Tripod suggestions for Spotting scope

J

JNA

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Hey Guys,

So I have a Vortex Viper XD 20-60x80 staight spotting scope and was wondering if anyone had any recommendations on a good but relatively inexpensive tripod. I understand this is not a 20 dollar solution, but im hoping to keep it at less than 100.
 
I've owned and abused a Vertex High Country tripod for years and it's kicked ass. Right around the $100 mark, light to carry, solid on the ground. I like that I can hang my pack from the center stem to add stability, and that I can sit behind it comfortably.

BUT I'm not often using it with my fullsize 85mm spotting scope.

Are you looking for the bench? In that case you can get away with a super low tripod.

high-country_top.jpg
 
I mostly use it at the range, but wouldn't mind it being able to be used if i need it for hunting.
 
If you are not packing it, get something heavy. It will be very stable and less effected by wind and muzzle blast and keep a nice clear sight picture.
 
I have a couple of Vanguards, a Mars tabletop (about $35 at Wholesale) and a MAK203 (about $60 at Cabela's but if you want to stay close to $100 there are places online that will sell you the same one for $85-90 plus tax and shipping.) They are quite light so I don't throw them into the truck, but they seem well made for what they are and they do what they are supposed to.
 
go to a photography shop and see what they have. London Drugs at times carries a good selection of Tripods as well. Trying them out really helps, as Tripods can be quirky on how they adjust. It really is best to try some out. You will get much better selection and quality at a photography shop than sporting goods store.
 
dizzy said:
go to a photography shop and see what they have. London Drugs at times carries a good selection of Tripods as well. Trying them out really helps, as Tripods can be quirky on how they adjust. It really is best to try some out. You will get much better selection and quality at a photography shop than sporting goods store.
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Agree it's all about stability and what you can afford.. the heavier pod will be best for a steady view..
 
Check out Kijiji you will find deals on there...Like it was said Manfrotto is a good choice (not the best out there but a good one for the money)
 
silverfoxdj said:
Agree it's all about stability and what you can afford.. the heavier pod will be best for a steady view..
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...but above stability it's about smoothness...
if you're trying to focus on some target and the tripod head stick-slips you're not going to be on target any time soon.
 
legi0n said:
...but above stability it's about smoothness...
if you're trying to focus on some target and the tripod head stick-slips you're not going to be on target any time soon.
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True, that's assumed in the better more(expensive units) though.. if it's on a fixed target it's easier..
 
I've got a collapsible monopod (walking stick) where the base can unscrew and three thin legs can come out for stability. The round top is over 3" in diameter. So it's versatile, portable, stable (especially at lower extensions), and compact. Sits stable and can travel very well. I think its a Manfrotto and was about $75.
 
harv3589 said:
Check out Kijiji you will find deals on there...Like it was said Manfrotto is a good choice (not the best out there but a good one for the money)
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I have a Vivatar Pro Line (absolutely no relation to their cheap tripods). It's actually a mid weight video tripod, fluid dampened head, etc, equivalent to a super HD camera tripod. Got it at a pawn shop for $100.

For high magnification scopes, you want the heaviest, sturdiest tripod you want to carry. Keeping legs at their shortest position is the best way to keep the scope steady. If you want to use it when standing or kneeling, you really want a sturdy tripod.
 
Thanks to the OP and other posters for bringing this up. I have a Bushnell Legend HD 12-36 spotter that came with a crappy tabletop tripod. The tripod is a constant source of frustration at the range; it adjusts poorly, it's unstable, and it sags. My time is getting more limited at the range, so when I saw this thread, I figured it was time to invest is a nicer tripod.

This was just posted on the EE, and I decided to buy it. I'm a sucker for Swiss engineering, I guess...

4). Admiral Model ST3 Shooter's Tripod. BNIB - never used or mounted. Made by GMC, Switzerland. Fine elevation adjustment knob. All metal/parts construction - not like the Bushnell or other aftermarket copies that are constructed mainly with plastic parts. The ST3 tripod can take the weight of the larger, heavier spotting scopes without the elevation sagging.
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AdmiralGMCModelST3ShootersTripod1.jpg

AdmiralGMCModelST3ShootersTripod3.jpg
 
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