2 best compact spotting scopes

Compact spotting scopes are handy optical devices designed for outdoor activities like shooting, hunting, fishing, and sports observation. These scopes are known for their portability and versatility, making them popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

Key Features:

  1. Compact Size: As the name suggests, these spotting scopes are smaller and more lightweight than their larger counterparts. This makes them easy to carry in your backpack or during travel.

  2. Optics Quality: Despite their smaller size, compact spotting scopes often boast high-quality optics. Look for features such as multi-coated lenses to ensure optimal light transmission and image clarity.

  3. Magnification: Compact spotting scopes typically offer variable magnification, allowing users to zoom in on distant objects. The magnification power varies, so consider your specific needs and preferences.

  4. Weather Resistance: Many compact spotting scopes come with weather-resistant or waterproof features. This is crucial for outdoor activities where you might encounter rain or other challenging weather conditions.

  5. Durability: Given their intended use in outdoor environments, durability is a key consideration. Look for scopes with sturdy construction and materials that can withstand rough handling.

  6. Tripod Compatibility: While compact spotting scopes are designed for handheld use, some models may also be compatible with tripods. This can be useful for extended observation periods or if you need a steady view.

  7. Field of View: A wide field of view is beneficial for tracking moving objects or observing a broader area. Consider the field of view when choosing a compact spotting scope.

  8. Accessories: Check for included accessories such as carrying cases, lens caps, and lens cleaning tools. These extras can enhance the overall usability and protection of your spotting scope.

Applications:

  1. Bird Watching: Compact spotting scopes are popular among birdwatchers due to their portability and clear optics.

  2. Hunting: Hunters often use compact spotting scopes to observe targets, assess terrain, and scout for game.

  3. Shooting Sports: These scopes are valuable for target shooting and other shooting sports, providing a clear view of distant targets.

  4. Outdoor Sports: Whether you're watching a sporting event or enjoying outdoor activities, a compact spotting scope can enhance your view.

  5. Nature Observation: From scenic landscapes to wildlife observation, compact spotting scopes are versatile tools for nature enthusiasts.

When choosing a compact spotting scope, consider your specific needs and the conditions in which you'll be using it. With the right choice, you can enjoy enhanced visual experiences during your outdoor adventures.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best compact spotting scopes on the market
  

SVBONY SV41 Spotting Scope Mak with Tripod Waterproof 25-75x70 Mini Compact for Shooting Birdwatching Travel for Both Terrestrial and Astronomical Use

SVBONY

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price
  • IPX7 effective waterproof rating;Easily provide a great outdoor viewing experience in a relatively humid;dusty or temperature-constrained environment
  • 5 PCS /3 Groups Zoom Eyepiece;25-75x magnification with 12 coil stroke fine focus knob for Focusing for high quality requirements for viewing details
  • Cassegrain optical design;It not only confirm a small and portable size;but also provides you with an extra long focal length of 780mm
  • Equipped with two different tripods to meet your needs in different situations;Desktop tripod makes carrying easier and less burdensome; Also equipped with a multi-functional professional photography tripod
  • FMC high quality coated 70mm large objective lens;While ensuring sufficient amount of light; it also ensures that the incoming light transmittance is as high as 95%

User questions & answers

Question: How tall is tripod when fully extended
Answer: Unisex, but it looks like it's more for a man really
Question: Has anyone used the optional cell phone camera adapter
Answer: This is a beautiful item, that's lightweight and stylish. It has a great masculine look. When I purchased, there was a credit applied to the bill at checkout -- I'm not sure why.
Question: Why are you still preparing for delivery? Isn't this product prime shipping
Answer: I found the watch to big for my sides wrist. And I don't like fact Amazon or CUCOL Bamboo Wooden Watch have not contacted me to help me fix the problem. But when I wear the watch everyone loves and wants to know were did I buy this and the name brand. I say I got it from??????
Question: Can you view planets
Answer: You can contact us via Amazon message, we provide a warranty.
Question: Can I mount a Celestron Mak 90 to this tripod
Answer: Yes,it is very easy to change the battery with the tool
Question: Will this work with the canon sx 530 hs
Answer: It is an odd shape but a small guy could wear it. It in not my everyday watch!
Question: Do you sell just the rubber leg stoppers? One already fell off and rolled down a hill
Answer: Probably just better to buy a new watch. I don't believe they sell them individually, but you can contact the company.
Question: Can this tripod hold a ue megaboom
Answer: Yes, the first option is without any engraving, We currently do not support customized watches.

