Swarovski Binos? Or other $1000 binos.

[HntnFsh]

Do any of you know the difference between the SLC 10x42 model #58010 and the 58310. Pretty sure the 58010 are an older model. Probably non hd, but cant find any info to know for sure. Ive read a couple reviews that preferred the non HD models.

I'm looking for new Binos in the $1000 range Meopta Meostar were at the top of the list for about $850 until I saw the SLCs for a grand. Just not sure if they would be as good as the Meostars if they aren't the HD version.

Looked at Zeiss Conquests. Didn't care for them as much as I did the Meopta, Leicas and Swarovski. Although I was only able to look at the last 3 in Cabelas store. I actually thought they were pretty equal with the Swaros being $700 more.  Did find some Leica ultravids for $1300 that seem pretty tempting too. More than I want to spend but very tempting.

[opdinkslayer]

If you can get slc’s for $1000 I would. I’ve had mine since 03 & haven’t been tempted to get anything else yet. I think mine were $1300 in 03

[HntnFsh]

Thank you for the input.

I also just realized the Ultravids are the BL model. That might rule them out.

[jrebel]

I love my slc's.  I have an older set and wouldn't dream of selling them. 

[High Climber]

My slc’s Are the one piece of gear I don’t ever see replacing

[Harbor_hunter]

100% agree with High Climber and jrebel.   I have some 10x42 SLC's and wouldn't dream of replacing them!   I wouldn't let non HD models be a turn off either. 

[Bob33]

The buy once cry once syndrome is real. When you have $200 binoculars you come to believe that you would see more animals with $400 binoculars so you buy them. A few years later you then realize that was $600 binoculars you would see more animals so you buy them. That cycle continues until you get alpha glass and accept there is nothing better. I don't think that  binoculars that cost $600 to $800 are much different optically than ones costing two or three times as much, but you're inclined to start wondering at some point. There are differences but they are slight and visually only noticeable under marginal lighting conditions or periods of extended viewing.

It's hard to argue that Swarovski SLCs aren't a very good binocular.

[lewy]

Another vote for slc’s

[HntnFsh]

I know its not a very good way to try out binoculars but I went to Cabelas last night and spent quite a bit of time looking through the SLCs, Zeiss Conquest, Leica trinovids, Cabelas Euro (Meostars), Nikon Monarch HGs, and I think Leupold Santiams.

Once again I ruled out the Zeiss pretty quickly. They just didn't fit my eyes. The Nikons and Leupolds were good but not quite up to snuff with the others. So ruled them out.

So it came down to the SLCs, Leicas, and Meoptas. The Leicas fit my eyes the best. Very comfortable. The other 2 were both a very close second. Ergonomics was almost a tossup. The Leicas maybe once again a hair better but ever so slightly. Switching between the SLCs and the Meostars I would often forget which ones I had in my hands as far as fit and feel. I felt the Meostars were brightest every time I picked them up compared to the other 2. Lens coloring may have played a part in that.

The twist up eyecups went to the SLCs then Leicas, then Meostars. But full out is all I use so not a big deal. I will say the SLCs felt gritty. Diopter adjustments were 6 of 1 half dozen of the other. as far as ease of use. Once again the SLCs had issues. Turn them 1 way and they were stiff turn them back and very loose. Was pretty weird.

I will probably spend some more time looking at these 3. But so far my initial impression was best overall was the Meostars with the Leicas a very close 2nd. Tough choice between the 2. The SLCs dropped to 3rd and I almost completely ruled them out several times. I think I will give them another chance later though.

[X-Force]

Pass along where the swaros are for 1k

[Bob33]

Make sure you check how well they perform at the edges. Nearly all good binoculars have sharp images in the center of view.

[lewy]

Another thing to keep in mind is customer service, swaro is amazing

[cem3434]

Pass along where the swaros are for 1k

the cheapest I have seen old used swaros has been $1300 and up. The going rate for good used SLC's is closer to the $2K range. I would definitely buy a pair at $1K without hesitation.

