A spotting scope requires a tripod. At six or seven times more magnification than normal binoculars, a tripod is critical, they have to be heavy to work well. A good spotting scope is also heavy and if it outweighs the tripod, you're asking for trouble. Modern tripods are a joke for the most part. Thin aluminum legs, soft plastic joints and poor designs make them unusable for a heavy spotting scope. I buy only vintage tripods. To do otherwise is risky. Mine are made in Japan and America. Use them for stationary subjects like a birds nest. Beach side condo owners will find them rather entertaining like having your own reality TV show. They also look great on a balcony or next to the sliding glass doors-very classy.