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Vortex Razor HD vs. USED Swarovski EL

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buglebuster View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote buglebuster Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: Vortex Razor HD vs. USED Swarovski EL
    Posted: May/19/2014 at 21:23
Hello, 
I am looking to buy a good quality pair of binoculars with a price range of 1000-1400. For new binoculars in that price range, I prefer the vortex razor hd 10x42. However, I could get a used model of the Swarovski el 10x42 with swarobright (not swarovision), on ebay for that same price range. These binoculars also work awesome for me. However it is difficult to compare these side-by-side, as I do not have access to any of the older swarovskis.

My question is: how do they compare side-by-side? (Sure swarovsion beats the razors, but what about swarobright?)

Thanks
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote JGRaider Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: May/20/2014 at 09:27
Optically they're not far apart IMO, but I'd choose a Swaro El over a Vortex anything any day of the week.  I'd also pick a Meopta/Cabelas Euro HD over a Vortex anything any day of the week as well.  Just my opinion. 
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Bitterroot Bulls Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: May/20/2014 at 10:33
"Swarobright" is Swarovski's marketing label for dielectric prism coatings and both the later iterations of the standard EL and the newest "Swarovision" EL utilize the technology.

The non-SV EL was, and is, a top-end performing binocular.  It will outperform the newest 10X42 Razor in most areas, IMO (except FOV).  The Swarovski will hold its value exceptionally well also, if you choose to resell.

The Razor has the better warranty.

In this price range, I always recommend looking at the Meopta HD as well.
-Matt
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote rj112275 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: May/20/2014 at 13:33
+1 for Swaro. Razors are nice, I've had 2 pairs, but Swaro EL are better in my opinion for the same $$$$. Also, Zeiss T FLs in that price range are excellent, and better than Razor HD in my opinion. I have not tried Meopta, so I can't say. However, Swaro and Zeiss are excellent and can be found used in the $1000-1400 range easily
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote RifleDude Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: May/20/2014 at 20:23
I'd get the Swaro EL, as long as it's in good condition, with no lens scratches/coating damage.
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Crockett View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Crockett Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: December/27/2014 at 18:06

I can't help comparing the two you mentioned but I can say I’ve got an older pair of Swarovski SLC 7x42 that are 20 years old or better – so I’d assume they’ve got the older coatings. I’ve also got a newer pair of Leupold Cascades which are 10x42’s and even though I consider the Cascades good, I can make out more detail at a distant animal with the 7x42 Swarovski SLC’s!

A lot of guys seem to really like their Razors but I’d say the better resolution of the optics are the most important consideration in binoculars and that’s probably going to be the Swarovski’s!

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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote REP Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: December/27/2014 at 19:25
Forgive going away from the direction of your question but I own a new pr of Razor 10 x 42's and like them very much. But you might look at the top of the line offering from Cabellas. IMHO I think they a better than both the Vortex and. Sawatzke offerings and you can take home new in your price range. I know I am sickened when I look through them while at their showroom and then the $1300.00 pr I have.
Enough is to much.
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