I looking to get a rangefinder for this years mulie and elk hunts. I'll be hunting mostly in open country in eastern Washington with a rifle. Anyone have any opinions on what brands? I would like to keep the price under 400. What's the minimum yardage and power needed? I've used an older model Bushnell but want something a little more compact. How are the new Leupolds? Any help would be appreciated.

Be aware that the range rating is for highly reflective objects.Expect 1/2 to 2/3 that range on animals.

nikon 440

I'm not trying to bash Leupold by any means, I have several of their scopes and they are great. I almost bought one of their rangefinders a couple of weeks ago. I found this review: http://longrangehunting.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=0&Number=113099&an=0& page=0#113099

I guess they are a little confusing to operate because of all the features. I can send you another link of reviewsif you'd like, let me know.

I think I may opt for a cheaper rangefinder only because I don't have too much time to hunt with 2 small children under the age of 4. Bushnell is offering rebates on a few of their models til the end of the year. I'm going to let my Cabelas bucks build up a little more and probably get the Scout.

Good luck,

Mike

Thanks for the link Mike. Yes I would like the other one. This was the direction I was leaning but after reading this review I'm having second thoughts. Thanks again for the response.

Tom

Here it is: http://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=0&Number=880704&an=0& page=1#880704

Mike

I looked hard at the Leopold, but instead bought a Nikon 600 on Ebay for $193 after shipping. It was used, but in perfect condition, in original box. The Leopold was hard for me to read. Much of the info is around the outer edge and is very difficult to read.

The Nikon is very clear and straight forward. I just got back from a family vacation and saw a lot of animals. The farthest I ranged was an antelope at 368 yards. Didn't try any animals farther than that. Also, there is no rain function on the Nikon, but I tried it in a downpour and it worked just fine.

Bottom line, it is very compact, simple, easy to read and the optics are great.

I agree the Nikon 600 is great . At academy for around 279.00 I think. Very easy to use and handle.

the newer leupold stuff is overrated in my book. not like they used to be. they know people will pay the money for the name so now their performance is lacking

From what I've researched so far, I think I'm leaning toward Nikon. I do want something for long range though. Any thoughts? I would still like to stay under 400 dollars. Thanks for the replies.