Swarovski SLC 10x42 WB vs meopta Meostar (cabelas version)

[Outcast2.0]

I will start by stating that I have read multiple threads on this exact comparison and most say it’s a toss up between the two and it mainly comes down to preference.

In this instance, both binos are older. The Swarovski's are stated to be 10-15 years old but in good condition, they were used for birding.

The meostars were used for a couple hunting trips but saw light use and look to be in good condition as well. Not sure how old these are exactly, but I know cabelas has discontinued this line for quite some time.

My main question would be is there any risk or cons to purchasing older optics (10-15 years old) vs newer models (5 years old)?

What if I also added that the SLC’s are listed for $750 and the meostars are listed for $650?

I am coming from vortex vipers so I think either option would be an upgrade. When spending this amount of money, I would like some thoughts and reassurance from others that are experts in the optics category.

 

[dreamingWest]

If the SLCs are either of the two latest models. $750 is a steal. Those typically go for around $1,300 here. I would always purchase an OEM version instead of a store brand version if money is close simply due to resale.

Check the following thread, particularly post #4 for help identifying SLC variations.
https://www.birdforum.net/threads/slc-wb-hd-vs-wb.403732/

 

[Austink47]

I own a similar vintage pair of SLCs and my buddy has the meoptas. We spent a lot of time comparing the two, and the optic quality is very similar. I like the ergonomics of the SLCs butter. We have both sent ours in for service, I had a much better experience.

I would go with the swaro if for no other reason than the resell market is better for them.

 

[Outcast2.0]

Thank you both for your input. You have me convinced. I was reading that meopta’s warranty coverage in the US is not very good. I think for that reason alone, along with resale, I’ll get the SLC’s

 

[Outcast2.0]

Based off of the serial number, these were manufactured in 2000 making them the first version I believe?. The owner was off by a decade on their year estimation. Is there that big of a difference in clarity? I am going to look at them in person, but it will likely be after work and it will be dusk or dark, so I may not be able to really look through them how I would like. If it is that good of a deal, I don’t want to wait too long as well. Thanks for the input everyone.

 

[ol490]

I had a similar vintage set of those 10x42 SLC’s as my first good set of binocs and regret selling them very badly. I still have two sets of those vintage of slc 8x30’s and love them. I also have el swarovisions. If they are in good shape, that’s an extremely good price.

 

[LaHunter]

Based off of the serial number, these were manufactured in 2000 making them the first version I believe?. The owner was off by a decade on their year estimation. Is there that big of a difference in clarity? I am going to look at them in person, but it will likely be after work and it will be dusk or dark, so I may not be able to really look through them how I would like. If it is that good of a deal, I don’t want to wait too long as well. Thanks for the input everyone.

I have a set of SLC 10x42 that were made in about 2004. The image is very clear and sharp. In my opinion they are very good in low light. Are they as good as the more recent HD SLC versions? Maybe not but I have been very happy with my set. Buy them at $750, that is a very good deal

 

[Outcast2.0]

Thanks everyone for the input, I really do appreciate it. I ended up picking them up after work, they’re pretty nice. A guy can really only see so much at night looking down a city street. I was able to get them a little lower as well because they had some light scratching on one of the lenses. They did end up coming with the box as well. Worst case I send them in to get repaired

I know this doesn’t impact the usability what so ever, but the serial number on the box, doesn’t match the serial number on the actual binos. I just thought that was interesting. Must have swapped boxes at one point I guess.


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