Considering a range finder. They all look very similar in the catalogs, but I know there must be plus and minus to the different ones. What do you folks use?

I am too considering the 800 Nikon range finder dose anyone have one. I have the New Nikon spotting scope from last year, I would like to stay with Nikon, nothing but good results from Nikon but $ is higher than some brands. Thanks. Thanks for the question Oldguy.

I'm using the Bushnell 800 rangefinder I like it but I'd prefer to go to the sport 600 because it's more compact and fit's right in your pocket.

nubo

I started with the Bushnell 400. It was bulky, though lightweight. It worked most of the time but with all rangefinders, occaisionally wouldn't display/obtain a reading. I picked up one of the new leica's this last fall and am really impressed. It's alot more likely to obtain a reading and I like the size alot better. I don't use the case because it is noisy/inconvient to remove--good thing it is waterproof. I simply hang it around my neck where it is more available and therefore used more often to practice my range guestimating skills. The optics are surpizingly clear.

I got a new Nikon 600 from Ebay for about $90 off of what it sells in Cabelas for. I have to say I like it alot. It does not have rain mode, but I took it out last week in a pretty heavy rain and I did not get a bad reading. The 6X optics are surprisingly very clear.

I appreciate all of the comments, I have not seen the Leica mentioned in any of the catalogs, I mostly see Bushnell. Wonder which model Leica Elkadditic has?

It depends on what you are planning on using it for and how much you want to spend. I primarily bowhunt with some gun hunting thrown in. Because of this I only really need a rangefinder for relatively short ranges plus I normally do not hunt in rainy conditions. With these criteria I opted for the inexpensive Bushnell Sport model and have been entirely happy with it. $140 at some places.

On the other hand, if I wanted to get a new one I would probably opt for the new Nikon Monarch Rangefinder. I have the Monarch Binocs and the optical quality is excellent. If the rangefinder's optics are half as good then I will be totally satisfied.

Oldguy
You might want to check on ebay there are some good deals on there.

OK, I will check E-Bay, and thanks to all for suggestions & help!

I use the Bushnell 500. It is great for rifle hunting. A little big for bowhunting though. It was a gift from my wife so I am not complaining. Anytime she wants to buy me some hunting gear, I will graciously accept!