What Makes Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof – 1 out of 3 models Stand Out?
The Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof spotting scope promises a blend of affordability and functionality, aiming to bring distant details into sharp focus for outdoor enthusiasts. Marketed towards hunters, bird watchers, and range shooters, it touts a powerful zoom range, waterproof construction, and included accessories like a tripod and carrying cases. This scope carves a niche for itself by offering a seemingly comprehensive package at a budget-friendly price point.
My need for a reliable spotting scope arose from frustrating experiences at the shooting range. Constantly walking downrange to check shot groupings became time-consuming and disrupted my focus. I needed a scope that could deliver clear images at varying distances without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing the Barska Blackhawk, I immediately noted its substantial heft. The build felt solid, although the plastic housing didn’t exude premium quality. The included tripod seemed lightweight, raising concerns about its stability in windy conditions.
I considered the Celestron Ultima 80 and the Bushnell Trophy Xtreme spotting scopes before ultimately choosing the Barska. The Celestron was pricier, and online reviews pointed to some chromatic aberration issues, while the Bushnell, though well-regarded, lacked the complete accessory package offered by Barska. The Barska’s promise of being fully waterproof also played a significant role in my decision, given my penchant for outdoor adventures in unpredictable weather.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The scope felt sturdy enough for field use, and the included accessories were a definite bonus. The real test, however, would be its optical performance and durability in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof – 1 out of 3 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Barska Blackhawk was at a local shooting range, primarily targeting paper at 100, 200, and 300 yards. The scope initially struggled in bright sunlight. However, extending the integrated sunshade significantly improved the viewing experience by reducing glare.
During a light drizzle, the waterproof claim was immediately put to the test, and the scope performed admirably, maintaining a clear image without any noticeable fogging. The tripod, however, proved to be somewhat flimsy, requiring constant adjustments to maintain a stable view, especially at higher magnification levels. I eventually had to weigh down the tripod legs with sandbags to get a steady image.
The straight eyepiece took some getting used to. After several uses, I became more accustomed to acquiring a sight picture quickly. My initial concern centered around the tripod’s instability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Barska Blackhawk has proven to be a reasonably reliable tool, although some issues have surfaced. The plastic housing has shown some minor scratches and scuffs from being transported in my gear bag. The focus knob, while still functional, has become slightly less smooth to operate.
Despite the wear and tear, the optical performance has remained consistent. I regularly clean the lenses with a microfiber cloth to maintain optimal clarity. It’s important to handle it with care.
Compared to my previous experience with a lower-end, non-waterproof spotting scope, the Barska Blackhawk is a significant upgrade. The improved image quality and weather resistance have enhanced my shooting sessions and outdoor observations considerably.
Breaking Down the Features of Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof – 1 out of 3 models
Specifications
The Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof features a Porro prism design, which contributes to a wider field of view and better depth perception compared to roof prism designs at a similar price point. The use of BK-7 prism glass indicates a compromise between cost and optical quality, as it is less expensive than higher-grade ED (extra-low dispersion) glass. However, it’s sufficient for most recreational uses.
The 20x-60x zoom magnification allows for versatile viewing at varying distances, while the 60mm objective lens gathers ample light for reasonably bright images, especially in low-light conditions. The close focus distance of 23 feet is adequate for observing relatively nearby objects, although it might not be ideal for extremely close-up nature viewing.
The eye relief of 18mm at 20x and 15mm at 60x is decent, potentially allowing comfortable viewing for users with eyeglasses, though it might feel a bit tight at higher magnifications. The exit pupil ranging from 3mm at 20x to 1mm at 60x indicates that image brightness will diminish as magnification increases, which is typical for scopes in this category. The field of view of 91 feet at 1000 yards at 20x and 45 feet at 1000 yards at 60x provides a reasonable viewing area, although it narrows considerably at higher magnifications.
The multi-coated optics enhance light transmission and reduce glare, contributing to a brighter and clearer image. The waterproof and fogproof construction (Nitrogen CO2 purged) ensures reliable performance in harsh weather conditions. The fact that it is tripod adaptable adds to its versatility for stable viewing.
The weight of 2.86 lbs is manageable for carrying in the field, and the length of 14.86 inches makes it relatively compact for storage and transport. The green finish provides camouflage in natural environments. All these specs allow for practical functionality.
