Viewing Configuration: Angled/Straight
Magnification: 25-60X
Power Variability: Variable
Adjustable Eyepieces: Yes
Eyepiece included: No
Objective Diameter: 65 mm
Close Focus Distance: 6.9 feet
Length: 13.3 inches
Weight: 55.9 ounces
Field of View: 124-68 feet/1000 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 20 mm/ 2.6-1.1 mm
Optics Coatings: Fully Multi-Coated
Glass: Swarovski
Focus System: Collar/Single Focus
Waterproof/Fog-proof: Yes/Yes
Digiscope adaptable: Yes
Swarovski ATX/STX 65 Review
This Swarovski ATX/STX 65 module is lightweight, fully weatherproof, and is extremely compact in size. It has a wide field of view, excellent eye relief of 20 mm, and an impressive close focus distance of 6.9 feet.
Online, this particular 65 mm model doesn't have any ratings - yet. But, don't be disappointed. Our review should explain why the lack of ratings doesn't reflect the scopes performance.
As a unique optical system, there's a lot of room to easily get confused with the ATX/STX series. And, unless you've played around with one, it's going to be difficult to not be left with more questions than you have answers. Of course, these aspects are what I find intriguing, and it's why the X series is one I have reviewed.
So, if you need help in interpreting exactly how this modular scope works, here's our Q&A to leave you saying "a ha!" instead of "huh?".
Pros:
- High quality
- Superior optics
- Modular system
- Digiscope adaptable
- Submersible
Cons:
- Price
Swarovski 65 ATX/STX Scope Q&A:
What does ATX, X Series, and STX mean?
Swaro is one of those classic brands that love acronyms. And, you're going to need to know what they mean because the entire spotting scope category is made up of them.
The A in ATX represents the angled version of spotting scopes. On the other side of the coin, the S in STX represents the straight version.
The X represents the X series that are the interchangeable modular spotting scopes that were released to the market back in late 2010. The X series consists of various objective sizes and two eyepieces, the ATX (angled) and the STX (straight).
Is this ATX 65 a modular Swarovski spotting scope?
Yes! The X series is made up of separate modules. What does modular mean?
It means that the scope's objectives and oculars are interchangeable with each other. Call it a "mix-n-match" mish-mash if you will. This means that the scope is essentially made up of two parts to make a whole scope.
Here's a good way to visualize it: choose one objective module, like this 65 mm one, and combine it with a an ocular module, like the ATX (angled) 25-60X one, and you have an ATX 25-60X65 spotting scope.
What are the benefits of modular spotting scopes?
If you're not swimming around in confusion right now, then you're probably wondering why you'd want to pay for a scope in parts. So, here are a couple advantages.
You only pay for what you need. Buy the modules you want without having to buy multiple spotting scopes.
For example, if you prefer a lightweight and compact scope for the hunt, take the ocular and the smaller sized objective. If you prefer a larger scope for the shooting range, just buy the larger size objective module and use your current eyepiece module - one ocular and two objectives instead of two scopes.
The other benefit is, since they're interchangeable, you can easily disassemble the scope to convenient, compact sizes to easily stow, store, or tote.
What other objective modules are available in the Swarovski X series?
There are three objective modules available. The smallest, but most appropriate for a field hunter, is the featured 65 mm module resulting in 25-60X magnification. It's extremely compact at 8.1 inches long and a mere 27.3 ounces.
The next size up is the large 85 mm module resulting in 25-60X magnification. This module is 9.4 inches in length and 38.8 ounces.
And, the last and largest is the jumbo 95 mm module resulting in 30-70X magnification. It's 11.6 inches long and it only weighs 47.3 ounces.
But, don't forget that you still need to attach an eyepiece module to it!
What Swarovski eyepieces are available with the X series?
There is the angled ATX eyepiece module that's made for comfort and easier angled viewing.
If you're frequently looking into the sky, up steep hills, or down from a tree blind, then the ATX ocular will suit your hunting needs best. It's 5.6 inches long and it weighs 28.6 ounces.
The other straight STX eyepiece module has been made for ease-of-use, fast target acquisition on moving game, and for easier use with mounts.
For most hunters or for those who are just getting into spotting scopes, straight is always a win-win design. It's 6.7 inches long and weighs 30.5 ounces.
Why don't the magnification levels change with the eyepiece?
The magnification ring is fixed in place, and you can see the numbered scale on the rear end of the objective module.
But, the magnification levels are dependent on the objective module you're using, not the eyepiece alone. When you use the 65 mm one, power will be from 25-60X.
They say that the 25-60X range is the same for the 85 mm module, but since the focal length is just a little longer than the 65 mm, the power will most likely be a little higher... perhaps, something like 27-63X, but really not significant enough to make huge differences.
Again, using the same ocular and changing out the objective to the 95 mm module, the magnification levels will now change to 30-70X because of the longer focal length in the objective module.
