Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope 20-60x85 Angled

Curated from 77 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: January 20, 2025

Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope 20-60x85 Angled

Brand: Vortex
Price: $899
Snoop Score:
7.6
Sentiment
8.5
Popularity
9.0
Technical
6.0

Snoop's Take

The Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope 20-60x85 Angled is a high-performance optical instrument designed for birdwatching, hunting, and long-distance viewing. With advanced features like HD optical systems and a robust build, this spotting scope offers exceptional clarity and durability for outdoor enthusiasts. Consumer sentiment around the Viper HD is largely positive, with many users praising its optical quality and ergonomic design. Quotes such as "Whoa is this worth it guys!?!?" highlight the perceived value for money, while others appreciate the "no-fault warranty" that Vortex provides. Users report it as a great starting point for spotting scopes, saying, "I'd generally go vortex because of their warranty and I've had good luck with their products." Overall, the Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope is highly recommended for its category, especially for those looking for quality optics without breaking the bank. Despite some concerns regarding older models, the general consensus is that this spotting scope delivers solid performance and great value.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Spotting Scopes

Super clear and soak up light during twilight.

Positive Feedback

It’s definitely the previous Gen from 2017, but it’s weird that they’re still out there brand new for being such an old model, which makes me think they had issues or something.

Negative Feedback
Product
7.6
Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope 20-60x85 Angled
Bird Watching
9 / 10
Target Shooting & Hunting
9 / 10
Wildlife Viewing
8 / 10
Astronomy & Scenery
8 / 10
See how this compares to all Spotting Scopes

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
High-quality optics for the price
Super clear and soak up light during twilight.
I think the zoom really depends on your birding preferences- I love gulls, so the extra zoom is fantastic for me, but it's not necessary for everyone haha
When i read the descriptions of tripods online, they all claim theyre lightweight and sturdy, but im not sure whay brands i can trust as im completely new to tripods a d scopes.
I went with the Vortex Mountain Pass. It's lightweight enough for me and it's sturdy.
Excellent warranty support
I like vortex for their no-fault warranty as I don't plan to baby it, so to speak.
Vortex will always back their gear and fix it free of charge.
they do have to pay for shipping.
Vortex is a recommended starting brand
Can't advise directly on the scopes but I asked several spotters and they consistently suggested Vortex brand as the right place to start and Swarovski as the upgrade.
I have heard Vortex is a good starting brand too and they have one at my price point.
Great value for quality optics
Whoa is this worth it guys!?!? Been looking at spotting scopes the last few days but I don’t got the swaro money.
Vortex recommended for warranty and quality
I'd generally go vortex because of their warranty and I've had good luck with their products, so I'd say go with vortex.
Good value for the price
They are well made and good for the price (not msrp though).
Solid performance for long-range use
Overall though I think it’s a super solid buy for your first spotting scope.
Angled design offers ergonomic benefits
Angled is more ergonomic imo. Plus it’s easier to transition from looking to writing down notes.
Straight makes for easier picking up of the target at first. Angled takes a bit more work, but not hard.
I would suggest angled. And you will want a bipod or tripod and a good mount to prevent motion sicknesses.
Build quality and optical performance
if your budget allows, get the Viper HD - you *Will* notice a significant difference between the two and it's a sweet optical system.
Good clarity at high magnification
Interested in it because its slightly lighter and at 45x, diamondback should be transmitting more light, in theory.
Vortex is a recommended brand for spotting scopes
The question is, though: is 33x even worth dropping the cash and hauling it around?
Most places would be fine with the 10x binos, but depending on the terrain you may want the additional magnification.
Spotting scopes are worth it for long-distance viewing
It seems sensible to figure out what magnification you need and then buy the scope with the lowest weight and largest objective within your budget.
Good performance for target shooting
I have a Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 which I quite like.

Where it needs some work!

Areas to watch—feedback on possible improvements.
Concerns about older model issues
It’s definitely the previous Gen from 2017, but it’s weird that they’re still out there brand new for being such an old model, which makes me think they had issues or something.
Perceived lower quality compared to competitors
Vortex is the Kia of glass. Great warranty, you’ll need it.
Lack of reviews showing actual views through the scope
I'm in the market for a spotting scope for up to 300y bench shooting.
Vortex may not offer the best glass quality compared to competitors
Spotting scope is for judging game, not for glassing.

