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Archive for 2023

NEW IN THE RANGE: HUNTING BINOCULARS, NIGHT VISION DEVICES AND RIFLESCOPES FROM STEINER

December 19 2023, Stefan Rieger

Steiner

The name STEINER has been synonymous with ruggedness and reliability for many decades. This is exactly what hunting is all about. No matter what time of day or night, you must rely on your equipment. That is why hunters and nature observers all over the world trust the Bayreuth company.

Steiner

The Nighthunter 8×56 porro prism binoculars with their Sports Autofocus System or the Ranger LRF binoculars with integrated rangefinder with a measuring range of up to 1800 metres are especially interesting. And have a good look at the intuitively operated thermal cameras of the Nighthunter series and the hunting riflescopes of the Ranger series. The Sights  and the riflescopes in the M5Xi, M7Xi and M8Xi series are ideal for sports shooters.

ZEISS cashback campaign: Up to €450 back on your new binoculars

December 4 2023, Stefan Rieger

ZEISS CashbackHave you been thinking of buying a new pair of ZEISS binoculars for some time, or would you like to offer one as a Christmas present? ZEISS and us will make the decision a little easier for you.

ZEISS will refund you up to €450 after your purchase, depending on the model:

Here you can find more information about the campaign, eligible countries (sorry, the offer does not apply to sales to the UK) and here you can register your binoculars!

Take advantage of this promotion between 01.12.2023 and 29.02.2024 and get your money back from ZEISS!

Special winter offer: discounts on Nikon Prostaff P3 and Monarch M7 series of binoculars

November 8 2023, Stefan Rieger

Take advantage of Nikon’s winter discount which runs from 27.10.2023 to 29.01.2024. On selected binoculars in the Prostaff P3 and Monarch M7 series you will receive a discount of €30 or even €60!

The details:

This discount has already been deducted from the listed price.

So no matter whether you are buying binoculars for yourself or as a gift this Christmas, you can take advantage of this promotion, which is valid until 29.01.2024!

Special offer: up to 25% discount on thermal imaging cameras and clip-ons from ZEISS

November 8 2023, Stefan Rieger

ZEISS Wärmebildkameras DTI 6

Just in time for the long winter nights, ZEISS has lowered their recommended retail price on some thermal imaging cameras and clip-ons. Now you can really improve your chances of bagging your prey at dusk!

The following products are currently on special offer: ZEISS DTI 6/40 and DTI 6/20 thermal imaging cameras and the DTC 3/25 and DTC 3/38 clip-ons.

ZEISS Wärmebild-Vorsatzgeräte DTC 3

These price reductions are valid until 31.12.2023! Don’t miss this opportunity to save up to 25% compared to the former recommended retail prices.

Special offer: thermal cameras for bargain hunters, save over 25%!

October 6 2023, Stefan Rieger

You can choose between the entry-level Thermalfox model, the Thermalfox Wi-Fi which features Wi-Fi connectivity, and the LCD screen which is suitable for both devices.

This offer is not only aimed at hunters. I also find it can be extremely helpful to use a thermal imaging camera when nature-watching to detect birds or other animals based on their thermal signature before locating and identifying them with binoculars or a spotting scope. The LCD screen is especially useful for finding birds in trees, or for nocturnal rabbit and hare counts.

Omegon Thermalfox mit optinalem LCD-Screen

So be as smart as a fox and bag a quick bargain! Save more than 25%

This offer is only valid while stocks last.

Swarovski / Kahles Roadshow 2023: we were there!

October 5 2023, Stefan Rieger

Last Monday the time had come: Swarovski Optik Germany invited the hunting trade to a roadshow in the 4-star Panorama Hotel Waldenburg, close to Schwäbisch Hall in Germany. The invitation was extended to at least 30 specialist dealers and so naturally we also went along to watch the latest product innovations from the Swarovski and Kahles brands being presented in detail, allowing us to become acquainted with the most important product features.

