While observing wildlife is brilliant, sometimes it seems hard to get the binoculars in the right position.
“Where can I buy a good spotting scope window mount?” you may be asking yourself.
What many people don’t realize is there are a number of different types of spotting scope mounts, and they’re not all equal. Some will fit your spotting scope better than others, and some offer better features as well.
For example, we have the traditional mounting systems, as well as the newer suction cup and magnetic mounts. We are also aware that some people may want to mount the different kinds toward different directions, so we buy a couple mounts that have both vertical and horizontal adjustment features, which is also important.
We bought 12 different spotting scope window mounts, and we’ll look at each one below.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Gosky 2019 Updated 20-60×80 Spotting Scope | Best Overall |  |
| SOLOMARK Deluxe Vehicles Car Adjustable Window Mount | Budget Pick |  |
| Swarovski Spotting Scope High Definition Glass | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. Gosky 2019 Updated 20-60×80 Spotting Scope
Pros:
- Remote panning and tilting lets you track moving objects with ease thanks to elbow mounts
- Computer-designed prisms give you clear, sharp images that let you see up to 60x magnification
- Waterproof design lets you use the Gosky spotting scope during all weather conditions
- Simply put your smartphone into the clamp and use the phone as a display on top of your spotting scope
- 2 eyepieces with different magnifications allows you to adjust your magnification depending on the distance
- The red objective lens filter tube and prism cap protects the scope from dust and scratches
- Uses the highest quality BAK4 glass lens
Cons:
- A bit difficult to zero in on a target
- The tripod is very lightweight, which can make it hard to manually adjust if it’s windy
If you’re looking for a spotting scope telescope that can help you track moving objects, you should consider purchasing the Gosky 2019 updated 20-60×80.
This Gosky 15×50 telescope features numerous impressive accessories, including a smartphone adapter, a tripod, a soft carry bag, lens covers, a cleaning cloth, and a detailed instruction booklet.
The included smartphone adapter lets you easily connect your Android or iOS smartphone, allowing you to use your smartphone as a display on top of your scope.
2. Nikon 7070 Binocular Window Mount
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Accommodates most binoculars
- Comes with detachable mounting plate
- Allows for quick movement
Cons:
- The plate is not adjustable
- Product is available only in one color
Whether you have been bird watching, nature watching, or star gazing you’ve no doubt seen a natural opportunity to pull out your binoculars and get a closer look. You may even have been disappointed to find that binoculars and spotting scopes are not designed to be mounted. Binoculars and spotting scopes should be mounted to a spotting scope window mount. Fortunately, Nikon has developed the 7070 Binocular/Spotting Scope Window Mount.
The Nikon 7070 Binocular/Spotting Scope Window Mount is a durable, lightweight piece of equipment intended for use where mounting is not possible. This product will hold your binoculars or spotting scopes in the same position as window mounts. This product comes with a mounting plate that will be ideal for mounting heavier items, such as spotting scopes. You can easily remove the mounting plate and mount binoculars onto the mounting head.
3. Swarovski Spotting Scope High Definition Glass
Pros:
- One of the most light weight spotting scopes on the market
- Comes with Tripod
- Fully Multi-Coated HD Optics System
- Waterproof Eyepiece System
- Patent-Pending Shield Protected Objective Lens
- Rubber Armoring Layer
- Quick Focus System
- Double Spring Erector
- 3-9x Objective Lens
The Swarovski DUOLUX 10×42 was designed with the bird enthusiast in mind. They feature fully multi-coated HD optics with a 92% light transmission. They have a double spring erector for a greater amount of magnification. They also have glare and moisture control which is great for a range of activities.
They come with a quick focus system and rubber armoring and stay stable thanks to the rubber armoring. The eye piece has a special waterproof system as well to make it easier to see.
This is one of the top models on the market, and it comes at a very reasonable price. They are high performance glasses with a very stylish look to them. They are available in black, gun metal, olive green, pine, and cherry.
4. BOG SSA
It allows you to attach your scope basically to any tripod mount or window mount by using your existing set up. With the ability to hold up to 14 pounds and for a lower price point than many competitor models. The main selling point is its universal adaptor that slots onto your existing scope mount. It is priced very competitively and remains an excellent option.
