Swarovski and Kahles

Matthew V. (An outdoorsman) · 03-19-2006, 02:33 PM

Hey Guys. I went to the Toronto Sportsmen Show yesterday, and I looked at the Swarovski EL and the Kahles binos. It was incredible. I have never seen anything like that so clear. The Swarovski's were better than the Kahles, but not a huge difference. Then again I didn't test them outside. I think I want to replace my $50 Bushnells with the Kahles 8X42's soon

.

okcmco · 03-19-2006, 08:01 PM

The Kahles 8x42 binos are a great bino for around $650.00. I have seen last years model for as low as 500 bucks but those are probably all gone now. The new models have a better eyecup design anyway. Kahles is either the oldest or one of the oldest optics manufacturers in the world. They were bought out by Swarovski in recent times. As such they benifit from Swaro's R&D. You still get a better optic from Swaro but the Swaro EL series is about 1000 bucks more expensive.
Kahles also makes a fine rifle scope for the money. For around 675 bucks youcan get a true Austrian scope in 3x9.
There are other binos that are probably as competitive as the Kahles in the $650.00 price range. Pentax, Fujinon, Docter, Meopta, and optolyth all make roof prism glasses in the range of $500.00-$700.00. And they are all world class glasses. And don't forget the highly under-rated Cabela's Alaskan Guide bino, which are some of the best I have seen under a grand. (they are around 550 bucks). And you can find the Nikon Premier LX for 800 bucks online. These are as good as anything out there from any country.
Still the Kahles are a fine set of glasses and I am sure you would be happy with them. they will last you the rest of your life if you care for them. And although ***an makes some great glass, there is something almost mystical about holding a fine pair of Euro Glasses.
BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH
Good luck
okcmco

okcmco · 03-19-2006, 08:05 PM

Just one more thing. you need to test any binos outside. Hopefully on a cloudy day. All binos look good in sunlight. Try to train them upon a shadowy are in the shade of some trees or the shade of a building. If you can't take them out of the store, look for the darkest corner in the store and try to read some boxes or labels. Pay attention to how easily they focus for both of your eyes.
okcmco