When planning a trip to Alaska, having a spotting scope can be incredibly useful for various activities such as hunting, birdwatching, or even just taking in the breathtaking views of the wilderness. While high-end spotting scopes can offer exceptional optical precision, not everyone needs that level of performance.
For those who are looking for a budget-friendly option that still provides decent quality, there are affordable spotting scopes available for around $100. These scopes may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but they can still get the job done for tasks like observing bullet groupings at 100 yards or getting a closer look at wildlife.
When choosing a cheap spotting scope for your trip to Alaska, consider factors such as ease of use, optical performance, and price. Look for scopes that are lightweight and easy to carry, as you may be trekking through rugged terrain. Opt for models with decent magnification power to help you spot distant objects clearly. In this guide, we’ll explore seven of the best spotting scopes under $100, analyzing their features, performance, and value.
Our 7 Top Spotting Scopes Less Than $100
1. Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50
The Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 is a versatile and affordable spotting scope that packs a punch. With a magnification range of 18-36x and a 50mm objective lens, this spotter provides ample power and light-gathering capabilities for your outdoor adventures.
Specifications:
- Magnification: 18-36x;
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm;
- Prism System: Porro;
- Eyepiece System: Angled;
- Optical Coating: Multi Coated;
- Field of View, 18x: 137 ft @ 1000 yds;
- Field of View, 36x: 100 ft @ 1000 yds;
- Close Focus Distance: 23 ft;
- Exit Pupil: 18x;
- Eye Relief:
- 18x: 20mm;
- 36x: 17mm
- Extensible Sun Shade: Yes;
- Length: 12 inch;
- Weight (w/o tripod): 1.44 lb;
- Tripod: Panhead Lever.
Pros:
- Affordable price point;
- Compact and lightweight;
- Waterproof and fogproof construction;
- Clear and sharp optics;
- Comfortable to use.
Cons:
- The field of view is somewhat narrow at higher magnifications;
- The close focus distance is not particularly close;
- The included carrying case is not very protective.
The Blackhawk is ranked among the top 50 best-selling spotting scopes, indicating it will meet your expectations. It offers a wide field of view, extended eyerelief, and a practical magnification range ideal for hunters.
Although it requires careful handling in the field, considering its affordable price of under $100, you can’t ask for much more. The Blackhawk provides consistent clarity for your shooting requirements, making it a great choice. You’ll have sharp vision like a hawk with this spotting scope.
2. Emarth 20-60X60AE
The Emarth 20-60X60AE is a feature-packed spotting scope that punches well above its weight class. With a powerful 20-60x magnification range and a large 60mm objective lens, this spotter is capable of providing stunning detail and clarity at long distances.
Specifications:
- Magnification: 3x to 9x;
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm;
- Reticle: Illuminated Mil-Dot;
- Eye Relief: 3.7″;
- Weight: 22.6 ounces;
- Length: 11.7″;
- Tube Diameter: 30mm;
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards;
- Field of View (at 100 yards): 34.1-11.4ft;
- Click Value: 1/4 MOA;
- Illumination Source: CR2032 battery;
- Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof;
- Includes sunshade, flip-up lens covers, and mounting rings.
Pros:
- Sharp, bright optics;
- Versatile magnification range;
- Intuitive and user-friendly adjustments;
- Durable and reliable construction;
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons:
- Reticle illumination brightness could be improved;
- Short eye relief may be uncomfortable for some shooters.
The Emarth 20-60x60mm angled waterproof spotting scope is a good choice for the value conscious outdoor enthusiasts and bird watchers. This spotting scope telescope features a 20-60x Zoom Lens for close-up and long range views. Also brings great color and clarity to every scene with a comfortable full field view, even if you wear eyeglasses. The rubber-coated surface ensures a secure grip and gives reliable protection. The waterproof spotting scope manufactured from waterproof material and nitrogen filled for fog proof protection which can be used in any weather conditions. An angled eyepiece is ideal for people who often view upward from a lower vantage point. This spotting scope is perfect for target shooting, bird watching, hunting, archery, hiking, scenery, traveling and other outdoor activities.
3. Firefield 12-36X50 SE
The Firefield 12-36X50 SE is a compact and affordable spotting scope that delivers impressive performance. With its versatile 12-36x magnification range and 50mm objective lens, this spotter is a great all-around choice for a variety of outdoor activities.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Firefield;
- Color: Black;
- Magnification: 12 – 36 x;
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm;
- Eye Relief: 18.9 mm;
- Exit Pupil: 4.1 mm;
- Field of View, Linear: 149 ft at 100 yds;
- Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated;
- Twilight Factor: 24.5 – 42.4;
- Scope Body Type: Straight;
- Lens Material: Glass;
- Close Focus: 12 ft;
- Water Resistance Level: IPX6;
- Length: 185 mm;
- Weight: 19.4 oz;
- Finish: Matte;
- Magnification Type: Variable.
Pros:
- Price;
- Complete kit;
- Handheld specs;
- Weatherproof;
- Compact/lightweight.
Cons:
- Multi-coated optics.
