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meopta S2 scope vs swarovski ATX 95

Printed From: OpticsTalk by SWFA, Inc.
Category: Other Optics
Forum Name: Spotting Scopes
Forum Description: Big Eye Optics
URL: http://www.opticstalk.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=35910
Printed Date: March/28/2024 at 04:43
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Topic: meopta S2 scope vs swarovski ATX 95
Posted By: desertguy
Subject: meopta S2 scope vs swarovski ATX 95
Date Posted: February/23/2013 at 07:25
Hi everyone, I'm planning on purchasing a top-of-the-line spotting scope, weight is unimportant as I won't be humping it into the mountains or on hikes, (probably will eventually pick up a Nikon ED 50 for that) mostly having it with me in my truck during scenic drives (I'm retired) for setup in National Parks & such. Although I'm far from wealthy, I've budgeted enough money to be able to get what I want, up to the new Swarovski AtX 95 with the 70 power zoom. My goal is to get a world class spotter once and be done with it. I'd like to know if anyone has done a field comparison of the Meopta Meostar S2 scope with the  30-70 zoom lens vs the aforementioned Swarovski that also zooms out to 70. For some reason their aren't many reviews of the Meopta, and the few that exist don't cover the 30-70 eyepiece. Has anyone compared these two side by side in the field, or at least looked through both? My guess is the Swarovski would come out ahead, but would the difference be noticeable & would it be enough to justify the extra bucks? I know in the end, that's a judgement call only the individual can make.  I know this is a lot of money to spend sight unseen, as they say, but I will go through a reputable seller for my purchase when the time comes, I just want you guys' opinion of what constitutes the very best in high powered optics right now. Also, I'm not interested in single fixed power eyepieces to also be used with the scope, just want a high quality zoom that also goes beyond 60 power for those rare times you can actually use it. Thanks!



Replies:
Posted By: JGRaider
Date Posted: February/23/2013 at 08:51
I'm sure that new Swaro is really nice, as are the rest of their spotters.  The very best one I've seen, money no object, is the Kowa Prominar 883/884.  I prefer the dual focus knobs over the helical focus as found in the Swaro's, Nikon EDG, etc.  As you already know, you'll need to look through them and determine for yourself.  


Posted By: Bitterroot Bulls
Date Posted: February/23/2013 at 10:35
I have seen the Meopta S2, and it is awesome with the 30-60 WA. the other eyepiece is a 20-70 super zoom. I would expect it to be awesome as well.

The ATX has the advantage of being both 70x and WA in the 95mm.

I hope to see the ATX sometime soon.

The Diascope 85 could be another option, but mirage is often tough at 75x. I own one, and it is a great scope also.

Unfortunately Kowa doesn't offer a super zoom for the 88, but they are releasing a 25-60 WA that looks like it could be very good.

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-Matt


Posted By: mike650
Date Posted: February/23/2013 at 11:28
I really like Swaro's approach of a modular system that lets you build on your original purchase, that and many of the improvements they've made like optical advancements would make it very desirable if money's not a concern.

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“A hunt based only on trophies taken falls far short of what the ultimate goal should be.” – Fred Bear


Posted By: Klamath
Date Posted: February/23/2013 at 12:59
I got the chance to see the new Swarovski modular setup last weekend.  Saying it is nice probably doesn't come close.  The modular setup is nice and works like a charm.

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Steve
"Everything that can be counted does not necessarily count; everything that counts cannot necessarily be counted". William Bruce Cameron



Posted By: Bitterroot Bulls
Date Posted: February/23/2013 at 13:05
the modular idea seemed gimmicky at first, but it is growing on me. 
 
Interesting that a bunch of birders sold their Kowa 88s for the ATX also.


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-Matt


Posted By: ccoker
Date Posted: February/25/2013 at 10:22
I am not a spotter expert but do have a good eye for good glass.
I can't speak to the Swarovski and am sure it is very good.

I can comment on my experience with the Meopta and it is outstanding and I think anyone would be thrilled with it.


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www.TacticalGunReview.com

Pro Staff - Silencer Shop

http://tacticalgunreview.com



Posted By: Hugh357
Date Posted: March/07/2013 at 23:20
I purchased the Meopta for $2,200. I wanted a top of the line spotting scope and I really wanted one with a wide angle.  I have used the scope on the shooting range and watching eagles. I have experienced no chromatic aberration or color distortion.  All colors are great. I bought the angled scope, 20x60, and got a nice Manfrotto tripod. I carry the unit in a Pelican 1550 case. I got out the door for around $2,700(New York Camera).  I checked out the new Swarowski scope and I could not rationalize spending a little around $5,000 for a set up like the one I purchased.  I have not regretted it for one minute and would do it all over again.  I did check out Meopta and they make a lot of military optics and have been in the business for over 70 years.  It is my opinion they are one of the best kept secrets.    


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Hugh



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