Z8i Which One To Go For

[adi]

Hi
Looking forward to switch scope from night force to Swarovski Z8i, there are two options I'm looking at, as the difference is like 50-100 quid between the two. Would like your input to decide which one I shall go for.
1. Z8i 2.3-18×56
2. Z8i 3.5-28x50

The main difference for me seems to be higher magnification (18x - 28x) and the object lens (56 - 50).
Am I correct to say that the first option has less magnification but will perform a lot better at last light compared to 3.5-28x50? If yes then any idea roughly how much difference do we get visibility (% wise maybe) or is it something hard to notice.

Re holding price, would both will hold price long run or one may not hold value as compared to the other one, not sure which you guys would prefer to go with for stalking.

Many Thanks in advance

 

[TomY]

I’ve got a mate with no 2. Very impressive. I guess it can be mounted on your rifle lower than the 56 which is a good thing? Very very clear and very impressive at last night. dials well.

 

[sikasako]

I upgraded to a Z8i last year and had the same dilemma.

Out of :-

1. Z8i 2.3-18×56
2. Z8i 3.5-28x50

I went for 1 due to the marginally better twilight performance over 2.
In practice I find the 2.3 to 18 times zoom capability more than adequate for typical deerstalking ranges.

The 2.3 mag can be handy if you ever have to undertake a follow up shot on a moving beast at close range , although the moderator (depending on its diameter can tend to ‘feature’ in the lower part of the picture sight).

For longer shots, up to 18 magnification is generally more than enough.

The optional ballistic turret for the Z8i is highly recommended.

Easy to fit and adjust. Having zeroed at 100m the ballistic info on the Swarovski website is very useful for initially setting up the elevation turret clicks for varying ranges. Just fine tune in the field or on the range to be sure.

I didn’t bother fitting a windage turret on mine, as I prefer to aim off, rather than dial.

If you are planning to fit the Swarovski scope covers, then fit them before zeroing.

I added mine afterwards, but had to take the scope back off the rifle to do so, as the scope to barrel clearance is minimal.

 

[gixer1]

I have the 3.5-28 - it’s a fantastic scope, you won’t be disappointed, you may feel like you want more mag for looking at things with the 18x so better to have it and not need it than need it and it have it!

You won’t use the 28 at last light but it’s nice to have in daylight hours and for longer range targets.

Regards.
Gixer

 

[adi]

Thanks all, so the difference at last light is hard to notice when using 50 vs 56 object lens on z8i?

 

[guns 6br]

I have the 3.5-28x50 on my 30-06 absolutely love it fantastic last light

 

[sikasako]

Thanks all, so the difference at last light is hard to notice when using 50 vs 56 object lens on z8i?

Just looked up the Swarovski website.

Out of :-​

1. Z8i 2.3-18×56
2. Z8i 3.5-28x50

Apparently 2 has a better twighlight factor, which I was really surprised at.
(Probably due to higher magnification, which in reality is not usable at last light.)

Other factors to consider are:-

weight 725 g for 1 vs 665g for 2.

Length 364 mm for 1 vs 381 mm for 2.

In hindsight I might have gone for 2, but I am more than happy with option 1 I went for.

Great bit of kit.

 

[gaza916]

Are you still looking for an Option 1 (Z8i 2.3-18×56)? I have a new one with BT that is now surplus to requirements. It will be the cheapest in the UK. Let me know if that’s of interest and I’ll post some photos.

 

[adi]

Are you still looking for an Option 1 (Z8i 2.3-18×56)? I have a new one with BT that is now surplus to requirements. It will be the cheapest in the UK. Let me know if that’s of interest and I’ll post some photos.

Sure send some photos across, a

Just looked up the Swarovski website.

Out of :-​

1. Z8i 2.3-18×56
2. Z8i 3.5-28x50

Apparently 2 has a better twighlight factor, which I was really surprised at.
(Probably due to higher magnification, which in reality is not usable at last light.)

Other factors to consider are:-

weight 725 g for 1 vs 665g for 2.

Length 364 mm for 1 vs 381 mm for 2.

In hindsight I might have gone for 2, but I am more than happy with option 1 I went for.

Great bit of kit.

many thanks

 

[waggy 1]

I have both and the 2-16x 50 too and being totally honest which ever one you choose you will be happy with

 

[Dunwaters]

Thanks all, so the difference at last light is hard to notice when using 50 vs 56 object lens on z8i?

The difference is almost entirely imaginary once you hit 40+ years of age, both scopes will deliver more than 90% of available light to your eye. You may need to reduce the magnification a bit to maximise your exit pupil, but otherwise there’s nothing to gain from the bigger objective.

 

[Alrichie]

I have No 1, does everything I need of it and great quality, very clear image at last light. Fitted a ballistic turret flex (BTF) which is easy and simple to set up. As others have said can't go wrong with either IMO.

https://www.swarovskioptik.com/gb/e...rifle-scope-accessories/ballistic-turret-flex​

 

[adi]

surely will get them, if come across a good deal (new/used being sold here on forums). I tried x18 and as most said it will do the job but when was doing 100m target I did felt at some point for a bit extra need for zoom. As there isn't much difference or noticeable at last time, I be swapping it back with the No 2 option now.
Many Thanks all once again

 

[hunta]

I tried x18 and as most said it will do the job but when was doing 100m target I did felt at some point for a bit extra need for zoom.

Did you mean 1000m? The only time I have felt under scoped with my 2.5 - 15 was when bashing a 1000m gong.