You can even use one of the mount adapters to attach your spotting scope to a tripod. This can be an effective way of stabilizing your scope while you are taking longer range shots.
I especially recommend this product for anyone limited to walking around with one arm due to an injury or accident of some kind.
5. Bushnell Spotting Scope Accessory 784405 LARge Black CAR Window Mount Box
Pros:
- Can be used with multiple spotting scopes (not just Bushnell scopes)
- Strong suction cup
- Lightweight
- Easy to mount to any vehicle window (without suction cups)
- Compatible with multiple spotting scopes
- Affordable
Cons:
- Some users report that you have to keep the arm extended all the time (if mounted on a car window)
- The suction cups can pop off when mounted on a car window.
- Not a stand-alone mount, the Bushnell mount is meant to be used with a tripod
Bushnell’s Spotting Scope Accessory makes it simple to mount your favorite spotting scope right to your vehicle window with a strong suction cup. The mount works best on flat, non-porous surfaces like a car window. We’ve found it especially helpful on a car’s back window.
The attached cinch hand grip makes it a cinch to raise or lower the mount to the proper height to get your perfect view and is compatible with most standard spotting scopes, binoculars, or rangefinders.
This is an affordable and simple solution that’s perfect for those who don’t have a permanent stand for their spotting scope.
6. Vortex Optics Car Window Mount
Pros:
- Easy to mount and dismount
- Works with all kinds of scopes.
- Can be used even when driving at highway speeds
Cons:
- Probably not a option for focusing.
This highly portable power strip features three AC and three USB ports, as well as a retractable cord and outlet covers. Many also include a 12A circuit breaker. Digital displays on the strip itself can show how much energy is being used.
The surge protector also has a digital display that shows the number of watts being used on both the main and USB power busses, as well as a spoken….
That means this power supply for Dell computers can absorb up to 6,000 joules of energy, while providing 3-line surge protection that should keep your computer from overheating or suffering power surges.
7. Vanguard PH-304 Window Mount
Pros:
- Includes single clamp and dual clamp options
- Quick clamp mechanism locks your spotting scope in quickly and securely
- Quick release thumb screws for adjustment
- Works with a wide range of Angles of View
Cons:
- Single clamp versions can be difficult to reach to adjust your spotting scope
- Window mounts can be a little front heavy
The Vanguard PH304 spotting scope window clamp mount is the best on the market for spotting scopes. The quick clamp mounts onto the window and the other piece utilises the window and the walls to secure the unit in place.
The adjustment with the quick lock features you can use one thumb to move in small increments until you have the unit just where you want it. The window clamp can support a wide range of spotting scopes by raising the dual clamp. It’s easy to lock with a quick release thumb screw.
It’s easy to mount to your large windows, SUV’s or truck windows in less than a minute and remove in seconds if you’re in a rush. It can easily support a six inch spotting scope and it only weighs about 1 pound.
8. Vortex Optics Diamondback Spotting Scopes
Pros:
- Folds down for easy transport
- Waterproof
- Can be used for hunting or birdwatching
- 36X zoom (20-2000 yards)
- Makes it an excellent tool for a field guide
Cons:
- Can be somewhat heavy without a tripod
- Accuracy has been reported to be less than ideal
The Diamondback by Vortex is a fine example of spotting telescopes in their price range. It is built for an optimal viewing experience. While this is very much built for the outdoorsman, there are not many better options for spotting telescopes in the market of this price.
The Diamondback has great magnification, and it retains excellent eye relief through the focal range. With the zoom of 36x, it really gives you a clear image of all your subjects. The eye relief of 16 mm is great, too. The right side of the barrel contains the tube locks that will prevent any kind of sagging that could occur during prolonged sighting.
This instrument is designed to be multi-purpose, and really does a great job for the price. Everything about it is meant to help you capture the best images of your objects. It is likely that it will be with you for a long time.
9. Bushnell Trophy XLT 20-60x 65mm Waterproof Compact Tripod Spotting Scope
Pros:
- Compact Design
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Tripod Included
- Waterproof Design
- Full Lifetime Warranty
Cons:
- Max Magnification Slightly Below Average
- No Included Flashlight
- Mount Can Be Difficult to Remove
Every sportsman needs a spotting scope, and if you know a hunter who can't wait to get out in the field all next season, they'll probably like this Bushnell Trophy XLT spotting scope.
