Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope (Angled Viewing)

BH #VO2060X85A • MFR #V502
Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope (Angled Viewing)
Key Features
  • 45° Angled Viewing
  • 20-60x Zoom Eyepiece
  • Large 85mm Objective Lens
  • Dielectric-Coated Porro Prism
An ideal companion for long-range shooters and hunters, the angled viewing Vortex Optics Viper HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope delivers bright and sharp high-contrast images with true-to-life color and crisp clarity at all magnifications, even in low or challenging light conditions.
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Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Overview

  • 1Description
  • 2Optical Performance
  • 3Use and Handling
  • 4Construction Details

An ideal companion for long-range shooters and hunters, the angled viewing Vortex Optics Viper HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope delivers bright and sharp high-contrast images with true-to-life color and crisp clarity at all magnifications, even in low or challenging light conditions.

Image quality is enhanced through the use of anti-reflection fully multi-coated high-density (HD) extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements in the lens system and highly reflective dielectric and phase-correcting coatings on the porro prism system. These optical features work together to maximize light transmission, increase color fidelity and contrast, and improve clarity and resolution throughout the entire zoom range. The large 85mm objective boosts the spotter's light-gathering capabilities to keep views bright and clear in even the most challenging light conditions and when the zoom is dialed up to the maximum and the subjects are at extreme distances.

The large focus collar is easy to manipulate in cold and wet weather, and the the helical focusing system brings subjects into tack-sharp resolution without rotating the lens elements—maintaining precise optical alignment through the entire zoom and focus ranges. For maximum viewing comfort, the eyepiece is set at a 45° angle to the body and the tripod mount collar allows the body to rotate. Taken together, these two features enable the user to precisely place the eyepiece in the most comfortable position that requires the least amount of head movement, whether they are sitting, standing, or lying prone.

Complementing the optical performance are construction details that will protect the spotter for years. The chassis is made of a lightweight and durable magnesium alloy that is wrapped in a protective rubber armor. The optical tube is argon filled and O-ring sealed to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme changes in temperature and environmental conditions. A retractable sunshade prevents lens flare that can spook game and keeps rain and snow off the objective to ensure clear views in less-than-ideal weather. Vortex includes a custom-made stay-on/view-through nylon case that makes setup and breakdown on a tripod fast and easy, while adding another layer of protection and providing the ability to react quickly when opportunities present themselves.

Optical Performance
  • Powerful 20-60x zoom range is ideal for extreme long-range use and big-game hunting
  • Oversized 85mm objective is optimized for low-light conditions and to ensure views remain bright when viewing distant subjects at high magnification
  • Traditional Porro prism light path produces clear and bright views without internal light interference
  • Dielectric prism coatings boost surface reflectivity to greater than 99% for maximum light transmission through the prism, with minimal loss and diffraction
  • High-density (HD) extra-low dispersion (ED) glass lens elements reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations for increased contrast and improved color rendition and sharpness without distortion across the entire field of view
  • Proprietary XR anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics increase light transmission for accurate color fidelity and improved contrast and clarity
  • ArmorTek exterior lens coatings resist scratches and abrasions while allowing oil, dirt, and sap to be cleaned off without leaving smudges or residue
  • 101-50' field of view at 1000 yd
Use and Handling
  • Eyepiece set at 45° to scope body for easier and more comfortable viewing when sitting, standing, or lying prone, and allows a lower tripod height for improved stability
  • Helical focusing mechanism focuses smoothly and quickly without rotating lens elements to maintain optical alignment for tack-sharp views
  • Large slip-resistant focusing collar is easy to manipulate in cold and wet weather or while wearing gloves
  • Twist-up rubber eyecup for comfortable use with or without eyewear
  • Standard 1/4"-20 mount is compatible with a wide variety of quick release (QR) plates, heads, and photo/video/field tripods; mounting shoe is compatible with select QR plates for faster mounting and removal
  • Rotating tripod collar allows user to precisely adjust the eyepiece position relative to tripod head
  • Long 19.6-17.8 eye relief allows for more comfortable viewing with reduced eyestrain at all magnifications, especially during long-duration glassing sessions
  • Wide 4.25mm exit pupil at 20x will cover most pupils as they open and dilate in low light to keep the whole scene in view without vignetting
Construction Details
  • Lightweight and durable magnesium-alloy chassis reduces overall weight without sacrificing strength
  • Protective rubber armoring provides a slip-resistant grip for more secure handling during setup and breakdown
  • Argon filled and O-ring sealed to be waterproof and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme changes in temperature and environmental conditions
  • Retractable sunshade prevents lens flare that can spook game, reduces glare to maintain contrast and clarity in the view, and keeps rain or snow off of the lens for clearer views in inclement weather
  • Nylon stay-on/view-through carrying case protects the spotting scope during transport and storage and allows for faster and safer setup and breakdown
UPC: 875874002029

Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Specs

Design
Viewing AngleAngled
Performance
Magnification20 to 60x
Objective Lens Diameter85 mm
Field of View20x: 101.0' @ 1000 yd / 34.0 m @ 1000 m
60x: 50.0' @ 1000 yd / 17.0 m @ 1000 m
Minimum Focus Distance36.0' / 12.0 m
Exit Pupil Diameter20x: 4.25 mm
60x: 1.4 mm
Eye Relief19.6 to 17.8 mm
Features
FogproofYes, Argon Filled
Water ResistanceWaterproof
General
Tripod Mounting Thread1/4"-20 Female
DimensionsL: 17.5" / L: 44.5 cm
Weight4.8 lb / 2.2 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight7.2 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)19.1 x 8.2 x 6.8"

Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Reviews

Excellent scope

By Mark D
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-01-16

My wife bagan birding and we researched spotting scopes. Swarovski and Kowa were not even considered due to price. We tested three different scopes, the Viper, Razor, and a Nikon. We ruled out the Nikon because the warranty on the Vortex units is the best bar none. We had the two Vortex scopes side by side for our comparison. Both were a max 60x with the zoom eyepiece. The Razor appeared to be lighter which for us proved to be a con for us. Both were very bright and worked well. The selling point for us other than the lower cost was that the zoom control was much easier to read (old eyes). We truly couldn't detect any difference in clarity or brightness. In fact, the Viper to us did appear brighter especially at the closer zoom ratio. The bottom line is that it was the perfect choice for our needs. Pros: 1.The heavier design on a sturdy tripod helps control any movement or bounce 2. The price was about half that of the Razor 3. The zoom eyepiece was much easier to read.

Great Scope

By Timothy K
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-12-28

Great scope for the money. Originally purchased the 15-45x65 Viper. In dusk, dawn or overcast conditions, the image would darken from the 35 to 45 magnification. Otherwise the 15-45x65 was a great scope, sharp clear images all the way out to the edge. Also the other reason I needed more magnification. My thinking on purchasing the 15-45x65 Viper was that it would be easier for my wife to use. I returned the 15-45x65 to B&H, they made the return easy. Quick to refund my purchase. Ordered the 20-60x85 Viper, great scope. With the larger objective the images are even brighter, including all the way out to 60 magnification. Would have been nice to test drive the scopes before purchasing. We use the scope for bird watching.

Great Scope

By John
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-12-13

Great build quality and optics are very clear. Vortex customer service is also top quality. Make sure to get a solid tripod for viewing at 60x

Everything you wanted in a spotting scope

By Henry C.
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-07-17

We are looking into Ospray's nest a mile away, and we can see three babies while the mother feeds bites of fish to each of them.

Okay optics

By Haughwout,
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2022-01-29

I tried this spotting scope on my carbon fiber tripod. The built in mount works fine with my ball head. The scope was pretty good up to about 45x. After that, it gets a bit shaky even on a solid tripod. Also at 60x my eye had to be almost against the rear lens (eye cups retracted) to be able to see the full view. Both the clarity and the light transmission are similar to a low end binocular when zoomed to 60x. I think this scope will be fine for my intended purpose of checking targets at a distance. Basically it is a somewhat inexpensive scope and you get what you pay for. It is made in China. I used both this and my high end Swarovski 15x56 SLC binocs (which cost almost 4x this scope) to look at a mountain range in the distance. Obviously the binocs were not as powerful, but they offered a much more detailed and illuminated view than the scope. The scope does come with a neoprene cover that can be left on while using it, but needs to be pulled back in order to extend the sun shade, which is built into the front of the scope. I chose the straight version of this scope and am glad I did as aiming it is more intuitive. The only reason I could see for buying the angled version is for looking at stars or maybe birds in high trees (angled scopes help when looking up at things, and straight is better for everything else. I'm guessing that any 60x scope really needs a larger lens than 85mm in order to allow in enough light. Would I buy again - Probably. Because it serves my purpose of checking targets, plus it is kinda fun to be able to zoom in on mountains, birds, cactus etc...