Of course, we want to share this experience with you. The following products were presented: Swarovski  Z8i+ series of rifle scopes, Kahles K18i-2 rifle scope , Kahles TI+ thermal cameras, Swarovski  EL Range 32 binoculars and the new universal  VPA 2 smartphone adapter including adapter rings.

Let us take a look at the products in detail:

Swarovski Z8i+ riflescopes:
Especially designed for the driven hunt or stalking to ensure the widest possible field of view and excellent viewing comfort. Swarovski Zielfernrohr Z8i+: Profi für die DrückjagdAvailable in two versions and with different reticles. 0.75-6×20 and 1-8×24. Both models offer optimal viewing comfort thanks to a large eyepiece diameter of more than 51mm. As soon as you take position with your weapon you can immediately locate the target. The 0.75 models offer a field of view of max. 64.4 m/100 meters. The models with the 1-8x magnification offer a field of view of up to 50 metres. Two throw levers are included for quick magnification changes. You can choose to fit either the black or orange coloured lever. The models with the 4A-IF reticle are particularly interesting. In addition to the classic 4A reticle, you can also superimpose an illuminated ring over the centre. This helps with target acquisition and determining the correct lead distance.

KAHLES K18i-2 1-8×24: This rifle scope was developed in collaboration with leading sports shooters from the IPSC and 3-gun disciplines. Kahles Zielfernrohr für IPSC-Schützen K18i-2 1-8x24The special 3GR reticle with several aiming points allows you to stay on the spot at different distances without needing to make any elevation adjustment. In addition, the customer also benefits from a stable 34mm centre tube and the large 50m field of view at 100m distance. It also features a fantastic view through the large eye box. This model also comes with two different throw levers, although in this case they do not differ in colour but in size.

 

 

Kahles Hela TI+ WärmebildkamerasKAHLES TI+ Thermal Cameras: This new series of thermal imaging cameras focuses on the essentials of hunting. All the necessary settings can be made with just two buttons. A Wi-Fi connection, photo or video mode have been deliberately omitted to keep its operation as simple as possible. The new VOx sensor delivers high 640 x 512 pixel resolution with a pixel size of 12 microns and a NETD of < 20 mK. This ensures images are rich in detail and with excellent contrast. The user can choose between Black Hot, White Hot, and Red Only colour modes. The special housing design prevents the device from rolling. An automatic standby switch, triggered by a tilt and motion sensor, protects the battery and prevents the face from being illuminated when the device is removed from the eye. Available with a 35mm lens for a long range of up to 2,479 metres, or a 18mm lens for a wide field of view of 44m/100m.

Swarovski EL Range 32:

EL Range 32 - Leichtes Fernglas mit Entfernungsmesser

These new binoculars with rangefinder especially surprised us with its low weight of less than 700 grammes. They are available in 8×32 and 10×32. Besides, the design is also an essential feature of this binoculars. The narrow connecting bridge and the omission of a front connecting bridge, as with the 42 models, make it extremely easy to use, even with large hands or gloves. Another advantage is the ability to freely assign functions to the two operating keys. This makes them much easier to use, especially for left-handed users. Of course, this model also offers the familiar tracking assistant, which helps, for example, when narrowing down the target area. The binoculars can be configured to your personal requirements using the EL RANGE configurator app and offer a measuring range of 9 – 1,500 metres. We would especially recommend these to mountain hunters, or hunters who want to keep their equipment as light as possible and do not need to use the binoculars right up till the last light fades. The optional FRR forehead rest increases image stability, especially after a strenuous climb.

Last but not least, we have something for DIGISCOPING fans: Swarovski has updated its universal adapter and presented the VPA 2. Neuer universeller Smartphoneadapter: Swarovski VPA 2With its generous dimensions and prominent lens units, it is now also suitable for modern smartphones. In addition, its operation has been significantly simplified and the mechanics improved. The adjustment device for selecting the right lens is now mechanically more stable and the adapter ring is much easier to attach. There are three different clamp adapters that can be used for different binoculars by means of inner rings. These must be ordered as an optional extra.