[HntnFsh]

Pass along where the swaros are for 1k

the cheapest I have seen old used swaros has been $1300 and up. The going rate for good used SLC's is closer to the $2K range. I would definitely buy a pair at $1K without hesitation.

You can buy SLCs brand new for $1700

[Bob33]

https://backwoodspursuit-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/backwoodspursuit.com/swarovski-slc-vs-razor-hd-vs-meopta-meostar/amp/?usqp=mq331AQEKAFwAQ%3D%3D&amp_js_v=0.1#aoh=15667574700037&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fbackwoodspursuit.com%2Fswarovski-slc-vs-razor-hd-vs-meopta-meostar%2F

https://www.rokslide.com/forums/threads/swaro-slc-hd-vs-meopta-b1-hd.87224/

https://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/topics/10425140/all/Euro_HD's_vs_Swarovski_SLC's

[elkslayer069]

Rick I found a used pair of the older swaro 10x42 el for $1200 several years ago and love them I actually prefer them to the new hd models. I’ve had tons of field time with both. Let me now if you want to check them out. Also give Texas bino man a call and see what he’s got

[cem3434]

You can buy SLCs brand new for $1700

You're correct, I was thinking EL's when I was discussing price. The SLC's are actually on sale at cameraland for $1550.   

[X-Force]

Pass along where the swaros are for 1k

the cheapest I have seen old used swaros has been $1300 and up. The going rate for good used SLC's is closer to the $2K range. I would definitely buy a pair at $1K without hesitation.

You can buy SLCs brand new for $1700

$1700 or 1550 is a far cry from $1000

[bman940]

I have owned and still own a number of binos with the most expensive ones being over $2K. I would say this and not because I do some freelance work with Meopta but because it's true, the Meopta MeoStar B1 1042 are as good as it gets, especially for under $1000. I was absolutely blown away the first time used these and my $2400 Swaro.'s haven't come out of my safe since. Schott glass and special coatings will leave you wanting nothing more from these binos.

I do not do any sales at all for Meopta, just trying to help you get the best bang for your $.

[HntnFsh]

Rick I found a used pair of the older swaro 10x42 el for $1200 several years ago and love them I actually prefer them to the new hd models. I’ve had tons of field time with both. Let me now if you want to check them out. Also give Texas bino man a call and see what he’s got

Appreciate it. I forgot about Texas binoman. I'll give him a ring. He doesn't show much on his website right now. I think I'm just going to order the Meoptas and the Swaros and see which ones I like best. As much as I also liked the Leicas I am ruling them out because of too many reviews of poor, slow customer service.

[Skyvalhunter]

You cant go wrong with Swaro customer service. I sent mine in to have them cleaned after owning them for over 15 years. They cam back like brand new with new armor, eyepieces, etc all at no charge. That is well worth the price if you ask me.

[bman940]

That sounds like a great plan, I look forward to reading about what you think of each and which one you keep.

[HntnFsh]

I have owned and still own a number of binos with the most expensive ones being over $2K. I would say this and not because I do some freelance work with Meopta but because it's true, the Meopta MeoStar B1 1042 are as good as it gets, especially for under $1000. I was absolutely blown away the first time used these and my $2400 Swaro.'s haven't come out of my safe since. Schott glass and special coatings will leave you wanting nothing more from these binos.

I do not do any sales at all for Meopta, just trying to help you get the best bang for your $.

I appreciate your input. Have you heard any feed back on their customer service? I hear all the excellent reviews about Swarovski but havent heard anything about Meopta. I wonder how they handle issues other than manufacturer defects? Sometimes things happen. Binos get damaged. Seems like this is where Swarovski is at the head of the pack but it would be nice to know how Meopta handles these types of things.

[bman940]

I have not been working with Meopta that long but what I have seen is that they care about their customer's and want to make sure they are happy with their product and CS they receive. I really have run across anyone having issues with product's having defects or being broken in the 4 months I have been with Meopta. That is pretty good plus I think their items are built tough and will handle whatever job you have in the filed.