It offers a 65mm objective lens that will provide a nice, bright image, good resolution, and a range of magnification from 20x to 60x.
The tripod also provides a level for enhanced accuracy. While some tripods might collapse or fail at higher levels of magnification, this one was built to handle up to 10x magnification. Bushnell has never failed at making quality products that will last, and this is no exception.
10. VANGUARD VEO2PH-28WM Metal Window Mount
Pros:
- Arca compatible
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
(28-45mm)
11. Gosky Adjustable Vehicle Car Window Mount
Pros:
- Fits binoculars and scopes with a focal length up to 16 inches
- Its 12-inch length arm has quick and easy 10-turn adjustment knob
- The super heavy-duty design is built for heavy-duty use
- Can be used with lenses with or without lens covers
- The manufacturer also offers amazing customer service
- The best bang for the buck
Cons:
- May not fit all vehicles
- No instructions included
The Gosky Adjustable Vehicle Car Window Mount – Binocular / Spotting Scope / Monocular / Telescope Holder for SUV, Car, Ford, Chrysler and Rain Guards is a universal car window mount perfect for spotting scopes.
It has a heavy-duty mounting base with a universal clip, and a long 12-inch arm that can hold binoculars and scopes with a focal length up to 16 inches.
With the Gosky Adjustable Vehicle Car Window Mount, you can finally put your long eye weapon away in stop and go traffic.
12. Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope
Pros:
- Price
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Excellent customer reviews
Cons:
- Limited to the Bushnell spotting scope only
- You feel your feet shaking when you hold it
- Lenses can be hard to keep clean
As your precious child gets older, you will want to take them to the carnival, the zoo, or perhaps even out into the wilderness. Planning to do this with your newly born baby is just a fantastic thought. You want to do this right. Not only for them, but for yourself as well.
There are two ways that you can go when planning a trip with your child, and either way will be an adventure. When you are planning your trip, you will want to think about it long and hard. You will also want to ask yourself a lot of questions.
Do I want to bring an expensive optic along for the ride, or do I just want to use my standard binoculars or plain old spotting scope? Choosing between one of these two options is the most important thing that you are going to have to decide.
13. Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope 82mm Angled Body
Pros:
- Easy to mount
- Telescopes easily
Cons:
- No eye piece or caps
- Can reflect bright sunlight
A spotting scope is a practical item to have if you go hunting, bird watching, or even hiking. They are very useful any time you’re looking at objects that are far away.
Spotting scopes are used to view far away objects thanks to the magnification they offer. This particular model from Nikon is available at various magnifications ranging from 20x to 60x. A desirable spotting scope can be useful for watching birds in flight.
The scope offers a magnification factor of 82x. The 42mm objective lens and a huge 82-millimeter lens will allow you to view far off objects fairly clearly.
14. BARSKA Benchmark Waterproof Straight Spotting Scope
Pros:
- Better than Tripod
- Compact, Quick-Change Mount
- Very Cheap
- Able to Fit Any Spotting Scope
- Very Inexpensive
- By Adjusting the Leg Fork you can get different angles of view
- Measures 4.5 by 2 by 2 inches
- Simple to Set Up
Cons:
- Does Bolt Together
- Some say you can shoot through your window and blind somebody
- Scopes are too long for mounts and fall over
- Rubber Legs
- Takes too much work to set up
So I did some research to find the best spotting scopes mounts that actually work. I found some of the most common available mounts. I checked the ratings, and I chose 5 that would "actually" work, and I tested them out.
I put together a simple video of a quick overview of what I tried and the results. You can see the summary now and also read the post on my iwatchgeek website. I also resolved to keep my eye out for others that might be better, so please let me know if you find one. I use my spotting scope so often and would love to have the ultimate mount!
15. Opticron Car Window Mount
Pros:
- Easy to use and install
- Can be used with any spotting scope
- Bubble level indicator
The opticron window adapter is a simple and cheap way to mount your spotting scope to your car window. The simple design is easily installed and helps keep moisture out of the window thanks to its foam seal.
The bubble level indicator can also be very useful during your hunt. It can help you find the best angle to look through your scope. The adapter will fit to just about any window and on any kind of spotting scope that needs a window mount.
