I just bought a used Leupold 12X-40X 60mm Golden Ring spotting scope and need some advice on a good tripod for the bench and clamp for my truck window. I might use the tripod some in the field but I don't think I need a tripod more that 12" high. I've learned the value of a good tripod but when I tried to shop on line for one the variety available is so overwhelming and the differences in price so vast I decided to seek some advice. I don't mine paying for quality but don't want to throw it away.

OK comrade shooter, I'm not getting any feedback so I'm leaning towards a Leupold compact four stop tripod just because it looks durable and I've never been disappointed with Leupold customer service. Anybody tried one?

For a window clamp "tripod" I have used the Bushnell one with excellent results.

For a field tripod, that is light weight and packable I use another Bushnell that is very lightweight.

I have had both of these for several years so I do not know if they are still made.

My "field" spotting scope is a Leupold 25X with a Mill Dot reticle in it.

I really like it, but I do wish it was 20x.

Of all the spotting scopes I have used for hunting, the best one was the Leupold 12x-40x that you have.

Being able to dial down to 12x is an asset on many days.

Have you taken a look at the Vortex Shooting Stand?

gr8fuldgoug,
Dang! I just ordered the Leupold with a min. height of 15", and it's probably too high. Maybe I can still cancel the order. I didn't stumble on the Vortex which shopping. Thanks for the tip.

It happens to be a very nice unit

With regards a spotting scope support for use on the bench, by far the best style I have used is similar to below



I've not so much talking about the central column or the "head", but the "feet"...This arrangement allows the scope to as close as possible to the rifle and the "stand" doesn't get in the way like the legs of a traditional tripod.

Edited to add the pic below for a more modern version:



Other than that, the Clamp style stand that Sinclair sells looks pretty good, but I think I'd rather have a stand thats moveable on the bench..

Tripod I use on my spotting scope is a commercial photo studio rig for 70mm medium format cameras.

It's solid alum. channel, w/ cast alum. head, heavy duty, well engineered, and simple to use.

Having worked in a photo studio with "real tripods" I've learned that most of the crap on the retail market are toys.

Found it in a commercial photo equip. resale shop for about $100, ten years ago.

Surveyors supplies have decent tripods too.