[dog]

I've had the meoptas and still have the SLCs. The meoptas are good glass, but on the heavy side. To my eyes the SLCs are better glass and quite a bit lighter which is an issue for me.

[mburrows]

Ill plug Mavens. They arent swaro but I love mine and think they are a great value

[boneaddict]

I balked and laughed at folks with their expensive binos for years, then Huntinphool had me look through his Swaros.   I purchased a pair less than a week later.  No turning back

[stlusn30-06]

Kinda surprised there's no mention of Vortex. I might be behind on something here, but Razor HD's come in at that $1k mark. I'm having trouble distinguishing in this thread whether you're interested in anything from $800 - $1,550 for the Swaro. If you're willing to go to $1550 for the Swaros, then it's a no brainer, but if you're actually looking at glass with $1k as the top end of the budget. Razors are solid, the warranty and customer service are top notch.

https://www.amazon.com/Vortex-Optics-Razor-Prism-Binoculars/dp/B00821PQDK

[HntnFsh]

Sticking to the $1000 mark. Only reason I considered the swaros was because I found a pair of older model SLCs for that price as demos. Talked to a rep from Swarovski this morning and he told me there is a pretty big difference between new model and old model. Also talked to Meopta customer service and liked what I heard so most likely going with Meostars as i thought they were a slight touch better than the new model SLCs so I'm betting there will be a bigger difference between the Meostars and the old model SLCs.

Not a Vortex fan. Although i know a lot of people like them.

[buglebrush]

Isn't anything available for $1000 that is better than the Nikon Monarch HG.  No doubt in my mind what I'd do.

[HntnFsh]

Looked at those side by side to Leica, Swaro slc, and Meopta and although nice thought they fell a bit short.

[Bob33]

It sounds like your eyes and mind are telling you go to with Meopta.

[bman940]

I have 60-year-old eye's and as many of you know, worked for another optic's company for 10 years doing CS/education. When I left that company I had other opportunities and when I looked at what Meopta had at all level's it was a no brainer to me. From their sub $300 Optika line which I used all last weekend to the MeoPro and MeoStar line. Quality and a fair price. An easy decision for me and the folks at Meopta really want you to be satisfied and a repeat customer. I don't do any sales but I have hands-on experience with all their products and I will do my best to help you guys get the answers that you need so that you can buy whatever will be the best for your shooting/hunting needs.

[blackveltbowhunter]

It sounds like your eyes and mind are telling you go to with Meopta.

        In the end go with what gives you the most peace of mind.

[HntnFsh]

It sounds like your eyes and mind are telling you go to with Meopta.

        In the end go with what gives you the most peace of mind.

Your both right. I'm pretty set on the Meoptas. Should be placing an order in the morning. I honestly think they are better glass than the older model SLCs. I'm really not in the market for the new SLCs for $1600. I know people rave about the quality, resale value and customer service of Swaros and it has weighed on my decision. But I do think the quality of the Meostars are right in line with the Swaros. The resale value really doesn't matter to me, and after talking to Meoptas customer service this morning I really got a feel for just what bman940 was saying. I think they really want to provide great customer service and keep you as a customer. Their turnaround time may be longer than Swaros as all repairs are done overseas. But I'm sure if a person was in a pinch during hunting season etc. they would do all they could to keep you from going without binos while you waited.

[Bob33]

A drive to Oregon saves $100....

[dvolmer]

Ive been looking at binos now for the last two months. I have had a pair of 10X42 Vortex Vipers that I have really liked ($500) for the last 8 or so years.  I'm looking to upgrade.  I wear glasses and the Leica's don't work for me.  I do have the Leica range finder and love it!  Ive looked at the Swarovski EL's and the SLC's along with the new Vortex ultra HD Razor's that just came out this year.  Razor and the SLC are both super bino's at approximately $1500-$1800 a pair. But the Swarovski EL Swarovision is by far the best out there!  I will be buying my new 10X42 EL's in Boise this weekend on my way to Wyoming.  Not cheap at approximately $2700 but for an old man with old eyes it is time!(just turned 54)  Nothing is even close!  They are a full notch above any others.

