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Message: <blockquote data-quote="BruceH" data-source="post: 3527227" data-attributes="member: 106398">The last two versions of the Swaro SLC are basically the same binocular with some small differences.  There were also several SLC versions before the last two.  The current version is generally called the Swarovski SLC WB.  The similar prior version is known as the Swarovski SLC WB HD.  My guess is James is grouping these to versions together and is referring to the first (SLC WB HD) as the first generation.  If looking at all of the SLC models over the years, then it would be something higher than the first generation.  The prior SLC WB HD was an all new body design and it came with ED glass.  That was new for the line.  It was also close in price to what some consider the Swaro flagship model, the EL SV.  Speculation is that Swaro wanted more price separation between the two lines so in the fall of 2014, the prior SLC WB HD was discontinued and replaced with the SLC WB.  This is now the current model. The biggest difference is Swaro simplified the focus mechanism removing the close focus ability and claimed that allowed them to lower the price.  They also changed the body armor and I think dropped the weight an ounce.  Optically, they are basically the same.  There may have been some minor changes to accommodate the changes to the focus.  There has been some small debate that there are minor optical differences in the view.  The Swaro reps I spoke with said the end view is the same.  Swaro added the HD to the name originally to indicate the binocular had ED glass.  Now I believe all of their binoculars have ED glass so it was no longer necessary to use the HD in the name and it was eliminated in reference to the newest version of the SLC.  The WB (actually W B) represents wide angle (W) and twist up eye cups (B).  That still applies to the newest version.Here is a link showing the prior Swaro SLC WB HD .......<a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/712718-USA/Swarovski_58210_SLC_10x42_HD_Binocular.html" target="_blank">https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/712718-USA/Swarovski_58210_SLC_10x42_HD_Binocular.html</a>Here is a link showing the current Swaro SLC WB .......<a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1000637-REG/swarovski_58310_10x42_slc_binocular.html" target="_blank">https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1000637-REG/swarovski_58310_10x42_slc_binocular.html</a>My personal preference is for the prior SLC WB HD, which I have in an 8X42 .  I consider them optically the same but the prior version has the closer focus and I think better styling.  Long answer to a short question.  It appears Lee's link answered the rest of your questions.</blockquote>

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