Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope Review

Here’s What I Think of the Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope

As someone who spends a considerable amount of time scrutinizing details from a distance, whether it’s tracking game on a distant ridge, confirming targets at the far end of the range, or simply identifying bird species across a meadow, a reliable spotting scope is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. My search for an optic that could deliver crisp, clear views without breaking the bank led me to the Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope. After years of field-testing various optics, I was intrigued by Bushnell‘s claims of ED Prime Glass and their proprietary EXO Barrier. I needed a spotting scope that could handle the often-harsh realities of outdoor use, maintain clarity in challenging light, and offer the magnification needed for definitive identification. After a brief look at some competitor models, I opted for this Bushnell offering, hoping it would live up to its premium billing. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction; it felt substantial without being overly cumbersome, and the matte finish gave it a professional, understated look.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with this spotting scope took me to a familiar observation point overlooking a valley known for its diverse wildlife and challenging distances. I set up the scope on a sturdy tripod, a necessary companion for any high-magnification optic. The angled eyepiece proved immediately comfortable, allowing for relaxed viewing without craning my neck excessively, especially during longer observation sessions. I focused on a distant herd of deer, approximately 750 yards away, and the clarity was remarkable; I could discern individual animals and their markings with surprising detail. To truly test its low-light capabilities, I shifted my attention to a densely wooded area known for early morning and late evening activity, just as the sun began to dip below the horizon. Even in the deep shadows of the tree line, the ED Prime Glass and fully multi-coated lenses worked their magic, pulling in enough ambient light to reveal subtle details that would be lost with lesser optics. This initial experience confirmed that the Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope performs exceptionally well across varying light conditions and distances, making it a versatile tool for discerning observers.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks turned into months, and this spotting scope became a regular fixture on my excursions. From early morning prairie dog hunts where precision was key to extended birdwatching trips where identifying minute plumage details was paramount, it consistently delivered. I’ve had it out in light rain, and the IPX7 waterproof construction held up perfectly, with water beading off the objective lens thanks to the EXO Barrier protection. It’s also survived a couple of accidental bumps against rocks and trees without any visible damage or degradation in optical performance. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe of the lenses with a microfiber cloth and a blast of compressed air for the housing is usually sufficient. Compared to other spotting scopes I’ve owned, especially those in lower price brackets, the durability and consistent optical quality of this Bushnell optic are significant advantages. It feels built to withstand the rigors of frequent, real-world use, not just sit on a shelf.

Breaking Down the Features of Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope

Specifications

The Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope boasts an impressive array of specifications designed for serious optical performance. Its 80 mm objective lens is a key feature, allowing for a substantial amount of light gathering, which is crucial for bright, clear images, particularly at higher magnifications. The variable magnification ranges from 20x to 60x, offering immense versatility for spotting distant subjects and then zooming in for detailed examination. The ED Prime Glass is a standout, engineered to minimize chromatic aberration, resulting in true-to-life color rendition and enhanced contrast, especially noticeable in challenging light. Bushnell‘s proprietary EXO Barrier is another significant specification; this advanced fully multi-coated lens coating molecularly bonds to the glass, repelling water, oil, dust, and debris while providing superior scratch resistance.

The ** porro prism system** with BAK4 prism material contributes to the bright and sharp image quality. Eye relief is listed at 17 mm, which is adequate for most users, though those wearing glasses might find it a bit tight during extended use. The exit pupil ranges from 1.3 mm at 60x to 4 mm at 20x, a typical range for this magnification and objective size. Linear field of view is 95 ft at 100 yds at 20x, narrowing to 50 ft at 100 yds at 60x, providing a good balance between situational awareness and detailed observation. Close focus is at 41 ft, allowing for surprisingly detailed views of nearby subjects like insects or plants, though this isn’t the primary purpose of such a high-magnification scope. The scope body is angled, which generally offers more comfortable viewing positions across a wider range of tripod heights and viewing angles compared to straight scopes.

Its Lead Free Glass is a responsible material choice. The overall length of the scope is 432 mm, and it weighs in at a substantial 3.83 lb, making it a robust piece of equipment that demands a stable tripod. The IPX7 waterproof rating ensures that internal components remain dry even when submerged in up to three feet of water for 30 minutes, a vital feature for unpredictable outdoor environments. The matte finish is non-reflective, ideal for not spooking wildlife. A practical inclusion is the sliding sunshade, which helps to reduce glare and improve contrast in bright conditions. The rotating tripod ring is a thoughtful addition, allowing the user to rotate the scope around the tripod for optimal eyepiece positioning without repositioning the entire tripod.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of any spotting scope is to provide a magnified, clear view of distant objects, and the Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope excels in this regard. The combination of the large 80 mm objective lens and the ED Prime Glass delivers exceptionally bright images, even during the twilight hours when game is most active. Chromatic aberration, often a problem with lesser optics, is remarkably well-controlled, meaning you see true colors and sharp details, not distracting purple or green fringes around high-contrast edges. The 20-60x magnification range is highly effective; at 20x, you get a decent field of view to acquire your target, and then you can smoothly zoom to 60x to pick out fine details like antler tines or the subtle markings on a distant bird. The focus wheel is well-dampened and precise, allowing for fine adjustments to achieve tack-sharp focus.

One area where this spotting scope truly shines is its performance in adverse light. My personal testing confirmed the user feedback regarding its light-gathering capabilities in heavily shaded areas. It consistently provided usable images when other optics would have rendered the scene too dark to discern anything meaningful. The EXO Barrier protection is not just marketing hype; water truly beads up and rolls off, keeping the lens clear during unexpected drizzles or morning dew. This functionality significantly reduces the need for constant lens wiping, allowing more time for observation. While the close focus is listed at 41 ft, it’s important to remember this is a long-range instrument. Trying to focus on something very close can be difficult and may introduce aberrations, but for its intended purpose of observing distant subjects, it performs admirably.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope features a robust build that inspires confidence. The housing is constructed from durable materials, giving it a substantial feel that belies its relatively compact size for an 80mm objective scope. The matte, terrain-colored finish is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, blending in well with natural surroundings and reducing glare. The angled eyepiece design is a significant ergonomic advantage for extended use. It allows for a more natural viewing posture, reducing neck strain when glassing for long periods, which is common in hunting or wildlife observation scenarios.

The focus knob is generously sized and offers a smooth, consistent rotation. Its textured surface provides a good grip, even with gloved hands, and the fine-tuning capability is excellent for achieving critical focus at high magnifications. The sliding sunshade extends and retracts smoothly, providing an effective shield against direct sunlight and improving image contrast. The rotating tripod ring is a well-implemented feature; it allows the scope to be rotated relative to the tripod head, making it easy to adjust the eyepiece position for optimal comfort without having to move the entire tripod, which is particularly useful on uneven terrain. The overall design prioritizes practical functionality for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

Durability & Maintenance

The build quality of the Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope suggests excellent durability. The IPX7 waterproof rating means that submersion is not a catastrophic event, which is a critical consideration for anyone using equipment in the field. The EXO Barrier protection is not only functional for clarity but also adds a layer of resistance against minor abrasions, which are inevitable with regular use. I haven’t experienced any signs of wear and tear like lens fogging, internal damage, or stiffness in the focus mechanism, even after repeated exposure to varying weather conditions.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. The fully multi-coated lenses, combined with the hydrophobic EXO Barrier, mean that dust and water easily roll off. A quick wipe with a quality microfiber lens cloth is usually all that’s needed to maintain a clear view. For more stubborn dirt or fingerprints, a lens cleaning solution designed for optical instruments can be used sparingly. The rotating tripod collar and focus knob operate smoothly and feel robust, suggesting they are built to last. Unlike some cheaper optics that can develop play or stiffness over time, this Bushnell unit has maintained its precise adjustments. Potential failure points are minimized by the robust construction and O-ring seals, making it a reliable long-term investment for serious users.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope comes with essential accessories to get you started. The rotating tripod ring is a standout, allowing for easy repositioning of the eyepiece for comfortable viewing. A carrying case is also included, offering protection during transport and storage, although it might be a bit more of a padded sleeve than a fully rigid case. The sliding sunshade is integrated into the design and functions effectively.

While customization options for the scope body itself are limited, the standard angled eyepiece and the 80mm objective lens are compatible with a wide range of aftermarket tripods and ball heads, which are essential for stable viewing. The focus mechanism is fixed, and the eyepiece is not interchangeable with different magnification powers or fixed eyepieces, which is typical for this class of spotting scope. However, the quality of the included components and the inherent performance of the optic mean that extensive customization is often unnecessary. The built-in functionality and thoughtful design mean that most users will find it ready to go straight out of the box.

Pros and Cons of Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope

Who Should Buy Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope?

The Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope is an outstanding choice for serious hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and long-range shooting aficionados who demand high-quality optics without the astronomical price tag often associated with premium brands. Its combination of ED Prime Glass, excellent magnification, and rugged construction makes it ideal for field use in diverse environments. If you spend significant time observing distant subjects and need to make definitive identifications, this optic will serve you exceptionally well.

However, individuals who prioritize ultra-portability or only need a spotting scope for casual backyard use might find it slightly overbuilt or heavier than necessary. For those needing to observe subjects at very close ranges (< 25 ft) with high magnification, this scope’s 41 ft close focus might be a limitation, though this is not its primary design intent. Essential complementary items would include a stable, high-quality tripod and a microfiber lens cleaning kit to maintain its pristine optical surfaces.

Conclusion on Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope

The Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope represents a significant achievement in optical engineering, offering a compelling blend of premium features and performance at a competitive price point. Its optical clarity, facilitated by ED Prime Glass and comprehensive multi-coatings, is truly impressive, delivering crisp, bright images across its entire 20-60x magnification range. The rugged, IPX7 waterproof construction, coupled with the advantageous EXO Barrier lens coating, ensures it can withstand the rigors of demanding outdoor environments. The comfortable angled eyepiece and precise focusing mechanism make prolonged observation a pleasure rather than a chore.

Considering its robust build, exceptional optical quality, and thoughtful features like the sliding sunshade and rotating tripod ring, the $1099.99 price tag is more than justified; it offers tremendous value. I wholeheartedly recommend the Bushnell Forge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope to anyone seeking a reliable, high-performance spotting scope for hunting, wildlife observation, or range use. It’s a tool that consistently performs, allowing you to see more of the world in stunning detail.