I deer hunt mainly open plains area.Been thinking spotting scope would be an alternate route of stalk hunting.Anyone else using this method?Was recommened by Optics Planet that Celestron Ultima80 model 52254 in a 20-60X80 would be a good choice for my needs and comes with an 18mm eye relief.Anyone familiar with this model or have one that works well for you?Appreciate any input.Never used one.Im off for weekend.Thanks in advance.

Plainsdrifter:

I don't have much spotting scope knowledge, but I just bought a Nikon Sky and Earth in 20x60x8mm. (on sale from CameralandNY for $350, excellent price) While it is a very good scope for the money, it was a mistake. It is too big and clunky for normal hunting use. My personal rec is to buy a smaller objective.

I've been carrying one now for nearly thirty years and have used virtually all of them. Like all optics you get what you pay for and bigger is usually better in the pure optical sense but a hunter need to carry them. My preference as a guide in Alaska is the 12x40 Leupold, due to it's light weight, durability and optics. If you are just starting the the smaller Leupold 15x30 is very good optically, very tough and much cheaper. there are a lot of good optics and even more piss poor ones. i recommend Leupold as they are build by hunters - for hunters and their guarantee is second to none and if you don't like it they sell well.