Abstract: The compact view scope enables an observer to view miniaturized textual and pictorial images mounted in the scope. The compact view scope includes axially co-extensive outer and inner cylindrical bodies. The interior of the inner cylindrical body is hollow and is light transmissive. A first seal is established between the inner and outer cylindrical bodies by complementary thread members. The first axial end of the inner body defines an integral light filter end cap having at least one surface channel thereon. In a preferred embodiment, the surface channel has a U-shaped cross-section and provides a thinned end piece region which filters light therethrough. A film carrying miniaturized textual and pictorial images is disposed at the first axial end in the hollow, light transmissive interior of the inner cylindrical body adjacent the axially inboard side of the light filtering end cap. At the other, second axial end of the inner cylindrical body, a first lens chamfer is formed.