15x56/18x56 Bino Comparison questions

[Alpine4x4]

After deciding to get Swaros for my standard 10x42 EDC Binos I know my 15x56 Diamondback HD's will need to be upgraded. I dont use them a ton, but they are nice to have when glassing a longer distance as opposed to always looking through a spotting scope. I have a 15-45 and 20-60 scope for taking a closer look, but like the versatility of having 15's with me. That said I've started looking at upgrade options, but not wanting to spend $2000 as they just arent used as much as my 10x42's.

I've been looking at the Maven B5 15x56, 18x56, Razor UHD 18x56, and potentially the Zeiss Conquest 15x56. I plan to buy used or refurb and keep the cost around $1000 which I have seen these models at.

My question is, what are the pros and cons of each? I know the eye cups on the Mavens seem to be a constant complaint and I will be trying them out at a show in early February to see for myself. I know the Razors are huge and heavy. People seem to say the Zeiss has a blue tint to it vs the razors grey tint.

What are people using and what are your opinons? Is there an option I am missing other than a used set of SLC's which are outside the budget? Thanks!

 

[hereinaz]

I am happy borrowing my friends Razor HD 18x56 or Swaro 15 x 56 SLC. The difference between them is largely the edge to edge clarity. I don't feel inadequate with the Razor HD.

If that's what you have money for, try to find a used pair to get the most for your money.

 

[Alpine4x4]

I am happy borrowing my friends Razor HD 18x56 or Swaro 15 x 56 SLC. The difference between them is largely the edge to edge clarity. I don't feel inadequate with the Razor HD.

If that's what you have money for, try to find a used pair to get the most for your money.

I can find them refurbed for right at $1000 which is appealing vs the used pricing of the SLC's at $17-1900.

 

[Hoodie]

I've used both the 15x56 and 18x56 B5 pretty extensively. Currently have the 18x56. It's got shallower depth of field, but I don't carry a spotter so I like the extra 3x. If you're going to carry a spotter I think it's tough to beat 8x42, 15x56, and a 65 or 80mm spotter as a total package.

 

[Hoodie]

As far as other options, they don't have enough eye relief for me but I've seen a lot of positive comments on the Tract Toric 15x56. A little more affordable too.

 

[pods8 (Rugged Stitching)]

Is there an option I am missing other than a used set of SLC's which are outside the budget? Thanks!

Meopta Meostar are well regarded also.

I have the SLC, had the zeiss but they didn't work for my eyes well. I ordered the Maven and also they didn't work as well for my eyes and I found the depth of focus shallow requiring lots of fiddling when scanning near/far compared to the SLC.

 

[Steve300xcw]

Ended up with the 15x mavens. I dont think I would want any more magnification for what I do.

Lil blacktail buck @1350ish yrds. Phone really did not want to focus for me...