Product features

SV41 Mak Spotting ScopeBoth Terrestrial and Astronomical Usage

Fully Multi Coated Optics

Maksutov-Cassegrain Optical Design

Compact and Portable Design

Erect Image System for Terrestrial and Astronomical Use

1/4-20 Universal tripod hole for Ease of Adapting SLR Cameras

Durable Nylon Carry Bag

Specification:

Focal Length:780mm

Eyepiece diameter:20mm

Lens Coating:Full Multi-Coated

Exit Pupil:2.8-0.93mm

Close Focus:10m/32.8ft Linear Field of View:20-35 m/1000m; 60- 105ft/1000yds

IPX7 Waterproof

IPX7 is a higher level for waterproof

Even in harsh environments, it can effectively prevent water droplets from entering

70mm Fully Multi-coated Objective Lens

Fully multi-coated optics for superior brightness large eye lens for comfortable viewing

Bak-4 Prisms that maximizes light transmission

Anti-scratched Carrying Bag

Carry bag is a convenient way to transport your scope ,there is cardboard block between the spotting scope and the tripod,so it will protect the scope lens from scratched

Universal Tripod Interface

1/4"-20 universal tripod hole can be equipped with tripod and phone clip, taking photos or watching the wonderful moment through your phone or camera

Adjustable Maginification

25x-75x magnification,use low magnification if you need to see a larger view and handle it steady, zoom in to high magnification when you need to see something longer distance and also want a specific picture

Small Scope Long Focal lenth

The small scope body makes the spotting scope more portable, and the length of the body is 50% shorter than that of the ordinary refracting telescope. due to the small force area, the observation stability is higher

Gosky 13-40X50 Angled Spotting Scope- Waterproof Scope for Outdoor Bird Watching Animal Watching Target Shooting Hunting with Tripod and Digiscoping Adapter-Get The World into Screen Title

Gosky

Based on 56 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gosky 13-40X50 Angled Spotting Scope- Waterproof Scope with Tripod and Digiscoping Adapter



Specially designed for bird watching, wildlife watching,target shooting, archery, hunting, scenery and other outdoor activities. Especially perfect for bird watchers, hunters, naturalist and travelers.



Features:

1.Fully multi-coated 50mm green film objective lens, eyepiece and quality prism inside - guarentee the key elements of a spotting scope, and make your view brighter, clearer and delivers crisp images.

2. Variable 13x to 40x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system -- makes it easy to zoom in on target. Perfect for watching birds, watching wildlife and scenery over the world.

3. Ergonomical Design: Waterproof Design +Fogproof Design +Shockproof Design. Its tight fitting protection makes it usable to withstand the toughest weather conditions. Never worried about rain, fog, and other wet conditions.

4. Comes with a cell phone digiscoping adapter - which enables you to take videos and images in the distant world.

5. Comes with the eyepiece shield-which can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece.

6.Comes with a tablet tripod, so it will provide you a more stable observation from any angles.



