Did the best hunting binocular lineup just get better?

I have spent the better part of 35 years glassing for big game animals. Sometimes, it is more concentrated than other methods of hunting, but glassing has always been a focal point when it comes to hunting, in my opinion. The tools of the trade today have changed dramatically. The search for better glass for hunting and how to make it work for you in the field just grew on me. The evolution of the 15x binocular has certainly had its moments, but for me, nothing has been more anticipated than Swarovski’s newest offering, the 14x52 NL Pure when it comes to focused based hunting binoculars.

The introduction of the NL Pure line rocked the optics world when Swarovski introduced the 8x/10x/12x42mm lineup. They are the most talked about and requested binoculars in all my time in optic sales. The added field of view (FOV) coupled with better light pathways while retaining the size of a regular 10x has made the 12x42 NL Pure binocularsthe star performer of the line-up. The NL Pure release in the marketplace has been welcomed by hunters of all disciplines! Whether it is used alone for a lightweight backpacking glass or day hunters, it has the ability to do everything.

But one thing left me thinking: could there be an NL Pure 15?

I was not alone in my wanting more from the NL Pures than the previous 12x power with a 42mm objective lens. Will Swarovski come out with a 15x power in the NL Pures became one of the most asked questions when answering the phone or text and was often asked about on the Big Hunt Guys podcast with Brady Miller, The Game Trail with Trail Kreitzer, and Jay Scott Outdoors Podcast with Jay Scott. The demand was there for sure. But would it ever come to life? Would it do for the 15x56 what the 12x42 NL Pure did for the 12x50? Everyone wanted a smaller, lighter weight 15x with a wider FOV. What would it look like?

Swarovski met and exceeded the demands with the 14x52 NL Pure!

Well… darn right, Swarovski did it! The Swarovski 14x52 NL Pure just might be the perfect balance of more magnification with a wider FOV, while at the same time, not losing detail, clarity, or resolution in the process.

Pair that with Swarovski's new TA Tripod Adapter NL, which has a proprietary slot and locking mechanism for glassing with a tripod.

Swarovski also made sure that the use of the NL Pure Headrest could be utilized as well.

The perfect binoculars for hunting

They delivered! The 14x52 NL Pure looks and performs as promised. They are sleek and noticeably more slender than their larger 15x56 SLC.

They honestly do not feel like a 52mm binocular. They feel closer to the 42mm with ergonomics and lesser weight.

Swarovski was able to shave off 6 ounces. They are shorter and slimmer in every way. They will lessen the footprint in your pack, and there will be some that opt for chest carry in a bino harness and you’ll be able to get by with a smaller harness. With wider FOV and the aid of the NL Pure Headrest, they can easily be handheld. Maybe not all the time, but it is not out of the question. Tripod mounting will be super easy with the new TA-NL Tripod Adapter that is sold separately.

I already have a couple of different glassing sessions putting these new 14x52 NL Pures through the paces. I was elated from the start! The 14x52 NL Pure showcases the NL ingenuity and pays homage to their SLC and EL roots. The are no doubters! Meaning that I love the old but there is no question which binocular you will find in my pack this fall. I say that with respect and appreciation for my old friend, the SLC. But I must use the new tool and take the wider FOV for a long ride on hunts. These binoculars are 45 feet wider in FOV, and it is evident. The edges are crisp all the way to the outer edges of the glass. I have always wanted more FOV on the higher magnification 15s. This lets my eyes be more efficient and allows me to move my tripod less to see the slightest movement or color variation, or shine that allows us to detect big game on scouting trips or while on hunts. Yes, I will trade the 1x power level for a 45-foot increase of FOV. A good trade!

Performance comparison with 15x56 SLC

My test sessions were mostly evenings, with a morning thrown in to make sure I had my basis covered for how they performed in low light. The ranges I was glassing with the 14x52 NL Pures were from 400 to 3,000 yards. Comparing the 15x56 SLC side by side with them proved that the 14x52 NL Pures were special for sure. The 15x detail was good, but the 14x was better. The clarity, resolution, and contrast were sharper. It was as if I was physically right next to the granite and could feel the texture with my hands while looking through these binoculars. The color was vibrant. Again, the SLC binoculars were good, but the 14x52 NL Pure was just better!

The low-light performance was not any different. The exit pupil of the 14x52 NL Pure is 3.61mm, while the 15x56 SLC is 3.73mm. The light transmission of the 14’s is 91% with 15’s at 93%. Even with the larger numbers favoring the 15x56 SLC, the 14x52 NL Pure’s, with their coatings, filters, and slightly twisted light path, just move light efficiently to your eye! At the lowest light, I would say images with the 15x seem slightly washed out, while the 14x52s feel warm and definitive. I could easily see images while glassing well past dark, and into the darkness, and with other optics, most of us would already be walking back to camp.

What does all this mean when it comes to selecting your next binocular?

I’m glad you asked! The launch of the 14x52 NL Pures from Swarovski means there is another tool to get the job done! There is still a place for the 15x SLC. They will end up being an outstanding option for medium to long-range glassing with years of tried-and-true performance. Pricing for the 14x52 NL Pure will be $3,499. As I have told many of you who call or ask, “Is it worth the extra $1,100?” My answer remains the same, buy what you can afford, mount it on a tripod, and be purposeful with your glassing, and you will find more game! For me, it is worth every penny. I will always take what better glass gives me… more time behind the glass to find animals!

As for the newly released Swarovski 10x52 NL Pure… that will be another article. They deserve it!

These new binoculars should be delivered in mid-July. Watch for more information on exact ETAs.

If you are interested in ordering a pair of the 14x52 NL Pure, we have them available now for a pre-sale in the GOHUNT Gear Shop. Check out the link below:

If you have any questions about these binoculars, I’d be more than happy to help. You can also leave any questions in this article. You can reach out to me anytime at optics@gohunt.com or call (702) 847-8747, and you will be directed to me.