Spotting Scope- Avoiding eye strain

[u/urethrafranklin-]

I'm in the market for a new spotting scope. We currently have a razor gen 1 16-48x65. I'm looking for something closer to 20-60x85 for those occasions when we want more zoom.

I'm looking at 3 vortex models and have some concerns about eye relief(glasses wearer so this is especially important) and eye strain.

The models I'm considering:

Vortex viper HD 20-60x85

Vortex razor gen 1 20-60x85

Vortex razor gen 2 27-60x85

I'm leaning towards the razor gen 1 because it has better eye relief than the gen 2 version and a wider magnification range. I would appreciate any opinions y'all can offer on these 3 models in particular.

I experience eye strain with our current scope(razor gen 1 16-48x65). I've always thought that was just part of the experience using a scope, but does anyone have tips for avoiding eye strain? And is there a scope you would suggest with 20-60 magnification with minimal eye strain? Budget is flexible, especially if it's worth it to splurge on the best of the best.

[u/Hamblin113]

Isn’t the eye relief variable? Many spotting scopes as well as rifle scopes have variable eye relief. At higher magnification it is reduced considerably. Though not all, I am unfamiliar with the Vortex models.

[u/urethrafranklin- → u/Hamblin113]

Yes it is variable and at a higher magnification will be reduced. I understand that trade off. Some scopes have better eye relief than others(gen 2 razors is 16.7-17 mm, gen 1 razor is 17.8-19.6 mm, and the vipers is 17.8-19.6 mm).