Specification:

Magnification:13x -40x

Objective lens diameter: 50mm

Exit Pupil Diameter: 3.8- 1.3mm

Exit Pupil Distance: 16mm

Field of View: 162-75ft/1000yds

Close Focus Distance: 4m (13.1ft)

Focusing Method: Central focus

Optical Coating: Fully Multi Coated

Living Waterproof,Rainproof and Fogproof - Nitrogen filled

You will receive:

1 x Spotting Scope

1 x Cell phone digiscoping adapter

1 x Tripod

1 x Carring Bag

2 x Lens Cap

1 x Manual

  • This compact and powerful spotting scope is fully multi-coated 50mm green film objective lens, eyepiece and quality prism inside - guarentee the key elements of a spotting scope, and make your view brighter, clearer and delivers crisp images
  • Variable 13x to 40x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system -- makes it easy to zoom in on target. Perfect for watching birds, watching wildlife and scenery over the world
  • Ergonomical Design:Its durable magnalium framework and rubber armortight fitting protection makes it usable to withstand the toughest weather conditions.The shock-absorbing rubber armor for maximum protection and enhancing overall handling. And the eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece
  • Waterproof Design:O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating thescope for reliable performance in all environments, and nitrogen gas purging delivers further waterproof performance
  • Comes with a digiscoping cell phone adapter - which enables you to take videos and images with your cellphone in the distant world. Explore the nature of the world easily through your screen. With Carrying Case, Eyepiece and Lens Protection Covers, Cleaning Cloth and handy Straps

User questions & answers

Question: next to the zoom ring, there is a ring that shows "unlock", it does not turn at all. I am assuming that this is for the eyepiece dustcover
Answer: I don't know if it can be purchased separately. But I would suggest buying a larger on. The one that comes with it is only gives you 4-6 inches. You have to set it on a truck hood or something to get enough height. I bought a camera tripod that stands up about 5 feet or so.
Question: Can I use this scope for watching moon? Does it work well
Answer: Yes it has a regular small tripod adaptor for full size use.
Question: How is the lense quality
Answer: It will basically work with any monitor that has a standard screw hole at the bottom.
Question: Does the iphone x fit in with this phone adapter
Answer: If it has a female screw hole in the bottom, it should.
Question: Will this be good for 223-5.56 bullet holes at 100yrds
Answer: It can not be seen on the phone. You have to buy the monitor screen separate. It’s about $180 I think.
Question: Where is this scope manufactured
Answer: It’s work with Motorola monitor
Question: What kind of tripod is in the package and can it be purchased seperately
Answer: Yes you can mount it to an 8in scope (as a guidescope) if you bought separate guide rings that would accomidate a 4in scope - I guess you could hook-up a 'star tracker' to the C90 - BUT - this will be quite a load on your mount!
Question: can you use a full size tripod
Answer: The optics quality is more than enough for terrestrial use. The included eyepiece provides 38x magnification but it gathers more light than a pair of binoculars. You can handle binoculars with bare hands but for this telescope you really need a tripod.I have used mine for terrestrial as well but in the region I use it the temperature is very warm (around 90s) and so the thermal waves makes the landscape view very fuzzy and very little details are visible. I guess that on a cold climate you will not suffer from this.Remember to add a moon filter as the brightness from the snow will be too much and can be damaging for your eyes.For 20 miles away maybe the magnification won´t be enough. I would recommend to get a second eyepiece. I bought a zoom eyepiece (Celestron 93230 8 to 24mm 1.25 Zoom Eyepiece) that works very well but it really absorbs too much light when looking at planets making them to appear fuzzy but for your use it might be a proper and flexible solution.
Question: Does it work with the Arlo Pro
Answer: What will you be spotting? You may lose some of the detail near the center of the image with this telescope as well as other reflecting type telescopes due to the mirror in the light path. You likely won't notice this but if you are trying to get spot on detail for target practice it may be annoying. It certainly has the magnification though for this task. Would a refracting type scope be more suitable?
Question: Does this work with a nest cam
Answer: Let me start off by saying that I have not actually tried this, but I can give you some pointers. The 2X Barlow will reduce your available light, but on a very sunny day that should be no problem. At that magnification, you will need a very steady tripod, as even a small breeze may make your image unstable. I will say that I am very pleased with my C-90 Mak, and I do some Astrophotography with mine. This particular scope is the equivalent of a 1260mm lens for your camera. With the camera directly attached to the scope, you can get the full moon in the picture with very little edges. I take pictures of Sunspots with it too, but please don't do that without putting a full filter on the front of the scope. In your application, I would start with a 32mm eyepiece and then move up to say a 15mm or 10mm eyepiece. One other note, invest in some Plossl Eyepieces. they will give you a much sharper view, and will be brighter. I bought the following set for my scope. Celestron Accessory Kit. I hope this helped.
Question: Can the monitored video be seen on phone? Do we have any app to see the video
Answer: Yes, it comes with a nice soft case with foam inserts for storage for each of the supplied items.
Question: Will this work with vava camera
Answer: The OTA by itself weighs about 6 lbs.

