Spotting scopes are used when more magnification is required or wanted than binoculars provide and are used widely for birding, viewing wildlife and landscapes and other objects at the great distance. Most of the terminology and technical specifications specific to spotting scopes are similar to binoculars. For instance, a 20-60x82 spotting scope features a zoom magnification variety of 20-60x (20 to 60 times bigger than the size of a photo as could be seen with the naked eye) having a front lens diameter of 82mm.
The significant increased magnification usually takes you well at night capabilities of conventional binoculars. That said, two factors, the atmosphere and the optical system with the spotting scope, should be kept in mind. Heavy air, dust, humidity, glare and wind and air currents in the daytime can all reduce image quality as well as the greater the magnification, the harder drastic the cut in image quality will likely be. Few locations allow you to use greater than 60-80x during the day, so most spotting scopes take a look at 60x. The optical system of your spotting scope will impact magnification also. As magnification is increased, some loss of image quality will result, it doesn't matter the model. Within this key area, because the old saying goes...you get what you purchase. So yes, prefer a scope which is as clear and sharp at 60x magnification because it is at 20x, then expect to pay more. Bear in mind though that many spotting scopes are utilized at lower magnifications, usually around 30x-40x. This really is more than enough for most applications and but the least expensive and cheapest model will produce reasonable images on this magnification range.
Objective Diameter
Let's assume that you are comparing two types of similar quality, the larger the objective lens, the greater detail you can observe and the better image quality your scope will deliver, especially at higher magnifications. However, a large lens of mediocre quality, regardless how large, won't equal the performance of an smaller, quality lens. Should you aren't sure, opt for quality, not size.
Close Focus
Although not an absolute necessity, an in depth focus of 20 ft or less can be useful, especially if you plan to use a spotting scope having a camera.
Eye Relief
Much like binoculars, this is the distance your skills can be from the eyepiece and still understand the entire field of view. Typically, you will need at the least 14mm of eye relief to view the entire field of view with eyeglasses the ones with thick glass lenses of their eyeglasses will most likely need more.
Waterproofing
While not a necessity, a waterproof scope is terrific to have. The seals in the waterproof model also prevent the infiltration of dust and dirt and for that reason add to the lifespan of the spotting scope.
Tripods
Because high magnification, hand holding a spotting scope and looking to maintain a clear, non-blurry image is virtually impossible and thus requires that it's supported to hold it steady. You may well be able to sneak by at lower magnifications using a monopod or shoulder stock, but above 40x, you should use a tripod. And the larger and heavier the scope, the bigger and heavier the tripod must be. As all spotting scopes are threaded inside the same fashion as being a camera and therefore should fit on any standard camera or video tripod, unless you prefer, you'll not need to obtain a special tripod for your spotting scope.
Best Spotting Scopes for Birding
Most agree the best magnification range for birding using a spotting scope is 20-40x. Better than 40x as well as the field of view is too narrow to become practical, using the added disadvantage to a dimmer image. Remember that problems including heat waves will increase at higher magnifications. If you do a lot of dawn or twilight bird observation, or should your area is often overcast and dim, a wider objective lens gives you a better image. Which means you will want to select a lens of 77-82mm. However, a bigger objective lens also means increased dimensions. Birders who are out mostly in daytime and don't relish the very thought of carrying a heavier instrument will want to consider a goal lens sized 60-65mm.
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