has anyone compared the Meopta HD binoculars to the Ultravid HD? i notice Leica just came out with an HD-Plus binocular. im wanting a pair of 7x42. is there any real noticeable difference between these brands to warrant the mich higher cost of the Leica

KD,

I can't speak to the Leicas, but I have had the chance to compare the Meopta HDs directly against the Swaro HDs, and I sure as chit couldn't tell a difference from an optical quality perspective.

I preferred the ergos of the Meoptas myself, but it's all a bit subjective I suppose.

Dave

I used the 12x50 HD side by side with my Leica 10x42 Ultravids a few weeks ago. Optically there is no difference in quality although I was comparing 10's to 12's. Glass quality was very similar. I prefer the ergos on my Leicas mainly due to familiarity and weight but the 12x50 HD's were fantastic and I was very pleased. I don't think they take a back seat to anyone on glass quality and build quality they are just a little heavier and the ergos are a personal preference.

The difference in quality won't be apparent until you are viewing in very challenging situations. Very dark, late night...flare control looking into the sun...blended, non contrasty back grounds...

And, of course, your own eye preferences.

Personally, I do better with Leica glass over Schott glass. It just works better for me across the board.

I have the Ultravid HD in 8x32 and they are beyond excellent. They are better than my Swarovski SLC. I personally feel Swarovski, Leica, and Zeiss make a really durable product.

Meopta are money! I use their bins and I've owned them all

I spent this past weekend using Meopta MeoStar 7x42's and loved them. Optically great binos. Wasn't a direct comparison to Leica, I'm sure I would have loved them as well...so I can't compare the two optically. However, I can easily compare them financially....

Meopta Meostar 7x42 = $999 delivered from Cameraland

Lecia Ultravid HD 7x42 = $1749 (demo) or $2149 (new) delivered from Cameraland

My money is on your eyes not distinguishing the difference between the Ultravid, Ultravid HD and likely the HD-Plus.

And the Meopta's are simply fantastic.

I'd go with the one that's the easiest on the wallet.

Meopta doesn't make 7x in their HD line. Personaly I like the Swaro SLC neu better than Meopta, wider sweet spot plus more neutral colors with better contrast.

i already own meopta in 10x42 HD. just wanting to pick up something eventually in a 7x42. saw leica was coming out with these HD Plus and it got me curious. love my meoptas tho

Find a used Ultravid for 1k and go hunting.

Yes, I was intrigued as well until I noticed the specs on the Leica hadn't changed. I like the Meopta HDS as well, fine glass. Not really much left in 7x offerings. I will just keep my slc's along with my swarovisions in 8x32.

I have a pair of 8x32 swarovski slc neu and a pair of meopta b1 10x42.
I used them for different things due to size and weight but I never feel I'm lacking in quality or clarity with either.
I know you asked about the Leica binos and I have no experience with them but I don't think you would be disappointed in the meoptas and you will have money to go on a hunt or another rifle

I have heard great things about the Meopta's but I have never looked through them, but I can tell you I wouldn't trade my Leica's for any of them.