Ultimate Optics: BigEyes™ System from SWFA
We often hear the question: “What is THE best spotting scope for viewing objects at ultra-long distances”. That’s not a trick question… but maybe there’s a trick answer. The best optic for ultra-long range may not be ONE spotting scope, but rather TWO scopes working in tandem. Military observers and artillery spotters have long used massive binoculars for long-range observation. Texas-based SWFA, one of the nation’s most successful optics vendors, now offers a dual-scope BIGEYES™ system that offers certain viewing properties no single scope can match. Employing two (2) premium 80mm-objective Swarovski spotting scopes with high-definition (HD) glass, the BIGEYES system promises better depth perception and enhanced perceived brightness compared to a single scope. Many people also find that extended viewing through a dual-lens system is less fatiguing than looking through one lens, but that is more about human factors than internal optic quality.
That’s Five Grand Worth of Swarovski Glass
The BIGEYES do work remarkably well. You’ll see these mounted on heavy tripods at long-range matches such as Williamsport. But BIGEYES are not for shooters and hunters on a tight budget. This twin-Swaro set-up is very expensive. SWFA offers two models. The STS80HD20XBE, with 20-power eyepieces, costs $4,929.95. The companion STS80HDZOOM with 20-60X zoom eyepieces (lower photo) runs a whopping $5,129.95. You can also purchase other eyepieces at different magnification, but remember, if you change eyepieces you need to purchase a pair — one for each scope.
Optical Advantages for Hunters
Even if we presume that two scopes are better than one, can a $5K investment in glass be justified? SWFA claims that: “BIGEYES™ allow you to view distant objects in great detail with the equivalent of a 20-60×80 tripod mounted binocular. Porro prism design provides the optimum focal length required to maximize the performance of the 80mm HD (high definition) objectives. BIGEYES offer superior field of view combined with amazing depth perception that no conventional binocular can match. BIGEYES allow you to hunt from a fixed location, providing you the ability to glass animals literally miles a way. You can scout and judge animals with out disrupting their patterns.”
This Editor doubts he could ever afford a set of BIGEYES. But it’s nice to know such a system, complete with mount, is available for those who have the financial resources. For more information, visit SWFA at www.RifleScopes.com.
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Tags: BigEyes, Binocular, Spotting Scope, Swarovski
A more economical choice.
Oberwerk 80mm 45° Binocular Telescope
The BT-80-45 is a smaller and lighter version of our highy-acclaimed 100mm 45° Binocular Telescope. It is the least expensive binocular on the market that offers 45° viewing and 1.25″ focusers. Of course the 80mm 45° Binocular Telescope also has Oberwerk’s signature broadband multi-coatings on every lens surface, including the massive porro prisms. 20x fully multi-coated wide-angle eyepieces are included, but because of the industry-standard 1.25″ helical focusers, your favorite telescope eyepieces can be used as well. Long f/6.5 focal ratio assures excellent color correction. The same fork mount and hardwood tripod (as shown) that comes standard with the BT-100-45 is available as an option, or use with your own favorite mount (bottom-mount plate is tapped with standard 3/8″ threading). The tripod can also be upgraded to our premium jarrah hardwood tripod for $100. Either tripod can also be custom laser-engraved. Because accurate collimation is critical at higher magnifications, every Oberwerk binocular is collimated prior to shipping- so even at high magnifications, you’ll enjoy perfectly-merged images.
$1095
My Swaro 65 Big Eyes has made many impossible finds possible over the years. Only down side is two sets of eyepieces, a 20 and a 30 and a single 20-60 would be a lot more expensive when I built mine almost 20 years ago, To be fair, the 30s are overkill for all but a few needs.
Does anyone have any idea where I can find BigEyes? I have two Swarovski STR80 that I would like to set ups like this?
Brian…..The mount shown on the SWFA site (no longer available) was made by Swarovski and was very simple to use. It is the only picture likely available. have no idea how many were sold but you might advertise to see who might still have one today. My mount was built by Randy Yohn and is clearly shown on the net.
would a big eyes setup be possible with 2 ATS 65mm spotters? the ones shown here have straight eyepiece.
thanks
rod