Finding the best spotting scope tripod is the difference between identifying a trophy bull at two miles or staring at a blurry, vibrating mess. When you are working with high magnification levels—often 60x or higher—even the slightest breeze or a shaky hand can ruin your glassing session. To get the best out of your optics, you need a steady travel tripod that combines rock-solid stability with the portability required for the backcountry. This is where the Fatboy Pursuit18 enters a league of its own.
Why Stability is Non-Negotiable for a Spotting Scope Tripod
As anyone who has used a large 80mm+ scope knows, these optics are heavy, long, and front-heavy. Using a flimsy or cheap tripod is a recipe for frustration; they simply aren't up to the task of holding a heavy scope steady, especially when the wind picks up on a ridgeline.The Pursuit18 solves this by utilizing premium 10-layer carbon fiber construction. Unlike aluminum, which is heavier and prone to vibration, carbon fiber naturally dampens movement. This ensures that when you’re dialed in on a distant hillside, your image remains crisp and still.
Weight vs. Performance: The Pursuit18 Advantage
In the world of backcountry hunting and birding, every ounce matters. Most "sturdy" tripods are too heavy to carry for miles, while most "lightweight" tripods are too shaky for serious glassing.The Pursuit18 strikes the perfect balance:
- Ultralight Build: Weighing in at just 2.6 lbs (with the bowl), it disappears in your pack.
- Heavy-Duty Capacity: Despite its weight, it features leg diameters up to 31mm. This beefy leg thickness is what separates a "camera tripod" from a true spotting scope tripod capable of supporting professional optics.
- Compact Packability: At a collapsed height of only 17.7 inches, it won’t snag on brush while strapped to your pack.
Perfect Stability from Prone to Sitting
A common complaint found in spotting scope tripod reviews is that "travel" tripods are often too tall and spindly to be stable. The Pursuit18 is designed for the serious glasser who works from the ground up. Whether you are glassing from a stool or tucked into a prone position to stay out of the skyline, this tripod provides a rock-solid foundation.The Pursuit18 features a removable center column and a detachable short tray. This allows you to drop the tripod ultra-low to the ground for maximum stability in high winds—essential for long-range identification. With three locking leg positions and integrated 47.5mm rubber feet with hidden spikes, you can achieve a level platform on everything from slick rock to soft mud.
Built for the Backcountry
If you are searching for the best spotting scope tripod, you need gear that is "backcountry tough." The Pursuit18 isn't just a piece of photography equipment; it is a purpose-built tool for hunters and long-range observers. It offers:
- Inverted Leg Design: Keeps the locking mechanisms cleaner and higher off the ground.
- Fast Deployment: Simple locking tabs allow you to set up and break down in seconds.
- Extreme Durability: Designed to handle the weight of premium glass and the rigors of mountain terrain.
Conclusion: The Best Spotting Scope Tripod
Don't let a sub-par tripod be the weak link in your gear chain. Your spotting scope is only as good as the platform it sits on. The Fatboy Pursuit18 offers the stability of a heavy-duty studio tripod with the weight of a mountain-climbing essential.
If you're ready to stop fighting your gear and start seeing more detail, the Pursuit18 is the only spotting scope tripod you’ll ever need.