For conventional binoculars made after 2007, Swarovski provides a 10 year transferable warranty for parts and labor covering manufacturer's defects. They will typically cover beyond the prescribed limits. If you are not the original owner, they will ask who you purchased the optic from. If...
You can buy used or refurbished UHD's in the $1k range if you look around. Keep in mind the SLC was developed as a bright, high contrast, and color neutral hunting binocular in Europe (I would suggest this is why many bird watchers preferred Leica and Zeiss). The newer models shifted away from...
I've had 3 positive experiences with Swarovski CS, but I only needed scope eyepiece rings, covers or caps replaced. Never any service issues. If you buy used, note the seller's name, as Swarovski traces ownership for registration purposes. Vortex has the best CS I have ever dealt with. They...
I believe the Razor UHD is a better optic than anything so far discussed in this thread. Optically, It is near alpha quality. I do not believe the build quality is up to par with any of the big 3 alphas. I base this on my own rudimentary testing and other more exhaustive tests reviewed. They...
I've never tried any Sig binoculars, but have read numerous reviews. It would seem the 7's compare well to binoculars in the 1K class and the 9's are close to alpha grade.
When you are on hold with Swarovski, you have the option to leave a callback number. They will call you back when a rep becomes available. They are generally very helpful.
If you know your interpupillary distance, then check the specs for the optic you are interested in. Most should be published. Typically, the larger objective lenses increase the distance. I have a relatively short IP distance, but have never had a problem with porro prisms and only had a...
I would say $300-350, depending on condition. The older Vari-X III models with AO bring a premium. The models with green Multicoat 4 are the best optically, compared to the older blue coatings. Some are paying really high prices for clean gloss examples, since they are NLA.
I am a dealer and sell alot of used Leupolds. I get $250 for a clean example. Many dealers price them much higher. The VX-II 3-9x40 is an a outstanding optic for the money.
Vortex is the only brand of scope used by at least 15% of the top shooters in the PRS benchrest series since it started in 2012. I think close to half of the top shooters one year actually used Vortex target scopes.
I'm sure alot of Rokslide members read the AS Daily Bulletin. If you check the published equipment lists for the major bench rest competitions, you will notice an inordinate amount of high end Vortex scopes. The last couple lists I reviewed had very few Leupolds. I'd say Nightforce still...
I think you get what you pay for in this business. Be a smart buyer and try different optics before you buy. There's really not alot of difference among brands at the various price points. Personal preference is very important.