Spotting Scope Accessories

A spotting scope is great on its own but the right accessories make it even better.

Some help keep it steady, others protect it from bumps and bad weather and some let you take photos of what you see.

You do not need to buy everything at once. But knowing what is out there helps you pick up the right things as you go.

A Good Tripod Is Hard To Ignore

If there is one accessory that makes the biggest difference, it is a tripod. Spotting scopes are built for high magnification, which means even a tiny wobble can blur the image.

A solid tripod keeps everything steady, so you can actually enjoy looking at birds, wildlife and distant scenery without the view bouncing around.

Choosing The Right Tripod Head

The tripod head is what controls how your scope moves around. Pan and tilt heads are a popular choice. They let you move the scope smoothly from side to side and up and down. This is really handy when you are following a bird in flight or scanning across a big open area.

Cases And Protective Covers

Spotting scopes tend to go places where the weather does not always play along. A padded case keeps the scope safe when you are carrying it around.

A stay on case does something slightly different. It stays fitted to the scope while you are using it, protecting the body from knocks, muck and light rain without getting in the way.

If you spend a lot of time outside, a protective cover is well worth thinking about.

Digiscoping Adapters

Lots of spotting scope owners get the urge to start photographing what they see and a digiscoping adapter makes that possible.

It attaches your smartphone or camera to the eyepiece, so you can take photos of birds, wildlife and distant scenes without needing a big telephoto lens.

Build Your Kit Over Time

Most people do not buy every accessory on the same day they get their spotting scope and there is no need to.

The better approach is to add things gradually, based on how you actually use your scope. A sturdier tripod, a decent case, a digiscoping adapter.

Each one makes your time in the field a little easier and a little more enjoyable.