Rangefinders
 

First off I'm not sure whether this should be in this forum or not but it's similar so I'll ask.

Iam going to get a new rangefinder this season. I would like to get a top end one.

I am looking for one that has very good low light capability as well as some other key features. Like does it actually range what you are trying to range or does it spray out and catch the limb that is close to where you are aiming. Some of you guys might know what I'm talking about when it comes to some rangefinders.

Is it an instant range or does it take a second to come up w/ the number.

I am looking at some rangefinders like the leica crf 900, nikon 800, and leupold rx II.

I did already check out the swarovski and I don't like it due to being bulky and no instant trigger range ability. Probably the best glass for rangefinders but not for me.

If you guys have any other suggestions for what iam looking for or reviews I would appreciate it.

RE: Rangefinders
 

I have both the Swarovski and Leica RF's. You are correct with the Swaro's slow reaction on ranging compared to the Leica. It's a trade off actually, the Leica's dont have the optical clarity/light gathering and the Swarovski's are slower in trigger speed. It's going to depend on what you value more. Both are very very good RF's.

RE: Rangefinders
 

Yeah but if i had to choose it would be the leica's because of them being so small and easy to carry.

Do you have the new crf's or the old version. If you do have the new ones how is the light gathering ability of them? Are they decent at low light?

RE: Rangefinders
 

I have the Leica 900 and find it works very well except for one thing. Although it’s nice and compact, I find it’s hard to hold on target when ranging at long distance. My hand are fairly steady so I don’t have the shakes but it does take a couple tries before I can get a reading at long distance. I would think the Swarovski might be better for a steady hold , so this might be something Double A could advise us on...

RE: Rangefinders
 

As a guy who works in the optics industry, I have to agree with most everything that's been said. However, as far as the shakes go, you can overcome that with the Leica by using the scan mode. Older models(pre 2002)didn't have that feature. The Swarovski gathers more light simply because of the larger objective lens, and is also more expensive. I think you'll get much more bang for your buck with the Leica CRF. You just can't beat that total package.

RE: Rangefinders
 

Another little piece of information , might be important or not , but the Swarovski is waterproof up to 13’ underwater were as the Leica is water resistance. This is if my memory if it’s still up to par...:eek:

RE: Rangefinders
 

My model does have the scan mode, but it's when holding steady I find a slight problem. Just an observation on my part...

RE: Rangefinders
 

Ok so how would the leica compare to ...say the nikon 800. I'm an IA bowhunter so long distance isn't something that is a must.

Is the nikon fast triggered, scan mode, target accuracy, and good in low light conditions.

Now i know the leica's and nikon's can sometimes be in totally different categories but for rangefinders I have no clue if they are comparable.

I just know they are cheaper priced and seem to have similar features.

RE: Rangefinders
 

If you're directing your question at me, all I can say is that I have no experience with Nikon so I can’t comment on them. After purchasing my Leica I have never looked at other brand names. I have no regrets with my Leica except for a slight problem as I mentioned. The Leica is excellent in low light conditions when I use it for hunting under heavy cover. Good luck in you purchase...

RE: Rangefinders
 

Leica rangefinders are excellent, but at the same time there expensive as hell. Nikon i personally is a good alternative to an expensive brand, they good quality and they get what needs to be done. If range isnt a worry and you aren't trying to go past 1000 yds then Nikon has all the same features. When you think of key things in rangefinders you want them to be lightweight and have many great features. I think Nikon covers all bases with a cheaper pick up.

NIKON Monarch Laser800 Rangefinder

RE: Rangefinders
 

OK, I don't want to sound like a Leica sales person, but here are some differences that make the Leica products top of the line, and I'm a fan of great products.

- the new CRFs are waterproof, the LRFs aren't. (remember German standards are very high, water resistant in Germany is waterproof in Japan)

- Leica has the most accurate laser (short or long range). This is due to three things. 1. smallest beam divergence = less eratic laser dispertion and more consistent; 2. smallest beam diameter = less interference; 3. horizontal beam, not vertical = catches less grass & ground cover

- pulsating laser beam technologie eliminates any needs for rain/fog modes, because water particles won't interfere with the beam

- automatic adjusting red LED display makes for much easier readout in low-light (plus LED doesn't drain the battery like LCD does, nor will it freeze)

RE: Rangefinders
 

Allright, Iam sold. Once I get the $ rounded up I'll go purchase a Leica 900 crf. That's what I figured I'd buy but just wanted a little more confirmation.

Thanks Guys for all the help!

TT

RE: Rangefinders
 

TT,
let me know what you think once you have them. i've thought about upgrading my nikon 440, but can't justify the price difference when all i use it for is bow hunting. it would be nice to have both of them side by side to compare the low light ability.
arch

RE: Rangefinders
 

Totally agree with all the above concerning the positives for the Leica 1200.I, as usual, bought mine just before the scan models came out, but other than just wanting the latest and greatest, have nothing but praise for the Leica. The only comparison with the Leica's that I have is compared to Bushnells. Probably not very fair, but I started with a Bushnell Legend, and the rangefinding capability of this unit does not even remotely compare with the Leica. Have not owned any other rangefinders, and after seeing the quality of the Leica, see no reason to.

RE: Rangefinders
 

Arch, I am a diehard bowhunter, but also dabble with single shots during firearm season...... Clarity of the Leica's is like no other, I love when people mention light gathering capabilities.... I own a Bushnell Yardage Pro 400 (1st laser range finder to come out), then proceeded to buy my father a Leica LRF900, after using it in the field I purchased the LRF700 PM. Before purchasing my own, I asked to use my friends Nikon and anothers Swaro..... Both great but, the Nikon, like the Bushnell has an aiming problem when you are facing toward the sun, the LCD aimpoint sort of fades and that was an issue with me because I have some morning stands which face to the east....

As for light gathering capabilities, you can pretty much use these things when it is almost pitch black out, I really don't know if there is such a thing as more light capable w/out being night vision... Its like saying something is more dead, than another. In my book dead is dead. I would even say that they bring in more light than my 40mm obj. lensed scopes...

The only reason I chose the Leica over the Swaro, was price. The Swaro was a bit more then i wanted to spend.... But I did love the Swaro!!!

Being a bowhunter, your Nikon 400 may be all you need, once you range some landmarks, thats all you need..... I just like to look at things a ways off to determine whether or not a buck in the distance is a shooter or not.