Spotting scopes are optical devices where a single eye is used to look through them. The Austrian optical specialist Swarovski has now taken a new great step forward in their design, however. Swarovski is offering a unique spotting scope, the Swarovski BTX, with 2 eyepieces allowing you to look through with both eyes. In combination with the outstanding optics, even the most intricate details are visible. Ardent hunters will from now on not miss any detail. The result is a level of viewing clarity never before seen for hunting or observing nature.
This telescopic system was presented by Swarovski at the IWA 2017 along with other revolutionary optical products such as the smart rifle scope Swarovski dS 5-25×52 P with automatic aiming point correction – we reported on this also. But how good in the innovative Swarovski BTX spotting scope in reality?
What Advantages does the Swarovski BTX offer for hunters?
Just like normal vision, the binocular Swarovski BTX combines the power of both eyes. Your first look through the scope using the two eyepieces feels new and completely different to the view through a conventional scope. But the viewing experience is so fascinating and unique that you will never want to be without it again.
Background: The Swarovski BTX is an almost perfect combination of binoculars, scope and telescope. It takes the specific advantages of each of these to make a real difference in the level of viewing comfort. The modern telescopic system also ensures exceptionally vivid and natural images. The high quality optics make an immediately noticeable difference when digiscoping – taking photographs through a telescope. Even smartphones work well for digiscoping and deliver great images.
There are currently 3 models of the Swarovski BTX available: 30×65, 30×85 and 35×95. Depending on the model chosen, the binocular spotting scope offers a 30× – 35× zoom. Using the optional ME 1.7× Extender, the zoom can even be increased to 50× – 60× so that you can get a truly up close experience of nature.
Lens modules can also be easily swapped out with those of the ATX and STX spotting scopes. Thanks to its flexible modular design, the Swarovski BTX opens up a huge variety of possibilities. It is easily adapted to different types of hunting and observing situations.
Technical properties of the Swarovski BTX spotting scope
The size and shape of the telescopic Swarovski BTX alone is reason enough to make it feel imposing and leave a lasting impression. It doesn’t feel bulky, but appears more balanced and appealing. There are no surprises when it comes to the workmanship: The spotting scope has a feel that is appropriate to its price class and is well-made. The only drawback is its weight: Depending on the model, the Swarovski BTX weighs between 2.2 kg and 2.8 kg. This is not to be unexpected, though, due to the range of features this scope has.
It’s definitely not a lightweight option, which you will definitely notice during long days in the hide. That said, there are few hunters who would want to go without this viewing experience. The practical hunting features and advantages offered by its optics definitely outweigh the issue of weight. The forehead support and angled eyepieces mean you will have hours of viewing comfort.
In order to securely lock onto your target, the right eyepiece also features a sighting aid. This spotting scope ensures the necessary level of “total comfort” for long observation periods – ideal for hunters who do a lot of intensive observation.
Technical data for the Swarovski BTX models
| Model: | Swarovski BTX 30x65 | Swarovski BTX 30x85 | Swarovski BTX 35x95 |
| Magnification: | 30x | 30x | 35x |
| Lens diameter: | 65 mm | 85 mm | 95 mm |
| Exit pupil diameter: | 2,2 mm | 2,9 mm | 2,7 mm |
| Exit pupil distance: | 21 mm | 21 mm | 21 mm |
| Field of view: m/1.000 m | 38 m | 37 m | 32 m |
| Field of view: Grad | 2,1 degrees | 2,1 degrees | 1,8 degrees |
| Eye field of view: | 60 degrees | 60 degrees | 60 degrees |
| Shortest focal distance: | 2,2 m | 3,8 m | 5,0 m |
| Length: | 371 mm | 404 mm | 458 mm |
| Weight: | 2.195 g | 2.520 g | 2,760 g |
| Temperate range: | -25 °C / +55 °C | -25 °C / +55 °C | -25 °C / +55 °C |
| Water resistance: | 4 m water depth | 4 m water depth | 4 m water depth |
| Guarantee: from time of purchase | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years |
Test summary of the telescopic Swarovski BTX
First things first: The Swarovski BTX spotting scope is fun. It is a great companion when out hunting, providing exciting discoveries in your local area. Not just hunters, but also nature lovers will enjoy using this binocular telescope system. Lastly, it guarantees a unique viewing experience, many hours of viewing comfort and complete flexibility.
But is the Swarovski BTX suitable for sport shooting? Yes, the Swarovski BTX is naturally a great choice for sport shooting, particularly precision shooting and long range shooting.
But all this comes at a price: Depending on the model, the recommended retail price is around €3,300 to €4,300. But as we found, the Swarovski BTX is worth every cent.
Further information about the Swarovski BTX spotting scope can be found on the optical specialist’s website.
