Swarovski started shipping the new EL Range TA (Tracking Assistant) binoculars in two versions 10x42 and 8x42. These new products have replaced the Company's popular EL Range binocular range, which has been in the market for the last decade. At first appearance, the two products look similar, but the functionality of the EL Range TA is a significant leap forward, not just for Swarovski but for the sport optics industry. Swarovski loyalists have been waiting for a new range-finding binocular with a built-in ballistic calculator feature to join existing offerings from vendors such as Zeiss and Leica. The wait is now over; not only has Swarovski delivered the missing ballistics capability the developers have added the ability to track back to your target with a built-in direction finder.
Using the Track feature, one of three range measurements can be selected. The software then computes the distance and angle from the firing point to get you to the target. Directional arrows in the display indicate how far you need to move left and right, front and back, to locate the target.
This feature is desirable for any situation where terrain perspectives can be lost between the shooting point and a target, as is the case on a mountainside, undulating hillsides or in large areas of crop growth. Many an hour can be lost trying to find a carcass because the stalker has misread the terrain and is searching in the wrong area.
Alternatively, by launching the EL Range mobile app and connecting the EL Range TA via Bluetooth, distances, directions, and inclination are displayed on the phone screen. If you are in a location with internet access, you can see the firing point and the ranged target on an aerial map. For optimum effect, automatically set up the connection between the binoculars and phone at the exact point the measurement was made. Afterwards, you can let the phone guide you to an arch-shaped search area. Bear in mind, measuring distance is more accurate than measuring direction. So, a one-metre-wide arc at the stated distance should put you in the right place.
As expected with the world-leading SWAROVISION lenses, the images are bright, distortion-free, give outstanding colour fidelity and detailed resolution. The 10/40 model has a 140m/1000m field of view. There are no apparent trade-offs between the inclusion of the electronic functions, the internal display and optical performance, which cannot be said of some other brands.
Weighing 930 grams, they are protected by the Swarovski sage green rubber armour. The patented flip-up lens objective lens covers are superb, and although they can be purposefully detached, they are not likely to fall off, as is the fate of the ubiquitous rubber surround bands. The included adjustable strap is comfortable, and the connector for the strap fast to deploy.
Ergonomically the unit sits comfortably in the hands. The focus wheel is smooth, and the measurement button is positioned for the forefinger of the right hand. Both the measurement and Bluetooth button work when wearing gloves. The binoculars can range out to 2,000m in optimal environmental conditions. The pair tested both achieved 1,500m with an accuracy of ±1m.
Swarovski provides a free downloadable software app for configuring the unit. The app can set all the parameters of the device. Metric, imperial or a mixture of the measurement systems can be selected. The second display line can be programmed to show holdover in; MOA, MRAD/MIL, cm, inch, clicks. Alternatively, inclination angle, direction or corrected shooting distance can be selected, or the line simply left blank.
The mobile app is also the primary tool for creating ballistic profiles. A user can create three rifle configurations by selecting scope type, sight above the bore, access to an ammunition database (plus the option to utilise hand loads), environmental considerations, and zero range. The binoculars use these parameters to provide the relevant holdover data to ensure the appropriate compensation for the trajectory effect of gravity on a projectile. Having checked the outputs against other mathematical models such as Applied Ballistics, the holdover readings were accurate. Data corrected with a Chronograph will likely increase accuracy even further.
The product is shipped with the comfort strap, a side bag, eyepiece cover, objective lens covers, a soap and brush kit, microfibre cloth and BT tool. There are several accessories available for the binoculars. The new forehead rest is an interesting option. The FRR forehead rest Range is available as an accessory and provides stable three-point support to ensure maximum stability and comfort when observing for extended periods. The forehead rest can be adjusted so that your gaze is lined up perfectly.
Another option worth considering is the WE winged eyecup set. They increase user comfort, keep interference and distraction from ambient light to a minimum and are particularly effective in poor light conditions.
Swarovski has an outstanding reputation for optical innovation, quality and customer service. Their aftercare is superb, and they stand by their products and customers. These attributes have a cost that is reflected in the product price. But to many, it is a price worth paying. As they say, “you pays your money and you takes your choice’.
The 10x42 model is £2,890 RRP
The 8x42 model is £2,810 RRP
The Tracking Assistant feature in the EL Range Configurator app showing a targeted point at 1,356 yds.
