3 best birding scopes
Birding scopes, the spyglasses of the nature enthusiast world! These are like the precision instruments of the birding world, allowing you to observe our feathered friends up close and personal.
Here's the lowdown:
Magnification and Objective Lens Size: When it comes to birding scopes, the bigger, the better—both in terms of magnification and the size of the objective lens. This combo lets you zoom in on those little details without losing clarity.
Field of View: A wide field of view is crucial for keeping an eye on birds in motion. You don't want to miss the aerial acrobatics of a swallow or the swift flight of a falcon.
Lens Coatings: Look for scopes with anti-reflective coatings. They reduce glare and enhance light transmission, giving you a clearer view, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
Compact and Lightweight: Birding often involves a fair bit of hiking or trekking.A scope that's compact and lightweight won't turn your birding expedition into a weightlifting session.
Durability: Nature can be rough. A sturdy, waterproof, and fog-proof scope ensures your optics survive unexpected rain showers and early morning mists.
Now, how does this connect to optics and shooting? Well, think of birding scopes as the photographers' and birdwatchers' version of a sniper's scope. Precision is key, and the right optics can make all the difference between capturing that rare bird and just getting a blur.
In the world of sports and outdoors, birding is like the Olympic event of keen observation. It's not just a hobby; it's a skill. So, grab your birding scope, set your sights on the treetops, and let the avian games begin!
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best birding scopes on the market
Gosky 20-60x60 HD Spotting Scope with Tripod, Carrying Bag and Scope Phone Adapter - BAK4 45 Degree Angled Eyepiece Telescope for Target Shooting Hunting Bird Watching Wildlife Scenery
Gosky
- 【POWERFUL MAGNIFICATION】: Adjustable powerful 20-60x zoom magnification allows you to lock onto your target and zoom in for more detail. Perfect for target shooting, archery, hunting, bird watching, wildlife watching, hiking, camping, scenery, outdoor sporting, astronomical observation etc
- 【FULLY MULTI-COATED LENS】: Fully multi-coated 60mm green film objective lens provides a field of view at 50-110ft/1000 yards. The quality BAK4 Porro prism optics increases light transmission, delivers bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions. 45 degree angled eyepiece provides more comfortable viewing
- 【DURABLE CONSTRUCTION】: Durable framework and high-quality rubber armor provide non-slip grip, shock-proof grip and durable external protection, which enables the scope to withstand the toughest weather conditions. The eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece
- 【WATERPROOF DESIGN】: O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the scope for reliable performance in all environments. Nitrogen gas purging delivers further waterproof performance
- 【FULL RANGE OF ACCESSORIES】: A smartphone digiscoping adapter included enables you to take photos and videos of what you have observed. Bring the nature closer to you and you can explore the distant world easily through the phone screen. A tripod provides you a more stable observation from any angles. A carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does the phone mount not come with the spotting scope as seen in the picture |
| Answer: | Yes, the phone mount comes with the scope. |
| Question: | Can it be mounted on a automotive window |
| Answer: | It can be mounted on a automotive with a car window mount like "Gosky Adjustable Vehicle Car Window Mount"(Asin: B019VZISSU) It has a standard 1/4"-20 threads hole and it fits all tripods and car window mount. Actually, we offer car window mount everyday for our customers. Just need to contact us, and you will get it. Due to limited quantity of stock, first come first get . |
| Question: | can this be used with a full sized tripod, does it have a 1/4-20 mount |
| Answer: | Yes, it can. It has a standard 1/4-20 mount. |
| Question: | Can I use it on the range to see the bullet holes |
| Answer: | Yes. I can see 5.56 cal hits on my targets 100 yards away clearly. And the smartphone attachment is a good bonus after well adjusted. |
Product features
Gosky 20-60X 60 Waterproof Porro Prism Spotting Scope!
✔ Variable 20x to 60x zoom magnification and dynamic lens focusing system -- makes it easy to zoom in on target in detail.
✔ Fully multi-coated green film eyepiece lens helps to acquire a clearer, brighter and higher-contrast view.
✔ 60mm large objective lens to ensure the light-gathering power and high resolution, as well as large field of view range.
✔ 45 degree angled eyepiece provides more comfortable viewing, come with tripod allows rotation of the eyepiece to a sideways position, providing adjustable viewing angles.
✔ Durable framework and high-quality rubber armor provide non-slip grip, shock-proof grip and durable external protection.
✔ Waterproof, fogproof, shock-proof performances allow the scope to be used in all weather conditions.
✔ The retractable sun shade can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece and helps reduce glare..
