Can I use a monopod for a spotting scope?

Considering using your spotting scope with a monopod instead of a tripod? The short answer is: yes, you can use a monopod for a spotting scope. But it helps to be aware that monopods work better with smaller sized spotting scopes.

The monopod is a portable option, at the cost of some stability. As a general rule, spotting scopes are used with a tripod.

There are some circumstances, however, when a monopod could be suitable to add extra support to your scope instead of a tripod. In this article we cover what those circumstances are. We also discuss the pros and cons of using a monopod for a spotting scope.

How image shake affects spotting scopes

In contrast to binoculars, which can usually be held sufficiently steady in your hands, a spotting scope’s high magnification requires extra support to keep it still.

When the spotting scope is held steady, the image is better. Even if the scope moves just a little bit it causes the image to be shaky and blurred.

With a shaky image, the finer details will be less visible and defeat the object of having a high magnification optic at your disposal.

It can already be a challenge to spot birds through a scope, so a tripod is a valuable addition. But is a tripod the only option to support a spotting scope?

Pros and cons of monopods

Though monopods are less stable than spotting scopes, they do have several advantages. Not only do they cost less, but they are lighter and smaller, making them less onerous to carry.

Advantages of a monopod

• Lighter weight
• More easily packable
• Versatile for hiking and trekking – and doubles as a walking stick
• Quicker and easier to set up and reposition
• Take up less ground area in tight spaces like narrow trails or crowded hides

Disadvantages of a monopod

• Less stability than a tripod
• Cannot be used hands-free
• Less suitable for digiscoping with a full-size scope
• Difficult to switch optics if using both binoculars and a scope
• Less easy to share with fellow birders in comparison to a stationary tripod

How much of a compromise is it to use a monopod instead of a tripod for a scope?

Key considerations include:

• What kind of spotting scope are you using?
• What birding situation will you commonly use your monopod for?
• Where will you use the monopod?

Monopods suit smaller spotting scopes

The size of the spotting scope is what determines whether it is suitable for use with a monopod. Those spotting scopes that would work well with a monopod are:

• Spotting scopes with objective lenses up to 50mm or 56mm
• Lightweight spotting scopes with objective lenses up to 60mm or 65mm
• If the spotting scope has a larger objective lens, from 60mm upwards, or a magnification range starting at 15x to 20x, then the use of a tripod will enable you to get the very best from it.
• Smaller spotting scopes tend to have lower magnification. Generally the monopod will provide sufficient support up to the power of about 30x.
• Monopods work well in small spaces

If you are birding in a small area, such as on a narrow trail or in a hide, then space will be at a premium. Monopods are better at not being a trip hazard for other birders!

The monopod can be more versatile when watching more active birds that require you to rotate the binoculars and physically change position. It’s more easy to move your body around a monopod than stepping over or around tripod legs, trying not to knock over the whole contraption.

It’s also easier to shift the position of the monopod itself when you want to change your viewing position just a bit without moving to a whole different location.

Monopods are highly portable

The comparative portability of the monopod makes it more suited to someone who walks a long way for their bird watching, or perhaps takes it on hiking or camping trips.

For those birders who do a lot of travel and need their birding kit to fit within a weight allowance, it’s a lighter option than a tripod.

Plus if you are on a limited budget then a monopod tends to be cheaper and provides better support than nothing!

Consider the option of a tripod/monopod combination

For those who would like the option to have both a tripod and a monopod without buying the two separate accessories, there are brands producing tripods that can convert into a monopod.

Some of these use the central column as the main monopod leg. With others you can detach one of the legs then reattach it to the central column. To see an example of this, take a look at these reviews.

Using a monopod instead of a tripod for a spotting scope – final thoughts

In order to determine which is better for you, it’s worth considering how and when you will be using the monopod. It suits different uses to a tripod. If you had to choose a priority would it be stability or mobility?

If saving on weight and size are important to you, then it can be worth finding a good monopod. Depending on the size of the spotting scope, they offer stability that approaches that of a tripod.

Monopods work best for smaller spotting scopes, with objective lenses of 50mm to 56mm. If the scope is really lightweight, then models with objective lens sizes up to 60mm can also work with a monopod if portability is paramount.

But scopes with magnifications over 15x or 20x, or with objectives 60mm+ will benefit from the added stability of a tripod.

As with a tripod, the main considerations when choosing a monopod are its weight and dimensions and its maximum load capacity. Are there other features you require, too, like rubber feet or a cushioned grip?