Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Hunting Optics Any opinions on the Swarovski Z5i?

I have a few of the Z3's, really like the #4, had a Z6 briefly and the #4 is considerably thinner. Wondering the the illumination is worth the money? Is there any step up in glass from the Z3 to Z5? Enough to notice?

I have a Z5 2.4-12x50. IMHO the z5I is an answer to a question no one asked. I can buy a S&B Classic for less money and it is a much better lowlight scope. I have both.

I love my Z6, the Gen 2 plex and 4 are thicker than the Gen 1 plex.

When you are willing to spend the money you have to be willing to look through them all. Each of our eyes see optics differently. I’m a Swarovski or Zeiss fan, others hate them and love, S&B or whatever. Your money, your eyes. Find a source that has them all.
Or, save your money and try a Tract

I have z3s and z5s. Dont see much difference in glass. Biggest gain is a more robust design in the z5 and able tk handle heavier recoil per swarovski. Both are amazing and i cant find better glass at their price point

I have Z3s and Z5s and had a Z6. One was the equal of the Z5s, the other was a huge step down. Glass wise, the Z6 was a disappointment and went down the road. I’m a huge Swarovski bino fan but have bought my last scope. For what these costs, I’d prefer something that tracks reliably. They are light and depending on the luck of the draw, have, brilliant glass. I have no plans to change out those I have...but they are only set and forget scopes. Illumination, if done right, would be attractive but unnecessary for shooting during legal hunting hours.

As stated earlier, you can't just buy on brand, especially with Alpha scopes, you need to compare them with your own eyes. In certain models, one will favor your eyes more than another regardless of the maker or price.

I have 2 Swaro Z6's in the 1 x 6 x 24 configuration that is just about perfect for their intended use, one with illumination, one without. Maybe it is me, but the whole illumination concept doesn't provide advantage and is a distraction more than a help. I like the non-illuminated on much better.