[Bob33]

Ive been looking at binos now for the last two months. I have had a pair of 10X42 Vortex Vipers that I have really liked ($500) for the last 8 or so years.  I'm looking to upgrade.  I wear glasses and the Leica's don't work for me.  I do have the Leica range finder and love it!  Ive looked at the Swarovski EL's and the SLC's along with the new Vortex ultra HD Razor's that just came out this year.  Razor and the SLC are both super bino's at approximately $1500-$1800 a pair. But the Swarovski EL Swarovision is by far the best out there!  I will be buying my new 10X42 EL's in Boise this weekend on my way to Wyoming.  Not cheap at approximately $2700 but for an old man with old eyes it is time!(just turned 54)  Nothing is even close!  They are a full notch above any others.

Drive through Montana on you way and save the sales tax....

[hollymaster]

Ive been looking at binos now for the last two months. I have had a pair of 10X42 Vortex Vipers that I have really liked ($500) for the last 8 or so years.  I'm looking to upgrade.  I wear glasses and the Leica's don't work for me.  I do have the Leica range finder and love it!  Ive looked at the Swarovski EL's and the SLC's along with the new Vortex ultra HD Razor's that just came out this year.  Razor and the SLC are both super bino's at approximately $1500-$1800 a pair. But the Swarovski EL Swarovision is by far the best out there!  I will be buying my new 10X42 EL's in Boise this weekend on my way to Wyoming.  Not cheap at approximately $2700 but for an old man with old eyes it is time!(just turned 54)  Nothing is even close!  They are a full notch above any others.

Drive through Montana on you way and save the sales tax....

Or watch eBay. I picked up a pair of brand new in the box 2015’s last year for just north of $2000.

[bman940]

You will not regret your Meopta purchase. I have gone all-in with them and I couldn't be happier. I have yet to let someone use my MeoStar or even sub $300 Optika 10x42 binos and not get positive comments. Something about controlling the entire process from start to finish that gives you a better product and certainly more value for your $. I have over 100 in the field hours with my Optika binos and they are a workhorse. For the price, I don't feel bad leaving them in my truck or sitting on the front seat of my UTV while scouting. Without a doubt, my MeoStars are better top to bottom and as such, I take a lot better care of them.

MeoStar 10x42

[Rainier10]

I have had a set of Cabela's Euro 10x42's made by Meopta for almost 10 years now.  They have been great to use and perform awesome.  I wasn't as impressed with customer service when I had to deal with them about 5 years ago for the price I paid for the binocs.  I am looking to upgrade and after much reading and input from other members think I have decided to go with the swaro 10x42 el's.  I was going to do the el range but the button is on the wrong side for me as an archery hunter so I will go with the el's and have a rangefinder separate again.

[Honey Badger]

I just rented a pair of Swarovski EL 10x42 from Optics4rent.com.  I searched their reviews and all were positive.  $200 for 10 days.  That is out the door with shipping and damage insurance.  I’ll let you know how it goes (it’s for wa modern mule season).  Before I pull the trigger I need to see if the price is worth it based on my style of hunting.  I don’t glass enough now, but I also have a pair of Bushnell Bone Collector 10x42s.  If you end up loving he binos, part of your rental fee can go towards purchasing them.  We shall see

[dvolmer]

I just rented a pair of Swarovski EL 10x42 from Optics4rent.com.  I searched their reviews and all were positive.  $200 for 10 days.  That is out the door with shipping and damage insurance.  I’ll let you know how it goes (it’s for wa modern mule season).  Before I pull the trigger I need to see if the price is worth it based on my style of hunting.  I don’t glass enough now, but I also have a pair of Bushnell Bone Collector 10x42s.  If you end up loving he binos, part of your rental fee can go towards purchasing them.  We shall see

That is a great option!

[T-Dozzer]

Ive been really happy with my Maven B2s.

[Bob33]

Cabelas Black Friday: