All About: Waterproof Spotting Scopes

June 8, 2010 | Posted by admin

The Waterproof Spotting Scope

Many spotting scopes are either waterproof, fogproof or both and some terms used include weather protected or even weather proof. But what exactly does it all mean, do you really need a waterproof scope and just what do they do to make a spotting scope waterproof and fogproof?

Waterproofing

Waterproof spotting scopes are sealed internally using O-rings to prevent moisture as well as dust and other small debris from entering the inside of the unit.

Fogproofing

When a spotting scope is Fogproof, it means that the optical barrel is filled with nitrogen or argon gas to prevent internal fogging caused when subjecting your scope to temperature extremes, especially in high humidity. Fogproofing is sometimes referred to as nitrogen-purging. This term is probably more descriptive of the actual process because oxygen (O2) is purged from the barrel and replaced with an inert gas (usually nitrogen) which doesn’t condense.

A spotting scope can be waterproof without being fogproof. This merely means that it has been sealed, but the oxygen inside the device has not been purged and replaced with an inert gas. But if a spotting scope is fogproof, it has to be waterproof (sealed) as well.

Today more and more spotting scopes are both waterproof and fogproof. Just look out for manufacturers that claim that their optics are “weather protected” or “water protected” this usually means that they are not 100% water or fog proof, but can survive a little moisture. If you think that you will need to use your scopes in a wet environment, make sure that they are 100% waterproof.

Do I need waterproof scopes?

Whilst a waterproof spotting scope is never a bad thing, if you are choosing between two scopes and the one that is more expensive is water and fogproof you need to decide if you really need it. A scope that has internal moisture on the lens can be at the least very annoying or even unusable.

If you plan on using your optics in any marine or water environment, It is almost essential that you get water proof scopes as no matter how careful you are, mistakes will happen!

Waterproof and fogproof spotting scopes are also highly recommended if you plan on using them anywhere where the humidity is high in like, rainforests, or if you’re around water like a wetland. Some of the best birdwatching can be experienced during inclement weather and one of the main reasons birdwatchers go with spotting scopes that are both water and fogproof. Whilst not essential, waterproofing is also a good idea if you are taking your scopes on safari, hunting or most other wildlife viewing as I have often taken guests out in the bush whilst it is raining.

Dry and Sandy Environments
It is not only watery and humid conditions where water and fog-proofing can help: in an extremely dry and dusty climate, the O-ring seal will prevent dust and tiny debris from entering your spotting scope.

Spotting Scope Covers

With many spotting scopes, you can get a cover or Handholding Case as an accessory that can also help to protect your optics from the wet.

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