Newest Vortex Kaibab 18x56?

[sf jakey]

Can anyone give me some honest real world opinions on these? I know Sawarovski is the best, but I don’t want to spend $2200 for them. I would be more inclined to get the Meopta, based on price. I can get these Vortex for significantly less than the Meopta even, but it’s a waste of money if they are not durable or if they just don’t work well for long periods of glassing. I have non HD ELs in 8.5x42 that I use 90% of the time. I carry Meopta 10x32 elk hunting. I want these to compliment either from my pack. I also have a Swaro STS 65mm scope, that to be honest I only use at a range or from a vehicle. I’m hoping these Vortex are a good option, given the price. Any feedback is great. Thanks

 

[gr8fuldoug]

The closest binocular to the Swarovski 15x56 SLC is the Meopta Meostar 15x56

 

[HuntNTag]

I’d second the meopta choice. They are solid and are super close to those SLC’s. Another recommendation would be mavens. They are very bright and much much better than the kaibabs in low light and in clarity.

 

[FSB12B]

I would have to agree with the above. The Meopta’s are fantastic as are the SLC 15x56. That being said I personally have the Kaibab and still think they’re fantastic for the money.

I prefer the glass in the SLC/Meopta but the Kaibab is a fine bino, especially when you can find them in the $650 range on the used market. IMO the Meopta’s are the best to my eyes, but not enough to justify the cost against my budget.