Product features

Powerful zoom spotting scope

The Celestron LandScout spotting scope is a customer favorite, known for its rugged design and versatile 20-60x zoom eyepiece. It’s ideal for carrying along on a backpacking trip, a casual hike, or an birding trip.

Easy-to-use smartphone adapter

Share your greatest discoveries with family and friends! Simply attach your phone to the scope with the included smartphone adapter to record amazing images and video through the eyepiece. The adapter installs in seconds.

Sturdy metal tripod

For extended viewing sessions, place your LandScout on the included tabletop tripod. The enhanced stability will provide crisp, sharp images.

Observe anywhere

The entire LandScout spotting scope kit is compact and lightweight, making it perfect to take on long trips or whenever you want to travel light. The scope is water resistant in case you encounter damp conditions.

Fully coated optics

Specialized coating on all lens surfaces allows more light to pass through the optical system to your eye. The result is brighter, more detailed images with vivid color.

Rotating tripod mount

Customize the scope’s position relative to the tripod mount to get the best angle for viewing or imaging through the scope. Simply rotate the tripod mount into the perfect position.

Comfortable 45° viewing angle

The eyepiece sits at a 45° viewing angle relative to the scope’s objective lens, making it more comfortable to view through for long periods. This angle also helps keep your smartphone in the correct position when using the adapter.

iTODOS Baby Monitor Mount for Arlo, Motorola Baby Monitor and Most Universal Monitors Camera, Versatile Twist Mount Without Tools or Wall Damage

Flexible & strong arm to hold your camera at the desired angle

Eliminate the need for tools or drilling

Textured flexible gooseneck for a secure grip

Features:

✔ Easy to install Without Tools or Wall Damage

✔ Angle your camera get the best view

✔Flexible & strong arm to hold your camera at the desired angle

✔Textured flexible gooseneck for a secure grip

✔ Compatible with Baby monitor camera with 1/4 threaded hole(threaded connect), E.g Arlo baby monitor, Motorola baby monitor (MBP481,MBP482,MBP483,MBP33XL,MBP48, MBP36XL,MBP36XL-2,MBP36XLBU,MBP667CONNECT,MBP845CONNECT, MBP845CONNECT2,MBP855CONNECT,MBP855CONNECT-2,MBP88CONNECT,MBP877CNCT, MBP87CNCT) Any camera with 1/4 threaded hole etc.

Notes:

All Baby monitor is not included.

Package contents:

1x Versatile Twist Mount

Bushnell 12-36x50mm Waterproof Ultra Compact Spotting Scope

Designed specifically for hunting applications where compact optics are a necessity.

  • Green with Straight eyepiece
  • Waterproof Construction - O-ring sealed optics stay dry inside, even when totally immersed in water.
  • Fully Multi Coated - Multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on all air-to-glass surfaces deliver bright, high-contrast images.

SPOTTING SCOPES

Bushnell spotting scopes give you the advantage from the world’s high point of brightness, clarity and edge-to-edge detail – whether you’re birding at sea level or hunting above timberline. The HDOS (High definition optical system) combines our key technologies: ED Prime Extra-Low Dispersion glass, premium BaK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated lenses. Together these deliver flawless color fidelity, ultra-crisp images and optimum light transmission.

BUSHNELL OPTICS. NEVER MISS

From finding the trail less traveled to perfecting your shot — you belong outdoors. At Bushnell, we develop optics gear to empower you to get out and experience your passion because we love the outdoors as much as you.

Latest Reviews

View all