Viewing Configuration: Angled
Magnification: 20-60X
Power Variability: Variable
Adjustable Eyepieces: Yes
Eyepiece included: Yes
Objective Diameter: 82 mm
Close Focus Distance: 19.7 ft
Length: 14.97 inches
Weight: 63.8 oz
Field of View: 110-52 ft/1000 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 19 mm/4.1-1.4 mm
Optics Coatings: Fully multi-coated
Glass: BaK-4
Focus System: Center/Dual
Waterproof/Fog-proof: Yes/Yes
Digiscope adaptable: No
Best Uses: For the Range, Bird Watching, Wildlife Observation, Lunar Observation
Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Review
If you've got the cash for this beaut, then this is all the spotting scope you'll ever need. It's locked and loaded with premium features that belie its low price. The first, awesome feature is the interchangeable eyepiece system. Yes, this spotting scope for under $500 has it! Even better, they include the eyepiece in the purchase.
But, to really maximize the power range depends on the coatings. You got it. The Endeavor HD 82A has a BaK-4 prism glass assembly that's been made with Extra-low Dispersion glass elements to achieve that HD quality. On top of that, you have Vanguard's Multiguard coatings for phase-corrected image quality. Don't forget, at it's core, the lenses already have fully multi-coated optics.
With all that optic quality layered on, you'll be able to get in focus in a jiffy. Need a little more sharpness and detail? Just fine tune with the fine focus control to get things in perspective and glassing like a pro. This isn't a feature that's always seen on spotting scopes in the $500 price range, but of course, the Vanguard has it!
When it comes to approval from real-life buyers and users, they say it's a winner. The build quality and construction seems to be the most common and appreciated feature of the spotter.
The fact that it has an interchangeable eyepiece system also makes it a bonus for packing down and cutting out the bulk. However, quality control issues do happen with the Vanguard HD spotting scope. So, it would be wise to check out the warranty. Wait - we do that for you below!
Pros:
- Price
- Dual focus control
- Interchangeable eyepiece
- Fully weatherproof
- High quality glass and coatings
Cons:
- Quality control issues
- Poor quality at max power
Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A 20-60X Q&A:
What are Multiguard Coatings?
Multiguard is Vanguard's term for phase-correction coatings. It's a process of multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings on specific lens of the prism assembly to reduce glare, improve light transmission, and provide a crisp and clear field of view.
What is Dual Fine Focus?
All spotting scopes have a focus mechanism.
If it's single focus, there is only one adjustment for course focusing. You use the focus knob to quickly get a sharp and clear image for viewing at a specific distance.
If the spotter has dual focus, it means the focus knob will have another mechanism to allow for fine tuning the image.
For that little bit of extra clarity and sharpness when you see softness and blurriness, the dual control will take care of that.
What does an Interchangeable Eyepiece mean?
When you start getting into the high end of spotting scopes, you'll notice that many spotting scopes come without an eyepiece. This allows for being able to purchase many eyepieces with various magnification or fixed power to suit your preferences for the outdoor activity.
This spotting scope purchase includes the 20-60X eyepiece.
What are the most Usable Power Ranges?
Like many spotting scopes, the Vanguard does have problems achieving pristine clarity at max 60X power. It can be due to less than ideal weather conditions, mirage, instability, and the inability to provide optimal image quality. However, this isn't unique to Vanguard. You can expect excellent performance from 20-45X power.
Everyone can agree that you have to spend top dollar to achieve high-end optical performance to maximize full potential out of a high-powered spotter.
What is the Vanguard HD 82A Usable Range for Target Shooting?
At the range, you're dealing with many factors out of your control to clearly see groupings at several hundred yards. Users report 100-200 yards is realistic. Splatter targets will need to be incorporated the further out you go.
There have been complaints of blurring and being unable to see groupings at 150-200 yards, however, mirage also has a lot to do with that, and no dual focus controls can counteract the effects of mirage.
Can the Endeavor HD 82A Spotting Scope Work through Mirage?
Even the most expensive spotting scope in the market can be rendered useless when mirage is at its worst. There's not a lot that you can do to improve image quality other than back off in magnification. However, if you want to know how to use mirage to still pull off accurate shots at the range with a spotting scope, check out our Mirage and Spotting Scope article.
What comes in the Vanguard's HD 82A Box?
You'll receive the Endeavor HD spotting scope, 20-60X eyepiece, and a custom-fit raincoat carry case. You'll also receive a strap for the case, lens caps, eyepiece cap, and lens cloth to complete the package.
What is the Warranty on the Endeavor HD 82A Spotting Scope?
This HD 82A spotting scope is backed with Vanguard's No Fault, No Hassle, Premium Lifetime Warranty. It's a customer-friendly warranty that will replace or repair your broken or damaged spotting scope if the unfortunate event occurs - no questions asked.
Noteworthy Features:
- For 100-200 yard use on the target range
- Excellent for usable detail for several hundred yards
- Detachable eyepiece for protection and storage convenience
- Optical quality with ED glass and Multiguard coatings
- Customer-friendly lifetime warranty
Our Verdict on the Vanguard HD 82A Spotting Scope
The scoop on the scope is, the Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A 20-60X spotting scope is a luxurious taste of optics in the $500 price range. However, it's still just entry level when it comes to the high-end ones. But, it gives you an introduction of what a spotting scope can be like that costs more than twice its price.
Another spotter that emerges to the surface with dual focus, interchangeable eyepiece systems, ED glass, and specialized coatings is the Celestron Regal M2 65ED spotting scope.
It might be lower in power with its 16-48X eyepiece, but that's the neat thing about the detachable eyepiece, you can always replace it with a higher power one! Better yet, it's in the same price range as the Endeavor.
But, if you want to know what world-class glass can do for your spotting experience, then you have check out the big kahuna - the Leica APO Televid 82 Spotting Scope. It's no joke, and the price tag is for real. It could be hazardous to your wallet if you dare tread the high-end spotting scope market!
The Endeavor HD 82A spotting scope gives you a chance to see what quality optics offer in a decent price range. It might be the only affordable option you have of getting premium features for less than $500. In the end, it's about buying the best of what you can afford. Vanguard happens to be it!
Further Reading
- Maven S.3A 20-40X67 Spotting Scope Review – Hands-On Field Test!
- Maven CS.1 Review - 15-45x65 Spotting Scope (Real Hands On Field Test)
- Leupold SX2 Alpine HD Spotting Scope Review (Angled)
- Maven S.1A 25-50 X 80mm Spotting Scope Review (Angled Body)
- Zeiss Victory Harpia Spotting Scope Review - 85mm Angled with Dual Speed Focus System
