Spotting scopes require care and attention to maintain their optimum performance. Even the smallest damage can turn into big problems down the road.
Cleaning a spotting scope requires special knowledge and technique. Without the proper techniques, you could leave marks, scratches, or eroded coatings on the lenses.
Lenses
The lenses of a spotting scope are delicate, and if they’re not cleaned properly, they can become scratched, which affects viewing quality. Use a soft microfiber cloth or a lens cleaning pen with an anti-static brush to clean the lenses. Avoid using a paper towel or t-shirt, as these can cause damage to the lenses.
First and foremost, you want to rinse the lenses. This can be done with your breath (which is fine) or compressed air if you have it available. When using compressed air, avoid blasting abrasive particles across the lens, etching lines into it; consider the sandblast effect.
Using a brush or swab, start at the center of the lens and work your way outward. Never swab from the edges; this smears and abrades the lens. Once you’ve brushed the lenses and washed them, a quick inspection is an excellent idea to ensure all the grit has been removed.
Body
Even though spotting scopes are designed to handle the outdoor elements, they will accumulate dirt on almost every excursion. While these little particles might not seem like a big deal, they can clog the focus wheel and obscure your view. They can also damage the lens and make it less effective.
To keep the body of your spotting scope free from dust, it’s essential to use an air blower, brush, cleaning solution, and wipes. After a thorough cleaning, the lens covers should be put back on, and the spotting scope should be placed in its case. It’s also essential to store the spotting scope in a dry, humid-free area, as moisture causes the most damage. You should also store any extra lenses or accessories in separate containers to prevent any damage from occurring.
Eyepieces
Spotting scopes Canada is a serious investment that can last the rest of your life. Unnecessary damage to it can cost hundreds of dollars and even lead to the need for a replacement. Cleaning the lenses and other parts of your spotting scope properly prevents this unnecessary damage from occurring.
Begin by brushing away any debris or dust accumulated on the lens. This is typically done with a soft, lint-free cloth with the spotting scope or a microfiber cloth. Avoid using household cleaners or glass-cleaning solutions on the lenses, as they can corrode and ruin the coating.
Next, apply a small cleaning solution to the soft cloth or lens paper and wipe the lenses. Make sure to start from the center and work towards the edges of each lens to reduce any chance of accidentally scratching them. You should also apply gentle pressure to the cloth or lens paper to prevent adding any extra stress that could crack or damage the lenses.
Accessories
Keeping a soft, lintless cloth (preferably the one that came with your scope) on hand to gently wipe down your lenses will help protect them from scratches. First, remove any small dust particles with a blower or excellent brush.
Investing in a specialized lens cleaning solution may be wise if you use a spotting scope with a lens that features apochromatic optics or extra-low dispersion. These formulas are designed to minimize chromatic aberrations, which can cause color fringing around the edges of your images.
Regularly cleaning your scope will improve optical quality and extend the life of your gear. Be sure to follow these tips when observing birds or other wildlife to experience nature’s beauty.