The UK's Finest Independent Forum for Shooters and Gun Owners. Est 2010.

First off, apologies if the above is a daft question but I have to admit that I have zero experience with spotting scopes.
I'm looking to get a spotting scope to go with my .338 lap mag and I want to shoot out to 1500 meters and be able to see the fall of shot when I miss the target (this will be when we are allowed back on the Salisbury plain Javelin range).
I was wondering if anyone could recommend me a spotting scope that could do this without spending mega-bucks?
I've been looking at the Vortex Optics Diamondback 20-60x80, would this be up to the job or is there something that exists for even cheaper?

Many thanks,

Brian.

The issue with the high magnification needed at some ranges is the scopes support, the higher the magnification the narrower the field of vision and the more susceptible it is to movement. Unless you have a serious mount to keep it steady especially in beezey condition the extra magnification will be a waste of time.

I have a Kowa 20-50x spotting scope, nice glass, quality build, but never use it over 30xs even with a good mount. Seeing splash at a distance also has a lot to do with the light and soil conditions.

Brian

You are welcome to try my Swarovski on the Plain at next shoot.
I have wasted good money on scopes sub-500 quid......you have to spend high on good glass to get anything worthwhile at range.

Davd Thain

Brian838 wrote:First off, apologies if the above is a daft question but I have to admit that I have zero experience with spotting scopes.
I'm looking to get a spotting scope to go with my .338 lap mag and I want to shoot out to 1500 meters and be able to see the fall of shot when I miss the target (this will be when we are allowed back on the Salisbury plain Javelin range).
I was wondering if anyone could recommend me a spotting scope that could do this without spending mega-bucks?
I've been looking at the Vortex Optics Diamondback 20-60x80, would this be up to the job or is there something that exists for even cheaper?

Many thanks,

Brian.

Yes there is a reasonably priced spotting scope. Check out the Nikula scope sold by Fox Firearms. I have a Kowa and I couldn't believe how good the Nikula is - for under £300 including a Peli (copy) case.

Vince

Its just possible that I had a 'rogue' but the best thing about the specific scope you mention was the case.

I could not get clarity from it even at 200 yards.....binned.
Probably should have returned it but just gave up and bought the Swarovski.

Brian Fox did get a rogue batch for the first order. We had sussed it out at IWA before ordering. The whole batch went back as far as I know.

The one's he has now are as good as my Kowa.

Vince

My stupid fault for not returning it but good to know it was picked up and the batch rejected.

If you aren't bothered about the brand, ooman, we'd recommend you look for a used Optolyth scope. They are made in Germania and every bit as good as a Zeiss but, because they don't have the cachet of Zeiss, they sell for far less on the second paw market. They'll knock a Vortex or similar into a cocked hat for optical quality...

For an indication of pricing, see

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Optolyth-TBS ... Sw1Cxam8d4

They are standard ish for all badger sniper pairs...

DaveT wrote:Brian

You are welcome to try my Swarovski on the Plain at next shoot.
I have wasted good money on scopes sub-500 quid......you have to spend high on good glass to get anything worthwhile at range.

Davd Thain

That is a very kind offer David, I'll PM you beforehand.

No worries....lets hope we DO get Javelin back ......and soon!