Hawke Sport Optics 9-27x56 Nature-Trek Spotting Scope

To get the greatest reach and make tenuous field marks clear at maximum distances, you'll want a premium, large objective, high-powered spotting scope.  But that also requires a good steady tripod, and someone to carry that gear where it's needed.  That's probably why most birders don't carry a scope in the field. 

But birders should know that even a compact scope with magnifications only two or three times greater than your binoculars can open up whole new worlds of viewing.  At 7.6" and just over 20 ounces, the Nature Trek Compact 9-27x56 spotter is close in size and weight to many binoculars.  It can be hand-held through most of it's zoom range, or easily stabiized against your vehicle, a tree, or a bench.  Of course, you'll get the most benefit if you use a compact tripod or car window mount.  The twist-up eyecup accommodates viewers with or without eyeglasses.   Once you start using a spotting scope, you'll want to use it on every visit to the ocean, marsh, lake, ot winter fields. 

Supplied with neoprene stay-on case, the durably-built Nature Trek Compact 9-27x56 spotter offers you fogproof and waterproof optics at an affordable price.