I received my full size binoculars to replace these Kowa. They are 8x42 SLC. I spent well over an hour comparing the two with a resolution chart at various distances and outdoor lighting conditions. To my surprise the 33mm Kowa resolved the same lines as the 42mm Swarovski. As much as I tried, I couldn't see anything with the SLC that I couldn't with the Kowa. Control of false color is as good or better than the Swarovski, as well.
I've heard for years that the Kowa are just as good for these traits, but never really believed it until I compared the two myself. I'm not stating that the 33mm Kowa are the equivalent to the 42mm SLC in all ways, but if you simply want top notch resolution the Kowa has it in the centerfield. There are certainly some cons, and the fact that they are compact binoculars, but they are much less expensive than a Swarovski as well!
If anyone is in the local area and seriously interested in these, I'd be happy to setup a tripod for you to try them out for yourself before buying.