CA-Bs for all CL series binoculars (Companion, Nomad, Mountain, Curio and Pocket)Swarovski Klemmadapter für den VPA 2

CA-B for all EL, EL Range, NL Pure and SLC series of binoculars and the BTX eyepiece module

CA-S for ATX/STX, ATC/STC, ATS/STS series spotting scopes and the STR spotting scope.
It is not recommended for the CTS.

These new products will become fully available during October. Secure your new model soon, we expect supply bottlenecks when deliveries begin.

Celestron NATURE DX binoculars now with ED lenses

October 5 2023, Stefan Taube

Binoculars from Celestron’s NATURE DX range are ideal for nature lovers and hikers. They are weatherproof, compact and lightweight – ideal for on the go!

However, the price of these binoculars is perhaps the most impressive thing. Although they have all the features of more expensive brands, they are offered at an exceptionally attractive price. This makes them the ideal companion for all hillwalkers, skywatchers and, in particular, for amateur bird watchers.

The latter benefit especially from the NATURE DX binoculars with ED lenses. The extra-low dispersion lenses provide true colour images at high resolution and contrast – with almost no colour abberations. This is particularly beneficial when observing colourful plumage on bright days.

Binoculars from the NATURE DX range are true all-rounders for all nature lovers!

Up to 40% discount for curious people: entry-level microscopes for your hobby

September 1 2023, Marcus Schenk

Why not immerse yourself in the world of the microcosm this autumn? You can save up to 40% in September and October with our new promotion on entry-level microscopes.

Whether you already have some experience in microscopy, or are a complete newcomer: the microscopes in our promotion offer you everything you need. With precise optics, easy handling, and versatile functions.

The different types included in the offer

Biological microscopes are suitable for students and beginners who want to dive deep into biological structures. Binocular reflected light microscopes are ideal for coin and mineral collectors and for any larger objects you want to examine in more detail. Maybe you are a detectorist and want to take a closer look at your treasures. LCD microscopes have a screen that allows you to view your objects comfortably – without having to look through an eyepiece. Hand-held microscopes are a good choice if you are in a hurry. You will find models from this wide range included in our offer.

So, grab your new microscope at a special price – the offer is valid until 31.10.2023 or as long as stocks last.

CONOTECH thermal imaging cameras on special offer

July 11 2023, Stefan Rieger

These CONOTECH thermal imaging cameras and modules are on special offer for a short time only. Take advantage of discounts of up to 30%, but only while stocks last!

To ensure that you do not buy a pig in a poke, we would like to briefly introduce these devices to you:

 

CONOTECH Tracer LRF hand-held devices with built-in laser rangefinder

Products in the Tracer LRF series are available with 25mm, 35mm and 50mm focal lengths, the product features are otherwise the same. The VOx sensor has a resolution of 384×288 pixels. The pixel pitch is 17 microns and the NETD is less than 35 millikelvin. This ensures an above-average image quality in this price category. The integrated OLED monitor offers a resolution of 1024×768 pixels. The frame rate is 50Hz, which is in line with today’s standard. All devices offer a 2x/4x digital zoom.

Six different colour palettes represent the image in different ways:

  • C1 = BH or black hot: the warmest sites are shown as black
  • C2 = WH or white hot: the warmest sites are shown as white
  • C3 = RH or red hot: the colour temperature display ranges from black to white with the warmest sites displayed in red
  • C4 = CG or cold green: the cooler the site, the brighter green the display
  • C5 = GB or glow bow: the display is in red-orange tones and becomes brighter as the heat signature of the object becomes warmer
  • C6 = RB or rainbow: the image is blue with red colours indicating the warmest objects

The RB and CG modes especially easy on the eyes, because they do not produce as much glare. Another interesting feature of these thermal imaging cameras is the built-in rangefinder. Using modern laser measurement technology, the range of objects up to a distance of around 1,000 meters can be determined. The accuracy is +/- 1 metre and rangefinding is available from a distance of 5 metres from the measured object. Photos and videos can be captured on the internal memory and transferred to a mobile device or PC over WiFi or a USB cable. Control via the mobile device is also possible, as well as a live view on the display of the connected smartphone or tablet.

