Swarovski Z5

Z5 scopes feature outstanding Austrian optics and mechanics, and a large 5:1 zoom ratio in a compact form factor. Due to their high magnification and large field of view, Z5 scopes are versatile and suitable for various types of shooting and hunting, especially at long range.

Z5 scopes offer both exceptional optical performance at high magnification and a large field of view at low magnification. They provide excellent resolution and contrast in a more affordable, compact 1” tube design. Both the 3.5- 18×44 and 5-25×50 scope models are available with Plex, German 4A and the outstanding BRX and BRH ballistic drop compensator reticles.

  • 5:1 zoom ratio in a 1-inch rifle scope
  • Maximum image quality due to completely innovative design of the optic
  • Large eye relief of 3.74 in (95 mm) for greater safety
  • Large field of view for greater overview
  • Reticle in the second image plane
  • Rapid diopter adjustment
  • Microstructure surface: bright, high-contrast images, even in intense light
  • Parallax correction with 109 yds (100 m) mark for rapid operation, even in the firing position
  • Rectangular adjustment range for greater range of elevation
  • Patented SWAROVSKI OPTIK 4-point coil spring system for an ultra-stable point of aim
  • Slim, stylish, light weight design

HighPowerOptics Evaluation: What sets Z5 scopes apart from other high magnification ratio scopes is their outstanding optical design. The objective is a triplet (three lenses) instead of the more common doublet. The triplet gives the scope better correction of chromatic aberration for high resolution at high magnification. The triplet also reduces off-axis aberrations so that the image remains sharp at the most extreme elevation/windage settings. By comparison, a doublet begins to lose resolution when the elevation/windage adjustment exceeds about 20 MOA.

The internal surfaces of the scope have a stepped microtexture surface that is coated with an ultra-low reflectivity black material. Stray light is suppressed so well that glare is almost undetectable, creating an exceptionally high contrast image.

The Z5 erector tube optics are derived from the truly excellent Z6 model line. The high resolution, low glare and high contrast produce a bright, clear image across the field of view. The contrast and resolution are so good at high magnification that these scopes can often be used as spotters in the field. Unlike many high- zoom ratio scopes, the Z5 models do not exhibit “tunneling” at low magnification. That is, the field of view continues to increase as the magnification decreases all the way to the lower limit.

The sight picture is clean at all magnification settings, with no vignetting at any combination of magnification and elevation/windage setting. A large exit pupil diameter of about 10 mm at the lowest magnification setting enables rapid target acquisition. Z5 scopes offer a parallax correction adjustment (55 yds – ∞) that is located opposite the windage turret. At 15.9- 17.5 oz, they are some of the lightest scopes in their class.

The BRX/BRH reticles can be used with any caliber. Both reticles are mil-based, with 1 mrad separation between dots when the magnification is set to the highest value. Windage hold-off marks are provided on horizontal bars located between the dots. These features make the BRX/BRH reticle incredibly versatile. For example, it is compatible with all ballistic programs that can output hold offs in mrad units. By dialing elevation 18 IPHY (5.0 mrad) up, the reticle range can be extended to at least 1,000 yds for flat shooting calibers. The BRX/BRH reticle can also be used to mil targets to determine range. The BRH is bolder than the BRX and is often preferred for hunting during the twilight hours before dawn and after dusk.

For those who prefer a ballistic compensated turret, the BT turret is available on both models and can be calibrated to any cartridge by the user. Combined with either a Plex reticle for dialing windage or the 4W reticle for holding off windage, the BT turret provides a return-to-zero turret that allows accurate shots out to at least 500 yards. There are four user settable, color coded range indicators (including the cap). The ballistic turret allows nearly one rotation of elevation adjustment, for a total of 13.25 IPHY (53 clicks) beyond the zero position. By zeroing at 100 yds, the four rings can be set to provide accurate elevation settings for 200, 300, 400 and 500 yds, for example. For many flat shooting calibers, a 200 yd zero will allow the BT turret to reach out to 600-700 yds. Swarovski also offers a Custom BT turret that can be mounted in place of the standard BT turret.

Micrometer Knobs are now a FREE OPTION with the purchase of a Swarovski Z3, Z5 or Z6(i) rifle scope. Indicate in the instructions box during check-out whether you want a Micrometer Knob for the elevation turret, windage turret, both turrets, or neither one.