I have had my Leica 800 for over 5 years. I have NEVER had the first minutes problem with it and it gets used in the rain just as much as not. I dont care if the unit is submersible or not, I aint usin it while fishin! The battery cover is plenty tight (hell it screws on instead of a simple snap on) and there isnt the first hint of dust in there. And if there aint any dust in it after hunting in deep south TX and in the semi-desert near Buffalo, WY then the unit is DUST PROOF!!!

The red numbers are likewise the only way to go. The black numbers on everyone elses units disappear in lowlight or dark backgrounds. The optics in the Leica's are likewise... well Leica! I have carried my Leica around in its case on my belt and more typically in my backpack. The only thing I do is replace the battery each season. I even use it while turkey hunting.

Second pick would be the new Nikon units. Like everything else Nikon, they typically are very good products and quality for the price.

DITTO on the superiority of the Swarovksi. Those things ROCK!!! If my Leica ever takes a crap you can bet it will get replaced by the "eyes of a hawk"
RA