Packable Spotting Scope

[WilliamWallace]

I am looking at getting the Vortex Razor HD 11-33x50 Its small and compact. Only sticky point is the $699 price tag.

What does everyone else use for the backcountry?

Does anyone have any experiences with this specific optic?

[brocka]

I run a Vortex Razor HD 20-60 x 85mm. In my opinion there are lots of other places to cut weight for the backcountry instead of your optics.

[skagitsteel]

Just bought that spotting scope, smaller field of vision, sufficient for what I will be using it for.  Really clear even at 33x.  I matched it up with a vortex high country tripod. well worth the price tag

[jackelope]

I have a Minox md50 which I like a lot and it's tiny. 15-30x50 and the size of a 12oz. pop bottle, but you do suffer in the FOV department. I especially have issues with eye relief, which I've heard is an issue with the little Vortex too. With that said, the Minox usually sits at home as I'm with brocka and am taking my big Vortex spotter. Just plain works better and is more user friendly.
 

[coachcw]

I run a Vortex Razor HD 20-60 x 85mm. In my opinion there are lots of other places to cut weight for the backcountry instead of your optics.

I agree . my Nikon is lightweight but the window blows it  around , I went with a heavier tripod but it still isn't great. Go swaro and don't look back !

[Craig]

Have a Swarovski 80mm. Wish I had a 60mm. A little smaller and could use a smaller tripod with it.

[SilkOnTheDrySide]

I run an 80 mm Swaro.

See Brock's comment.


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[fillthefreezer]

one of the things i value most in hunting partners, good optics. 

[SilkOnTheDrySide]

one of the things i value most in hunting partners, good optics. 

You put up with a lot of BS for that Swaro...


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[highcountryhunter]

I just purchased this along with the vortex tripod, and I am pleased with it. Lightweight, compact, rugged, the lifetime warranty and good optics. Great for the back country.

[sirmissalot]

I run a Vortex Razor HD 20-60 x 85mm. In my opinion there are lots of other places to cut weight for the backcountry instead of your optics.

This. Although I use a 65mm Swarovski. Dont skimp on a tripod or fluid head either.

[klickman]

You'll save a lot more energy packing a nice spotter in the back country than you will shaving a few ounces.  Being able to determine if the animal is legal, big enough, etc  from a long ways a way will save you a ton of energy and time.  Nothing more frustrating than hiking across a nasty canyon just to see the buck is not legal or the bear is all rubbed. 

[bowhunterty]

The small Vortex spotter is worth it. Snall and compact. Clear view. Call Paul at Elknut, good prices thru him.

[Vortectoy]

I'm torn between the vortex razor 50mm vs 65mm spotter. Can't decide what i want for my backcountry hunt this year.  Any one else have opinions?

[MtnMuley]

Leopold 12-40x60mm HD.  Best backcountry spotter imo.