What to get for a first [and only] rangefinder?

[Requiem]

Well, guys. I'm trying to get into using a rangefinder to calculate exact distance for those long-range (out to 1,000 yds/meters) shots. Not to use as a crutch for an unknown distance scenario, but to calculate zeros exactly. What's good, cheap($) and works well in the rangefinder world? I'm not looking to go spend $200 on some crazy stuff I don't need, but I don't want something that's going to give me an inaccurate reading at 400 yards.

[Teletiger7]

Leica CRF 1200 good rangefinder and sometimes see them used for around $400 or the LRF I see go used for $300 sometimes. I looked through someones Bushnell 1500 also and that one takes accurate readings as well. They are less than $300. Only down side the bushnell the numbers as you look through itare in black so harder to see in low light. The leica has red numbers

[Ivanhoe]

you can get the Leica crf 900 right now for $429 at cameralandny.com. Also ck with Scott at Liberty Optics as he may have some used options.

http://www.cameralandny.com/optics/site.pl?page=leicacrf900

[Requiem]

You guys are telling me that I have to spend $400 for a range finder? What's wrong with something like this? http://www.opticsplanet.net/bushnell...ngefinder.html

[El Gato]

get one that calculates the angles...
missed two deer with the bow last week due to them being uphill and having to try to calculate the angle...
less of an issue for a rifle but when you are shooting way out there with a rifle, the angles are important... If you is buyin' buy one with the compensator...

http://www.leupold.com/hunting-and-shooting/products/rangefinders/rx-750-rangefinders/rx-750-tbr-digital-laser-rangefinder/

[Intimid8tor]

That looks intersting. I'll wait for some answers.

[Requiem]

That leupold only goes to 750 meters/yds max with a reflective target... and is about $280. I'm not too concerned with angle yet either.

So what's wrong exactly with that bushnell one I found?

[RaymondMillbrae]

Check out this site for great deals.

CLICK HERE

And if you are looking for good deals on optics...this is also a great place to get good eals on used scopes.

These guys have been around a long time, and offer fantastic service!

Happy hunting.

In Christ: Raymond

[El Gato]

That leupold only goes to 750 meters/yds max with a reflective target... and is about $280. I'm not too concerned with angle yet either.

So what's wrong exactly with that bushnell one I found?

nothing wrong with the bushnell... they make one with an angle compensator... the angles can really get you when you are say... trying to hit that ground squirrel at 642 yards with your 5.56 and find that the real distance is more like 583 when compensated for angle... stuff like that...if this is to be your "one and only" then save some extra money and buy more than you think you will need... etc... IMHO... I'm saving for a bushnell or Leopold will probably go leopold next year when I'm ready...

[rabagley]

If you want accurate ranges to 1000 yards, then you are concerned about angles. For you to get a rangefinder without angle calculation is to throw your money away.

[ENTHUSIAST]

You guys are telling me that I have to spend $400 for a range finder? What's wrong with something like this? http://www.opticsplanet.net/bushnell...ngefinder.html

I got one of those you willl be lucky if it gives readings past 300 yards... do your research and then drop the cash on a good rangefinder if you want it to work properly.

[rksimple]

Most all of the rangefinders with angle compensation suck. The Leupold one especially, sucks. Its not the angle reading ability, but their ranging ability. A couple friends bought them and they had trouble getting even 800 yards out of them. And depending on the calculations used, the "horizontal distance" it gives you doesn't necessarily give you the information you need for correct dope. Take a look here for comparisons in accuracy between the Riflemans Rule, Improved Riflemans Rule, and ballistic software calculations. Once you pass 800 yards, the RR doesn't cut it.

Spend the money and get the Leicas. They range on smaller targets, under most all light conditions/light positions, and put the others to shame. The majority of the Leupolds, Bushnells, etc. will only range to their advertised distance on large, flat, reflective targets...if ever. With my Leicas (Geovids) I can range bushes at 1300 yards. Its well worth the money for the Leica.

[John03]

Just as Rksimple said don't buy the Leupolds they suck, in addition to the Leicas you may also want to consider a Swarovski laser guide, or a Zeiss victory prf.