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Range Finder Accuracy / Choices

Alan Rushing
Share your experience and knowledge of quality, accurate range finders for moderate thru long range rifle distances.

I have used decent optics for binocs, spotting scope, and rifle scopes, but have never used any range finder other than scopes with the 16" (?) double crosshair set-ups.

Appreciate information and direction for finder that can be used for the range and hunting ... if that is doable?
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Comments

9 comments

Date Votes
  • laylandad
    I have used a Nikon Prostaff 550 for the last 3 years with no problems.
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  • wpage
    Many of the big stores like Dicks have a display where you can try them out and decide for yourself. Some new scopes have it built in.
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  • keywest
    I have the Bushnell Chuck Adams edition and I love it . It has the ARC ( angle range compensater ) feature out to 99 yards which is excellent for bowhunting, blackpowder and intermediate rifle hunting . This feature automatically activates as long as your target is 99 yards or less, after that it operates in normal mode out to 800 yards and it is also rainproof. The best part is that it is the size of a pack of cigarettes and weighs only 5.2 ounces. What more could you ask for ?
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  • dcs shooters
    I have a Nikon 400 that still works very good after all these years.
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  • 22hipower
    Leica CRF 1200 is hard to beat in terms of optics quality, accuracy, and small size. Only downside I've found after using one for a couple years is price.
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  • tsr1965
    Like any of the optics today, you get what you pay for. The technology has grown leaps and bounds since the introduction of the first digital affordable ones. I use a Leupold RX-III, and it does pretty good out to 600-700 yards or so. I have used a friends Leica 1200, and it smokes mine, and rightfully should. My suggestion is to get the one that is the most you can afford by Leupold, or Leica. Don't skimp, and you will be well served, and happy.

    Best
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  • Alan Rushing
    Hey guys, you gave me the info I need to get started. And you shared your insight, appreciated!

    Now I have to do my end of this project, thanks.

    Nononsense Just saw your posting and links. I had started following-up on the suggestions and directions the other day and continue to do so right up to this moment as well. This'll keep me busy for a bit. Thanks to all.
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  • gunnut505
    Almost every rangefinder out there will get you within a yard at their stated range(s); what I find annoying is the resolution time to get your estimate. It's not easy with some models to hold it perfectly still for 3-9 seconds so you get the return signal, and some have "rain" modes, or uphill/downhill shooting adjustments, or a "flash" mode to get a quicky range (semi-accurate enough, I guess).
    The scopes with rangefinders like the Zeiss or Cyron give you the dope almost immediately (1-4 seconds).
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  • nononsense
    Alan Rushing,

    Almost any of the currently available rangefinders will be suitable for hunting purposes. But the theory of 'better glass costs more money' is still in effect when it involves lasers and glass. I bought one of the inexpensive Bushnell rangefinders years ago when they first hit the market just so I could get some experience before spending any serious money if I needed to. I still have it and I still use it occasionally.

    My needs have changed because I don't hunt with a partner or a small group any more. I go by myself with the minimum accoutrement required for the hunt. This simply means that I had to pare down my gear. In making that decision, I found that the most useful tool was the Leica BFR:

    http://www.opticsplanet.net/leica-10x42-geovid-brf-yards.html

    The combination of binocular/rangefinder saved me an extra piece of equipment and the time it takes to switch from one to the other. It's also great glass. The best part is that I can use these with shooting glasses and see everything comfortably, not so with other brands or configurations. This is a huge plus for shooter who have to wear glasses. Battery life is better than I expected but I always pack a spare for those just-in-case moments. You'll wear out a battery just playing with it so get a couple right from the start.

    When I'm really pushed for space/weight, I take a rifle with my US Optics SN-3:

    Model: SN-3 SSDS
    Power: 3.5-17x

    http://www.usoptics.com/product.php?partnumber=SN3-1760

    This one has a GAP reticle which is one of the best if not THE best rangefinding reticles. It requires some practice but once you gain the familiarity, it's almost a no brainer for accurate range assessment in the field.

    Best.
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