Laser rangefinders?

[Jedi Knife]

Has anyone had any experiences with these? I am considering something similar to this:

More information on this particular model can be found here: http://www.skyoptics.com/catalog/Rangefinders.html#001-20-0001

Thanks for any input!

JK

 

[Bronco]

JK,
Probably the best advice I can give regarding laser rangefinders is to visit some of the manufacturer Websites and read what they have posted there concerning realistic, in-the-field detection ranges.

In most cases, a rangefinder that claims an 800 yd. range, for example, will only provide reliable information at this distance when ranging highly reflective targets. For non-relective targets, such as deer or most other game animals, the effective range of these devices can be significantly less. Likewise, weather conditions such as snow and rain can have a negative effect on the accuracy of long distance ranging.

Fortunately, many of the manufacturer sites I've visited discuss these limitations in a very straightforward and honest manner. I point this out because, while I initially thought 800 or 1000 yd. laser rangefinders represented the ultimate in overkill for the typical hunter, I now understand that under certain circumstances this extra power can be quite useful.

 

[ralphtt]

I have used a couple of Bushnell laser rangefinders for the past few years. Started with the first model available which was supposed to range to 400 yards. Under ideal conditions it worked fine, but my main use is varmint hunting and often I would have to pick a nearby tree to get a good reading. Then I bought a newer 800 yard model and it works fine. My longest shot in the hill country of uppr East Tennessee is about 500 yards, and the 800 yard model does a good job. Often, have to pick a nearby bush, but the 800 yard model is much more likely to give a reading than the older 400 yard model. It's also more compact.

And the reading is accurate within a couple yards. Have tested both models at local rifle ranges and repeatable accuracy is the norm.

Takes the guesswork out of varmint hunting, but I still manage an occasional miss.

 

[DancesWithKnives]

A friend of mine has the Bushnell with the 1000yd rating and it works well. However, over on The Firing Line and Hunt America forums, there are a lot of guys who say that the Leica unit is worth the extra $50-100.