For all you Swarovski fans...

[Flapjack]

After 10 years of using mid range binos and the headaches that accompany them, I’ve finally found myself in a position to get a good set.

I’ve decided on swaro SLC 10x42. In my research so far I’ve heard about HD, NEU, WB models, as well as some minor disappointments in the newest models of slc (whatever model designation those are)

I’m hoping someone can decode these different slc versions for me and help me be able to visually tell the difference between the models. Id like get the “best” version of slc. This will likely be my only shot at getting top of the line binos (unless I get a divorce), so I don’t want to screw it up.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[handwerk]

some help:

SLC WB HD vs. WB

I have read contradicting info on these two models. I have the 10x42 (2011) HD's with more EL like outside covering, black hinges and the closer focus. Some places say that other than the close focus the optics between the two are the same, other sources mention improvements in the optics of the...

www.birdforum.net

 

[Xlr8n]

I'd look for either the 2010-12 HD or the 2013-20 WB. Both are HD glass. The 2010 has a bit closer focus (if you like to look at bugs and such) and faster focus with harder partial armor with metal bridge. The 2013 has a slower focus and full rubber armor both of which I prefer for hunting. Some folks prefer the 2010 version. View through both is identical.

 

[Flapjack]

Ok. So it sounds like the glass is the same quality in both models, it’s just a difference in exterior aesthetics and close focus then? I just want to make sure if I buy a brand new pair I won’t be missing out on something special they did with previous models. It almost sounded like the new models were a “downgrade” from previous.

They will be used for eastern Oregon elk/deer hunting (high desert landscape like eastern Idaho, Montana)

 

[Gonz406]

..

 

[flyinsquirel]

Xlr8n nailed it. No downgrade in the latest models.

 

[Xlr8n]

Ok. So it sounds like the glass is the same quality in both models, it’s just a difference in exterior aesthetics and close focus then? I just want to make sure if I buy a brand new pair I won’t be missing out on something special they did with previous models. It almost sounded like the new models were a “downgrade” from previous.

They will be used for eastern Oregon elk/deer hunting (high desert landscape like eastern Idaho, Montana)

SImplifying the close focus mechanism allowed them to save some maufacturing cost and thus the ability to offer them for a cheaper price than the earlier version. Unless you are wanting to view objects ultra close objects, you are missing nothing.

 

[Flapjack]

Thanks everyone for the replies!

 

[ClearCreek]

Thanks everyone for the replies!

Flapjack:

You probably know this but the 10X42 SLC's have been discontinued so you will have to buy used or find a store that has not sold out of this model.

Good luck. They are great glass.

ClearCreek

 

[Flapjack]

Flapjack:

You probably know this but the 10X42 SLC's have been discontinued so you will have to buy used or find a store that has not sold out of this model.

Good luck. They are great glass.

ClearCreek

Yeah I read that. Definitely lit a fire under my a$$. Luckily there appears to be a fair # of mail order sources with stock left.

 

[SomeJackassOnAForum]

So, this makes a lot more sense if you speak German.

"W" = Weitwinkel = Wide Angle
"B" = Brillenträger = (Literally) Glasses Wearers = Twist-In/Twist-Out Eyecups
"Neu" = New.

All SLC, EL, and NL binos are "WB". "Neu" was a label for the SLC starting in ~2005. The SLC "Neu" are not HD.

HD SLCs started in 2010/2011 for the 10x42s and 8x42s, and 2013 for the 15s. The guy I talked to at Swaro to get that information said that the non-HD SLCs have serials that start with a "D".

 

[Goblism]

Find a pair of SLC is starting to get hard. I have tried out the EL and SLC in the past and decided to recently buy a pair only to find that most online sources are sold out! Found a great deal in the aftermarket world and not many concerns with warranty as Swaro is well known in this area.

 

[JLane330]

I own a set of HD and have bought two more sets of WB in the last two years for my son and GF. Optically they look about identical. The focus knob on one pair of the WB's has gotten a little stiff/crunchy (needs to be sent back for cleaning/repair), but otherwise they have been great. I wouldn't hesitate to buy any from 2010 and up.

 

[archp625]

I want to say I saw a Pair of SLC 10 x 42's for $1350 in the classifieds. Seems like a good deal to me.

 

[archp625]

https://www.rokslide.com/forums/threads/10x42-slc.206254/

I really like mine a ton. I think $1350 may be the best price I have seen yet. I imagine in a few years they will go up in price.

 

[Xlr8n]

You can still find some brand new 8x42's for $1399 online which is a steal.

 

[Revron]

How much would a pair of SLC 10x50 WB from 1998(Black outer case) with recent upgrade from SONA to swqarobright glass level right before the new HD glass(Could not upgrade them to HD)?

 

[Revron]

Just got them back and are like brand new Bino's. Not sure of price point for these. Any help would be apreciated.