Compact Spotting Scope Review: Maven Vs Vortex

In this in-depth Compact Spotting Scope Review, I put some of the most popular small and lightweight spotters head-to-head:
Vortex Crossfire HD 12-36x50
Vortex Viper HD 11-33x50
Vortex Razor HD 11-33x50
Vortex Razor HD 13-39x50
Maven CS.1A (15-45x65)
Maven S.2 (12-27x56)
Whether you’re glassing for big game in the backcountry, birdwatching, or just want a lightweight scope for the range, this review breaks down clarity, edge-to-edge sharpness, low-light performance, weight, durability, and price-to-performance ratio.
I’ll share pros, cons, and side-by-side comparisons so you can decide which spotting scope is best for your needs and budget.
👉 If you’re interested in digiscoping or hands-free optic systems, check out OLLIN products like the Snapshot and Nexus systems. Use code IBN at Ollin.co to get 10% off your order.
If you’re in the market for a compact spotting scope, this video should save you time, money, and frustration by showing you exactly what each model delivers in the field.
Chapters
0:00 – Intro
1:05 – Scopes in This Comparison
2:20 – Build & Size Differences
4:50 – Weight & Packability
7:10 – Vortex Crossfire HD 12-36x50 Review
9:05 – Vortex Viper HD 11-33x50 Review
11:40 – Vortex Razor HD 11-33x50 Review
14:20 – Vortex Razor HD 13-39x50 Review
17:05 – Maven CS.1A Review
20:10 – Maven S.2 Review
23:15 – Side-by-Side Comparison (Clarity, Low Light, Edge-to-Edge)
26:15 – Best Value & Final Thoughts
28:30 – Closing

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