Class Glass - SWAROVSKI Z8I 2-16X50 P

In the world of high-end hunting optics, there are several names that stand head and shoulders above the rest, and for me, Swarovski is the one. Reassuringly expensive, yes, but also reassuringly excellent, as they give their all at dawn, daytime, and dusk, which is the trick.

My first encounter was in 2005 when I went to South Africa and asked Swarovski Optik UK if I could borrow a set of EL 8x42 binoculars. Expecting to be told, thanks, but no thanks, I was pleasantly surprised by a very charming lady, Christine Percy, who said: “No problem”. The binos proved amazing and ‘opened my eyes’ to what quality optics were all about. I now own three of their products with no complaints!

Z what?

In 2007, Swarovski launched the Z6 range, based on the increased zoom range principle. Simply put, up until then, most scopes offered a ratio of four, so think x3-9, x3-10, or similar. The Z6 increased this to six, meaning you could offer a single optic that could start at x2 and go up to x12. What this did was combine the uses of improved hi and low mag abilities. I tested one of their Z6i (illuminated) 2-12x56s, which allowed for better long-range shots at the top end, but at the bottom, fast and easy target acquisition for off-hand use. There is now a range of models and specifications to suit all needs, from driven hunting to long-range work.

The power of eight

The Z6 series proved the principle and is still an intrinsic part of their portfolio today. However, Swarovski decided to think bigger and later launched the Z8. The same idea, just more of it, with an x8 zoom range.

You might think big deal, but consider this, I did a test on a Z6i 1.7-10x42, an excellent cross-over design as you can imagine. But the Z8 version was even better, with a spec of 1.7-13.3x42. It’s possibly one of the best illustrations of the concept. A semi-compact build that can sit lower to the bore line and truly be said to be able to go from, close and quick, in the woods, to long-range plains game or mountain hunting. Add in Swarovski’s reputation for quality optics, innovative design, and superior build, and you have it all.

Glass on top

Elsewhere in this issue, I’ve done a test on Bergara’s B14 Wilderness Thumbhole Carbon rifle and wanted to put something good on top. A call to Swarovski Optik UK got me, what is probably something that most hunters would aspire to, the Z8i 2-16x50 P. The magnification range is impressive, and even if you never want to wind it up to x16 for shooting, its optical quality means you have an excellent observation device for exact quarry ID.

It’s not just the zoom range that’s different, as Swarovski has re-thought the illumination system and, as we shall see, also offers an optional, quick detachable (QD) ballistic turret system - the Ballistic Turret Flex (BTF).

The basics

Of medium size, the build offers a one-piece 30mm body tube, and the 50mm objective will let in a lot of light but can also be mounted lower than the larger 56mm size. It also weighs a bit less. The turrets are capped but are configured for the optional BTF system that will fit both elevation and windage drums. More on that later. Once set, there’s a ring inside that can be lifted to disengage and be set to 0. Click values are 1cm @ 100m/.36” @ 100 yards. You get 74 clicks per turn and two full rotations, which translates to a maximum movement at 100m of 58” in both planes.

On the left of the saddle is the parallax drum, which also holds the CR2032 battery for illumination. It shows three markings - 50, 100, and infinity, with the 100 offering a detent that can be felt as it clicks in. The reason is that as most scopes are zeroed at this distance, you can easily re-set as required.

Eyepiece

Swarovski has re-thought the eyepiece bell. Gone are the Z6’s small side-mounted rheostat buttons that made it look like the conning tower of a U-boat. They have been replaced with a lower design with larger rubber pads marked +/- for adjusting brightness. At the rear is a small, 3-position lever. Position it in the middle for OFF, right for ON (day use) high intensity, and left for ON (low light) low intensity. Once set, when turned off and then on again it will return to its last setting.

Typically, the illumination has a ‘time out’ function, that conserves battery life, and an angle sensor. Here, if the rifle is out of the shooting position, so on its side, or pointing up or down, the dot is automatically switched off. But when reacquired comes back on. The rubber magnification ring is slotted for grip, with a raised fin for easy dialling. Operation is smooth, but firm, and the numbers are clearly marked.

Essential details

Light transmission is paramount, as with any scope, as it will improve that all-important dusk-to-dawn ability. Of course, this model doesn’t disappoint, with a quoted figure of 93%. The exit pupil diameter is 8.1-3.1, with a field of view of (FOV) of 21m at x2 and 2.6m x16 @ 100m. Eye relief is 95mm and the twilight factor is 5.7 to 28.3. At 356mm long, it weighs 675-grams. Not small, but not big, and will not overburden your rifle. If you’re worried about it getting wet, don’t worry, as it’s water-tight to 4m, not that you’re ever going to take it swimming! Interesting facts for tech heads, but nonessential for most of us, as you can rest assured that if you buy a Swarovski, then you are buying an optic that’s totally fit for purpose!

Choices

There are four reticles to choose from, all illuminated. Three are based around the generic No. 4, which has three thick posts at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock, with a slim, inverted cross coming down from 12 o’clock. The other uses a modified Dual-X design. The 4A1 is the simplest with the basic pattern, while the 4A-300-1 is a more open style with three stadia at 6 o’clock. The 4W-1 has a more open centreline with what looks like lead marks. My favourite is the BRX-1, with a Christmas tree pattern that offers range and windage markers. As well as a 30mm round body tube, for standard rings, there’s also a European (SR Rail) mount. Not popular in the UK, but very strong.

BTF

If you like dialling in corrections, the Ballistic Turret Flex simply replaces the existing top cap and clips on. A central button on top allows removal. All you do is zero in the normal manner, then fit the BTF. It has a fixed datum point and four removable range rings numbered 2,3,4 & 5. Work out the clicks required for the drops (past your zero point), then slide on the rings one at a time to suit. It also has a manual ring that locks the turret. In terms of clicks, it offers 72 and not 74 - no big deal.

So, for example, my 130-grain AccuBond reload for my .270 Win R8 is set for a 180-yard zero, which allows me to point and shoot out to 200, as the maximum drop is around an inch from 90. Then, I break it down into 50-yard intervals: 250/4-clicks, 300/8-clicks, 350/12-clicks, and 400/16-clicks. It also makes shooting the intermediate distances easier, as at any setting you’re only dealing with small windows of elevation movement.

Conclusion

Not a lot more to say, other than it’s a superb scope that’s bright and clear with great low-light ability and a good hunting spec. There are some nice reticles, and if you feel the need, the BTF is a good bet. However, as with anything of quality and ability, it comes at a price, but you’re worth it!