Spotting scopes are long-range, high-powered telescopes built for day use, allowing you to see far-away objects in great detail. As an integral tool in many outdoor pursuits, understanding the best ...

As field optics go, big 80mm and larger spotting scopes aren’t for everyone. They’re heavy, bulky, and require a heavy tripod to stabilize, so if you’re doing any hiking or backpacking, it can be hard ...

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more › While binoculars tend to top out at a magnification power of about 10 times the size of ...

I really want to see birds and other animals up close. What are the most powerful binoculars I can get? They’re bulkier and heavier than binoculars, but to look an elk in the eye at 2,000 yards, ...

Spotting scopes for birding are often overshadowed by binoculars—the usual choice of optics by birdwatchers everywhere. But what many don’t know is the role spotting scopes play in birding. Sure, ...

Wes Siler is your guide to leading a more exciting life in the great outdoors. As Outside’s outdoor lifestyle columnist, he writes about the intersections of science, news, politics, gear, vehicles ...

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us? A good spotting scope is your ticket to a close-up, detailed picture of wildlife, ...

Compact, powerful and travel-ready — these top monoculars offer sharp viewing for nature, travel and everyday viewing. Save with Black Friday. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn ...