Bushnell Spotting Scopes: The Ultimate Choice for Birdwatching
Are you searching for the ideal spotting scope for birdwatching? Bushnell offers a wide range of high-quality spotting scopes, from the affordable Prime model to the premium Forge model. Each scope is available in both straight and 45-degree angled variants. In this guide, we'll dive into the details of the different Bushnell spotting scopes to help you make the best choice.
Why Choose a Bushnell Spotting Scope?
For over 75 years, Bushnell has been a leading name in the optics industry, known for its high-quality binoculars and telescopes. However, many people might not know that Bushnell has also been offering a variety of spotting scopes for decades. These scopes are perfect for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and nature viewing. With four different series, each available in both straight and 45-degree angled variants, Bushnell provides a solution for every nature enthusiast. From the entry-level Bushnell Prime 20-60x65 to the top-of-the-line Bushnell Forge 20-60x80 ED, there is always a Bushnell spotting scope that perfectly suits your needs.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Spotting Scope
In addition to image quality, there are other important factors to consider when purchasing a spotting scope. The viewing angle is one of the most critical considerations. The 45-degree angled scope is popular among birdwatchers for its comfort during extended observation, while a straight scope may be more convenient if you frequently observe while seated. See also: Four Most Essential Considerations When Purchasing a Spotting Scope
Bushnell Prime 20-60x65: The Perfect Entry-Level Spotting Scope
The Bushnell Prime 20-60x65 is ideal for beginning birdwatchers. This scope comes with a sturdy carrying case and a soft protective cover. The soft cover also contains a tabletop tripod that can double as a window mount for observing from a vehicle. The built-in sunshade provides clear vision in bright sunlight, and the rubber lens caps protect the lenses during transport.
Features of the Bushnell Prime 20-60x65:
- EXO Barrier technology protects against moisture and dirt.
- Multi-coated lenses for bright and high-contrast images.
- Argon gas filling prevents internal condensation.
- IPX7 waterproof construction, submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
- Adjustable tripod mount and focusing knob.
- 20-60x magnification with a 65mm objective lens.
- 20-year warranty.
Bushnell Nitro 20-60x65 ED Prime: Compact and Color-Accurate
The Bushnell Nitro 20-60x65 ED Prime is a compact spotting scope with a rugged rubber housing. Thanks to the ED Prime lens elements, this scope offers a bright and sharp image without chromatic aberration, which is particularly important when observing white birds in bright sunlight. This scope is excellent for precise observation, even in challenging lighting conditions.
"This ensures an optimal viewing experience during birdwatching."
The eyecup of the Bushnell Nitro clicks into three different positions, allowing eyeglass wearers to observe comfortably. However, this scope is less suitable for prolonged observations since you need to keep your eye close to the eyepiece to get a full view. This makes the scope particularly well-suited for use in bright sunlight. Despite its compact size, a spotting scope like the Bushnell Nitro remains relatively heavy. Therefore, it is recommended to use a tripod for more comfortable birdwatching. An excellent choice for this is the Leofoto Manba carbon tripod. This tripod is lightweight yet sturdy enough to provide stable support for your spotting scope.
Features of the Bushnell Nitro 20-60x65 ED Prime:
- ED Prime glass for a bright and color-accurate image.
- Compact design at just 40 cm in length and 1.6 kg in weight.
- Dual Speed Focus for quick and precise focusing.
- Durable magnesium housing with rubber armor.
- De Bushnell EXO™ Barrier coating protects against water, oil, and dirt.
- Includes a carrying case and SPUDZ cleaning cloth.
- 20-year warranty.
Bushnell Engage DX 20-60x80: For Extended Observations
The Bushnell Engage DX 20-60x80, with its large 80mm objective lens, is perfect for extended observations, even in low-light conditions. This scope provides a sharp and bright image, even for eyeglass wearers. The gas filling and O-rings make the scope suitable for use in various weather conditions.
Features of the Bushnell Engage DX 20-60x80:
- EXO Barrier technology protects against moisture and dirt.
- Fully multi-coated lenses for bright and high-contrast images.
- IPX7 waterproof construction.
- Adjustable tripod mount for flexibility.
- Includes a carrying case, neoprene protective cover, and SPUDZ cleaning cloth.
- 20-year warranty.
Bushnell Forge 20-60x80: The Top Model for Serious Birdwatchers
The Bushnell Forge 20-60x80 is the top model in the Bushnell spotting scope series. This scope offers a luxurious upgrade over the Engage DX and is ideal for serious birdwatchers. With a comfortable eyepiece and sharp, chromatic aberration-free image, the Forge is perfect for extended observations.
"Additionally, the eyepiece is particularly comfortable to look through."
Despite the premium quality of this scope, the price surprisingly remains in the mid-range compared to other brands. The eyepiece offers an exceptionally comfortable viewing experience, even for eyeglass or sunglasses wearers. The image remains sharp at all magnification levels and is free of chromatic aberrations. In short, the Bushnell Forge 20-60x80 is a top recommendation for the serious birdwatcher seeking high quality without paying a premium price.
Features of the Bushnell Forge 20-60x80:
- ED Prime glass for an exceptionally sharp and color-accurate image.
- Dual Speed Focus for quick and precise focusing.
- De Bushnell EXO™ Barrier coating protects against the elements.
- Rotating tripod mount for comfortable viewing from multiple angles.
- Includes a carrying case, neoprene protective cover, and SPUDZ cleaning cloth.
- 30-year warranty.
Conclusion: Which Bushnell Spotting Scope is Right for You?
All Bushnell spotting scopes are excellent for birdwatching, but the best choice depends on your personal preferences and observation conditions. If you primarily observe during the day and don’t wear glasses, the Bushnell Prime 20-60x65 and Bushnell Nitro 20-60x65 ED are great options. For extended observations or low-light conditions, the Bushnell Forge 20-60x80 and Bushnell Engage DX 20-60x80 are the best choices.
