Swarovski EL Range binoculars and Z8i+ scope review

First impressions

Even the packaging sets the tone, with a goshawk in flight over snowy mountains printed inside the lid. Alongside the manuals, the binoculars came with a luxury padded case, straps, and rubber lens caps.

The ergonomics are excellent. A raised underside section moulds naturally into the hand. The body has a smooth but grippy texture in green and black, finished with the iconic silver hawk. The glass delivers a sharp, bright, edge-to-edge picture.

Swarovski EL Range binoculars

Rangefinding and ballistics

A button on the right-hand bridge activates the built-in laser rangefinder. It provides either single ranges or scan mode for moving targets. The reading is instant, large, and clear, with adjustable brightness for different light conditions.

What sets these binoculars apart is the ballistic capability. By connecting to the Swarovski Optik app (see more here), you can upload ballistic data for up to three rifles. The binos then combine this data with sensor input – incline, air pressure, and temperature – to provide an accurate firing solution.

Practical features

Naturally, the eyepieces are fully adjustable. The unit is also waterproof and fog-proof, ensuring reliable performance in all conditions.

For more on choosing the best stalking binoculars, see our guide to the best binoculars for deer stalking.

Swarovski Z8i+ 5-40×56 P riflescope

The Z8i+ scope feels light in hand despite its 34mm tube. Smooth lines and flawless finishing underline its premium quality. It comes with bikini-style lens covers and a detachable magnification lever, useful when shooting with gloves.

High magnification performance

With a top end of 40x, image detail is incredible. Impacts on steel at 750 yards were visible with ease. For long-range shooting, I prefer high magnification, and this scope gives confidence when shooting from a stable position.

The test model had a clean hunting reticle with an illuminated centre dot. Ideal for stalking and foxing in low light, it performed brilliantly. Yet, given the magnification, I would personally opt for a reticle with hash marks or mil-dots for wind and elevation holds.

Controls and illumination

The capped turrets can be re-zeroed easily. Adjustments are crisp, accurate, and positive. The parallax knob snaps images into focus instantly.

The illumination system features a tilt sensor that switches off the reticle at steep angles, saving battery. It also powers down when the rifle rests on its side – handy for high seats – and reactivates instantly when shouldered.

For more, read our comparison of the best rifle scopes for stalking.

Field use

At the range, zeroing was simple. Only a slight elevation tweak was required before grouping confidently at 100m. I then hit targets out to 300m by dialling a few clicks. For extended distances, I recommend fitting Swarovski’s optional ballistic turret.

The binoculars proved fast and reliable. Even without uploading ballistic data, they ranged targets accurately. In fading light they excelled, maintaining detail long after cheaper optics fade.

That evening, while waiting near a pond for a fox, I was impressed by just how much detail both the binos and scope picked up in near-darkness. Although the fox didn’t present a shot, the optics proved Swarovski’s reputation for light transmission is well deserved.

Product details

Swarovski EL Range 12×42 range-finding binoculars
Price: £3,110

Swarovski Z8i+ 5-40×56 P riflescope
Price: £3,470

Web: www.swarovskioptik.com

Final thoughts

Swarovski optics command a premium price, but they also deliver unmatched glass quality, design, and performance. Both the EL Range binoculars and Z8i+ riflescope are built for hunters and marksmen who demand the very best.