Let’s take a closer look at the individual models:

CONOTECH Tracer LRF 25 PRO has a 25mm focal length with 2.4x optical magnification. The detection range is around 720 metres for an object the size of a wild boar.
Special price of €1,299 instead of the recommended retail price of €1,790

CONOTECH Tracer LRF 35 PRO, 35mm focal length, 3.3x optical magnification, detection range approx. 1,020 metres.
Special price of €1,539 instead of the recommended retail price of €2,190

CONOTECH Tracer LRF 50 PRO, 50mm focal length, 3.9x optical magnification, detection range approx. 1,450 metres and therefore the specialist for stalking wild boar across large field areas.
Special price of €2,299 instead of the recommended retail price of €2,690

CONOTECH Artemis 35 bundle

CONOTECH Artemis 35 thermal imaging attachment bundle

This set comprising attachment, charging cradle with USB-A connection, and two Panasonic 18500 batteries also has a VOx sensor with 384×288 pixels and a pitch of 12 micrometres. The NETD is below 25 millikelvin. The field of view at 100m is 13.2 metres. The OLED display has a resolution of 1024×768 pixels. This device also features 6 colour modes, which are identical to the aforementioned hand-held unit.

Operation is via a side-mounted joystick button. This may take some getting used to initially, but you will quickly appreciate the advantage of not having to search for the right button. If you plan to attach this device to your daytime optical instrument, you will need a suitable adapter with a M43x0.75 connection thread.

Our special price for this set is 2,159 instead of the recommended retail price of €2,749.70.

Now it is time to grab yourself a bargain, to ensure that your next nocturnal hunt will be a success. We wish you “good hunting” always.

Infographic: Astronomy Highlights of Summer 2023

May 31 2023, Marcus Schenk

Observing in summer! This means warm temperatures, but also some interesting constellations and the visible part of the Milky Way. In this infographic you will find all the important astronomical events in the summer of 2023 that you really should not miss. How about Saturn at opposition, or the Perseids shooting stars which we can enjoy this year without any interference by the Moon?

Whether you are an experienced amateur astronomer or a complete beginner to the field of astronomy: the astronomy events in our infographic offer something for everyone.

We wish you lots of observing fun!



02/06 Mars near M44

There is an interesting encounter in the evening sky at the moment: Mars, the Red Planet, can be found close to the M44 cluster, and the pair offers a beautiful view. The constellation is easy to see, especially at dusk close to the western horizon. But it is not only Mars that is attracting attention: at a distance of around 10 degrees, Venus is also close by.

09/06 Conjunction between the Moon and Saturn 

A very special performance is awaiting us in the sky this morning: the Moon and Saturn meet in the constellation of Aquarius and provide us with an impressive sight. Jupiter can also be seen nearby which rounds off the spectacle perfectly.

13/06 Venus near M44 

On 13 June, Venus will be in close proximity to the open cluster M44, which is also known as the Beehive Cluster. It’s great when you can combine such an astronomical event with some deep sky observation.

14/06 Conjunction between the Moon and Jupiter

On 14 June, just four days after its meeting with Saturn, the Moon will be spending some time with the planet Jupiter. This beautiful dawn sight is worth getting up early for, because the Moon appears as a delicate sickle and will soon reach its new Moon phase.

21.06 Beginning of summer 

Summer begins with the summer solstice on 21 June. In the northern hemisphere this means that the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky. We cannot actually observe this astronomical event, but we are now experiencing the longest days and the shortest nights.

21/ 22.06 Conjunction between Venus and Mars 

21 June is a day that you should be certain to make a note of in advance. This evening, above the western horizon, Venus and Mars meet up with the narrow crescent Moon. This trio is especially impressive when it is not yet completely dark, and we can also enjoy the twilight sky.

