Swarovski scopes explained?

[aer21]

Does anyone here use Swarovski rifle scopes? Anyone familiar with them care to break down the different series and intended uses? Pros and cons? Are they tough? Track well? Reliable?

 

[Nature Boy]

I have one, a Z6i, but I am by no means an expert.

The Z5 series seems to be designed for tactical/target use but for the most part Swarovski scopes are geared toward the hunting market.

If a resident expert doesn’t come by and answer your specific questions I’d suggest giving Sport Optics a call. They sell them and were great in helping me make my decision. Their prices were good too.

 

[aer21]

Thanks, I’ll do that.

 

[rardoin]

X5 series are the target scopes. I have one. Very good scope, tracks perfect with turret adjustments. Cons are limited reticle options, .25MOA/click and 25x max magnification. If you can stand a thicker reticle and 25x for your use then they are exceptional. FYI I use this scope on F-class targets at 600 yds in a prone 'tacticool' type rifle class using F-class scoring. It is limited to 25x.

 

[Bob L.]

I have two Z5’s. If Swarovski ever comes out with a 50 power variable, I will replace the S&B’s on my target rifles with those in a heartbeat.

 

[rardoin]

I would also do the same as Bob if they had a fine enough reticle option. As far as 1/4 vs 1/8 moa clicks I see they do offer a 1/8 moa turret. I think mine is the 1/4. The glass is outstanding and I can pick up very faint mirage on overcast days and early morning.

 

[aussiepowderburner]

Benchmark quality hunting glass!
Use Z6 1-6; 5-30; Z5 3.5-18; Z5 5-25; and X5 5-25 1/8 click with custom moa reticle which Swaro will do on request!
When they finally make a target scope with at least 40 X I will replace my NF Comps on our F/TR rifles!
And I have owned or assessed
S&B ; Kahles; March ; Leupold Mark 4 and 7-42 Comp

 

[SeanPayton]

Swarovski scopes are designed for hunting. Their X5 line is a long range dial-able scope with a lot of elevation built in. Z3 and Z5 glass are the same and the Z6/Z6i and Z8i are their top of the line glass. Their sister company Kahles is geared towards long range shooting, as their scopes are FFP. I carry both brands so if you ever need pricing you can reach me at sportoptics.com 800-720-9625 ext 2278

 

[ChrisNZ]

Amongst others, I have four Nightforces (incl an ATAC-R) and three Z5 Swaros: two 3.5-18s and one 5-25. Optically, the Swaros walk over the NXS and are slightly better than the ATAC. I was looking through my buddy's 5-30 Z6 today and it was impressive. I can believe it is at least the equal of the X5 (which I've looked through multiple times) and it's more compact. The -big- turrets on the X5 will put a few people off, though they are top drawer mechanically.

 

[aer21]

That’s what I currently use is Nightforce. I have a NXS and a NX8. No real complaints other than weight. So I assume the Swarovski might not be quite as tough? As long as I take care of it and am not negligent the Swarovski should take mild abuse? How are they mechanically? Track excellent?

 

[Nature Boy]

Here’s some cell phone pics from a couple of weeks ago through my Z6i

 

[ChrisNZ]

..So I assume the Swarovski might not be quite as tough? As long as I take care of it and am not negligent the Swarovski should take mild abuse? How are they mechanically? Track excellent?

They DEF will take mild abuse. Way lighter than a Nightforce but they seem to bear up to a bit of rough and tumble. The dialling is absolutely fine.