✔ The digiscoping cell phone adapter enables you to take videos and images in the distant world.
Advanced FMC Objective Lens
With its Advanced Fully Multi-coated Glass Lenses(Fully multi-layer coatings green film) , you can enjoy a good clarity and brightness.
20-60X Zoom Eyepiece
Variable 20x to 60x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system -- makes it easy to zoom in on target. Designed for bird watching, watching wildlife and scenery.
Smart phase correction BAK4 prism
Smart phase correction BAK4 prism helps you with minimizing glare and ghost images, reduces chromatic aberration and offers a sharper, clearer and more accurate color reproduction.
Compatible with all tripods
It fits all standard tripods and other accessories with 1/4"-20 threads.
Rotatable Scope Body
The eye piece can by rotate to the side without moving the whole scope. You can lock it into position.
Retractable Sun Shade
The retractable sun shade and inside threads helps helps reduce glare.
Waterproof Spotting Scope
Waterproof, fogproof, shock-proof performances allow the scope to be used in all weather conditions.
Enjoy Capturing and Sharing!
- The included new version smartphone mount is compatible with Phone 12Pro Max, 12 Pro, 12, 12mini, 11Pro Max, 11 Pro,11, SE, Xs,Xr, X, 8 plus, 8, 7plus,7, 6plus, 6,5s,5, 4s, Samsung M30, S20, S20+,S20FE, S10, S10+, S10E, S8, S7, S6, S5, S4, Note20, Note20 Ultra, Note, A51,A71,A70, GALAXY S6, S6 Edge, S5 , Note, LG, HTV, Sony, and almost all smartphone on the market.
- (Note: For all spotting scopes, the original picture is in a circle, please zoom the camera to get a full screen picture.)
Gosky 2019 Updated Newest Spotting Scope with Tripod, Carrying Bag - BAK4 Angled Scope for Target Shooting Hunting Bird Watching Wildlife Scenery (Phone Mount+SLR Mount Compatible with Canon)
Gosky
- Gosky Updated Newest 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Variable 20x to 60x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system brings better optics, more stable images and easier focusing power. It’s the best choice for target shooting, archery, hunting, bird watching, wildlife watching, hiking, camping, scenery, outdoor sporting, astronomical observation etc
- Fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens provides a field of view at 82.9-48ft/1000yards. The quality BAK4 Porro prism optics increases light transmission and make your view brighter, clearer and delivers crisp images
- Durable Magnalium Framework and Rubber Armor - Its tight fitting protection makes it usable to withstand the toughest weather conditions. The shock-absorbing rubber armor for maximum protection. And the eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece
- Waterproof Design: O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the scope for reliable performance in all environments. Nitrogen gas purging delivers further waterproof performance
- Full range of accessories: A phone digiscoping adapter for smartphone, T-ring and M42 T mount for Canon camera included enable you to take photos and videos by smartphone or camera. A tripod provides you a more stable observation from any angles. A carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is there an slr adapter for sony e mount |
| Answer: | Not sure. But it has for Canon and I suppose for Nikon, also. |
| Question: | Does samsung s9 work with this cell phone adaptor |
| Answer: | Yes I have the S9 and you just have to adjust the included adapter to align the camera and the eyepiece. You may need to remove your case is it is on the bulkier side like an otterbox. |
| Question: | how would it work for long distance mountain viewing 1 miles or so |
| Answer: | It would work fine. |
| Question: | Description states t ring for Nikon , other parts states canon |
| Answer: | Dear customer, we have two product listings, one includes the t ring for Nikon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FMT95B5),the other includes the t ring for Canon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CVSFQWL), you can choose the one you need. |
Product features
Advanced FMC 80mm Objective Lens
With Advanced Fully Multi-coated 80mm Green Film Glass Lenses, you can enjoy a good clarity and brightness. The quality BAK4 Porro prism optics increases light transmission, delivers bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions.
20-60X Zoom& 45 degree Angled Eyepiece
Variable 20x to 60x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system for close-up and long range views - makes it easy to zoom in on target. 45 degree angled eyepiece provides more comfortable viewing
Rotatable Eyepiece & Retractable Sun Shade
The eye piece can be adjusted to any viewing position by simply loosening the adjustment collar on the center of the body to fit any situation. The retractable sun shade and inside threads helps helps reduce glare.
Target shooting
Lock the shooting target and witness the sharp shooting skills of the sharpshooter.
Archery
No problem seeing archery target spotters and scoring disc in the archery field.
Animals & birds watching
Best choice for bird watchers and animal lovers. You can go to parks, zoos, forests and other outdoor to see the lovely animals and birds.
