Leica binoculars

Not exactly camera related, but I am in the market for some new binoculars. I have been looking hard at Leica's and Swarovski's. Anyone have any experience with the Leica's? I have heard great things about the Swarovski's but not a whole lot on the Leica's but the ones I have tried out work phenomenal in low light I cant tell a difference between the Swarovski's or the Leica's.

I think beyond a certain price point, say $1,000, its more about your preference for color rendition and ergonomics than x being better than y. Since you've already stress tested them, so to speak, in low light, I think you should trust your own eyes. Check the warranty on Leica also. I've heard Swaro takes great care of their customers.

I've had both Leica (Geovid) and Swarovski (8x56's), Leica was much lighter and smaller, easier to tuck in my coat. I would sometimes get severe eye strain with the Swarovski after hours of glassing, this never happened with the Leica. I also liked the range finger in the Leica, meant I didn't have to carry another piece of gear.

You should send those Swaros back to the factory to have the collimation checked. That's likely the source of your eye strain. Swaro will look at them, fix if necessary, and send back to you no questions asked!

the zeiss victory sf are the best on the market.

Can't be beat.

I have been using a set of compact Leica's for several years, (10X) and really like the small size. They are not the best in low light situations, but the small size means I almost always have them with me.

I have considered getting a pair of Swarovski's (mostly for my wife's use) but doubt I would use them enough to justify the cost.