Would you like a closer look at those beautiful birds soaring above your cottage? You could pull out those dusty binoculars in the basement, or you could get an up-close look with a spotting scope.

These compact telescopes allow you to see images at a distance with unbelievable clarity. With so much selection, choosing the right one for you can be difficult. In this article, we'll help you spot the best scope for you.

optics scopes
A scope for spotting is well suited for such activities as long distance birdwatching and nature study, telephotography and scenic observing. Although binoculars are a good option if you are not going to be a great distance from the subject, the clarity you get with spotting scopes is so good that you'll be able to see fine markings that you would not be able to see through a pair of binoculars.

Ideally, the objective lens should be at least 60 mm in diameter to provide a bright image. When choosing a scope for spotting, quality optics should be your prime consideration. Beyond that, portability is important. For example, if you plan on doing a lot of hiking, then you should choose a spot scope that is as light as possible.

To change magnification according to your needs, scopes have interchangeable fixed-length eyepieces or a single zoom eyepiece. With a vision scope, the observer can start with a low power magnification and then switch to a higher power as required.

spotting scope
Zoom lenses change magnification power from 20 x to as high as 60 x with a single, simple adjustment. However, as with binoculars, scopes do not perform well in dim light. The image also becomes shakier as you increase magnification. Nowadays, many mid-priced scopes have excellent zoom lenses giving sharpness and clear images.

There are now a number of waterproof models available to choose from as well. If you are interested in telescope science, which is a method of obtaining photos using a digital camera through a spotting scope, then select one that allows for the attachment of a 35mm camera body.

A tripod for spotting scopes is one of the best accessories that you can buy. Scope mounts stabilize your image and allow you to wait for your subject without putting the scope down. This is a great feature for bird watchers and hunters.

Since most scope users will need to be mobile, choose a tripod that is lightweight, is easy to adjust and has a flip-lock design. You should also make sure that it is sturdy and will not tip in high winds or on rough terrain.

amateur astronomy
The most expensive spotting scopes are not always the best. High priced models may not have the best optics. Choose the scope with the features and performance you and your budget will be comfortable with – but don't go cheap either.

Don't make any impulse purchases and know exactly what you need before you even go into the store.