Leupold Gold Ring Compact Spotting Scope 15-30x50mm

My hunts consist of heavy loads and heavier loads. I’ve used two different scopes, this one and a Minox 11-33×50. Optic quality is superior as my Leupold 10×42’s. Minox was crap compared to this. This feels about 2/3rds the weight of the Minox.Haven’t used the vortex equivalent of this scope, however, in my experience with Vortex is that they put their money into marketing. Those who know, buy Leupold because they know that Leupold puts there bottom line on the product instead of the marketing of the product. Ive used Nikon, Vortex and Leupold optics, extensively. Purchase after purchase, I’ve never gone wrong with Leupold.This scope is light, easy to focus with a nice R hand knob on the side. Also, because the screw hole for the tripod is mounted forward you can screw your Bino adapter into this scope directly or use the included adapter to mount without on any tripod at a 90 deg. angle. Gives you options for weight savings.Price is better on this too, over Vortex.

Value for money! Good clear detailed view @ 200 yards. I live by a shipping lane. I could read ships’ name on the bow +1 mile away! Clear viewing during twilight hrs. Tripod is a must. Without a tripod (or a rest) it is very difficult to view objects at a distance. Zoom function is good and fine tuning dial is sensitive. Compact and light and easy to carry. It comes with a soft carry case. I purchased it for hunting but I have not yet used it for hunting. Leupold provides good customer service!

Normally, I’ll wait for a few months experience before posting a review. In this case, I was frustrated researching this, as there’s little to go on. So here are some initial impressions, I’ll update as experience grows.The carton comes with the scope, a neck strap and tripod adapter in addition to a belt mountable carry bag. The scope is lightweight enough, you can use the strap and wear like a binocular. Subjectively, it feels about the same weight as 10×42 binocs as well.Lightweight enough, it’s practical to throw in a backpack when you need more than binoculars can provide. Even if you have concerns it’s not enough magnification, consider this is easy enough to carry, you likely will. I think there my be times you will be happy you did.For lower light tests, I like to look at tree silhouettes during the 30min +/- sunset or sunrise. When the scope brings out details in the trees, such as birds or bark, you know it’s probably good glass. (Bad glass you end up looking at a magnified view of the silhouette). For the size it’s doing a pretty good job.I will eventually get this to the range, but for now was looking around the neighborhood. Was able to see screw heads on the sides/roofs of homes at 300 yds during daylight.I wear glasses, along with contact lenses, this is acceptable eye relief regardless of zoom setting. One must fold down/up the eye cup for best results.Likely you may be wondering if there’s enough “x”es in the zoom. I think the answer is easily yes for a 30 cal round out to 400 yds, even with less than perfect eyesight. The clarity and resolving power does compensate. with more contrast and detail. I would think I could pick out a button buck at 100 yds reliably, for example. Add to that less “x” usually means less shake so even hand holding (braced up against a pack) is probably practical, if tripods are a problem. I feel I could employ this much quicker in a spot and stalk situation, where you might have to determine if the antlers are long enough, for example.I think this is a pragmatic choice for a highly mobile spot and stalk hunter, and should be fine for most sighting in tasks at the range.

I’ve owned and used some cheap spotting scopes, so I know what “cheap” is. This one doesn’t fit that category. It’s definitely not a high-end Zeiss, but it’s not a low-dollar Bushnell either. It’s probably the best scope for the money. And, it’s made in the USA. I like the light weight, and it mounts well to my tripod. You can unfold the rubber eye cup, or leave it down for use with eyeglasses. The focus is probably the one thing I wish was easier. It’s very abrupt. But, once you get it focused for your eye, it stays put. I found the glass to be very clear for a 400-500 dollar spotting scope. So far, I’ve used it for everything from long range rifle shooting to star gazing. And, its got that unbeatable Leupold warranty. It comes with a great padded soft case and carry strap. I didn’t get a $2,000 Zeiss for $450, but I’m satisfied that I easily got my money’s worth.