Hi everyone. I was wondering if anyone had seen any reviews or has had experience with swift telescopes? I know of the reputation swift has for binoculars but I have seen nothing about the quality of their telescopes. Thanks, John
swift telescopes
Started by jnlwdc, 07/04/2004 05:04AM
Posted 07/04/2004 05:04AM
Opening Post
Posted 07/04/2004 06:02PM
#1
Earlier Swift refractors -- say, up through the early/mid '90s -- were made by Towa in Japan (who also supplied Tasco, Jason, & others). Other sources may have been used, as well. Generally, Swift equatorial-mounted refractors such as the 859R were among the better-accessorized 60mm refractors (6x30 achromatic finder, hybrid .965/1.25 diagonal, wood tripod, et.al.). Orion's old Observer 60 EQ Ultra was similar.
As for 60mm achromats and their fidelity/optical quality, an excellent Swift was likely just as good as others (whether vintage Tasco, Vixen, or Unitron). Construction details, mechanics, & accessories: these will determine a given scope's versatility/useability (and its price, too).
I must defer to others regarding recent & current Swift-branded telescopes.
Depending on a given scope package and its cost, as well as its intended use, a Swift refractor may or may not be a good-value choice. Today's market allows for 80- & 90mm equatorial refractors for less than $200. An 80mm f/11 achromat (optical tube only) can be had for $100. Orion's Skyquest XT4.5 runs $200. Details & mechanics vary widely. Then, of course, there's the used market...
Did you have a particular Swift model in mind?
Best wishes and cheers.
-Dan
As for 60mm achromats and their fidelity/optical quality, an excellent Swift was likely just as good as others (whether vintage Tasco, Vixen, or Unitron). Construction details, mechanics, & accessories: these will determine a given scope's versatility/useability (and its price, too).
I must defer to others regarding recent & current Swift-branded telescopes.
Depending on a given scope package and its cost, as well as its intended use, a Swift refractor may or may not be a good-value choice. Today's market allows for 80- & 90mm equatorial refractors for less than $200. An 80mm f/11 achromat (optical tube only) can be had for $100. Orion's Skyquest XT4.5 runs $200. Details & mechanics vary widely. Then, of course, there's the used market...
Did you have a particular Swift model in mind?
Best wishes and cheers.
-Dan
Funding Member
