I'm not convinced I need or want a spotting scope but I just sprang for a pair of Steiner binoclars (Predator 12X40s) and I'm thrilled with them. A bit expensive but I've used cheap binoculars all my life and I can now see this is one of those you get what you pay for items. That's my best advice...get a good pair that you'll be happy with for a long time.