Rifle Scopes SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

[dean1197]

Hi, does anyone have any opinions as to which scope might function better on 1x between the SWFA SS 1-4x or SWFA SS 1-6x as far speed for up-close shooting is concerned?

I'm guessing the 1-4x might be a little better because (1) the circle reticle on the 1-4x is a little smaller and thicker,(2)i've also heard that since the magnification range isn't as great in the 1-4x the eye box is a little more "forgiving" and (3)given a certain quality of glass, if the magnification range is increased it impacts the scopes optimal performance? any opinions here?

If anyone can chime in here that would be great

 

[NoFail]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

I'm in on the group buy for the SS 1-6. I have never looked through the 1-4, and obviously never the 1-6, but there are guys who have the 1-4 and can't wait for the 1-6 to be in their hands. It's a subjective question. But right now you can get a new 1-4 for what, $700, $800? I'm in for the 1-6 at $800 with the $200 coupon. That deal is over. And we have not a clue when the 1-6 comes in, other than SWFA keeps saying sometime this summer. To me, other than the wait and the extra few hundred for the 1-6, scope to scope, I think the 1-6 beats out the 1-4. You will want the extra mag, and at full 6x the circle completely disappears leaving the mil scale. The circuitry for the battery is supposed to be improved......

 

[BobD]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

Dean1197,
I felt compelled to add/explain a couple things as I see you have paraphrased part of my response from your other post into this one.

I was trying to offer some general information to you before-
As far as SWFA's offerrings that you looking in to:
1-6HD being an updated, more advanced model of the HD series is also roughly the same length 10.47" (opposed to 10.40" of 1-4x) and will likely not have any negative impact on its eye box sensitivity in comparison to its little brother. As I mentioned in my previous post that some have said that increasing a mag range beyond a certain level is not optimum... Thats not implying that this newer model will look inferior but you and the company may pay (cash) to keep it the same level of quality. Again its just a theory.

Also, the reticle in the 1-6hd is certainly different than the two offered in the 1-4... As you were stating, the outer illumination is signifigantly larger than the illuminated post reticle and circle. It may be important to note however that in the new model, the illuminated portion of the mil scale, which is half the length (of previous), is now extended by a deep contrasting scale in 5 mil increments which extends the scale to a total of 40 before the ring or (opposed to 20). This actually offers a finer point of aim at 1x, and a whole new reference point in the newer model by using two different contrasts (old = 20 mils then circle or post, new = 10 mils then cross hair, 40 mils then circle)

In my opinion its an outstanding design and the only thing you lose by choosing the newer model is a bit more money out of your pocket and lightness of your rifle as the additional weight added is about 5oz. Ultimately, its going to come down to your preference to which reticle you prefer, if you want the extra azimuth adjustmentments on the 1-6, and which top end magnification you will be happy with.

Hope this clears a bit up for you, didnt intend to complicate things on you previous post.

 

[dean1197]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

That is correct numbers 2 and 3 were your essentially your responses, I was trying to refine my question. Both answers were great, I just wanted to ask about some things you told me in my first post and see if anyone had any input.

 

[Bedlam]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

It all seems theoretical right now. At some point no doubt there will be side-by-side comparisons with actual production models.

 

[priler]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question



#1 is more a matter of personal preference but you do make a good point. your call.

#2 will be more than likely true. if you take all the 1-4s and 1-6s out there and average their exit pupil size,you'll find the 1-4s have on average something like 4 or 5mm larger EP. this can/might make a difference to you,generally 1-4s are easier to keep your head behind and not go black,especially when moving around. they also have a larger FOV at highest setting(but of course,less magnification).(however,don't be fooled by the EP numbers given by many of simply dividing the objective lens size by 1,this is false and actually impossible)

#3 i wouldn't worry about at all barring lemons or mistakes.

 

[NoFail]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

I dunno, I could have gotten the 1-4 in the 1st place. But kept imagining there would be times when I'm looking thru it and saying to myself "man I wish I had more magnification, I can't see that target very good", whatever target may it be. So I got used 1.8-6 while I wait for the SS 1-6 HD. Hahahahaha, now with the 1.8-6 I find myself thinking "man I wish I had some more magnification, I can't see that target good enough"

I just ordered the SS 12x42 fixed. Still want that SS 1-6 though.

 

[stickbow46]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

NoFail you might want to take a look at IOR 1.5-8x26,could be just the ticket.I use one on my RR ATH no problem with the optics out to 300yds!

 

[NoFail]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

Yeah I've read on that one. My dream scope now is the USO 1.8-10x37 T-PAL with some extra's. I'd take that IOR though. That IOR 1-10 looks sweet too, yes'ery Bob!!

 

[BobD]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

Dean1197,

Pm on way to you. I found the information on the illumination rings on both those models, followed up with a post this am. Hope it helps

 

[Jon A]

Re: SWFA 1-4x vs 1-6x question

In my comparing of the scopes, I'd say the 1-4 does have a slight edge in eyebox flexibility on 1X and sweetspot size but it beats about every other 1-4 scope out there. The 1-6 is still very good and better than many 1-4 scopes but for pure 1X use I'd say the 1-4 does have a slight advantage from that standpoint.

But the difference is small. My 1-4 will be up for sale as soon as the 1-6's are available if that tells you anything.