Vortex - Diamondback HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope (Straight Viewing)

A Guide to Birding with Spotting Scopes

An ideal companion for long-range shooters and hunters, the straight-through viewing Vortex Optics Diamondback 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 and challenging light conditions or when observing subjects on maximum magnification at extreme distances. The combination of magnification, objective size, and optical performance also makes this spotter perfect for basic amateur astronomy and wide-field astrophotography techniques.

Image quality is enhanced through the use of anti-reflection fully multicoated high-density (HD) extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements in the lens system that maximize light transmission, increase color fidelity and contrast, and improve clarity and resolution through the entire zoom range. The massive 85mm objective boosts the spotter's light-gathering capabilities to keep views bright and clear in even challenging light conditions and when observing subjects at long distances on maximum magnification. This version of the Diamondback HD is configured with the eyepiece set in-line with the body to make finding your subject fast and tracking them if they start to move easier versus angled configurations. Its fixed eyepiece gives you the ability to scan wide swaths of the terrain for subjects with the ability to dial in and make detailed observations and positive identification. A helical focus system eliminates the snag hazard that knobs are known for.

Its mounting system features a standard 1/4"-20" socket and its shoe is ARCA-style compatible, which means you can directly mount it on an ARCA head without the need for additional plates. Its mounting collar can also be rotated at 45° increments for precise eyepiece placement and optimized viewing comfort. The Diamondback's chassis 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 simple neoprene case that offers further protection against knocks and moisture. Tethered eyepiece and objective caps offer protection while preventing their loss when you're using the spotter.

User Manual

0.3 MB

Optical Performance

Powerful 20-60x zoom eyepiece is optimized for long-range applications and basic astronomy

Large, oversized 85mm objective lens gathers the light required to ensure views remain bright and sharp when observing subjects on maximum magnification at extreme long range

Traditional Porro prism light path produces clear and bright views without internal light interference

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

Anti-reflection fully multicoated 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

108-foot field of view at 1000 yards at 20x; 60-foot field of view at 60x

Use and Handling

Eyepiece set in-line with the body to make finding subjects fast and tracking them easy

Helical focusing mechanism focuses smoothly and quickly for tack-sharp views

Large slip-resistant focusing collar, instead of the more common knob, is easy to manipulate in cold and wet weather or when wearing gloves, while eliminating the snag hazard that knobs can present

Twist-up rubber eyecup for comfortable use with or without eyewear

Standard 1/4"-20 mount with ARCA-style foot is compatible with a wide variety of plates, heads, and photo/video/field tripods

Rotating tripod collar with positive 45° indents allows user to precisely adjust the eyepiece position relative to tripod head to place it in the most comfortable position

Exceptional long eye relief at all magnifications improves viewing comfort with reduced eyestrain

Comfortable 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

Protective rubber armor 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

Tethered eyepiece and objective caps prevent loss during use

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

Neoprene carrying case protects the spotting scope during transport and storage