Spotting scopes are perfect for long distance viewing. Used in multiple situations such as hunting, observation and even target mapping, spotting scopes are one of the must-have additions to a hunter’s or any wilderness explorer’s backpack. They come in various shapes, sizes and price ranges. The Celestron Ultima Spotting Scope is a budget device which can perform well beyond expectations. Users have positive experiences in almost every Celestron Ultima 80 Spotting Scope review which speaks to the quality of this device.
Celestron 52250 80mm Ultima Zoom Sport-view Spotting Scope Review with Detail Features
Durable and Easy to Use
The Celestron Ultima is a well-built device which can be used easily in rugged conditions. The 18 inch long 3.6 pound device is sleek and does not take up too much space in your bag. The device comes with a padded soft casing with zippers on both ends. This allows the device to be attached to a tripod without removing the casing. This provides additional security when the scope is not in use. The rugged nature of the device is perfect for even harsh environments and it is also waterproof.
Clear, Brighter, Sharper Imagery
The achromatic objective lens used in this device is made of quality materials. This refractor-type scope has very good light transmission capabilities, which is a result of the multiple layered anti-reflection coatings on the objective lens and also the zoom eyepiece. The prisms (BAK 4) are also coated with the same material to minimize any loss of incident light. This helps in enhancing the brightness and the clarity of the spotting scope better than its similarly-priced competitors.
Zooming Up to 60X
Outdoor activities such as hunting require a spotting lens that can be zoomed smoothly without any problems and retains image clarity up to almost its full zooming ability. The zooming lens of the Celestron Ultima 80 is capable of zooming from a mere 20X up to a massive 60X magnification and can be handled with ease. The zooming knob is very smooth and a few turns can quickly transfer you from a 20X magnification to up to a 60X magnified object with ease without losing clarity or sharpness of the object.
Angled Eyepiece and Camera Attachment
This device comes both in angled and non-angled versions. The 45° angle is perfect for observation and the rubber eye cap covers a “T-thread” which is there for attachments and extensions such as a camera. The angular eyepiece also helps when you opt to stand and use a shorter tripod or when you often have to shift from spotting scope to your camera or rifle scope.
Lots of Options for Tripods
The Celestron Ultima 80 is a very flexible device and contains a tripod fitting suitable for a number of tripod stands in the market. The advantage of buying a tripod separately is that you can choose one according to your usage. Since different activities and uses require different types of positions (for example, standing / sitting), being able to attach this device to different tripod attachments really offers you flexibility.
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PROS:
- This device sports a brilliant 20X to 60X zoom standard for a variety of uses.
- The build and quality of the device ensures its stability in rugged conditions.
- Multi layered anti-reflection optics offer sharp and bright images even in low light conditions.
- Easy to use and smooth zooming function.
- Compatible with a variety of tripods.
CONS:
- The magnification beyond 20X may give rise to chromatic aberration (blue fringing) but quality and sharpness of the images remains unaffected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q) Can this spotting scope be used for watching the sun?
A) Yes, but it needs an additional solar filter for watching the sun. Without a solar filter it may damage the optics as well as your eyes.
Q) Is it available in straight scope or angled scope versions?
A) It is available in both straight scope and an angled version which offers a 45 degree angle.
Q) Can this be used as astronomical scope?
A) Although you can look at stars and moons, using the Ultima 80 as an astronomical device is not recommended because of the difference in the mechanisms. Spotting scopes are not made for astronomical purposes.
Final Verdict
The Celestron Ultima 80 Spotting Scope review provided above speaks for itself, and outlines the features and the flexibility this device possesses. From a usage viewpoint, a spotting scope within this price range with such good imagery and sharpness while magnifying is hard to come by. The build quality and the ease of use make it a brilliant accessory to have for both pros and beginners alike. If you are looking for a spotting scope that is of respectable quality and also is budget friendly, this device is definitely worth considering.
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For a few other Top Shooting Spotting Scope reviews, read the Best Shooting Spotting Scopes Review and Buying Guide.
