REVIEW: SWAROVSKI OPTIK ATC 17-40x56 Spotting Scope

14 April 2023
By Stuart Hamilton

The compact ATC and STC spotting scopes from SWAROVSKI OPTIK have recently been released to a world of intrigue from both experienced and novice birders alike. 

The compact scope is now way-more than a must-have gadget. In many cases, they are replacing what we would deem 'normal' scopes in the equipment pack due to their ease of use and lightweight design. 
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Designed to be used at the drop of a hat, or when viewing the most fleet-footed of species - whether that is in one hand, two hands, on top of your backpack, resting on a rock, sitting in a tree, on a ship (okay, we'll stop) your tripod is basically not needed, an optional extra should you wish to use one. I chose not to on this occasion, wanting to get the full off the cuff experience.

According to our friends at a well known retailer when we mentioned this at a recent meeting, "You are lucky to get one of those in for review, they are like Gold dust at the moment." Privileged as we are, we took the new ATC's compact scopeness out for a spin.

What's in the box?
  • ATC 17-40x56 Spotting Scope
  • Eyepiece cover
  • Objective lens cover
  • Carrying strap​
  • Cleaning cloth
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​Images and coatings...
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The ATC spotting scope provides a field of view of up to 62-34 metres at a distance of 1,000 metres with magnification of 17-40x. The shortest focusing distance is 3.4 metres so you will get pretty close to your intended target.

The ATC comes with field flattener lenses, HD optics, high-quality coatings, and perfect eye relief of 20mm.

The now familiar, SWAROVISION technology guarantees the ATC's give off crystal-clear, colour-true images without any interfering colour fringing. You also get total edge-to-edge, razor-sharp images from the ATC which produces a superb optical performance.

SWAROVISION tech not only fully benefits people who wear glasses, but is also a crucial success factor in a rapidly changing viewing situation and poor light conditions - such as the April showers / sun we tested these in. The facility for separately adjusting the twist-in eyecup also offers the best possible optical quality for everyone.
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​Performance and handling...

The images are fantastic but It's the small dimensions that will really make this product work for you.

Thanks to its length of just 258mm (10.2 inches) the ATC spotting scope will fit in any backpack and quite frankly, could change your world. I have been birding for a long time, and a compact scope has been long on the most wanted list. Lugging your gear around does not get any easier as you get older, and it is brilliant that technology is catching up with requirements for birders.

I did try stuffing the ATC into the coat pocket, but this was being a bit too adventurous. Although I had a soft shell jacket on and not a jacket designed for birding, such as those from Country Innovation or another brand. It was worth a try!

A weight of just 970g (34.2 oz) will make the ATC a top choice for tours in rough terrain, remote areas or on your every day walk - it really is a scope for all seasons and occasions. The clever half shell makes it easier to position on a surface without a tripod and allows unimpeded turning of the focusing and zoom wheel at all times. In combination with the VPA, the ATC is ideal for digiscoping. The carrying strap adds the perfect finishing touch.

​The armouring of the ATC provides a secure grip, and even with one hand in mixed weather conditions, it never really felt like the product was in any danger of hitting the deck. The ATC is lightweight, but heavy enough that you know it's there in your hand or around your neck - which will be reassuring to many.

​Protection and value...

The ATC comes with a 10 year guarantee from SWAROVSKI OPTIK and is available in green or orange finish. 

Verdict
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The best compact spotting scope currently on the market.

​★★★★★★★★★ 9/10

Testing scores
  • Design: ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10
  • Performance: ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10
  • Durability: ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10
  • Weight: ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10
  • Value: ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

📦 Buy now: www.swarovskioptik.com​
🏷 Price from: £2,040.00
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