A lot of us Fers haven't used spotting scopes as generally the scopes we've put on our rifles serve just as well for target spotting. Generally high end power magnification can run from 20x and up to even 80x now(can't imagine 80x).
However some Fers are starting to take lessons from TR shooters who have been at it for quite sometime. The use of a spotting scope isn't necessarily used to spot hits,but better served to focus on conditions (ie flags and mirage).
The idea is that your primary scope is focused on target and can view conditions directly to target ,and the spotting scope can be directed to flags,mirage,etc "ahead" of your shot.
It sounds like the best recommendation I could suggest right now would be to invest optics dollars into the best rifle scope with the greatest clarity in lenses you can afford.
(Clarity,definition and repeatable adjustments in mechanics are MORE important than HIGH end magnification.)
I'd rather shoot 1000 yrds with a straight 10 power crystal clear optic,than struggle with
a 30x pop bottle lens.
After you have obtained your scope and other equipment required,then take a look for
a compact spotter with as wide a field of view as possible.As Tom said,Kowa has a good rep as well as a number of others.Look for a good used bargain and research before spending.
However ,looking at your handle,I'm gathering you spend sometime on dogtowns and a
decent spotter would be used even more than at the range. Still the same applies.
Clarity of glass,wide field of view,and if fielding into dogtowns ,compactness and lightweight. Kowa,Pentax, etc etc.
Have fun ,good luck and welcome to us F'ers.
Gord
