Swarovski Z4i 2.5-10x56

Though Swarovski has a well-respected reputation, possibly their most radical product was their Z-series, which started off with the Z6. Based on the principle of a six times zoom range, which translates into a variable scope with a wider magnification spread than the accepted norm. So making one sight good for a number of uses; for example the Z6 1.7-10x42 as can be seen would work well for close-range driven hunts, but with its x10 top end allowing long range shots with ease. Since then they have continued this theme with Z5, Z4 and Z3.

Radical Re-Think

The unit on test is the Z4i (illuminated) 2.5-10x56, which offers the classic X4 zoom range; as not everyone wants or needs a Z6. Plus this spec with its large objective is going to suit the daytime and low light hunter very well. Apart from the superb optical quality and performance, which we have come to expect the most unusual aspect of the design is the illumination module.

The Z6i rather took the world by storm with an integral, push button rheostat built into the eyepiece bell, with a 3-position lever for OFF, NIGHT and DAY settings. I’m a big fan of the Z6i and have been using a 2-12x50 for a few years now. But this system does make for a bulky ocular shape and the lever can be easily turned on inadvertently. If you thought that was radical then check out the Z4i as that offers the ability to remove the rheostat completely when you don’t need it.

Nuts & Bolts

The build goes for a 30mm, one-piece body tube with a fast focus eye piece on the ocular bell. The zoom ring is rubber and ridged for grip with a raised fin to aid dialling. Typically this is a medium/large build and the big, 56mm objective will require some thought on mounting height. The reticule, which is set in the 2nd focal plane is what Swarovski calls a 4A-300-I (illuminated). Essentially it’s a 4A-type (see picture) with three range/lead bars. If you go onto their ballistics resource site you can factor in your ammunition specification and then use the holdover information they calculate for you for a set zero distance. Though there are other reticule choices too.

Swarovski use their High Grid technology to produce a small but highly visible central red dot. Unlike my earlier Z6i which shows a black dot subtending the centre cross; even when not illuminated, which can look a bit big for zeroing purposes. The Z4i just shows a plain cross, which is a far better design.

Standard Turrets Maybe

From the box the Z4i comes with what look like standard turrets with medium-height hunter caps. In terms of what they offer there are no surprises. Click values are 1cm @ 100-metres or .36” @ 100-yards, with 40-clicks per turn (14.4”) and 3 ¼ turns in total (46.8”) in both windage and elevation in imperial notation. As before the drums can be lifted to disengage and set to 0; a little academic for an optic of this type. Closer inspection of the elevation drum shows it’s open-topped with a metal contact plate inside. Included in the kit is a removable, rheostat cap that screws onto the drum, which is an unusual feature.

Powered by a CR2032, coin-type cell with a spare under the windage cap operation is simple. Lift up the rubber-sided drum, where it will stay in position and the dot comes on. Illumination adjustment is made by rotating the cap 1/8-turn and holding it there. With clockwise movement increasing it and anti-clockwise decreasing the value. In terms of operation this is similar to the Kahles system, though they mount theirs on the left of the saddle, with Swarovski combining it into the top turret. Typically the unit has a memory and will return to the last setting when switched on again.

Unique Selling Point

Apart from the superior quality optics, build and performance we have come to expect from any Swarovski scope; the illumination system is certainly the Z4i’s major USP. It also leaves me in two minds over the design. I much prefer the positioning and operation over the ocular-mounted system on the Z6i as it’s more natural and instinctive to use, with less chance of accidental operation. However it’s a bit on the high side and my thoughts go to it being maybe a tad easier to sustain damage.

You can of course remove it, but why would you, as you are shelling out the extra money for an illuminated reticule? However, it must be removable so you can zero; chances are this is a more cost-effective solution than permanently locating the rheostat drum on the left of the saddle or ocular bell.

In use the Swarovski name speaks for itself; with a superb sight picture and beautifully crisp and precise reticule. The large, 56mm objective ticks all the right boxes for low light use and I’m now at a stage where apart from driven/DG optics my minimum requirement would be a 50mm lens up front on any scope, with a preference for 56 when possible. The spec of x2.5-10 is a good one for general hunting needs from foxes to deer. OK x2.5 might be a tad large for driven but not an issue in the UK. Plus if you want that there’s the traditional 1.2-4x24 and for those needing more a 3-12x50 Z4i too.

Overall this is yet another cracking scope from Swarovski, I would not swap it for my Z6i 2-12x50 as that has its place, but I would certainly add the Z4i 2.5-10x56 for deer and fox use.

PRICE: £1585.00 (RRP)
FOR - Good general specification with the usual high quality performance
AGAINST - Not a lot
VERDICT - Nice scope; no surprise there and a practical and clever illumination system too