16. BARSKA Car Window Mount
Pros:
- Well-suited for cars without a roof-rack (less friction)
- Easy to attach
- Clip is well made (durable)
- Relatively lightweight
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Could be more secure
- Will not fit thicker window sills
The Barska Universal Car Window Mount is a really great way to get your telescope onto your car. Of course, you will need to have a car with a relatively clean window for this to work. The Barska Cosmos 750 is a mid-to-high-end mid-sized backyard telescope that has many rave reviews. If you have a big telescope, you should be using a roof mount.
This mount clips onto the window securely. It uses an O-ring that fits snugly onto the metal of the telescope or binoculars. It’s easy to attach and remove.
There is a lot of padding on the clip to make sure you don’t damage your window.
17. SOLOMARK Deluxe Vehicles Car Adjustable Window Mount
Pros:
- Fully Adjustable
- Attaches to any window or glass surface
- Works on any size vehicle window
- Keeps your scope in place
- Sturdy and Durable
- Built with quality strong metal
Cons:
- Requires extra setup
- Instruction was hard to understand
- Takes up a lot of space
- Size is fixed
ABC Products SOLOMARK Deluxe Vehicles Car Adjustable Window Mount for Spotting Scope Big Binoculars is amazing. I’ve used this mount with other scopes and binoculars so I can attest to its versatility. This mount also comes with other screw pieces that allow you to attach to studs in the wall or ceiling if needed. I know you probably don’t have studs set up in your vehicle, but it’s good to know that if you ever want to start looking outside your vehicle, you’ll hopefully have the right piece for the job.
This mount has two arms that you can adjust manually to fit any window or glass surface. The combination of the mount and the two adjustable arms make sure to hold your scope in place.
18. Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Angled Eyepiece Spotting Scope
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Lightweight
- Rugged, yet ergonomic
The Vanguard Endeavor HD is one of the best and most used spotting scopes available. The 82A is the angled eyepiece model, offering versatility and a multitude of benefits in the field, while still delivering an impressive amount of detail.
The Endeavor HD 82A features Vanguard’s HD lenses which are an impressive 20% larger than those on the 82. While the words sharp, crisp and vibrant may not be in the everyday vocabulary of the hunter, it does make a huge difference. And this is where this scope excels.
Throw in the fully multi-coated lenses, and you have a scope that will deliver far brighter images than its competition. Even in poor weather you will experience superior light transmission. Add a little extra distance and you’ll be able to see the other side of the field.
19. Leupold SX-1 Ventana 2 20-60x80mm Spotting Scope
If you're looking for an option for your spotting scope, then there's a new one from Leupold that will be perfect for you. The Ventana 2 is an updated version of the Ventana that the company released back in 2016, but it's had a few tweaks and improvements.
The Ventana was so successful that Leupold decided to re-release it as the Ventana 2, which is a spotting scope window mount. The Ventana 2 has broader field stops, which allow the user to zoom in to around 60x and still see a very wide field of view. The user can then when zooming out, the lens will stop at an even wider field of view.
The Ventana 2 comes with a 20-60x, 80mm objective lens, weighing in at 20 lbs., and has a fixed 4.5" eye relief. The Ventana 2 is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
20. Vortex Optics Diamondback Spotting Scopes
Pros:
- Folds down for easy transport
- Waterproof
- Can be used for hunting or birdwatching
- 36X zoom (20-2000 yards)
- Makes it an excellent tool for a field guide
Cons:
- Can be somewhat heavy without a tripod
- Accuracy has been reported to be less than ideal
The Diamondback by Vortex is a fine example of spotting telescopes in their price range. It is built for an optimal viewing experience. While this is very much built for the outdoorsman, there are not many better options for spotting telescopes in the market of this price.
The Diamondback has great magnification, and it retains excellent eye relief through the focal range. With the zoom of 36x, it really gives you a clear image of all your subjects. The eye relief of 16 mm is great, too. The right side of the barrel contains the tube locks that will prevent any kind of sagging that could occur during prolonged sighting.
This instrument is designed to be multi-purpose, and really does a great job for the price. Everything about it is meant to help you capture the best images of your objects. It is likely that it will be with you for a long time.
