For serious backcountry hunters, performance and weight are everything. The Swarovski NL Pure 10×52 offers a fantastic balance of compact size, lightweight design, and top-notch optics. This Swarovski NL Pure 10×52 review dives into how the larger objective lens and Swarovski’s world-class optics can give you an edge in the field, particularly in low-light conditions.
Size and Weight: Practical for the Backcountry
One of the biggest concerns with larger binoculars is bulk, but the Swarovski NL Pure 10×52 is just under an inch taller and only 6 ounces heavier than the NL Pure 10×42. This small difference means you get the benefits of a larger lens without the extra weight and bulk traditionally associated with 50mm+ binoculars.
As a result, the 10×52 fits comfortably in a medium-size bino harness, offering easy access without adding strain during long treks. (Personal opinion): From my own experience, this size and weight is a game changer, especially on hunts where mobility is key.
Light Transmission and Low-Light Performance
The Swarovski NL Pure 10×52 really shines in low-light conditions. During testing at sunset with an optics chart 100 yards away, the 10×52 provided an additional 10 minutes of visibility compared to the 10×42. Those 10 minutes can be crucial when hunting at dawn or dusk, giving you more time to glass game when light is fading. (Personal opinion): I’ve personally experienced this during early-morning glassing sessions—those extra minutes can mean the difference between success and coming up empty-handed.
Field of View and Exit Pupil
While the NL Pure 10×42 offers a slightly larger field of view (about 2% wider), the 10×52 provides a 20% larger exit pupil, which makes for a more comfortable viewing experience, especially during long glassing sessions. The shorter eye relief of the 10×52 (17mm vs. 18mm on the 10×42) doesn’t negatively affect performance much in practice. (Personal opinion): Despite the field of view being marginally smaller, I’ve found the larger exit pupil on the 10×52 to offer a more comfortable and consistent experience during extended glassing sessions.
Real-World Performance and Field Testing
In real-world use, I’ve taken the Swarovski NL Pure 10×52 on various scouting trips, and it’s exceeded expectations. From long glassing sessions in open terrain to navigating dense timber, the 10×52 handles every situation with ease. It performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions, giving me the extra time to spot game just before dark.
Conclusion: The Best Option for Low-Light Hunting
If you’re the type of hunter who spends a lot of time glassing in low-light conditions—either early in the morning or late into the evening—the Swarovski NL Pure 10×52 should be your choice. The extra 10 minutes of visibility and better light transmission make all the difference when every minute counts. If you already own the NL Pure 10×42, the 10×52 may not offer enough of an upgrade unless you’re looking for that low-light advantage. But if you don’t own either, the 10×52 gives you a performance edge without adding significant bulk or weight.
For more information and to pick up your own pair, check out S&S Archery.
