Laser Rangefinders

[Val]

I'm seriously looking to buy a laser rangefinder. Would appreciate some performance information from those of you who own a pair, on some of the brands and models that are currently available. Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[DanV]

Val,

Look at the Leicas, I have Bushnell 500'S - they are crap. Sent them back to Bushnell because they were 10% off on their readings and even with a fresh battery I can only get readings of any kind out to around 375 yds. Got them back saying the warranty was up by a month and I could send them $100 plus my old ones for a replacement. NOT! Saving my nickels for a Leica , have read and heard nothing but good about them. Thinking about the 1200 model, less than $500.

 

[DKScott]

I'm sure Leica is top of the line, but I have an older Bushnell 600 compact and it is very accurate and reliable (but put in a new battery before hunting season). My only real complaint is that it is just a tad too big to fit in a shirt pocket or cargo pocket.

 

[East Sloper]

Hands down the Leica is the ticket. They are very compact and have a really cool scanning feature. They are of course pricey but well worth it. I have a Bushnell Compact 600 that is currently in the mail going back to Bushnell for repair (it worked good for 2 years then just died). My brother has the Leica RF900 and it really is a nice range finder. Good luck!

 

[Val]

Since I originally posted this in September I did buy a Leica 1200. I used them during this years deer season and liked them very much. They add another dimension in your hunting bag of tricks. A laser rangefinder really makes you realize how poor you are at estimating ranges, particulary in landscapes which are comprised of canyons and ridges.