they achieve the most out of their outdoor activity.
What Makes a Great Spotting Scope?
If you are buying a spotting scope for the first time, you are probably wondering what attributes make one a great purchase. There are several things that make a great spotting scope and the first one is premium build quality.
A spotting scope that is made using high-quality materials will last for many years and withstand the wear that comes with everyday use. In addition to being made with high-quality materials, the scope should have a housing that is waterproof and fog proof for use in every weather condition.
Furthermore, the spotting scope should have ample magnification power to suit the application you will be using it for and an objective lens that is large enough to draw in as much light as possible. On top of that, the scope should come with proper lens coatings to enhance light transmission and minimize glare.
The other important features that a great spotting scope should be equipped with include premium quality glass, a smooth focusing system, and generous eye relief.
Best Spotting Scopes Under 2000
When shopping for a spotting scope, your budget often determines which unit you get. If you want a product that will last for ages, go for a premium quality product even if it’s expensive. The high-end spotting scopes are made with a ton of high-quality features that maximize their value in the long run. Such scopes also tend to be more versatile than their cheap counterparts.
Without wasting time any further, let’s take a look at the best spotting scopes available under the $2000 price range.
1) Vortex Razor HD 27-60×85 Spotting Scope
First up, we have the Razor HD 27-60×85 Spotting Scope. This premium-quality optic is built with a multitude of high-quality and user-friendly features that make it the best spotting scope under 2000.
Built with a variable 27-60x magnification power and premium HD glass lenses, the scope sets a new standard in high-tech optical performance. It gets you closer to the targets and provides a large viewing angle to ensure that nothing is left undiscovered. Besides, the XR fully multi-coated lenses offer excellent light transmission to ensure that the images generated are of excellent color accuracy.
Vortex makes its optics ready for any environment and this unit is not any different. It is fully waterproof and fog proof for use in all kinds of weather conditions. It also boasts an Armortek coating that delivers additional protection from scratches.
Furthermore, the spotting scope has an angled body design and adjustable eyecup that lets you customize the eye relief. It also comes with a built-in sunshade to prevent glare and a rotating tripod ring to adjust the viewing angles into different positions.
Features
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
- Waterproof and fog proof
- APO system
- HD lens elements
- Angled body design
- Adjustable eyecup
- Helical focus
Pros
- Rugged construction
- Superb low-light visibility
- Excellent value
- Great image quality
Cons
- None
2) Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 Spotting Scope
Zeiss continues to make high-quality optics of unbeatable value and the Conquest Gavia 85 Spotting Scope is not an exception. Having this premium quality spotting scope for your outdoor pursuits will get you closer to the great outdoors and change your views of how you observe the natural world.
The spotting scope is built with users who are always on the go in mind. It has a compact and lightweight design so you are able to take it with you anywhere you want. The ergonomic design also ensures comfortable handling during lengthy glassing sessions.
Optically, the scope employs a high-resolution lens system that yields stunning sight pictures that are not just bright, but also rich in color. Besides that, the rapid focus system makes the spotting scope easy to use and with the wide field of view, you will have an easy time finding your targets.
For added convenience, this sighting tool comes with a universal tripod plate that is compatible with a wide range of tripods. It is also built with a weatherproofed body for use even in harsh weather conditions.
Features
- Roof prism optical path
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Rapid focus system
- High-resolution lens system
- 30-60x zoom eyepiece
- Angled design
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Good for Digiscoping
- Tripod ready
- Solid construction
- Superb light gathering and image quality
Cons
- No ED glass
3) Burris Signature HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope
If you want to make the most out of your outdoor adventure activities, the Burris Signature HD Spotting Scope is your best option. It yields spectacular sight pictures in all environments thanks to the premium HD glass it is made with. This spotting scope is also made with index-matched lenses that cut on all color aberrations to deliver true color across the visible light spectrum.
Complementing the superb optical performance is a build quality that is outstanding. The scope is built with a lightweight, die-cast magnesium body that is armored for added protection in the field. The rugged construction means you can use the scope in any environment and it will be there for you when you need it the most.
