spotting scope vs. binoculars

D

duckloads

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I've been shooting my 460 XVR out to 50 yds. That's about as far as I can see a hole in the target even with my Burris 2x7. When I get several holes in a nice group, they become more apparent and easier to see. The first 2-3 are tough to see.

So, I'm looking for suggestion or opinions on either getting a pair of binoculars or a spotting scope to see out to 100-150 yards.

Good day,
 
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duckloads....

I have a Simmons 1200 Zoom spotting scope that I've only used a couple times. It's like NIB. I lost a leg awhile back and have been gitting rid of some of my guns and other stuff. The box is marked 15-45 x 50

I'll take $75.00 for it if you want to drive up here and see it..........Lewisburg TN
 
It depends on all the use's you plan for it. If you are going to spot bullet holes in paper, the spotting scope is the way to go. If you plan to hunt and spot game, the binoculars are the way to go. Binoculars could see holes in paper at 100-150 yards, but unless are mounted on a tripod stand, are not as easy to see as a spotting scope at extended distances. Binoculars held in the hand move around, even with both elbows on the bench. If you go with Binoculars, I would recommend a 8X40 or 10X42. I prefer Nikon, as a balance between high quality and reasonable price.
 
10X is about as high power as you can hand hold without the shake becoming excessive. I think 8X is better ('cause I'm old and shaky). For daylight use, 30mm to 40mm objectives will gather plenty of light. For twilight/pre-dawn, you need to go to 50mm.

As mentioned, spotting scopes need support. But for target shooting or long range animal watching, they can't be beat. 25X-50X with 60mm to 80mm objectives are great general purpose optics. You can spend $250-$3000 depending on what your budget is and what quality you need. I spent some time in Yellowstone last year observing wolves with a Swarovski (not mine), and that was the best performing scope I've ever used.

Buck
 
I shoot bullseye pistol and used to shoot across the course and long range rifle. For punching paper, there's simply no substitute for a decent spotting scope.

Binoculars have lots of uses. Checking a paper target really isn't one of them. They require you to get out of position, and occupy at least one hand. A properly positioned spotting scope and stand allow you to maintain your position and require no hands and little movement from position to use.

For pistol, I use a Gun Ho pistol box with a Bushnell small spotting scope mounted on the lid. For rifle I use a Champion's Choice house brand large spotting scope on a folding stand with a jointed rod to hold the scope.
 
When sighting in at my local public range, I rent the range optics, some inexpensive 20x spotting scope (I'm not leaving my expensive personal scope untended when I go downrange...) What I would regard as unsatisfactory for hunting use is adequate for spotting .223 holes at 100 yards. I'd go with an inexpensive scope and a proper stand for the purposes you've described.
 
My spotting scopes are a 15-45x zoom I bought at K-Mart 30 years ago and a big Tasco
telescope I bought at a yard sale for $10. Bought an additional eyepiece for the latter that boosts magnification. There are several thrift shops in my area, I see telescopes there from time to time.
 
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