Compare On All Talked About Dimensions

Product NameImagePriceScoreCompareSee DetailsBuy Now
WOSPORTS 25-75x85 Spotting ScopeWOSPORTS 25-75x85 Spotting Scope$159
8.5
DetailsBuy
SVBONY SV28 Spotting ScopeSVBONY SV28 Spotting Scope$47
7.6
DetailsBuy
Vortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope 20-60x85 AngledVortex Optics Viper HD Spotting Scope 20-60x85 Angled$899
7.6
DetailsBuy
Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting ScopeGosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scope$130
7.4
DetailsBuy
Aurosports 25-75X80 Spotting ScopeAurosports 25-75X80 Spotting Scope$149
7.2
DetailsBuy
Nexiview 25-75x80 HD Spotting ScopeNexiview 25-75x80 HD Spotting Scope$169
6.9
DetailsBuy
Sfeoot 25-75x60 Spotting ScopeSfeoot 25-75x60 Spotting Scope$49
6.8
DetailsBuy
Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85 Spotting ScopeAthlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope$289
6.5
DetailsBuy
opaita 25-75X80 Spotting Scope for Shooting and Huntingopaita 25-75X80 Spotting Scope for Shooting and Hunting$139
6.4
DetailsBuy
Sfeoot Spotting Scope 25-75x80 HD with Tripod and Phone HolderSfeoot Spotting Scope 25-75x80 HD with Tripod and Phone Holder$105
6.3
DetailsBuy
Three Triping Spotting Scope for Bird WatchingThree Triping Spotting Scope for Bird Watching$106
6.2
DetailsBuy
Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Spotting ScopeVortex Optics Crossfire HD Spotting Scope$199
5.8
DetailsBuy
Gosky Spotting Scope, 20-60x60Gosky Spotting Scope, 20-60x60$81
5.6
DetailsBuy
SVBONY SV28 25-75x70 Spotting ScopeSVBONY SV28 25-75x70 Spotting Scope$59
5.5
DetailsBuy
GUANIEE 25-75x80 Spotting ScopeGUANIEE 25-75x80 Spotting Scope$129
5.4
DetailsBuy
YUANZIMOO 25-75 X 60 Spotting ScopeYUANZIMOO 25-75 X 60 Spotting Scope$49
5.3
DetailsBuy
BARSKA Colorado Spotting ScopeBARSKA Colorado Spotting Scope$34
5.1
DetailsBuy
SVBONY SV41Pro 80mm Mak Spotting ScopeSVBONY SV41Pro 80mm Mak Spotting Scope$179
5.0
DetailsBuy
Bushnell Trophy Xtreme 20-60x65mm Spotting ScopeBushnell Trophy Xtreme 20-60x65mm Spotting Scope$179
5.0
DetailsBuy
IBQ Spotting Scope 20-60x85MMIBQ Spotting Scope 20-60x85MM$119
4.5
DetailsBuy
WOZEL 25-75X80 Spotting ScopeWOZEL 25-75X80 Spotting Scope$159
4.4
DetailsBuy
NWDEY 25-75X60 Spotting ScopeNWDEY 25-75X60 Spotting Scope$62
4.4
DetailsBuy
Emarth 20-60x60AE Spotting ScopeEmarth 20-60x60AE Spotting Scope$65
3.6
DetailsBuy
Bushnell 781545ED Legend T-Series Spotting ScopeBushnell 781545ED Legend T-Series Spotting Scope$539
3.6
DetailsBuy

Core Power Plays

The specs and strengths that make it shine.
Discussion on different spotting scope brands
I just want to pick a good one already 😝
Discussion about field of view in spotting scopes
I am having lots of fun with it, but am feeling like the field of view seems like it’s just a little bit smaller than I would like.
No spotting scope is going to have a wide field of view and even between brands I would expect similar numbers due to the construction of the devices.
Comparison of spotting scope models and specifications
I think it’s been hard to truly assess the scope I bought because the lighting has been pretty poor in the two weeks I’ve had the scope.
Discussion on the importance of clarity over magnification
Clarity is much more important than magnification.
Discussion about choosing a spotting scope based on quality glass
Everything I've read says gotta go with quality glass at 500 and beyond.

