Hey Frodo, cant tell you how the Z8 compares to the Z6 but i have had a 1-8x24 as my main scope the past couple years.
Its been on a work rifle so would have around about 3000 hours of use so far in all conditions the NZ back country is known for.
Ive changed the battery once, the illumination system is simple and hasn't given me any trouble.
Its had a rough life, im not precious about my gear, i look after it but at the end of the day its going to get knocked and scratched and dinged at some stage, the Swaro has held up fine. Hope that helps answer some of your questions.
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