Do not underestimate the effectiveness of a low power scope. Even at 1236x magnification, you can still adjust your scope at 100 yards, observe wildlife discreetly on the trail, and gaze at the night sky.
Despite not having the top-tier coating in the industry, the multicoated optics offer better quality than fully coated or just coated optics at this price point. The image quality may suffer slightly at maximum magnification, but Firefield made a wise choice in keeping the power low with multicoated optics. Users generally have no major complaints about the clarity and brightness.
While many products in this price range may have questionable build quality, being a Firefield product provides some assurance. It is advisable not to drop the scope, even accidentally, but it is reassuring to know that it is nitrogen-purged and IPX6 rated for waterproofing.
Curious about what comes in the complete kit? It includes a heavy-duty table-top tripod, a soft carry bag, an eyepiece cap, and an objective lens cap – all for under $100. What a great deal!
4. Barska Colorado 15-40×50
The Barska Colorado 15-40×50 is a compact and affordable spotting scope that delivers impressive performance for its price point. With a magnification range of 15-40x and a 50mm objective lens, this spotter is a versatile choice for a variety of outdoor activities.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Barska;
- Color: Black;
- Magnification: 15 – 40 x;
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm;
- Eye Relief: 13 – 10 mm;
- Field of View, Linear: 153 – 79 ft at 1000 yds;
- Twilight Factor: 27.38 – 44.72;
- ED Glass: No;
- Scope Body Type: Straight;
- Body Only: No;
- Close Focus: 26.24 ft;
- Length: 9.5 in;
- Weight: 3 lb;
- Finish: Black Matte;
- Included Accessories: Mini Table Top Tripod, Soft Carrying Case;
- Magnification Type: Variable.
Pros:
- Excellent image quality and light gathering capability;
- Versatile magnification range for multiple uses;
- Waterproof and fogproof construction for durability in all weather conditions;
- Easy to use and adjust with smooth fine-tune focus;
- Affordable price compared to similar scopes.
Cons:
- Weight of 2.4lbs can be tiring to hold for extended periods;
- Field of view somewhat narrow at high magnification;
- Not as compact as some other spotting scopes.
If you are not concerned about the appearance of your scope and just need an affordable option for glassing right away, the Barska Colorado 15-40×50 is the perfect choice. It has been highly recommended by many hunters who require a practical power range and a large aperture.
Despite its very low price, do not let that deter you. Barska has ensured top quality in this scope within its price range by using BK7 glass, fully coated optics, and a single focus system. The shock-absorbing armor and weatherproof features make it a durable optic that will withstand field conditions.
Barska should be commended for offering such a budget-friendly option. Pick up the Barska Colorado now and see if you can head out to your hunt without breaking the bank.
5. SVBONY SV28 25-75X70
The SVBONY SV28 25-75X70 is a powerful and versatile spotting scope that delivers impressive performance at an affordable price. With a magnification range of 25-75x and a large 70mm objective lens, this spotter is capable of providing stunning detail and clarity at long distances.
Specifications:
- Item Package Dimensions L x W x H: 16.14 x 6.77 x 4.49 inches;
- Package Weight: 1.64 Kilograms;
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 15.35 x 7.48 x 4.72 inches;
- Item Weight: 32.12 Ounces;
- Brand Name: SVBONY;
- Warranty Description: 60 days;
- Model Name: SV28;
- Color: green;
- Manufacturer: SVBONY;
- Part Number: SV28;
- Style: 25-75×70;
- Size: 25-75x70mm.
Pros:
- Porro BaK-4 optics;
- High magnification;
- Multi-coated lenses;
- Extendable sunshade;
- Waterproof.
Cons:
- Short range.
Even though the SV28 features Porro prisms made from BaK4 glass, which is impressive, it is still considered a short-range optic due to its high magnification limitations.
We suggest using the SVBONY SV28 for activities such as viewing holes on paper up to 75 yards, observing wildlife up to 200 yards, birdwatching within 100 yards, and general use up to 500 yards. The reason for these short ranges is because the optics struggle with clarity beyond 50x magnification, resulting in coarse resolution and tight eye relief as the field of view narrows. This can make it challenging to use efficiently, especially for those who wear glasses due to the limited 16-14mm eye relief.
6. Simmons Venture 15-45×60
The Simmons Venture 15-45×60 is a compact and affordable spotting scope that delivers impressive performance for its size. With a magnification range of 15-45x and a 60mm objective lens, this spotter is a versatile choice for a variety of outdoor activities.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Simmons;
- Color: Black;
- Magnification: 15 – 45 x;
- Objective Lens Diameter: 60 mm;
- Eye Relief: 15.24 mm;
- Exit Pupil: 4 mm;
- Field of View, Linear: 110 ft at 100 yds;
- Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated;
- Scope Body Type: Straight;
- Close Focus: 13 ft;
- Length: 35.1 cm;
- Weight: 31.7 oz;
- Finish: Rubber Armor;
- Included Accessories: Tripod/Hard Case/Soft Case;
- Magnification Type: Variable.
Pros:
- Price;
- Handheld specs;
- Easy to use;
- Straight design;
- Accessories included.