Hidden Hero Hacks

Unexpected tricks and side‑door uses you’ll love.
Experience with different spotting scopes as a seller
If you want a much wider FOV, I would look elsewhere

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
Discussion on spotting scopes for different purposes
Its time to upgrade, looking at the Vortex Vipers.
If i had $2000 in my pocket and wanted a spotting scope for all round use (including backpack hunting) I’d choose the Vortex Razor Gen 1 and put the extra $1300 toward ammo, maybe some lighter equipment to offset a few ounces, and get the wife somethin nice.
Almost every day we shoot we spot shots on paper for a couple of guns. Then switch to shots on steel. Nothing better than hearing the steel ring!
For spotting on steel at distance I prefer binos. If your looking for holes in paper spotting scope might be better.
Discussion on magnification needs
A 15-45 is at 15x for 99% of the time.
I've considered looking around for pro deals!
What are you expecting to see from that distance with a spotting scope?
Discussion on tripod options for spotting scopes
Lightweight aluminum you will not have as solid a tripod as the big heavier ones usually are.
You don't really need an expensive carbon fiber unless you're planning to hike long distances with it.
I mostly do shorter hikes, so I don't need anything SUPER light weight, but fairly light would be preferable.
I’ve been looking at getting the same one.
Discussion on renting scopes and pricing options
There is a store in West Yellowstone that rents scopes in a variety of price ranges.
Discussion on pricing of spotting scopes
the specs are basically the same with the $750 model actually having better eye relief.
Says I can pick one up today just 20 minutes away.
Advice on budget scopes and recommendations
I’ll be using the spotting scope out to 200-300 yards which is admittedly not long range.
Spend the money on a better scope and buy splatter targets.
This is not the way. You will be hard pressed to see holes on a paper target at 200 yard and beyond, even with a 60x spotting scope, and especially with a lower tier spotting scope.
I have actually had great luck with the Cabelas Intensity 20-60x80mm. Use it regularly at 1300 yards and film through it.
Discussion on magnification needs for target shooting
Most of my events are shot at 70m (77y) and occasionally at 90m (99y).
Most folks use an angled eyepiece spotter.
Biggest issue these days is airline baggage weight when traveling, which is why I'm looking this direction.
Haven’t looked through a razor so I can only comment on the Hummingbird.
Discussion on choosing between Viper and Razor models
Vortex spotting scope Viper or save for Razor? I want to shoot out to 1000 and see my 22 holes and 200
A lot of people saying that you should get the more expensive one. I disagree and here’s more knowledgeable people telling you why.
Need for budget considerations in spotting scopes
The Automod thinks this might be a post asking for scope advice. If so, please read the Great Deals!
Discussion on alternative scopes like Bushnell
Most importantly it has a mil-hash reticle so I can *actually* spot and give useful corrections.
Interest in the Vortex Razor model
I’m absolutely in love with the scope.
Inquiries about pricing and models of spotting scopes
Been looking for a decent spotting scope that won’t severely break the bank.
Preference for angled vs straight spotting scopes
the angled is the most popular choice but I'm picturing myself in the bush and the straight one just seems easier to hold and use without setting up a bipod.
Comparison of different Vortex models
What's your purpose for the scopes? What are you trying to accomplish and at what distances?
With all that in mind, any larger scope is only going to be practical at the range, in a blind, or in a vehicle.
Debate over the role of spotting scopes versus binoculars
I never really saw anything :/, and I'm wondering if having that spotting scope would help me pick out bedded elk better like I see done all the time by amateurs and pro's on youtube.
General inquiry about spotting scopes and user experiences
What Spotting Scopes is everyone using? I'm looking to buy a nice spotting scope for long range shooting and was wondering what everyone used.
I would like to know this as well. Tanks for posting.

You May Also Like

Explore more Categories
Slingshots
Top Slingshots for Outdoor Shooting and Hunting
Top Slingshots for Outdoor Shooting and Hunting