21. Leupold Window Mount
Pros:
- These mounts can be used on the best spotting scopes and binoculars available
- Strong, durable and reliable
- Double locking mechanism on the firmly snap fit design will keep your gear in place
- Can be used with golf carts
Cons:
- Requires a larger window space
- May need to be longer to fit specific models
Are you looking for a spotting scope window mount that “cradles” you binoculars?
The Leupold patent-pending design features a custom rubberized cradle with a secure locking system. Their unique design allows you to easily and quickly adjust to the angle you need, and it accommodates nearly all binoculars and spotting scopes.
The Leupold window mount for spotting scopes and binoculars doesn’t grab a large piece of your window frame or your vehicle since it is an actual cradle.
22. Swarovski Optik Window Mount
Pros:
- Securely attaches and detaches the spotting scope from any window
- Window mounts can be clunky and awkward; this one was designed to be smooth and secure
- Available in both vertical and horizontal positions
If you’re using a spotting scope to hunt, this product is a must have. The "win mount" is perfect for anyone, but will be especially helpful to those who want to stay one step ahead of the game.
Instead of putting in a big investment on expensive binoculars, you can use this system from Swarovski. It features laser engraved numbering and simple yet powerful pressure on.
It can be directly mounted on window without the need of an extra travel case. The secure latch and the double safety lock make it easy to set up and use.
23. Vanguard Endeavor XF Angled Eyepiece Spotting Scope
Pros:
- Price
- Quality: Vanguard has a reputation for creating high-quality spotting scopes, and the Endeavor XF is no exception
- Fits most spotting scopes out there
- Excellent build quality and materials
Cons:
- The included allen wrench is a bit too short
- The locking mechanism for the lever can be a pain and might require some oil to get working smoothly
The Vanguard Endeavor XF eyepiece viewfinder mount is made of aluminum, weighs just 2.2 ounces, and comes in the color black. This eyepiece mount is readily compatible with a variety of spotting scopes, including spotting scopes made by other manufacturers.
This angled mount holds the eyepiece with a 50mm prime lens that can be adjusted to an angle of 30 degrees upwards, thus allowing you to easily spot down from your window.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best spotting scope on the market?
If you can afford it, the Nikon 80-400mm is the best spotting scope on the market. You can also check out Nikon out for a zoom that is their top of the line.
How good is a 20 60×60 spotting scope?
It depends on the brand of spotting scopes. Some spotting scopes are just okay and others are quite good. The 60x60mm refers to the lens size which makes a big difference in quality. The higher this number is, the more light the scope can transmit which is a key factor in image quality. If you look through a scope that doesn’t let in enough light, you’ll see the image as dark and fuzzy.
How big of a spotting scope do I need?
When hunting with a spotting scope, the size of the target will determine what’s ideal for your needs. A 6-7 power scope is the most common and most practical size. You won’t need anything longer than this for hunting.
The other common choice is a 10×42 binocular. This combination will give you a wider field of view and will be easier to scan the horizon.
If you’re backpacking, you may want to keep your spotting scope to a compact size. There are a variety of smaller sizes you can choose between the two.
Is a spotting scope worth it?
To be honest, I didn’t think I needed a spotting scope. I have a pair of binoculars I sometimes use for bird watching, but that’s about it.
A spotting scope, however, is a very different kind of animal. With binoculars, you have to hold the optic up to your eye in order to see properly. You can’t let it rest on a window or you’ll get a bad view. A spotting scope, on the other hand, is meant to be rested on a window or table with a sturdy adapter and that’s why it’s better for outdoor viewing. The larger lens is also easier to handle than a pair of binoculars when you’re trying to zoom in and out quickly.
Conclusion
There aren’t too many scopes that come with a tripod, which is fine because most folks prefer a window mount. After all, a window mount retains much of its functionality, and they are the most popular by far. Most people use them on lighter pieces of equipment like spotting scopes, digital cameras, and video cameras.
This guide will go over the pros and cons of this kind of mount, and also give you a quick guide on how to install your tripod if you haven’t done so already.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Gosky 2019 Updated 20-60×80 Spotting Scope | Best Overall | |
| SOLOMARK Deluxe Vehicles Car Adjustable Window Mount | Budget Pick | |
| Swarovski Spotting Scope High Definition Glass | Upgrade Pick | |