Habicht stiffness (1 Viewer)

[Phanly]

I have owned the 8x30 Habicht for a while now. While their optical quality is unmatched, I cannot get past their focus stiffness. The focus wheel is so stiff, the bino is unusable.

Does anyone own and use this bin? Does it loosen up over time?

Patrick

 

[John A Roberts]

Hi Patrick,

The focuser on the Habicht line has been subject to much discussion over the years.
For an overview see post #11 (and the link in it) at: review: Swarovski Habicht 8x30 from 1961 - incredible


John


p.s. There are a couple of options that may help with using the binocular as it is:
You can try two finger push-pull focusing, and;
Using the focus scale to preset a distance so as to minimise unnecessary focuser travel.
See post #7 at: Habicht 8x30W and Italian supercars (my take on the Habicht)

 

[NDhunter]

I agree, the focus is a bit stiff, but like any binocular, you just get used to it.
It is very usable and enjoyable. We have many choices, and maybe this one is not for you.
Jerry

 

[dorubird]

I have owned the 8x30 Habicht for a while now. While their optical quality is unmatched, I cannot get past their focus stiffness. The focus wheel is so stiff, the bino is unusable.

Does anyone own and use this bin? Does it loosen up over time?

Patrick

Yes, my Habicht 7x42 focus wheel it loosen up over time! You can play with the focus wheel a few dozen times a day, and within a week it will loosen up!

 

[CharleyBird]

Hi Patrick,

The focuser on the Habicht line has been subject to much discussion over the years.
For an overview see post #11 (and the link in it) at: review: Swarovski Habicht 8x30 from 1961 - incredible


John


p.s. There are a couple of options that may help with using the binocular as it is:
You can try two finger push-pull focusing, and;
Using the focus scale to preset a distance so as to minimise unnecessary focuser travel.
See post #7 at: Habicht 8x30W and Italian supercars (my take on the Habicht)

Thanks for that interesting link; (I now want one)
Produced up to 1983 ought to have easy focus but not waterproof.
Produced 1984 to 1999 new waterproofing means focus resistance increased.
Produced 2000 onwards increased sealing increases focus resistance further; but Swarovski can adjust this.

 

[PatR]

Yes, apart from my 10x40 WGA’s, the focuser on my Habicht’s were stiff but eased noticeably after time and, as @dorubird has alluded, giving it a few turns a day does help.

If it doesn’t then Swarovski can ease it if you return them for adjustment.