Kodiak or Shasta Ridge?
The Kodiak 20-60x60 and the Shasta Ridge 20-60x80 share BAK-4 porro prisms, fully multi-coated glass, a 20-60x zoom and a 45-degree angled body, so the difference is the objective. The 80 mm lens gathers about 78 percent more light, which shows at dawn and dusk and at high magnification, and it resolves about 25 percent finer detail. The 60 mm is lighter, so it is the scope you will carry on a long walk. The Shasta Ridge 25-75x100 goes further still, with the largest objective in Alpen's range.
Field, eye relief and close focus
The 80 mm is also slightly wider in field and more comfortable behind the glass. The 60 mm focuses down to about 20 feet, which suits a birder walking trails.
How much magnification you can use
On most days the air between you and the subject limits fine detail before the scope does, so a scope that is sharp at 30x is worth more than its top number. On a cool, steady morning the larger objective's extra detail shows; on a hot, shimmering afternoon the two scopes look much the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Alpen spotting scope should I buy?
For most people, the Kodiak 20-60x60: it is light enough to bring along, and in good daylight it looks much like the 80 mm. Choose the Shasta Ridge 20-60x80 if you often glass at dawn and dusk.
Do I need a tripod?
Yes. At 20x and above, vibration is magnified with the view. The Kodiak comes with a tabletop tripod for steady surfaces.
Are Alpen spotting scopes waterproof?
Yes. All three are waterproof, with fully multi-coated optics, so they keep working in rain and on wet mornings.
For more birding picks, read Best Spotting Scopes for Birding 2026.