Swaro slc 8x56 vs slc 8x42 hd(discontinued)

[hedrick99]

My vision is horrible in low light and I’m debating between the Swaro slc 8x42 hd(2020ish) and the slc 8x56. I know the 56 will add some weight but if I see better it’s worth it to me. Any thoughts will be appreciated

 

[mi650]

I went thru a search last summer for the best low light binos, but the 8x42 SLCs weren't on my radar.

Short version, I ended up with the 8x56 SLC.

 

[Breddoch]

I have a set of Zeiss Victory HT 8x54 that are incredible in low light. I bought them when the government was giving out money and I was suffering from the feeling richer effect. Shoot me a PM if you think you might be interested.

I don’t have experience with the two models you listed but I have these Zeiss and a pair of older nikon Monarchs in an 8.5x56. The larger objectives will definitely make a difference in low light. Sorry to hijack the thread with a sales pitch.

 

[Mojave]

Assuming you are near sighted (myopic) you will benefit from 8x42 or 8x50 or 8x54 or 8x56.

The 8x56 and 8x54 are going to be the best.

I am nearly blind 20-450 super myopic. I can use 10x42, 10x50 and 10x56 but man do I ever prefer the 8x version of those same binoculars.

 

[Pronghunter]

The Zeiss Victory HT in 56 is noticeably brighter in low light than the SLC’s. I have both. I compare often and it never changes. Go HTs

 

[hedrick99]

I have a set of Zeiss Victory HT 8x54 that are incredible in low light. I bought them when the government was giving out money and I was suffering from the feeling richer effect. Shoot me a PM if you think you might be interested.

I don’t have experience with the two models you listed but I have these Zeiss and a pair of older nikon Monarchs in an 8.5x56. The larger objectives will definitely make a difference in low light. Sorry to hijack the thread with a sales pitch.

Funny. I had the feeling richer effect It went to 1911’s and rifles they might be out of my price range as I’m realizing I’m not that rich

 

[hedrick99]

So it seems as if 8x56/54 is the move. Now I need to find a screaming deal on some 8x56 ht or slc. Prong hunter has me thinking but those victory hts are crazy expensive. Haven’t looked at them on the used market. I’ve had Swaro tunnel vision.

 

[PHo]

I currently run SLCs, but if Zeiss still made the HTs those would be the ones I’d get. Fantastic binos.

 

[Spiral Horn]

During very low light big-objective (50mm+) binoculars will generally transmit more light. However, most are surprised to find that those same big-objective binos are not appreciably brighter in full daylight (our non-dialated pupils simply cannot absorb it all) and any aberrations or optical imperfections will also be magnified. So, only the finest quality optical designs really shine here. Fortunately, both the SLC and HT 56mm binos offer particularly spectacular views any time of day, but especially in low light.

Both the 8x56 SLC and 8x54 HT are still in production (both lines retired their 42mm designs). They both have AK prism designs (to maximize light transmission) and only the best coatings and glass offered by either company. Both have spectacular resolution/sharpness and pleasant views. However, they are very different products. I find the Zeiss the better handling of these two big binos, and if I were looking to use it as an everyday glass may get me to lean in that direction. To me, the SLC has slightly better colors and a larger “sweet spot.” I also like the focuser on the Zeiss a little better. Either is a fine choice.

The 8x42 SLC (better choice than a 10x42 in low light) is also an excellent choice for an all-around glass. Its low-light performance will be a smidge behind its 50+mm big brothers, and those bigger glasses due to using AK prisms will have a slightly better 3D effect. However, the 8x42 SLC handles leagues better. So the real tradeoff is better low-light performance of the 54/56 vs the still great views and much better handling of the 42mm. The full-daylight view of the 42mm is very close.