What Makes Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled Stand Out?
The Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled spotting scope promises to deliver clarity and reach in a compact, accessible package. Barska aims to bridge the gap between budget-friendly and high-performance optics, offering a tool suitable for various outdoor activities. This scope boasts an 18-36x zoom, a 50mm objective lens, and a fully waterproof and fogproof design.
As a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, I’ve often found myself needing a reliable spotting scope that doesn’t break the bank. My goal was to find a tool that could provide adequate magnification and clarity for identifying distant targets at the range and observing wildlife on hiking trips without sacrificing portability. The promise of waterproof construction and included accessories also intrigued me.
Upon unboxing, the Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The rubberized armor provided a reassuring grip, and the included tripod, hard case, and soft carrying case added to the overall value proposition. While the tripod felt a bit lightweight, the overall package presented a well-rounded offering.
I considered the Celestron Ultima 65 and the Bushnell Trophy Xtreme spotting scopes as alternatives. However, the Barska Blackhawk’s combination of magnification range, angled eyepiece, and included accessories swayed my decision. The angled eyepiece was a major draw as I prefer the viewing comfort it offers, especially for extended observation periods.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to test the scope’s performance in various real-world scenarios and see if it lived up to its promises, but also aware that its low price point might reflect in its optical quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled to the test at my local shooting range, primarily to evaluate its capabilities for target identification at longer distances. I also took it on a day hike through a local state park to observe wildlife.
The scope performed adequately in dry conditions at the range, allowing me to clearly identify bullet holes on targets at 200 yards at the lower end of the zoom range. However, the image quality degraded significantly at higher magnifications, becoming noticeably darker and less sharp. During the hike, the scope allowed me to spot birds and other wildlife at a distance, but the image quality was again a limiting factor.
The scope was easy to set up and use, requiring minimal adjustment to the focus and zoom controls. The angled eyepiece provided a comfortable viewing angle, even when using the included tripod. My primary concern was the image quality at higher magnifications.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use, the Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled has held up reasonably well, considering its price. There are no signs of major wear and tear, and the rubberized armor has proven effective in protecting the scope from minor bumps and scratches.
While the scope’s exterior remains durable, the image quality hasn’t improved with time; the soft carrying case has been useful in preventing scratches and impact damage during transport. The lightweight tripod, while convenient, can be unstable in windy conditions.
The scope requires minimal maintenance, simply wiping down the lenses with a lens cloth after each use. I clean the exterior as needed with a damp cloth.
In comparison to my higher-end Vortex Razor HD spotting scope, the Barska Blackhawk falls short in terms of optical clarity, brightness, and overall image quality. However, it’s also significantly less expensive and more compact, making it a viable option for users on a budget.
Breaking Down the Features of Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled
Specifications
- Magnification (Zoom): 18x-36x. This variable magnification allows for versatile viewing, from wide-angle observation to close-up detail.
- Objective Lens: 50mm. The 50mm objective lens gathers light, enabling brighter images, especially in low-light conditions; however, a larger objective lens would notably improve performance in dimly lit environments.
- Prism Type: Porro. Porro prisms offer good image quality and are generally more affordable than roof prisms.
- Prism Glass: BK-7. BK-7 glass is a standard optical glass known for its good light transmission.
- Eye Piece System: Angled. The angled eyepiece provides comfortable viewing, especially when the scope is mounted on a tripod.
- Close Focus: 23 ft / 7 m. This close focus distance is adequate for most observing needs.
- Eye Relief: 20mm@18x, 17mm@36x. The eye relief is sufficient for users with or without eyeglasses.
- Exit Pupil: 2.8mm@18x, 1.4mm@36x. The exit pupil shrinks as magnification increases, reducing brightness at higher zoom levels.
- Field of View: 137 ft@1000yds / 45 m@1000m@18x, 100 ft@1000yds / 33 m@1000m@36x. The field of view decreases as magnification increases.
- Optical Coating: Multi-Coated. Multi-coated optics enhance light transmission and image clarity.
- Waterproof: Yes. The waterproof construction allows for use in wet conditions.
- Fogproof: Yes (Nitrogen CO2). The nitrogen purging prevents internal fogging.
- Tripod Adaptable: Yes. The scope is tripod adaptable for stable viewing.
- Product Weight: 3.3 lbs. The scope is relatively lightweight and easy to carry.
- Length: 12 inch. The compact size makes it easy to pack and transport.
- Finish: Green. The green finish provides camouflage in outdoor environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled performs adequately for its price point, offering a usable image at lower magnifications. However, the image quality suffers at higher magnifications due to a noticeable decrease in brightness and clarity.
The scope’s strengths lie in its affordability, compact size, and waterproof construction. Its primary weakness is its limited optical performance at higher magnifications.
The scope meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly spotting scope but doesn’t exceed them. More discerning users will likely desire better optical quality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Barska Blackhawk’s build quality is decent, with a rugged rubberized armor that provides a comfortable grip. The scope feels well-balanced and is easy to handle.
The scope is user-friendly, with intuitive focus and zoom controls. The angled eyepiece enhances viewing comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled should last for several years of occasional use. The waterproof and fogproof design adds to its durability in various weather conditions.
The scope requires minimal maintenance, primarily consisting of cleaning the lenses and exterior as needed. Storing it in the included hard case when not in use will prolong its life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled comes with a compact tripod, a hard carrying case, a soft carrying case, and an extendable sunshade. There are no specific customization options for this particular model.
The scope is compatible with standard tripod mounts, allowing users to upgrade to a more robust tripod if desired. Aftermarket lens cleaning kits can also be used to maintain the scope’s optics.
Pros and Cons of Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled
Pros
- Affordable: This spotting scope offers excellent value for the price, making it accessible to budget-conscious users.
- Waterproof and Fogproof: The waterproof and fogproof construction ensures reliable performance in various weather conditions.
- Compact and Lightweight: The compact size and light weight make it easy to pack and transport.
- Angled Eyepiece: The angled eyepiece provides comfortable viewing, especially for extended observation periods.
- Included Accessories: The scope comes with a tripod, hard case, soft case, and sunshade, adding to its overall value.
Cons
- Image Quality at High Magnification: The image quality suffers significantly at higher magnifications, becoming darker and less sharp.
- Lightweight Tripod: The included tripod can be unstable, especially in windy conditions.
Who Should Buy Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled?
The Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled is perfect for casual bird watchers, occasional hikers, and budget-conscious target shooters who need a basic spotting scope for short-range observation. It’s a great entry-level option for those new to the world of optics.
This product is not ideal for serious hunters, professional wildlife observers, or anyone who requires high-resolution images at long distances. These users would benefit from investing in a higher-quality spotting scope with superior optics.
A more stable tripod would be a must-have accessory for anyone planning to use the scope regularly or in challenging conditions. A high-quality lens cleaning kit is also recommended to maintain the scope’s optics.
Conclusion on Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled
The Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled is a decent entry-level spotting scope that offers reasonable performance for its affordable price. While its image quality at higher magnifications leaves something to be desired, its waterproof construction, compact size, and included accessories make it a viable option for casual users on a budget.
The price is justified considering the scope’s features and included accessories. It provides a good starting point for those interested in exploring the world of optics without breaking the bank.
I would recommend the Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled to anyone looking for a basic spotting scope for occasional use. If you’re a serious enthusiast or require high-resolution images, I would suggest investing in a higher-quality model. If you are looking for a decent spotting scope that won’t break the bank, click here to purchase the Barska Blackhawk 18-36×50 Waterproof Angled today!