Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Hunting Optics Any decent rangefinders besides the "big" guys?

I've used the old school Bushnells, but never had any experience with the Nikons. Just having a rangefinder is a step in the right direction. I'm continually amazed at the people who will have many rifles, but don't have a rangefinder or reloading setup. I recently upgraded to a used Leica LRF 1200 and sold my LRF 800 to my father, who is an archery hunter.

I bought a Nikon Prostaff 550 recently and I'm happy with it. Can't see that I would need more.

I had the same "problem" and it ended with choosing a Nikon 1200, function is perfect. Glad I didn�t buy Leica CRF.
If I want another one I wouldn�t buy Leica Geovid but the much better one, Zeiss Victory RF, also binos with a rangefinder.

Early morning and late in the evening, when one sees the most game movement, the unbelievably poor optics of the cheaper models make their usefulness rather questionable. All of them give you a range to an object, some to objects more distant, but only the swaro and the leica have better glass than toy binoculars. I would look for a good used LRF 900 or 1200(should get you into your price range) and have something worth owning.

I bought the Nikon because I hunt in a deep woods environment. The longest shot that I have ever taken was 310 yards. My primary use is going to be for archery hunting, and to range objects from my stand. In realty, I don't need a RF to hunt with. I want one because it will be helpful. I notice the out West posters have different needs than us Eastern guys. I often hunt in places that will rip your skin like claw marks if you have to blood trail a deer or hog. Can't see far in those places. I started this thread saying I needed a RF out to 300 yards- but we all know 300 yards is doable with about any centerfire rifle without having to range that distance.

I think I made the right choice for me, but then again I have been told that I am quite sensitive to MY needs. <that's what the ex said> grins

I have had Bushnell & Nikon. You are lucky if you get two seasons out of them.Its Cheaper to buy better in the long run.