Moon observation
Excellent optical performance can see the moon crater and other planets. Good partner for astronomy enthusiasts.
Comes with a quick aligned phone adapter - Enjoy Capturing and Sharing!
- Comes with a quick aligned cell phone adapter, you can take pictures and video of what you observe, Capture beauty of the distant world, share it with your friends and family.
- The smartphone adapter is compact, light weight and very easy to handle. It is compatible with almost all smartphone on the market.
- It can be used for Smartphone X, 8p, 8, 7p, 7, 6, 6s, 6p, 5, 5s, Samsung GALAXY S6, S6 Edge, S5 , Note, LG, HTV, Sony, and much more.
(Note: For all spotting scopes, the original picture is in a circle, please zoom the camera to get a full screen picture.)
Gosky 2019 Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scope with Tripod, Carrying Bag and Smartphone Adapter - BAK4 Angled Telescope - Newest Waterproof Scope for Target Shooting Hunting Bird Watching Wildlife Scenery
Gosky
- Variable 20x to 60x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system - makes it easy to zoom in on target. Perfect for target shooting, archery, hunting, bird watching, wildlife watching, hiking, camping, scenery, outdoor sporting, astronomical observation etc
- Fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens provides a field of view at 82.9-48ft/1000yards. The quality BAK4 Porro prism optics increases light transmission and make your view brighter, clearer and delivers crisp images.
- Nitrogen filled waterproof and fog-proof design enables the scope to withstand the toughest environments. Durable Framework and Rubber Armor provide non-slip grip, shock-proof grip and durable external lasting protection. The eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece
- A smartphone digiscoping adapter included enables you to take photos and videos of what you have observed. Bring the nature closer to you and you can explore the distant world easily through the phone screen. A tripod provides you a more stable observation from any angles. A carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain
- Includes tabletop full metal tripod and tripod mount for steady observations. The carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth make you more convenient to carry and maintain.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will my Samsung Note 10 fit the phone attachment |
| Answer: | It should o have a 9 and fits fine. Phone attachment is very adjustable |
| Question: | What adapters would i need to use my nikon d3400 slr with this scope |
| Answer: | Hello, if you want to connect the Nikon slr, you need SLR Mount for Nikon camera and spotting scope. Please contact us by email: [email protected] We will help you with this matter. Gosky Opticszone Customer service team |
| Question: | is it good to watch nyc from my 39 floor apt |
| Answer: | Perfect for viewing the moon. You can see the details on the moon, the optics are really wonderful. Better to use with a tripod. |
| Question: | How does the scope perform in low light conditions |
| Answer: | For the value paid, i feel the scope is good all round choice and reasonable in low light. I use the unit as a spotting scope in the early evenings and are happy with it. Hope these comments help. Phil |
Product features
Advanced FMC 80mm Objective Lens
With Advanced Fully Multi-coated 80mm Green Film Glass Lenses, you can enjoy a good clarity and brightness. The quality BAK4 Porro prism optics increases light transmission, delivers bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions.
20-60X Zoom& 45 degree Angled Eyepiece
Variable 20x to 60x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system for close-up and long range views - makes it easy to zoom in on target. 45 degree angled eyepiece provides more comfortable viewing
Rotatable Eyepiece & Retractable Sun Shade
The eye piece can be adjusted to any viewing position by simply loosening the adjustment collar on the center of the body to fit any situation. The retractable sun shade and inside threads helps helps reduce glare.
Target shooting
Lock the shooting target and witness the sharp shooting skills of the sharpshooter.
Archery
No problem seeing archery target spotters and scoring disc in the archery field.
Animals & birds watching
Best choice for bird watchers and animal lovers. You can go to parks, zoos, forests and other outdoor to see the lovely animals and birds.
Moon observation
Excellent optical performance can see the moon crater and other planets. Good partner for astronomy enthusiasts.
Comes with a quick aligned phone adapter - Enjoy Capturing and Sharing!
- Comes with a quick aligned cell phone adapter, you can take pictures and video of what you observe, Capture beauty of the distant world, share it with your friends and family.
- The smartphone adapter is compact, light weight and very easy to handle. It is compatible with almost all smartphone on the market.
- It can be used for Smartphone X, 8p, 8, 7p, 7, 6, 6s, 6p, 5, 5s, Samsung GALAXY S6, S6 Edge, S5 , Note, LG, HTV, Sony, and much more.
(Note: For all spotting scopes, the original picture is in a circle, please zoom the camera to get a full screen picture.)
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