For all weather use, the scope is waterproof and fog proof. Furthermore, it comes with a built-in sunshade that limits glare and shield the objective lens from rain, snow and scratches. The scope also comes with an adjustable eyecup for easy eye relief customization and coarse and fine focusing knobs to ensure smooth focusing.
Features
- Adjustable eyecup
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Angled eyepiece
- Die-cast magnesium body
- Rugged rubber armor
- Coarse and fine focusing adjustment
- Built-in sunshade
Pros
- Manageable weight
- Ease of use
- Stunning picture brightness and quality
- Versatile
Cons
- Weight (67.2 oz)
4) Vortex Razor HD 22-48×65 Spotting Scope
Next up we have the Vortex Razor HD 22-48×65 Spotting Scope. Getting this top-notch spotting scope for your outdoor escapes will help you see the world in a new way and get you closer to nature.
Built with premium HD lenses, the spotting scope delivers true-to-life sight pictures rich in clarity and edge-to-edge sharpness. Moreover, the optics are fully multi-coated to cut glare and limit the loss of light internally. The end product is high-quality image views that have excellent color accuracy and superb brightness.
When it comes to construction, Vortex made this product to offer outstanding durability. It is crafted using high-quality materials that guarantee many years of use. The optical tube is also waterproofed and fog proofed for use in light showers, misty conditions, and any other environment.
Other noteworthy features included are a built-in sunshade, an adjustable eyecup, and a rotating tripod ring.
Features
- APO system
- 22-48x zoom range
- Angled body design
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Adjustable eyecup
- XR plus fully multi-coated lenses
- Helical focus
Pros
- Comfortable eye relief
- Amazing clarity
- Robust construction
Cons
- Heavy
5) Kowa Prominar 15-45×55 mm Pure Fluorite Spotting Scope
The Kowa Prominar is the best spotting scope under 2000 for hunting and target shooting. It has compact design for portability convenience and a powerful 15-45x magnification that optimizes its versatility.
The selling point of this spotting scope is the optical features. It is made with fluorite crystal glass that yields incredible resolution in virtually any lighting condition. Also, it boasts a fully multi-coated lens system that eliminates nearly all aberrations and maximizes the image brightness in low light settings.
More importantly, the scope is built with premium quality materials to guarantee reliable performance in any environment. It has a polycarbonate chassis that enhances strength and rigidity without being bulky. It is also waterproofed and filled with nitrogen to prevent fogging and clouding of the lens when the temperature and humidity levels change.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Polycarbonate housing
- Fluoride crystal glass
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- 15-45x magnification power
- Twist-up eye cup
- 8 ft close focus
- Dual fine and quick focus
Pros
- Crystal clear glass
- Lightweight and durable
- Compact form
Cons
- Smaller magnification compared to the others in the class
6) Leupold SX-5 Santiam HD 27-55×80 Spotting Scope
In the Leupold SX-5 Santiam HD 27-55×80 Spotting Scope, high build quality and crisp clear optics marry in perfect harmony to offer you a sighting tool that is nothing short of incredible. The scope is versatile and great for a ton of outdoor applications.
The zoom power in this spotting scope is adjustable from 27x to 55x. This makes it ideal for glassing objects in different ranges. To complement the vast zoom range and make the optic functional is an oversized 80mm objective lens that yields stunning images views even at the highest zoom level.
Leupold optics are known for their legendary ruggedness and this spotting scope is not any different. It features a robust body that is waterproofed and fog-proofed for use in all weather conditions. Furthermore, this optic has a smooth focusing system for bringing images into fine focus. It is also designed with a retractable sunshade to ensure comfortable glassing under direct sunlight.
