A telescope is a small telescope, used by amateurs (but also by scientists) to magnify distant objects. It is used in birdwatching (amateur bird observation), in astronomy or even in target practice. It is important to purchase a spotting scope with a magnification value and characteristics appropriate to the use you will want to make of it.
Steps
Step 1. Decide whether to buy a linear or angled observation scope
Many prefer linear observing spotting scopes, where the eyepiece is parallel to the objective. In an angled telescope, the eyepiece is tilted 45 or 90 degrees to the telescope body.
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Buy a linear telescope if you intend to use it to observe birds from the seat of a car, or otherwise to observe objects that are roughly at eye level.
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Buy an angled spotting scope if you intend to use it to observe objects placed at different angles, up or down from your eyes. An angled scope allows you to do it more comfortably.
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Step 2. Choose a waterproof spotting scope if you intend to use it a lot outdoors, so you won't have a problem in any type of weather
Some spotting scopes have rubber lens protectors: protecting the lenses from water is necessary to prevent condensation from forming and thus worsening visibility.
Step 3. Consider the weight
If you plan to take the spotting scope with you often on trips, or outings in the countryside, choose a lighter model.
Step 4. Decide on your budget
A spotting scope can cost roughly between 150 and 1500 euros. The more expensive models have better lenses and provide a higher quality image.
Step 5. There are also spotting scopes on the market with an optical system that allows you to reduce the length of the body with the same focal length, thus making them more comfortable and compact
Also consider this option.
Step 6. Look for magnesium fluoride coated lenses
The coating makes the lens brighter and reduces reflections (also reducing visual fatigue): the thicker the coating, the clearer and brighter the resulting image will be.
Step 7. For a clearer image, choose a spotting scope with a larger exit pupil
"Exit pupil" means the diameter of the light column exiting the telescope. With higher magnifications you have a smaller exit pupil, and a darker image.
Step 8. Choose a spotting scope with a long interpupillary distance, especially if you wear glasses
Interpupillary distance is the distance from your eyes that you can hold the eyepiece while still viewing the entire image.
Step 9. Choose a spotting scope with a large field of view if you intend to use it for observing birds or other animals
The field of view is the width of the circular area that can be framed with the telescope. A wider field of view makes it easier to observe animals or moving objects.
Step 10. Choose the appropriate magnification and lens diameter values
Measurements are usually indicated by two numbers with an "x" separating them (for example "45 x 60").
- The first value indicates the magnification. A 45 x 60 telescope, for example, allows you to see the framed object as if it were 45 times closer.
- The second value indicates the diameter of the objective. A 45 x 60 scope has a 60mm diameter objective. A lens with a diameter larger than the average (such as, in fact, 60 mm) allows the entry of a greater amount of light, to the advantage of the brightness of the image.
Step 11. You can purchase the spotting scope at stores that stock items for fans of outdoor sports, hiking, hunting, and bird watching, or even at optical stores
Step 12. If you want to have more choice, and probably also spend less, you can also buy the spotting scope on the internet
There are sites dedicated exclusively to the sale of spotting scopes, such as the Italian site Vortexoptics.it. A good choice of riflescopes is also featured on generic sites such as Amazon.
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Search the internet for reviews of the models you are considering, in order to know their strengths and weaknesses.
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Step 13. Before finalizing your purchase, find out about the return conditions and the warranty:
it is important to be protected in case of problems, or even just if you decide to change the chosen model with a different one.
Advice
- Use a tripod to aim the scope more accurately and keep it steady and stable.
- Also consider buying a used riflescope in good condition - they can be found for example on eBay, Amazon or Craigslist.
