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Author Topic: Leica Ultravid Question  (Read 10328 times)

Offline ghgetter

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Re: Leica Ultravid Question
« Reply #15 on: January 27, 2009, 01:42:12 PM »
Bucklucky...did you end up buying either pair? I have also been wrestling between the two and would like to hear which way you went.

Offline bucklucky

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Re: Leica Ultravid Question
« Reply #16 on: January 27, 2009, 03:15:02 PM »
I have not bought binos yet. I'm leaning towards the swaro's because of the warrantee issues with Leica.

Offline Steve C

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Re: Leica Ultravid Question
« Reply #17 on: January 31, 2009, 10:12:20 AM »
I have come to the conclusion that the differences between top end glass, from an optical standpoint are more illusory than real.  They all offer all of the resolution that the eye can use.  So does the much less expensive ZEN ED.  What is more critical to me if you are going to layout $$$$$$$$$ for a top glass, you need to decide first off what magnification you want.  If you're a 10x guy I guess you have that part figured out.  From there I think the decision needs to be made on how the binocular feels when you are using it.  Each of the top brands has a little bit different look to the image.  Some people will see those differences as significant.  Others, like me could be happy with any.  For example the Zeiss is usually a bit brighter in appearance, with a more white to blue color bias.  The Leica excels in sharp images with no apparent color bias, while the Swarovski tends to be a bit warm in color bias and has an ever so slight tint. Same deal with the Steiner Peregrine XP.  Now, I'm a certified cheapskate and do not feel the ZEN ED or Promaster ELX ED gives up enough to warrant what I'd have to pay for the difference.  Having said that, if I was going for a top end glass, it would be the Steiner XP.  Just because it has the right "feel, heft, or panache" or whatever you want to call it.   So if you have been doing some looking and the Leica has shown you something you like, then that is where I'd advise you to go.  It matters not what I like, you will use it.  Don't let a buddy cajole you into a Swaro because he likes it.  If you like the Leica, get it, use it, enjoy it and wish the same for your friend with a Swaro or Zeiss.  You will all have what you like.
Steve

Theodore Roosevelt:  "Do what you can where you are with what you have."

Offline Intruder

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Re: Leica Ultravid Question
« Reply #18 on: February 01, 2009, 09:56:02 AM »
Steve Z.,
I tend to agree with you.  At some point all the top dogs are so good you're really splitting hairs.  The other thing I've noticed is the gap between the top dogs and the next step down is closing in optical quality and widening in price.  So in some sense I think a guy is getting less out of his money going top shelf.  You're paying a frikin premium for that last little increment of optical quality. 

I looked through some Vortex 8x (42 mm I think) Razors that were awesome.  At about 800 bucks or so that's a pretty damn nice pair of Binos.  Not knockin anyone for wanting to go top shelf (hell I own a pair of Geovids)... I just think there are more great values and choice out there today than there ever has been.   

Offline bucklucky

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Re: Leica Ultravid Question
« Reply #19 on: February 01, 2009, 07:53:07 PM »
I have a pair of Vortex Razor 10x42s. They are nice for the money but compare them to the Leicas and the Swaros side by side and there is quite a big difference. I compare everytime I go into sportsmans and cabelas. The swaro's are comfy and the leicas are comfy. Like them both . Now itsd just a decision. Warrantee does make a difference. I'm just not sure what I want to do.  :bash:

Offline Steve C

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Re: Leica Ultravid Question
« Reply #20 on: February 01, 2009, 09:08:06 PM »
Just to add to your confusion, most Sportsman's Warehouse carry Steiner Peregrine XP.  They have as good an image as the EL.  They also offer a good solid heft and a really nice balance and feel.  I'd advise you to look at those too.  Swarovski warranty gets good feed back from what I've seen.
Steve

Theodore Roosevelt:  "Do what you can where you are with what you have."

Offline nwhunter

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Re: Leica Ultravid Question
« Reply #21 on: February 01, 2009, 09:13:35 PM »
Charlie you won't be needing that expensive glass now that you are going to be back on this wet brushy side of the state!LOL I know the    feeling , its hard to pull the trigger on that spendy of a purchase when what you have works but you know there is better out there. I am torn between upgrading from my zeiss 10x40 to swar. glass or upgrading my spotter from leupold sequoiia to a swar. scope. The wife thinks neither!! GOod luck nwhunter

Offline bucklucky

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Re: Leica Ultravid Question
« Reply #22 on: February 02, 2009, 09:38:20 AM »
Steiners are descent, Ive had 3 pairs. They are not a swaro or Leica IMO. The Steiners do have a good warrante though. Wife had to send a pair she had back twice and both times she got a brand new pair no questions asked. Steiner is out of the question. Its the big two for me, Leica or Swaro.

   I hear ya NwHunter. I dont plan un hunting the west siode as much anymore  ;) ;) My wife knows all about optics so I dont have the problem you have  :chuckle: Plus it means that some of the vehicles I have laying around will be leaving the yard $$$$$$ To support my addiction of Hunting!!

 


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