Spotting scopes for the range?

[Axle2010]

Ok so in SE Ga I'll never have an excuse to use a spotter on a hunt and much as I hope I'll get to go after a speedgoat or Mule deer I'm sure the outfitter will have one so I pretty much only need one for the range. Now here at home I can only stretch out to 220 yards but I do like to play around with the 22lr at that range so I do need more then my 10x binocs. My local range is 600 so I'll likely never shoot to 1000 yards so I don't need a high end high dollar scope but I don't really think I'd be happy with a $150 Barska either. I've looked at Leupold sx2 and 4 and Athlon Ares and (yuck) read decent reviews of the Vortex diamond back and viper. No i don't have a good place around here that I can go out hands and eyes on any but Swaro and that's not even an option. So to keep me from wasting money that can be put towards another unneeded rifle what do you boys suggest for good enough glass between $150 and $900? Sorry for the long post but I'm so tired of watching YouTube video that all point to the Swaro anyway lol

 

[wesheltonj]

I have a Leica 65mm straight spotting scope. That said, I think this is an more useful spotting scope, unfortunately not available in the USA. You will have to import from Europe.

https://www.swarovskioptik.com/sk/en/outdoor/products/spotting-scopes/ctc-cts/ctc-cts-set/ctc-30x75/5006090

https://www.swarovskioptik.com/sk/en/outdoor/products/spotting-scopes/ctc-cts/ctc-cts-body/cts-85-body

 

[Randy Bo]

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/used/485642/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&store=420&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17729004662&gbraid=0AAAAAD7yMh0BxtAQoKlDJR2zbyJ7X2Rz1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI5IeWoK2XlgMVGHF_AB3VbgEGEAQYCCABEgKU4_D_BwE

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/376529-REG/Pentax_70530_SMC_XF_6_5_19_5mm_Zoom.html

Checkout the above scope and eyepiece (about $700).
This combination received good reviews years ago on numerous astronomy and birding websites (years ago).
B&H Photo has a very generous return policy if you are not satisfied.

 

[Doug Hamilton]

Ok so in SE Ga I'll never have an excuse to use a spotter on a hunt and much as I hope I'll get to go after a speedgoat or Mule deer I'm sure the outfitter will have one so I pretty much only need one for the range. Now here at home I can only stretch out to 220 yards but I do like to play around with the 22lr at that range so I do need more then my 10x binocs. My local range is 600 so I'll likely never shoot to 1000 yards so I don't need a high end high dollar scope but I don't really think I'd be happy with a $150 Barska either. I've looked at Leupold sx2 and 4 and Athlon Ares and (yuck) read decent reviews of the Vortex diamond back and viper. No i don't have a good place around here that I can go out hands and eyes on any but Swaro and that's not even an option. So to keep me from wasting money that can be put towards another unneeded rifle what do you boys suggest for good enough glass between $150 and $900? Sorry for the long post but I'm so tired of watching YouTube video that all point to the Swaro anyway lol

I've had a Nikon Pro staff spotting scope in my range box for quite a few years. I can't get it right now but I want to say that it is 15-45 x 60. I can resolve .22 caliber holes at 100 yards, no problem. If I remember right it was in the 3 to 4 hundred dollar range. I have a smaller cheap scope (Simmons) that rides in my pack for mulies, but the Nikon is what I use for the range.

 

[Cranhill]

I have a Leica 65mm straight spotting scope. That said, I think this is an more useful spotting scope, unfortunately not available in the USA. You will have to import from Europe.

https://www.swarovskioptik.com/sk/en/outdoor/products/spotting-scopes/ctc-cts/ctc-cts-set/ctc-30x75/5006090

https://www.swarovskioptik.com/sk/en/outdoor/products/spotting-scopes/ctc-cts/ctc-cts-body/cts-85-body

I've been using a Swarovski for years but I have custom stand for it.

 

[NDWoods]

Just for looking at bullet holes out to 200 yds a lower end spotter is just fine, Your reference to 600 yds in my opinion puts you in mid range. I would look at a 60x in the $500 or so range.

Edit to add: You might call Vortex and ask them which of their spotting scopes can get you to your desired range for the least expense. It may be the Diamondback or Crossfire. Something to consider since you cannot take several to try yourself.

 

[farmer_john]

The question I have. Are you just wanting to see the impact or see the trace? The higher end glass is much better for seeing trace. If its just holes in target/impacts. Most will do