Cons:
- Heavy.
The Venture model is a low magnification spotter with 1545x power, available only in a straight design. The optical quality is average due to the BK7 glass used, but Simmons made a good choice by incorporating fully multicoated optics despite its price being under 100.
Designed to be compact for trail use or deer tracking during hunting, this scope allows for steady freehand use at lower power. It also comes with a table top tripod that has a built-in window mount for alternative usage.
In addition to the tripod, the package includes a hard plastic case and soft carry case for safe storage and transportation of the scope. These added accessories make it a great value for the price.
The straight design makes it easy to use in various outdoor settings like field, range, or hiking. However, at 2 lbs, it is slightly heavy for a 1545x scope. Fortunately, practical accessories are included to help distribute the weight effectively.
7. Roxant Blackbird 12-36×50 HD
The Roxant Blackbird 12-36×50 HD is a compact and lightweight spotting scope that delivers impressive performance for its size. With a magnification range of 12-36x and a 50mm objective lens, this spotter is a great choice for those who prioritize portability and ease of use.
Specifications:
- Magnification Range: 20-60x;
- Objective Lens Diameter: 80mm;
- Prism System: BAK4 Porro prisms;
- Field of View: 100-50 feet at 1000 yards;
- Close Focus: 10 feet;
- Exit Pupil Diameter: 4mm at 20x, 1.3mm at 60x;
- Eye Relief: 19mm at 20x, 16mm at 60x;
- Waterproof and Fog-proof: Nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed;
- Tripod Adaptable: Includes a standard tripod adapter.
Pros:
- Excellent image quality and sharpness;
- Durable construction;
- Waterproof and fog-proof design;
- Versatile magnification range;
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky;
- Limited eye relief at high magnifications;
- Not suitable for birdwatching.
One of the main benefits of the Blackbird spotting scope is its extremely lightweight and compact size, measuring 9.13 inches long and weighing 17.28 ounces. This makes it ideal for backpacking, traveling, and transporting to the shooting range as it can easily fit into a day pack.
The Roxant spotting scope is equipped with FMC coatings, which is important in its price range since many others only have multicoated lenses at best. While the optics may not be perfect at maximum magnification, you can still see groupings at 100 yards. Consider factors like target type (shoot-n-see vs white) and target size when observing groupings at longer distances.
Wearing glasses while using the Blackbird may not be compatible due to its short eye relief of 12mm. You might be able to keep them on at lower magnifications, but higher magnification levels will require you to remove them.
Highlighted features of the Blackbird include an adjustable sunshade, multitwist eyecup, and tabletop tripod.
The mount and tripod provided with the Blackbird are suitable for use at the shooting range when you have time to stabilize and focus, as there is minimal flex in the mount. However, if you are birdwatching where quick adjustments are crucial, you may need to invest in a more expensive mount and tripod, which could cost as much as the spotting scope itself. Therefore, the Blackbird is great for recreational and range use, but may not be ideal for serious birders.
What to Look for in a Cheap Spotting Scope
When shopping for a budget-friendly spotting scope, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you get the best value for your money. Let’s dive into the most important criteria:
Glass Quality
The quality of the optical glass used in a spotting scope is a crucial factor in its overall performance. High-quality, multi-coated lenses can provide better light transmission, contrast, and clarity, resulting in a sharper, more detailed image. While budget-friendly scopes may not offer the same level of glass quality as their more expensive counterparts, it’s important to look for scopes that feature multi-coated optics to ensure the best possible image quality.
Magnification & Objective Lens Size (Configuration)
The magnification range and objective lens size of a spotting scope are important considerations that will impact its performance and versatility. A wider magnification range, such as 20-60x, can provide more flexibility for different applications, from wildlife observation to target shooting. Similarly, a larger objective lens (the front lens) can gather more light, resulting in a brighter and clearer image, especially in low-light conditions.
When evaluating budget-friendly spotting scopes, look for a configuration that balances magnification and objective lens size to suit your specific needs. A good starting point is a scope with a magnification range of 15-45x and an objective lens size of 50-60mm, which can provide a versatile and affordable option for many outdoor activities.
Size & Weight
The size and weight of a spotting scope are important factors, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods or while hiking or traveling. A compact and lightweight scope can be more convenient to transport and maneuver, making it a better choice for those who prioritize portability. However, it’s important to balance size and weight with the scope’s optical performance and features.
Durability
Outdoor activities can be tough on your gear, so it’s important to choose a spotting scope that can withstand the elements. Look for scopes with a waterproof and fog-proof construction, as well as a durable, rubber-armored body that can protect the internal components from impacts and scratches.
Final Thoughts
The seven spotting scopes we’ve highlighted in this article prove that you can get impressive performance and features for under $100, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Alaska or simply want to enhance your backyard birdwatching, these affordable spotting scopes offer the perfect blend of optical quality, versatility, and durability.
Remember, when shopping for a budget-friendly spotting scope, be sure to consider factors like glass quality, magnification range, objective lens size, and durability to ensure you get the best value for your money. With the information and recommendations provided in this article, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect spotting scope for your next outdoor adventure.