Spotting Scopes

[SSChameleon]

My Dad offered to get me one for my birthday to use elk hunting and so I wouldn't have to walk to the target each time to see where I'm grouping. Only problem is I don't know anything about spotting scopes other than they magnify stuff and are priced between $99 and $2,500.

I'm thinking the budget is in the $200-$300 range, is it even worth getting one at this price point? What should I be looking for? Any help would be great.

[Dinosdeuce]

You are going to get a lot of opinions on this. I bought 2 cheap ones before I got the best one I could afford. It is a Pentax 65ED. Nikon makes really good glass in that price range. Do some research on optics, narrow it down and go to a store that you can compare side be side. Chances are in that price range there won't be much difference. If you can't afford the big names don't look through them, that way you won't know what you are missing.

Good luck on your choice.

[k2peaker]

Many variables at play. What caliber are you shooting? What distance do you want to spot the hits?
In general, I'm becoming a glass snob. But, if you're just trying to see some large caliber hits at 100 yds, an inexpensive one might work for under $100.
If you're trying to pick out 6/6.5/7mm sized holes at greater distances, some money will be involved. I use a cheapo Barska and can usually see .223 hits at 100 yds but it's pushing it.

[Rampart Runner]

I'm thinking the budget is in the $200-$300 range

that is a good budget. Check out KONUS brand. Of comparable quality to KOWA at significantly less cost.

Please read this from JimOwens' site jarhead.com (a great guy to biz with) http://www.jarheadtop.com/KONUS.htm

Jim is a longtime and serious high power shooter.

You can find KONUS scopes for less at opticsplanet (also a good place to do biz with) however Jim will buy back your KONUS scope if you decide you need a more expensive scope.

You can keep it for as long as you like and I will buy it back for $100.00 and donate it to a Junior Team. That is like you have rented it for $145.00 for the time you have had it. If you can find a better deal, I would be interested in knowing.

You probably won't ever need this option.

RR

[aedavis]

If I was buying one in that price range I'd look at the following:

Konus mentioned above (based on internet reviews)
Leupold Wind River Series (looked through these in stores and at SHOT)
Burris Landmark Series (looked through these in stores and at SHOT)

I currently use a Burris Signature Series fixed 24X60. It has excellent optics but sometimes the 24X isn't quite enough. I can pick out .30 holes up to 200 yards okay, and .224 holes up to 100 yards okay. Anything further is difficult.