What is a decent entry-level spotting scope for high power rifle competition?

I shot through a CMP high-power training course this weekend. I enjoyed it, but was a little intimidated by the cost. Outside of the gun, it appeared the spotting scope would be the highest cost. I would probably be shooting mostly 2-300 yards, maybe the occasional 600 yards, with an AR. [...]

High power scopes for prairie dogs?

Well my previous question received answers that made me think more about the root cause of my problems, so I figure I want to discuss that here and see what feedback I get.
I went out prairie dog hunting with a .17HMR, .223 rem, and .204 ruger, with the scopes being respectively a Scheels 4.5-14×42, a [...]

Viewing Wollves and Elk in Yellowstone High Country

Wolves observed a mile away in the high country by the Yellowstone Association Wolf Course on Oct 4, 2009. I used a 70x zoom camcorder which is similar to the optical magnification of spotting scopes. “Big Blaze” is the black wolf in the center of the frame. He later moves off to the right. A [...]

Alpen Birding Scope Receives High Praise

I just love reading Consumer Reports or other similar publications that pit products in the same price class or same product category versus one another. It’s completely intriguing to me.  An exhaustive amount of research is done by scientists, engineers, product experts, and industry enthusiasts.  Every product is put through the same scientifically comprehensive performance [...]