Bushnell Forge 20-60x80 Spotting Scope
Introduction
The Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope has made a significant mark in the world of optics, designed for serious outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike. Manufactured by Bushnell, a brand known for its quality optics, this spotting scope falls under the category of high-performance spotting scopes, intended for activities such as birdwatching, hunting, and long-distance observation. With its impressive zoom capabilities and advanced lens technology, the Bushnell Forge is built to deliver exceptional performance in various lighting conditions.
Product Appearance and Design
The Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 sports a rugged yet sleek appearance, finished in a striking Terrain color. Its matte finish helps reduce glare and ensures it blends seamlessly into natural environments. The scope features a durable body constructed from high-quality materials, making it both lightweight and robust. One unique aspect of its design is the 45-degree angled eyepiece, which allows for comfortable viewing angles, especially during long observation sessions. The scope also includes a sliding sunshade to minimize glare and improve visibility in bright conditions.
Key Features and Specifications
- Magnification: 20x to 60x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 80 mm
- Eye Relief: 17 mm
- Exit Pupil: 1.3 to 4 mm
- Field of View: 95 ft at 100 yds (20x) to 50 ft at 100 yds (60x)
- Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated with Ultrawide Band Coating
- ED Glass: Yes
- Water Resistance Level: IPX7 rating
- Weight: 3.83 lb
- Length: 432 mm
- Prism Type: BAK4
- Close Focus: 41 ft
Experience Using the Product
In various scenarios, the Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 spotting scope has proven to be a powerful tool for observation. During a recent birdwatching expedition at dawn, the ED Prime Glass technology showcased its capability by delivering vibrant colors and remarkable detail even in low light conditions. The 60x magnification allowed for close-up views of distant birds without losing clarity, making it an ideal choice for serious birders.
While testing the scope for hunting purposes, the waterproof and fog-proof features held up exceptionally well, even in unpredictable weather. The scope remained dry and operational after being exposed to rain, and the clarity did not diminish during temperature changes. The adjustable eyepiece comfortably accommodated users wearing glasses, providing a full field of view without any distortion.
One notable observation was the ease of focusing on moving targets; the smooth focus wheel made it quick and intuitive to adjust as required. The rotating tripod ring also allowed for effortless repositioning to track targets, which was a significant advantage during field use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional clarity and color accuracy with ED glass
- High magnification range suitable for various applications
- Durable, waterproof, and fog-proof construction
- Comfortable viewing angle with the 45-degree eyepiece
- Includes a sliding sunshade for enhanced visibility
Cons:
- Relatively heavy compared to other models in its class
- Higher price point may be a barrier for casual users
Conclusion
Overall, the Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope stands out as an exceptional tool for outdoor enthusiasts looking for high-quality optics. Its blend of durability, advanced lens technology, and user-friendly features make it a solid investment for serious birdwatchers, hunters, and nature observers. While the weight and price may deter some casual users, the performance and clarity provided by this spotting scope justify the investment. For anyone serious about their observation needs, the Bushnell Forge is undoubtedly a top contender.
