Amazon.com Review
The Barska Blackhawk 60mm spotting scope is a terrific value because it offers very good optical performance in a compact and affordable package. The scope itself features Mossy Oak camouflage, waterproof design, multicoated optics, and a zoom eyepiece with magnification ranging from 20X up to 60X. The accessories include a light weight table-top tripod, a soft carrying case, and a durable hard shell case that will allow the rubber armored scope to stand up to a lifetime of use.
The Blackhawk 60mm spotting scope uses a multi-coated objective lens and rugged porro-prism design for bright, clear images. In side-by-side tests, the multi-coated optics show me an image with noticeably improved contrast and clarity. At 100 yards, I can clearly focus in on a target, even when I crank the magnification up to the maximum 60X. When I use the scope for wildlife spotting, I like to use 20X to 30X magnification; 30X gives me an ideal combination of sharp images and a wide field of view, perfect for identifying Puffins and Pelicans along the coast.
I also like the compact size and light weight of the Blackhawk 60. At only 14 inches long and weighing less than two pounds, the Blackhawk 60 is light enough to use a photo tripod such as the SLIK U-9000 in the field. Like other entry level spotting scopes, the Barska Blackhawk 60 uses an Achromatic objective lens, which means that some false color or blue fringing is noticeable at high power.
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the quality and value of the binoculars and spotting scopes imported by Barska the last few years. The Barska Blackhawk 60mm Camouflage spotting scope simply offers very good optical performance for a very reasonable price. --
Jeff Phillips Pros: - Excellent price/performance ratio
- Very good Achromatic optics
- Waterproof design with rubber coating
- Premium hard shell case included
Cons: - Blue fringing noticeable at high power
- Limited eye relief for eyeglass wearers
