I'm finding myself hunting more western states these days, (Wyoming, New Mexico and Kansas), and I am looking to purchase a spotting scope. I plan to backpack hunt in the back country next season for elk.

I know it's easy to spend a small fortune but my budget for the scope is $1000+/-

I see a lot of people recommending the vortex (razor) on others sites. Is that a good choice?
How about Leupold? I'm not finding a lot of reviews on their spotting scopes.

Just starting my research so all input and advice is appreciated.

15-45X Razor, straight model, would fit your bill nicely.

Far and above better glass than the Leupold golden ring.

I prefer razor over GR and straight over angled. I glass a lot from the truck.

If you aren't packing deep on foot then 85mm is a big plus with the higher zoom, but if you do the 65 will save you some weight but less zoom.

As soon as Maven releases a 65mm I'll be selling my razor 50mm...maybe

Thank yall for the input. The spots that I have found do require a 4-5 mile hike, so I'm probably better off with the 65mm. Why do yall prefer straight over angled?

Straight packs better.

Straight allows you to have both eyes facing the target. With angled, the eye not in the glass is looking at the ground, not helping at all.