Vortex Spotting Scope

[Star882]

so a couple of months ago I asked a question on binoculars and everyones input helped a lot. I ended up buying 10 x 42 razor binoculars from Elk not. Now that I have a good set of binoculars I'm looking at getting a spotting scope. I currently hunt Washington east and west side currently just for deer and bear but plan to get into elk hunting. I am looking at getting into more backpacking and backcountry Hunting. Also hopefully heading to Idaho and Hunting over there eventually. I am going to stick with the vortex brand but wondering if I can get by with 48x65 razor spotting scope or if it is a hundred percent necessary to get the 60x85 spotting scope. Since I use most of my money on binoculars I have also been considering the 45x65 Viper spotting scope. just curious what peoples input it is on what I should do. I have not used spotting scope ever so is all new to me. I have read a lot of the old forum topics to get somewhat of an idea but just want to know for my personal Hunting needs

[deerhunter_98520]

It all depends on the style of a hunting you do....I bought the 85mm and I absolutely love it....its a beast....might be to big/heavy for long backpack trips where weight is an issue but I decided I wanted a big lense to get the best performance and would just deal with the size....you cant go wrong with either one...but if you plan on doin any hiking with them I'd probably go the 65mm

[Bean Counter]

I have an 82mm and it's a bit beastly indeed. I don't tend to take it more than 2.5 miles from the truck. I am lazy.

I might still go with a larger spotter if I were you. I dot think any spotter is practical to backpack with unless you have a few partners and shared gear. That way, you have a reason to buy some 15x56 binos 

[Bob33]

I have an 80mm and a 60mm. For backpacking I always take the 60. A good 60mm or 65mm is ideal during most light conditions when weight is a consideration.