Thanks.When I sent mine in I removed both the rain guard and the objective covers. Just wrap in some bubble wrap and all will be good. You won't be disappointed with there service.
My 8.5X42 SV came back today as good or better than new. Since we were on vacation while the bin was in for repair I asked it be held until we returned home. It's quite challenging to sign for a package when you're a few hundred miles distant! The folks at Swarovski, as always, were top notch. Thanks Lisa for responding to several emails.
While at Cape May for three weeks I used my 10X50 SV almost exclusively. What a joy. One day I used my 7X42 Ultravid (2004) to see how it would compare. Though the 7X image is obviously smaller than 10X the Ultravid center field is so sharp that it doesn't make a huge difference identifying distant raptors. Optical clarity coupled with birding skill is all you need to enjoy a day of birding. If you can handle 10X fine; if not 7/8X will get the job done quite nicely. Handshake, the bane of higher powers, can be a real image killer.
Last summer I started using a bandolier strap (Vortex optics archer's strap) and it has proven most effective at eliminating pressure on my neck muscles. The Vortex strap has very long padding which slides effortlessly over sweaters, jackets, etc. I highly recommend it. PS...I do not care for harness straps.
My 8.5X42 SV developed slippage in the diopter or internal focus mechanism resulting in a random (though extremely minimal) difference between the two scopes. My aging eyes noticed it and Swarovski fixed it. The focus is smooooth, the diopter is back to 0 for my corrected eyes, hinge stiffness is perfect and they installed new eyecups. I believe the armor was also replaced. Collimation must be dead on because it snaps to focus instantly and there's zero eye strain during extended viewing. Zero charge.
Thanks again to all the folks at Swarovski Optik in Cranston, Rhode Island! :t::t:
I have more than once. Nice view but bulky and heavy. I've yet to meet a birder in the field using this model. There's got to be a reason I'm unaware of."Handshake, the bane of higher powers, can be a real image killer."
You need to try a Canon 10x42 IS-L some time!
I have more than once. Nice view but bulky and heavy. I've yet to meet a birder in the field using this model. There's got to be a reason I'm unaware of.
The Canon 10x42 IS-L's are only 3 oz. heavier than the Swarovski 10x50 SV's. That's nothing when you are talking almost 3 pounds. The Canon's are bulky compared to the SV's though. It is just hard to make an IS binocular with the electrical and mechanical components as sleek and ergonomic as a normal roof prism. Maybe the MKII Canon will address those problems. It is nice to have a steady view though. It makes you realize how much you really shake when using regular binoculars. Glad you had good service with Swarovski. I always did to. They are a very good company to deal with.I have more than once. Nice view but bulky and heavy. I've yet to meet a birder in the field using this model. There's got to be a reason I'm unaware of.
Great news, Pileatus!! :t:
Beginning of the year, sent in my 10X50SV...also came back from SONA Better than new!! Focus is now Silky Smooth and void of Any stickion (was slowly developing). Have never felt focuser smoothness as precise and accurate as these!! :king:
Ted
Great that Swaro service is superb - shame it seems to be needed so often...
I think 9 years without a problem is pretty good for a electromechanical device. The Canon's are a pretty sophisticated instrument. But the warranty is short. It is like Canon doesn't have too much confidence in them. But most people seem to have pretty good luck with their longevity based on the comments on Bird Forum anyway.You're quite right that the 10x42 is rare in the field, despite its virtues.
In 10 years of birding travel, I've seen just one pro with a unit, well worn, on a pelagic out of Hokkaido, Japan.
The problem is that repairs are costly and the warranty is short, under 3 years. While the glass is very robust and reliable, (mine went 9 years without a glitch), customers want more peace of mind than that.
My 8.5X42 SV came back today as good or better than new. Since we were on vacation while the bin was in for repair I asked it be held until we returned home. It's quite challenging to sign for a package when you're a few hundred miles distant! The folks at Swarovski, as always, were top notch. Thanks Lisa for responding to several emails.
While at Cape May for three weeks I used my 10X50 SV almost exclusively. What a joy. One day I used my 7X42 Ultravid (2004) to see how it would compare. Though the 7X image is obviously smaller than 10X the Ultravid center field is so sharp that it doesn't make a huge difference identifying distant raptors. Optical clarity coupled with birding skill is all you need to enjoy a day of birding. If you can handle 10X fine; if not 7/8X will get the job done quite nicely. Handshake, the bane of higher powers, can be a real image killer.
Last summer I started using a bandolier strap (Vortex optics archer's strap) and it has proven most effective at eliminating pressure on my neck muscles. The Vortex strap has very long padding which slides effortlessly over sweaters, jackets, etc. I highly recommend it. PS...I do not care for harness straps.
My 8.5X42 SV developed slippage in the diopter or internal focus mechanism resulting in a random (though extremely minimal) difference between the two scopes. My aging eyes noticed it and Swarovski fixed it. The focus is smooooth, the diopter is back to 0 for my corrected eyes, hinge stiffness is perfect and they installed new eyecups. I believe the armor was also replaced. Collimation must be dead on because it snaps to focus instantly and there's zero eye strain during extended viewing. Zero charge.
Thanks again to all the folks at Swarovski Optik in Cranston, Rhode Island! :t::t:
I have more than once. Nice view but bulky and heavy. I've yet to meet a birder in the field using this model. There's got to be a reason I'm unaware of.
That's the best you can do?
So, I can be an equal opportunity b*tch-er ;]
You're a professional, that's for sure.
I'm one of those who thinks "who gives a ratsazzz that a Swaro focuser isn't silky smooth"? TSwarovski sees the rest of the alpha makers in their rear view mirror.
It is a matter of usage.
Hunters don't use the focuser as much as birders do.
Bob