Great product

By Howard
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2021-12-29

Excellent recommendation by B & H salesperson. Good balance of options and price. Meeting my needs

Excellent choice

By Mark D
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-01-11

We have been researching our choices for a spotting scope for birding. From reading reviews, even the low reviews, this scope is a great value both in price and function. It has a bright view, which does decrease a bit as you zoom above 20x BUT any optic like this will likely do the same thing. Vortex is an excellent company. Their scopes and binoculars are worth every penny.

Exceeds expectations

By Mark D
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-01-09

Purchased this for my wife, she is a birder and this is an irreplaceable item for that. We would look out on a lake and see water, using this we could easily see many water fowl birds. The warranty on Vortex products is like no other optical equipment.

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Does anyone make either nd it polarizer 85mm ...

Does anyone make either nd it polarizer 85mm filters to fit the objective on the vortex spotting scope?
Asked by: Douglas
Unfortunately this Scope does not accept threaded Filters on the Objective. My apologies.
Answered by: Alex S
Date published: 2020-12-22

Can the Vortex 20x60x 85 be connected to the ...

Can the Vortex 20x60x 85 be connected to the Canon.5d Mk IV? I have several canon and Sigma lenses.
Asked by: Stephen
The Novagrade Digiscoping Adapter for Canon DSLR Cameras (BH #NOUA00CA01) will allow you to connect your Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera, directly to the eyepiece of the Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope (Angled Viewing).
Answered by: Lenny
Date published: 2023-02-08

Does this have a "fine focus" knob like the ...

Does this have a "fine focus" knob like the Diamonback model or does the focus mechanism on this one not need it?
Asked by: George
The fine focus knob is not needed. The helical focus does it all.
Answered by: Moe
Date published: 2021-03-23

For bird watching I saw this scope in Costa Rica. ...

For bird watching I saw this scope in Costa Rica. Really liked it. Is this one the one to get? Or any other recommendations?
Asked by: Peto
Had for several years. Good buy at a moderate price. Well-recommended for a budget purchase.
Answered by: Dwayne
Date published: 2021-07-04

Is the Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 manufactured in ...

Is the Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 manufactured in The People's Repubic of China?
Asked by: Kim
Country of origin for the Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope (Angled Viewing) BH #VO2060X85A • MFR #V502 is China.
Answered by: John
Date published: 2023-03-19

Can the Vortex 20-60x 85 scope be used to view ...

Can the Vortex 20-60x 85 scope be used to view the moon with no filter? If not what filter is needed?
Asked by: Marcie
It is safe to view the moon without a filter. It is not safe to look at the sun.
Answered by: Patrick
Date published: 2021-02-02

Is there an attachment that allows a camera to be ...

Is there an attachment that allows a camera to be attached to the spotting scope? Something that would allow a Sony "e" mount camera to be attached to this scope?
Asked by: Jay
Yes, you will need (2) items. The Novagrade T-Mount Digiscoping Adapter BH #NOUA00T101 • MFR #UA-00T1-01 to attach over the eyepiece and the Vello T-Mount Lens to Sony E-Mount Camera Lens Adapter BH #VELANEXT • MFR #LA-NEX-T to attach to the Sony camera body. Those (2) pieces will now screw together.
Answered by: John
Date published: 2023-01-10

Is this the version with an Arca-Swiss foot? Not ...

Is this the version with an Arca-Swiss foot? Not clear on BH or MFR site.
Asked by: Malcolm
The Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope (Angled Viewing) has an integrated Arca-type foot to mount directly to Arca-type tripods. No additional plates would be needed.
Answered by: Yaakov
Date published: 2022-11-30
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