Do I need a spotting scope?

[Cevans]

Hello all,

I have a pair of Leupold 12x50's binos, do i need a spotting scope?

I've been looking at the Vortex Razor HD 11-33x50. I love the clarity of this scope but think it might be redundant.

What are your thoughts?

 

[Schaaf]

I wouldn't bother with that scope if you're carrying around 12x Binos.

 

[u1299]

Would you consider hunting without your binoculars? If so, then you probably don't need a spotting scope, but if you think you need 12 power binoculars you also need a spotting scope. That's my honest opinion, I wouldn't be without one but there are a few occasions when I don't pack it.

 

[statfield16]

If you are serious about getting a spotting scope in that range, then I would step back the power on my binos to either an 8x or 10x. I Currently use a 10x Vortex bino and a 16-48 x 65mm Razor HD spotting scope. This range variation allows me to use my binos for looking at a wide range of country and then using the spotting scope to focus in.

What type of hunting are you doing and where? A 12x bino might be best for your type of hunting. I never leave the basecamp withough my spotter though, It is well worth its added weight, if you are using a solid tripod to mount it.

 

[406LIFE]

I think this same question was asked just a couple of weeks ago. Info here.

 

[utahminer]

Isnt this same question asked weekly?

 

[BucksnDucks]

You don't need a spotting scope, but you will likely want a tripod and bino adapter if you plan on glassing much with those big 12x50. The need for a scope or high power binos solely depends on where you hunt, what you hunt, how you hunt, and what your expectations of the hunt are.

 

[375H&H]

I agree with BucksnDucks. Binos on a tripod is really all you need. I can spot elk over 2 miles away without a spotting scope and see deer as well if I am patient while glassing. I am not totally sure why you would need to spot game farther than that away as a lot can happen during a 3-5 mile hike. Spotting scope would be helpful for judging trophy quality but I can tell mature animals with the binos alone.