"mid range" spotting scopes

[funkymonkey1111]

last spotting scope thread i saw on search had no responses, so i thought i'd see if anyone has anything to offer--

i've always wanted a spotting scope. when i say "mid range," to me that's $400-500. that may be bottom of the barrel to some with the Kowas, but i'd rather not buy junk. this would be for range use. no set agenda on them--size, power, brand, configuration. if you've got one you like roughly in that price range, throw it out there and tell why. or, if you had a turd from that price range, tell it, too.

or, if that price range is fraught with peril, say it. i just can't see spending much more than that.

[encorehunter]

I have a Konuspot 20-60x80 that I really like. I have used it for long range .22lr competition out to 200 yards. It is very easy to see the hits. For targets, I am still able to see .22 cal bullets holes at 200 yards, but very difficult to see if they are in the black. When I purchased mine, they were only about $130, now they have gone up in price. I have used it for almost 5 years now.

[J]

If I was needing a spotter in that price range, there is only two I would really buy:

http://www.opticsplanet.com/leupold-15-30-50mm-golden-ring-spotting-scope.html

http://www.opticsplanet.com/vortex-diamondback-20-60x80-spotting-scope.html

The Leupold is a nicer unit, but to get in that price range you will have to stick with the lower power 15-30. The Vortex is still nice, and gives you 20-60 with a huge 80mm objective for low light spotting.

[Delfuego]

I have a Theron. It has ED glass and better clarity than most $400-$600 spotters. Check out the birdwatching forums for spotter reviews.

http://theronoptics.com/SAKER_ED_60MM_SPOTTER_HKQ5.php

It is a tough nut to crack at that price, your not gonna get much better than entry level with most spotters. The only thing I would spend more money on now is a Vortex Razor 20-60x. You might be able to find a Leupold 12-40x Spotter for +/-$800