Which is the most compact Swarovski X series combination?
The featured 65 mm objective module with the 25-60X magnification combined with the ATX eyepiece is the obvious choice. Although it's on the smaller aperture for a spotting scope, it's on the ideal end for a hunter.
The 8.1 inches in objective module length combined with the 6.7 inches of the ATX ocular gives it a total of 14.8 inches. Although, in the spec sheet for the Swaro scope, it says it's only 13.3 inches in length. Hm...
The 65 mm module weight of 27.3 ounces combined with the 28.6 ounces of the ATX ocular, and you have a 55.9 ounce spotting scope. That's not bad, considering the larger weights of the other combinations.
What is SwaroVision?
SwaroVision refers to Swarovski's premium optical coatings to provide you with an unmatched visionary experience like never before seen on another scope.
It consists of Field Flattener Lenses for ultimate peripheral vision and fully multi-coated optics.
It also has fluoride-containing HD lenses to significantly reduce chromatic aberrations, known as color fringing, and improve color-rich details and sharpness like contrast and resolution.
- SWARODUR/SWAROTOP High-Contrast Coatings
- SWAROCLEAN Non-Stick Coating
How durable is this 65mm ATX modular Swarovski scope?
Just because the modules are interchangeable and the body of the scope isn't one piece, it doesn't mean that it's not durable.
Each module has been fully weatherproofed. That means, each objective module and ocular module can withstand submersion to 13 feet and can handle extreme temperature changes between -13 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit.
Attaching the system together is conveniently done with the bayonet-like security system that you also see on the premium Zeiss Vario eyepieces.
The ocular and objective modules interlock with an audible click and it's robust, steady, and solid. The modules aren't going anywhere accidentally.
How do I disassemble the ATX/STX spotting scope?
Locate the button on the eyepiece module that needs to be depressed to release the interlocking mechanism. Just give the two modules a little bit of a gentle twist and it's now broken down into two parts.
Use the caps that are provided to keep lenses safe. And really, you don't have to disassemble the scope every single time you want to use it, just when you want to change out the objective or stow and tow in a more compact design.
How is this ATX 65 an ergonomic scope?
Well, other than its smaller dimensions making it easier and more convenient to use, it also has another feature that's worth mentioning.
It conveniently has the zoom ring right next to the focus ring. So, when you're getting your image focused, you barely even need to move your hand anywhere to zoom right into your sight for those up-close details.
How much does the Swarovski ATX 65 scope cost?
This doesn't have to be as tricky an answer as it can be. So, I'll break it down clearly and concisely for you.
The total system with the eyepiece included, the ATX 25-60X65, will cost you $3800(approx) on the Swaro website. It appears that you can't buy the entire system on Amazon - but you can buy the modules separately and perhaps save a little money by shopping online.
Online, for the 65 mm objective module it's around $1000-$1100. For the ATX and the STX eyepieces, it's about $2400-$2600 each.
And, for the sake of being thorough, the 85 mm objective module will cost you around $1700-$1900, and the 95 mm objective module will run you up towards $2000-$2300.
If those prices have your heart skipping a beat, you could always consider another scope more within your budget range, we have reviewed a variety of brands at different price points so you can check those out.
Noteworthy Features:
- Interchangeable modular scope system with release button
- 2 available eyepieces ATX or STX, 3 available objective modules 65, 85, and 95 mm
- SwaroVision and SwaroClean Technologies for ultimate image quality and lens protection
- Submersion tight to 13 feet below water with inert gas filling for fogproof-ability
- Ergonomic build with the power ring located next to the focus ring
- Backed by Swarovski's Limited Lifetime Warranty
Our Verdict On The ATX/STX 65 Spotting Scope
The scoop on the scope is, the Swarovski ATX/STX 65 is a masterpiece. Everything about it is genius. Don't get too excited if you see the $1000 price tag because that's without the eyepieces included. Unfortunately, the eyepieces cost more than the objective module! So, unless you've got cash to burn, this is just a wish-list item. In fact, this spotter is on our list of the best high-end spotting scopes that is!
We wish we could tell you it doesn't have to be this crazy-expensive for a Swaro, but we'd be lying. Swaro is A-class in every way possible. If you really want to get crazy, check out the Swarovski STR 80 MOA. Just the price for that alone will make you shiver, and on top of that you have to buy the eyepieces separately!
If you really want to stand out from the hunting crowd, get the ATX/STX 65 spotter. No one will be able to one-up you - ever!
Further Reading
- Zeiss Victory Harpia Spotting Scope Review - 85mm Angled with Dual Speed Focus System
- Zeiss Dialyt 18-45x65mm Spotting Scope Review (A True Hunters Tool)
- Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 T Spotting Scope Review (Ideal for Birders)
- Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Angled Spotting Scope Review (Helical Focus)
- Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope Review (Straight)
