Hunting Washington Forum
Equipment & Gear => Scopes and Optics => Topic started by: jsteplee on May 05, 2010, 07:30:40 AM
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So I hunt Wetside, so up to now, I've not paid much attention to spotting scopes. Now we're getting ready to take a summer trip to Yellowstone, and figured it was time to pick up a spotting scope so we could see the critters (I want to see bear and elk, but the kids want to see wolves). Anyway, for the money, the Redfield Rampage seems like a pretty good deal. I looked through it at Bob's in Longview, and it seems pretty solid. I really do like the Redfield rifle scopes, but I haven't talked to anyone who's used the spotting scopes.
Anyway, we've been looking online, and the budget is somewhat limited. The Redfield at right around $200 looks to be about as much as we can spend, so that pretty much eliminates the Leupold, Swaro, and other higher end names. Has anyone used the Redfield and can let me know what you think?
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I haven't used one yet but I've read good things about the new Redfields since Leupold bought the company in April of '08. I think it was Deer and Deer Hunting magazine that recently did a short piece explaining why the new Redfields are the best bang for the buck in their price range.
If you get one, I would be anxious to hear how it works out for you.
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If you get one, I would be anxious to hear how it works out for you.
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So after looking around a bit, I did go ahead and order a Rampage. It seems like everyone carries them for $219.99 except Bob's in Longview, and their price is $209.99. I've been searching online, and I finally found one at MidWestHuntersOutlet.com for $171. Shipping was $14.99, but there was also a $5 discount code for some reason or another. In the end, I ended up with a unit for about $182. I'll post again after I get to use it--we go to Yellowstone in 2 weeks. Thanks everyone who replied or PMd.
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Let me know how it is. I am looking for a new spotter too, and was thinking about the Rampage. I have an Alpen right now, but it's a little grainy at long ranges.
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Sorry I didn't get this out sooner. I took the Redfield Rampage to Yellowstone, and it was great. I haven't done much spotting with it here on the Westside yet, but at Yellowstone it really did the job. I'm very pleased with it...
The only caveat is this is the first spotting scope I've ever had/used, so I'm not saying it's going to be great for everyone. But for a fairly low-cost, it really did the trick. I did find it necessary to use the adjustable eye piece to increase the eye relief, but other than that, no challenges. I ended up paying just under $190 with shipping for the 20-60 power model. Glass was clear, so things were sharp. The low-light performance was pretty good too. I scoped out elk in their beds on a far-off slope, and I was able to track them clear through after-dark. All in all, high marks, especially for the money. And, it does still have the Limited Lifetime warranty.
