How to Choose a Spotting Scope for Birding and Nature
By District Camera | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: Buying Guides
Learn what to look for in a spotting scope for birding and nature observation, including magnification, objective lens, and straight vs. angled designs.
Quick Answer
For birding and nature observation, choose a spotting scope with 20-40x magnification, a 50-60mm objective lens, and a straight eyepiece for easy target acquisition. The Hawke Nature-Trek 13-39x56 is a lightweight, waterproof option that fits this need.
Magnification: What Range Works Best
For birding and nature observation, magnification typically ranges from 15x to 60x. Lower magnifications (15-30x) give a wider field of view, making it easier to locate birds and follow moving subjects. Higher magnifications (40-60x) let you see fine details like feather patterns, but they also magnify hand shake and atmospheric distortion.
A zoom eyepiece, like the 13-39x on the Hawke Nature-Trek, offers flexibility: start at low power to find the bird, then zoom in for a closer look. This is especially useful for birders who encounter both close and distant subjects.
Objective Lens Size: Light and Size Trade-Off
The objective lens (the front lens) determines how much light enters the scope. A larger lens, such as 56mm, provides brighter images in low-light conditions like dawn and dusk, which are prime birding times. However, bigger lenses also make the scope heavier and bulkier.
The Hawke Nature-Trek 56mm model balances light gathering with portability, being described as 'ultra compact' and 'the size of your hand.' This makes it a good choice for hikers and birders who want to carry a scope without a heavy tripod.
Straight vs. Angled Eyepiece: Which to Choose
Straight spotting scopes have the eyepiece aligned with the barrel, making it easier to locate a subject quickly by sighting along the scope. This is beneficial for birders who watch from a car or who need to track fast-moving birds.
Angled scopes (with a 45-degree eyepiece) are more comfortable for extended viewing, especially when the scope is mounted on a tall tripod, and are preferred for group viewing. For most birding and nature observation, a straight scope like the Hawke Nature-Trek (straight viewing) offers quick aiming and simplicity.
Decision Rules for Choosing a Spotting Scope
- Magnification Range: Choose a scope with a zoom range that includes 20-40x. This covers both wide views for finding birds and close-ups for detail. Avoid scopes that only offer high magnification (over 50x) as they are harder to aim and more affected by shake. Look for a zoom eyepiece, not just a fixed high power.
- Objective Lens Size: Select an objective lens between 50mm and 60mm for a balance of light gathering and portability. Larger lenses (65mm+) are heavier and may require a sturdier tripod. Smaller lenses (under 50mm) are lighter but dimmer in low light. If you plan to bird at dawn or dusk, lean toward the larger end of this range.
- Straight vs. Angled: Choose a straight scope if you need quick target acquisition and will be viewing from a car or standing. Choose an angled scope if you will be viewing for long periods from a tripod, or if you often share the scope with others. For most birding on foot, straight is simpler; for long sessions, angled is more comfortable.
Product Spotlight: Hawke Nature-Trek 13-39x56
- Hawke Sport Optics 13-39x56 Nature-Trek Spotting Scope (Straight Viewing): The Nature-Trek features a Fully Multi-Coated optical system with BAK-4 Porro prisms for clear, sharp images. This means you get bright, high-contrast views even in challenging light, which is crucial for identifying birds at distance.
Hawke Sport Optics 13-39x56 Nature-Trek Spotting Scope (Straight Viewing) - Hawke Sport Optics 13-39x56 Nature-Trek Spotting Scope (Straight Viewing): It offers 13-39x magnification in an ultra-compact 56mm scope with barrel focusing and a twist-up eyepiece. The zoom range covers the most useful magnifications for birding, while the compact size makes it easy to carry in the field.
Who This Scope Fits
Best for
- Birders who want a lightweight, portable scope for hiking and travel
- Nature observers who need a versatile zoom range and quick aiming with a straight eyepiece
Not for
- Birders who require very high magnification (over 40x) for extreme long-distance viewing
- Users who prefer the comfort of an angled eyepiece for prolonged tripod use