Performance & Functionality
The Barska Blackhawk performs its intended function of magnifying distant objects reasonably well, especially considering its price point. At lower magnifications (20x-30x), the image is relatively sharp and clear, allowing for detailed observation of targets or wildlife. As the magnification increases, however, the image quality degrades noticeably, with a loss of sharpness and increased chromatic aberration (color fringing).
The scope’s brightness is adequate in daylight conditions, but it struggles in low light, particularly at higher magnifications due to the smaller exit pupil. The focusing mechanism is functional but can be a bit stiff, requiring careful adjustments to achieve optimal sharpness. A major strength is its weather resistance, allowing for reliable use in rain or fog.
The scope meets expectations for a budget-friendly spotting scope, offering a decent level of magnification and clarity for recreational use. While it doesn’t compete with higher-end models in terms of optical performance, it provides a good value for the price. An area for improvement would be the stiffness of the focus knob.
Design & Ergonomics
The Barska Blackhawk features a straightforward, utilitarian design with a durable plastic housing. The scope feels relatively solid and well-built, although the plastic material doesn’t exude a premium feel. The straight eyepiece is a matter of personal preference.
The scope’s weight is manageable for carrying in the field, and the overall size is relatively compact for storage and transport. There is a slight learning curve to adjusting the zoom and focus to achieve optimal clarity, but it’s generally user-friendly. A more ergonomic grip would improve the overall user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Barska Blackhawk appears to be reasonably durable, withstanding minor bumps and scrapes during field use. The waterproof and fogproof construction adds to its longevity by protecting the internal optics from moisture damage. With proper care and maintenance, the scope should last for several years of recreational use.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses with a microfiber cloth and gentle wiping of the exterior housing. Regular cleaning is important for clarity. There are no user-serviceable parts, so any major repairs would likely require professional assistance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Barska Blackhawk comes with a few useful accessories, including a compact tripod, a hard carrying case, a soft carrying case, and a lens cloth. The tripod is somewhat flimsy, but it’s adequate for basic use. The carrying cases provide protection during storage and transport.
There are limited customization options for the Barska Blackhawk. The scope is compatible with standard tripod mounts, allowing for the use of higher-quality tripods for improved stability. Users may consider purchasing aftermarket lens cleaning kits for optimal optical care. There are no options for interchangeable eyepieces.
Pros and Cons of Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof – 1 out of 3 models
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Waterproof and fogproof construction ensures reliable performance in various weather conditions.
- Decent optical performance at lower magnifications provides clear images for recreational use.
- Includes a hard carrying case, soft carrying case, and tripod for added value and convenience.
- Versatile 20-60x zoom range allows for adaptable viewing at different distances.
Cons
- Image quality degrades significantly at higher magnifications with noticeable chromatic aberration.
- Included tripod is flimsy and unstable, requiring additional support for steady viewing.
- Focus knob can be stiff and difficult to adjust precisely.
Who Should Buy Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof – 1 out of 3 models?
The Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof is perfect for casual target shooters, beginner bird watchers, and recreational outdoor enthusiasts who need a reasonably capable spotting scope on a tight budget. It’s also a good option for anyone who requires a waterproof and fogproof scope for use in challenging weather conditions. If clarity is your number one concern, look elsewhere.
Individuals seeking high-end optical performance, professional-grade durability, or advanced features should skip this product. Those who require a stable and reliable tripod for steady viewing at high magnifications should also consider investing in a separate, higher-quality tripod. It is important to recognize its limitations.
A must-have accessory is a sturdy, high-quality tripod to overcome the instability of the included tripod. Consider a high-quality lens cleaning kit for optimal optical care.
Conclusion on Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof – 1 out of 3 models
The Barska 20-60x60mm WP Blackhawk Porro Waterproof spotting scope offers a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious buyers seeking a decent level of magnification and weather resistance. While it has limitations in terms of optical performance and tripod stability, it delivers a functional and reliable viewing experience for recreational use.
The price of $150.99 is justified by the scope’s feature set, included accessories, and waterproof construction, making it a worthwhile investment for casual users. However, serious enthusiasts should consider upgrading to a higher-end model for improved image quality and stability.
I would personally recommend the Barska Blackhawk to beginner shooters, bird watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for an affordable and reliable spotting scope to enhance their viewing experience. Just be aware of its limitations. Give it a try, and experience the magnified world!