Features
- HD glass
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Guard-Ion DiamondCoat 2 lens coating
- Retractable sunshade
- Twist up eyecups
- A fully multi-coated lens system
Pros
- Smooth focusing
- Excellent optical glass quality
- Built to last
- Stunning low-light performance
Cons
- None
7) Meopta MeoPro 80 HD Angled 20-60×80 Spotting Scope
Lastly, on our list of the best spotting scope under 2000 we have the Meopta MeoPro 80 HD Angled 20-60×80 Spotting Scope. The vast 20-60x magnification range and massive 80mm objective lens this spotting scope is made with will revolutionize how you observe your subjects across vast ranges.
The large aperture design maximizes light collection to deliver amazing resolution, image brightness, and color accuracy. Besides, the scope features a solid lens coating that not only enhances the transmission of light but also shields the lens from scratches, dirt, and moisture droplets.
With the rubber-armored magnesium chassis, this optic is more rugged than the models made from aluminum, yet more lightweight. Moreover, it is waterproof and fog proof to be usable in nearly all types of weather conditions.
To top it all off, the spotting scope has a multi-position eyecup that twists up to accommodate all users, with or without eyewear.
Features
- 20-60x integrated variable magnification eyepiece
- A large rubberized focus wheel
- Multi-position twist-up eyecup
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Durable magnesium chassis
- Fluoride glass
- Angled eyepiece design
- Rugged rubber armor
Pros
- Easy to use
- Versatility
- Durable and reliable
- Outstanding image brightness and clarity
Cons
- None
Straight Vs Angled Spotting Scopes
Spotting scope comes in two designs: angled and straight. Both designs are versatile and deciding which model to choose is often a matter of individual preference.
Straight spotting scopes have the eyepiece in line with the objective lens and are best for hunting. With the straight line of sight, it becomes easier for you to track the game quickly no matter the hunting environment.
Angled spotting scopes on the other hand have the eyepiece put at an angle with the objective lens. They are more versatile than their straight counterparts and comfortable on the neck and eyes during long glassing sessions. Spotting scopes with an angled eyepiece is also the best for group viewing as they accommodate users of different heights.
Read Also
- 8 Best Spotting Scopes for 1000 Yards Shooting
- 7 Best Budget Spotting Scopes for Target Shooting
- 6 Best Spotting Scopes for Long-Range Shooting
- 7 Best Spotting Scopes for Digiscoping
How to Choose a Spotting Scope under 2000
Irrespective of the activity you plan to use the spotting scope for, the following are the important factors one should consider when shopping for the best spotting under 2000.
Usage
The first thing to consider is the activity you intend to use the spotting scope. Is it for hunting, target shooting, Digiscoping, bird watching, ocean viewing, astronomy, or other outdoor adventure activities? The spotting scope you opt to buy should have all the features you need for your specific application.
Magnification
The high magnification power in spotting scopes is what makes them ideal for long-range applications where binoculars, rifle scopes, and other optics can’t reach. But the zoom power varies widely from one product to the other. Factor in how far you will be using the spotting scope and find a model with the right magnification power.
Image Quality
No matter the activity you will be using the spotting scope for, ensure that you pick a model that is built to yield stunning image quality. The best spotting scope under 2000 will have premium quality glass as well as good lens coatings to increase light transmission. This combination yields bright, clear, and color-accurate image views even in low-light settings.
Durability
You will want a spotting scope that is built to be virtually indestructible. With quality construction, you will be at ease using the scope even in the most challenging environments. Quality build quality also makes a spotting scope more reliable and guarantees many years of use.
Eyepiece
While most spotting scopes have a fixed eyepiece, some of the high-end models in the $2000 price category come with a zoom lens that makes them more versatile. A unit with a fixed eyepiece is best for applications like astronomy and surveillance where observation steadiness is vital. On the other hand, spotting scopes with a zoom lens gives you more versatility, and the more versatility the greater value you get.
Final Thoughts
We do hope that this post has provided the insight you need to make the right purchase. When making your selection, try and find a spotting scope that has all the features you need for your outdoor expeditions so you don’t end up regretting the purchase.
Choosing the best spotting scope under 2000 requires you to go through a ton of products from different brands, but worry not as there is a product for everyone.