Rifle Scopes Zeiss ZD5 3-15 or SWFA SS 3-15 for elk, western states/Canada?

[c1steve]

I am trying to decide on an all around scope for my M70, in 325WSM. This will be for use in the western US, and possibly Alaska or Canada.

Right now I am contemplating either the new Zeiss ZD5 3-145x42 or the new SWFA SS 3-15x42. I suspect that the glass on the Zeiss would prove superior in lowlight conditions, but that the SS would be much harder to break.

On the Zeiss, I would use the Rapid Z 600 reticle, or possible the lockable target turrets. The Rapid Z would probably be excellent, and their new reticle is improved over the first version.
Actually I would prefer a plex or the SS reticle, and suspect that the glass would satisfactory, but believe that the tall turrets of the SS would be uncomfortable if carrying all day.

Any recommendations welcomed.

Zeiss 3-15x42 Conquest HD5 Rifle Scope

Zeiss 3-15x42 Conquest HD5 Rifle Scope

SWFA SS 3-15x42 Tactical Rifle Scope

 

[Bulletmoto]

I have not used either of these scopes, but I did have a Zeiss conquest 6-24x50 and am now running a Swfa 5-20x50 HD and I think you are on track with your expectations. In my opinion my Zeiss was better glass, but the swfa really gives you that bullet proof feeling and if I was hunting it through the backwoods I would pick durability.

 

[victorz]

go Zeiss. I have a early verson SS 10x42 and 4 Zeiss conquest (the older verson before HD5). Zeiss has way better glass than SS. I like zeiss better.

 

[c1steve]

I hear the non HD scopes, such as the 10x42, were moderate quality lenses. One cannot expect a lot for $300-$400.

My SS 1-6 has excellent glass. The SS 3-9 has fairly good glass, and I suspect my SS 5-20 is somewhere between the two of these. If the new SS 3-15 has image quality up near the 1-6, I think it would be good enough. These are just my subjective observations.

The tall turrets sticking up like a sore thumb are a concern to me. I will buy one for an AR I am putting together, but that might be it. I am leaning toward the Zeiss, as lower profile knobs and superb image quality.

-Steve

 

[slm9s]

My main two elk rifles have a Leica 3.5-14 and a Swaro Z5 3.5-18. I like them both a lot. I'm not sure how you hunt, but I wouldn't want exposed turrets when crawling thru thick brush. Of your two options, I'd choose the Zeiss. Though I think the Swaro Z5 can come with a turret.
Good luck.

 

[c1steve]

slm9s,

Those scopes you choose look excellent. What reticles did you go with? I am leaning toward the Rapid Z, despite some concerns regarding quick target acquisition on a fast moving animal.

 

[slm9s]

I chose the #1 in the Leica, which is a post with two horizontal bars that don't quite get to the post in the middle. It is bold for dark timber shots, but comes to a nice pointy tip on the top for precise long-range aiming. The Swaro, I wanted a #4, but found the "thin" part of the crosshairs was too wide and it would be hard to pick up in low light. The regular duplex was just right. Maybe a touch on the thin side also, but I've never had a problem seeing the reticle, even at first and last light.
I really like zeiss glass, but they didn't have these mag ranges when I outfitted these rifles.

 

[BCP]

I am trying to decide on an all around scope for my M70, in 325WSM. This will be for use in the western US, and possibly Alaska or Canada.
]

Kinda hard to gauge the super sniper when it's not out yet.

What about the swaro z3 scopes?

 

[Hntelk]

You dont know me..but we are all here to gain more information when it comes to the sport and hobby we enjoy..so I thought i would share some of my experience with hunting scopes as I am a hunter..and gun enthusiast.

Go with the Zeiss....I have several high end scopes that I hunt with but my Zeiss is the best in low light for hunting to my eye. Now on to the durability issue...lol ---where can i start. I have literally put mine thru hell and back. Up and down back country moutains hunting elk and deer...sub zero temps..getting bucked off a horse...rifle rolling down mountain...multiple plane trips.

This one time, I know the bag handlers were trying to destroy my rifle...case was so beat up once when I went to seattle to bear hunt...that when I picked up my rifle case.. it was bent on middle end of the case...supervisor showed up and couple bag guys with tools...sledge hammer and crow bar to pry the thing open...rifle was good..case did its part...come to find out it had gotten stuck in a pneumatic press in Dever where auto conveyor belts separate luggage. Later that day after i got to camp..three shots off and there was my 1/2 group.

I have every confidence in my Zeiss scopes...BTW..my fav are the rapid z series...once you know your loads and how to work the scope..its deadly

 

[c1steve]

Hntelk,

Thanks for the post. At first it sounded like anti gun people were out to get you! Another +1 for the Rapid Z. I am leaning more and more that way, probably will go with the 2-10 power model to keep it simple. I am glad to see that the Zeiss has been very tough, that was a concern of mine.

 

[NoFail]

^ but they are out to get him, and you.....

 

[8nbait]

I am really liking my HD5 in 3-15 with the target turrets. Glass is okay (plenty good for hunting) but the adjustments are perfect and repeatable. I have it on a 7lb 6.5 creedmoor so it's not exactly getting pounded but have shot over 500 rounds out to 600 yards with zero problems.
gary

 

[c1steve]

Gary,

The images of that model show that the turrets are fairly small. How do you like them, do they appear unlikely to move when going through brush? How tough do the knobs appear? How do the mechanics feel? Are the adjustments repeatable? I wonder if the gears are brass or plastic.