Bushnell Yardage Pro SPORT

[Backcountry]

I need a rangefinder for bowhunting this year. How do I know that? Well, last year (my second season of bowhunting) I managed to launch arrows over the backs of three nice bucks (one of which I missed twice!)... I consistantly overestimated yardage by a factor of about 1.6 to 2! Yeah, I know I should practice more, and I am (and I've gotten better), but I want a rangefinder just the same.

So, I'm looking at the "bargain" line of rangefinders by Bushnell. These are the Yardage Pro Sport models. New (not refurbished) they can be had for about $150.00 (e.g., this link at Cabelas).

In the off season I've had the opportunity to test some friend's rangefinders, various Nikon and Bushnell models, and I definately want a 4x model as opposed to an 8x model for bowhunting. The small size and cheap price of the Sport also appeal to me. Finally, virtually all of the people I've talked to never use the scan or zip modes on their rangefinders (the Sport has neither) so I wouldn't be missing out on anything by getting the entry-level rangefinder.

Anyway, any of you JHO'ers have one of these and have any comments?

Thanks for any input you might have!

Backcountry

 

[_droptine_]

I have one. It works just fine at bowhunting and muzzleloading distances. I got it about a year and half ago from JCPenneys for $99. I just couldn't pass that deal up.

 

[scr83jp]

Go to the Bushnell Outdoors Forum http://bushnelloutdoors.ibforums.com/index.php you can contact a bushnell rep and ask questions about optics.Try http://www.hotbuyselectronics.com/ for Bushnell Optics prices.

 

[wmidbrook]

I've used a yardage pro for going on 3 seasons now. It does work just fine. It's hard to get readings past 250 yds unless it's somewhat of a reflective surface like a rock or bush. Those start fading out (hard to get readings) at around 400 yds in dry condtions.

I wouldn't mind replacing mine with a Leica at some point. There's a big difference between the two.

 

[East Sloper]

Backcountry
Have a Yardage Pro 600 that have had to send back 3 times for repair, and...
Got it out lastnight in preparing for a mid-september muley hunt and once again it is not working!
All I can think of is that when place in a full pack the buttons get pushed and it quits working. Bushnell has been good about fixing it free of charge each time (other than shipping), but I have had it. It is going to be used for target practice saturday!!! I wouldn't want to sell it someone and have them experience the same frustration I have...
Leica?