Swarovski Help (1 Viewer)

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reedjasonj1973

New member

• Nov 27, 2018

• #1

Hi,

I am a new birder and am looking to invest in a set of Swarovski's. I travel often and have decided on Swarovski after talking to other birders. I do however have some questions:

1. I travel often and am wondering if a set of Swarovski Companions would be best for birding due to size and portability? Or is it best just invest in full size?
2. Do you lose a lot by using compact binoculars?
3. I tried both the 8.5x and 10x and cannot tell by just using them for a short period if the 10x is too shaky. Any advice?
4. Any recommendations on best place to purchase Swarovski's? I've noticed there is not much in terms of discounting. I would buy a demo pair or from someone reputable but am hesitant to take the plunge on a used pair on eBay.

 

NDhunter

Experienced observer

• Nov 28, 2018

• #2

I would recommend the 8x30 CL model, due to their quality and versatility.

You have a great question, and this size seems to fit just your needs as mentioned.

I would give a call to Cameraland, NY, they are a sponsor on here, and offer great personalized
service. I have experience with them, ask for Doug or Neil.

Jerry

 

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mpeace

Well-known member

• Nov 28, 2018

• #3

I second Jerry. You're in a great position being new to birding. I'm new to high-end optics and initially tried the 8x30 CL and thought it was fantastic, but was kind of fixed on 8x42. So, I then got my 8x42, but then felt I needed a smaller travel binocular and got a high-end 8x25. Upon reflection I think I'd have been better off (and saved money) just getting the 8x30 CL, which would do everything with very few compromises.

 

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Tringa45

Well-known member

• Dec 1, 2018

• #4

I agree with the other two recommendations for the 8x30 CL. Make sure you get the latest improved version though.
I recently bought one for my wife. It's light, compact and optically and mechanically very good. The only niggle is the silly strap attachment, which keeps getting tangled.

John

 

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gattobirder

Active member

• Dec 18, 2018

• #5

For a compact pair that you will never need to upgrade, I would recommend the 8x32 EL. I have the new version of the 8x30 CL, the improvements are good compared to the older version, but they do not compete with the EL. Another thought would be to try out the 8x42 SLC.

 

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ceasar

Well-known member

• Dec 18, 2018

• #6

Tringa45 said:

I agree with the other two recommendations for the 8x30 CL. Make sure you get the latest improved version though.
I recently bought one for my wife. It's light, compact and optically and mechanically very good. The only niggle is the silly strap attachment, which keeps getting tangled.

John

Click to expand...

Just spin the strap in the proper direction (forward or backward) and it will untangle. It only takes a couple of seconds to untwist.

Bob

 

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Tringa45

Well-known member

• Dec 18, 2018

• #7

ceasar said:

Just spin the strap in the proper direction (forward or backward) and it will untangle. It only takes a couple of seconds to untwist.

Bob

Click to expand...

Yes Bob, we've got that far but why do the manufacturers keep trying to reinvent the wheel and offer us such stupidities? I could name half a dozen and mostly they are simply a PITA.

John

 

Last edited: Dec 18, 2018

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ceasar

Well-known member

• Dec 18, 2018

• #8

Tringa45 said:

Yes Bob, we've got that far but why do the manufacturers keep trying to reinvent the wheel and offer us such stupidities? I could name half a dozen and mostly they are simply a PITA.

John

Click to expand...

Don't ask me. :h?:

Its the only real complaint I have with that binocular. I also had the "Push Pin" swivel fall out of it one time:eek!:! Good thing I was holding it in my hand when it happened.

What happened to "If it ain't broke, don't fix it?"

Bob

 

Jason Bugay Reyes

Well-known member

• Dec 19, 2018

• #9

Yes 8x30 CL is a good one to get then slowly upgrade to other configuration

 

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prc6995

Well-known member

• Dec 19, 2018

• #10

I was in a similar position to you, I really liked the new CL's but just before buying I thought I'd try the 8x32 EL's and as nice as the CL's are the EL's are much better. The difference in weight isn't that much but the feeling in the hand & the quality just feels right and they have a wider FOV too.

My advice would be if you're going to invest in a pair of Swarovski bins get the 8x32 EL's.