It is difficult, if not impossible, to obtain error bounds on many solutions to high‐frequency scattering problems. Consequently, comparisons between solutions can be very helpful in establishing domains of validity. The backscattered field from a rigid prolate spheroid, ensonified by a plane wave, is calculated using the Keller, Kirchhoff, Luneberg‐Kline, and geometrical‐optics methods. These results are compared to each other, and to the more exact wave‐harmonic result. Finally, results from a finite element method, employing Schenck's CHIEF program, are compared. Limitations on the various methods are discussed.