Looking for a backcountry spotting scope for an upcoming elk hunt. For years, I've been wanting a Swarovski. I've only looked at the Vortex and Swarovski in pictures. I haven't look through any of them yet. Anybody have any feedback on these scopes? Or recommend a backcountry spotting scope?

I have the Zeiss Victory 65mm, great size & weight.

I have a Nikon that I'll sell.

Top of the line optics are pricy, but can't be beat. If ya have a budget, get the Vortex. If it's a guided hunt, save your money and get something else, the guide will have a spotter. Here in Oregon where I hunt, you can see a long ways through the hills and we glass the distant clear cuts. Most use 8x42 binos and you can see the racks a good ways away. We are on bike and foot and don't bother with a spotter. It's xtra weight and we're not scoring the bulls. The color of the bulls against cows is a give away here and that's the main thing we look for. Location and time help us decide if we want to make a play or put him to bed for a morning hunt.

It'll be a CO diy, rifle hunt in October. The plan, right now, is to go every year. I've been thinking about not buying anything this trip and just use my Leupold 10 X 42 binos. Then buy for the next trip, if needed. But like anything else, I'm having to fight the urge to not buy a new toy. Haha

I have a small spotting scope that I used in Alaska. I could judge animals that were in ranges close enough to actually hunt and it prevented me from glassing at distances too far away that I couldn't get after anyway.

I have hunted Co for elk four times DIY and have seen no need for a spotting scope. 10X42 binocs will do anything you need to do.

Mule deer I'd prolly take a spotter or for antelope.

Thanks guys. I'll stick with my binos.