27.06 June Bootids 

From 23 to 28 June you can observe the June Bootids meteor shower. These shooting stars radiate from a point in the constellation of Boötes and fizzle comparatively slowly across the sky. The number of meteors is small but also variable. This means that it is particularly interesting to take a closer look.

01.07 Conjunction between Venus and Mars

Our two neighbouring planets, Venus and Mars, meet on 1 July. These two celestial bodies differ greatly in brightness, which makes them especially interesting to observe. You should not miss this opportunity if you are a big Mars fan, because the Red Planet will disappear from the celestial stage this month, and remain invisible for the rest of the year.

07.07 Conjunction between the Moon and Saturn

The Moon and Saturn rise above the horizon at the beginning of the second half of the night, and accompany us through till sunrise. Both celestial bodies can be found in the constellation of Aquarius.

09.07 Venus at its brightest

Venus reaches its maximum brightness on 9 July, and looks almost like a spotlight in the sky – an impressive spectacle for amateur astronomers.

12.07 Conjunction between the Moon and Jupiter

Jupiter rises on 12 July at 01:23, and reveals itself beside a slim, waning crescent Moon.

20.07 Conjunction between the Moon, Venus, and Mars

Another fascinating event awaits us in the night sky on 20 July. The wafer-thin crescent Moon approaches Venus and, together with Mars, forms an attractive group of three. However, you will need an uninterrupted view towards the horizon to successfully observe this. If you want to enjoy this sight or even take pictures, you should find a good spot as early as possible. A tip for the professionals: the planet Mercury is also located around 10 degrees west of Venus.

22.07 Pluto at opposition 

An astronomical event for more advanced astronomers: Pluto, the dwarf planet former classified as a planet, is at opposition to the Sun on 22 July. With a brightness of magnitude 14, you can only detect and observe it with a large telescope. A location map is advisable! Astrophotographers can take advantage of a good photo opportunity since Pluto is close the M75 cluster.

27.07 Golden Handle 

We can see the Golden Handle on the Moon on the evening of 27 July. It appears when the waxing Moon is exactly 83 percent illuminated, which happens around 10 days after the new Moon. As the light phenomenon takes place, a handle shape emerges on the dark side of the Moon’s terminator.

30.07 Delta Aquariids 

The Delta Aquariids is a meteor shower that originates from the region of the constellation Aquarius, and is visible from 23 to 28 July. We will be able to marvel at up to 25 shooting stars per hour! The optimal observing window is in the early hours of the morning, after the Moon has set.

03.08 Conjunction between the Moon and Saturn

An interesting encounter: the Moon nears the planet Saturn. The ringed planet will reach its opposition to the Sun this month and is therefore an especially good target to observe.

08.08 Conjunction between the Moon and Jupiter 

In the early morning hours, we can enjoy the autumn and the first winter constellations in the night sky. Our largest planet, Jupiter, is to be found right in the middle of them. On the 8th of the month, the Moon approaches the gas giant and they make an arresting pair in the night sky.

12-13.08 Perseids

A view of the Perseids is the top astronomy event not just for astronomers, but also for anyone who is interested in the night sky. An especially large number of meteors fall from the sky over the course of an evening, and everyone can enjoy guessing which direction the next light trail will appear from. It’s finally time to see them again during the night from 12 to 13 August. Grab a blanket or a lounger and something warm to drink, and enjoy the starry sky. If you’re lucky, you’ll see up to 100 meteors per hour this evening. This year there is an added plus: it is almost new Moon, so the night is particularly dark.

27.08 Saturn at opposition

The ringed planet Saturn is at opposition to the Sun on 27 August and can be observed all night long – an absolute highlight for any amateur astronomer.

30.08 Conjunction between the Moon and Saturn

In the night from 30 to 31 of the month, the Moon and Saturn meet at a distance of around 3 degrees. Despite the full Moon, it is always worth observing Saturn.