Spotters Swaro STX vs BTX

SuperBoot

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Aug 17, 2017
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I’m looking to upgrade from my current Swaro STS-65 into the modular spotter series, but I’m waffling big time between the BTX and the STX eyepieces.

Primary use will be spotting/RO’ing at matches and just shooting in general out to 2-2.5k. I already have a pair of EL Range 10’s that I use for target scanning, etc so the spotter serves a different purpose.

I’m not really a dude that glasses a lot hunting-wise so that’s not a huge selling point for me. I have gotten into digiscoping with my current spotter though and would like to keep doing that with the new one.

What say ye? Is the fixed power BTX a hindrance over the ability to zoom with an STX? I do plan on using a mag extender but dunno if that will be more of an ass pain than it’s worth.

Anyone that recommends vortex will be heckled and shamed.
 
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I have used my btx for sheep, goats and spotting matches. For me I get much less eye strain than with a conventional spotter. The fixed power has been a non issue for me. I love it, and have spent many looong days behind mine.
Also, in good light and on fresh paint, I was able to see impacts @1400 yds.
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Are you guys able to digiscope with a btx? The fixed power was one reason I have not gone the btx route as well as the weight. I understand this is not applicable for the OP but might be helpful for others debating this topic. The image with both eyes through the btx is unbeatable but I do like being able to set my magnification. Not to hijack the thread but, @abn31c could you elaborate on why the fixed mag has been a non-issue for you while hunting?
 
Are you guys able to digiscope with a btx? The fixed power was one reason I have not gone the btx route as well as the weight. I understand this is not applicable for the OP but might be helpful for others debating this topic. The image with both eyes through the btx is unbeatable but I do like being able to set my magnification. Not to hijack the thread but, @abn31c could you elaborate on why the fixed mag has been a non-issue for you while hunting?
I’m pretty interested in this too honestly. After having a spotter good enough to digiscope with it’s pretty high on my priority list for a new one.

Like I said earlier I’m planning on buying an extender, but hotswapping one into the system in the field seems 1. Cumbersome, and 2. Like you’re begging dirt/dust to introduce itself into the inner glass of your scope. Maybe I’m overhyping the issue.
 
I can never go back to mono spotter…BTX and /or high power 12-15x bino

I have spotted many sheep/goats/elk/deer without the extender (though I own the mag ext) at very long range like 1-5 miles. You are correct about changing out the extender in the field. I rarely use it in the field as I too, don‘t seem to need it.

The ability to stay on the spotter for hours without eye fatigue is key…color/movement/shapes especially if you are familiar with the terrain.

I have found elk @ 5 miles out with 12x pure bino and then swap tp tp btx to identify, bulls/no bulls etc then can move in closer and the 12’s are more than adequate.

Moose 1 mile out thru NL Pure 12’s untouched to provoke my stalk. Finished stalk with rifle/outdoorsmans LW tripod for steady rest and walking stick combined final optic just terrapin x no bino.

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Been behind BTX’s. Cool if you’re just glassing and what not.
I just like reticles and want to know actual corrections. That’s why I stick to my Hennies and Leupy.
Put a reticle on the BTX, then I’d add it to the stable.
 
Are you guys able to digiscope with a btx? The fixed power was one reason I have not gone the btx route as well as the weight. I understand this is not applicable for the OP but might be helpful for others debating this topic. The image with both eyes through the btx is unbeatable but I do like being able to set my magnification. Not to hijack the thread but, @abn31c could you elaborate on why the fixed mag has been a non-issue for you while hunting?
The image is so clear I don't need more power. If I do I can insert the 2x doubler and get 58x fixed. I've never used it. This ram was 3.6 miles away and I just held my phone over the eyepiece.
Screenshot_20220806-112005_Gallery.jpg
 
Are you guys able to digiscope with a btx? The fixed power was one reason I have not gone the btx route as well as the weight. I understand this is not applicable for the OP but might be helpful for others debating this topic. The image with both eyes through the btx is unbeatable but I do like being able to set my magnification. Not to hijack the thread but, @abn31c could you elaborate on why the fixed mag has been a non-issue for you while hunting?

Yes, and one cool thing is you can put your phone on one eyepiece and still look through the other eyepiece like a traditional spotter while simultaneously videoing or taking pics.