Laser rangefinders

**h00ktern** · October 31st, 1999, 12:54 AM

What started as a simple search on rangefinders (two hours ago,) has left me grappling with more questions than answers. Advertised uses cover military target acquisition to GPS mapping; wild game hunting to golf pin rangefinding! Don't know why I was surprised at the last one.

It seems most are configured around pulsed laser units, determining distance through time delay of reflected light. Reported accuracy varies from 3-15 feet, and rangefinding abilities in the 700- 3000 foot range. Some report height by using three distance readings, (parallel/top/bottom) and crunching the readings via azimuthal algorithms. Huh?

Reflectivity of the object being targeted seems to affect the longer distances, with darker colors limiting the useful range. Some units permit limited "tuning" in adverse conditions such as rain or fog. Most do not require a dedicated reflecting target.

What I couldn't find on the net was any reputable comparison of brands and models, (though I did find one site describing how to build one, if so inclined.)

Does anyone have the technical knowledge or personal experience to comment on their accuracy in real world situations?

I'd like to induce cries of foul play next time I find myself driving through the trees and across the pond for an Eagle on the ninth. Yeah, sure...

imported_mknutson · October 31st, 1999, 11:38 AM

Check these out at http://www.bushnell.com
I use the Pro 600 and it works really well for me.
I use it all the time and has really saved me.

**Mike** · October 31st, 1999, 09:07 PM

Check it out:

http://www.southernce.com/laser.htm

**h00ktern** · October 31st, 1999, 10:00 PM

Bushnell's series seemed the most frequently mentioned. I scanned through their specs on each of the models (400-1000) and narrowed my interest to either the Compact 600 or Compact 800.

Further research today yielded field tests on two specific rangefinders. Tasco's Lasersite 800, and Bushnell's original YardPro 800. The Tasco was firmly and unequivically disposed of as nearly useless due to reliability problems. The Bushnell was rated outstanding.

I also learned the 600/800 Compact models use identical rangefinding hardware, save for slightly more sensitive receiving circuitry on the 800.

Two reported deficits concerning the 800... backlight on the original 800 - lost on the newer Compact 800, and /- 2m accuracy versus a /- 1m for the 600.

Side note: I also perused other manufacturer's sites, those geared more for professional uses. Prices rocket to $2,000.00 and up. Of course, so does accuracy - down to mm. My intended usages need not be that accurate.

Do you have the Compact 600?

Any comment on:
Apparent ruggedness?
Sighting accuracy?
Weight/size?

Positive feedback will likely induce my purchase.

Thanks for your reply.

**h00ktern** · October 31st, 1999, 10:14 PM

Yep, one of the first "hits."

I think this model is in closeout status, being replaced with the new 500. Price seems competitive from what I remember, though I haven't really been price shopping yet.

One other site which actually had specials on the YP series was http://www.bearbasin.com/rangefinder.htm
Unfortunately, the deal expires on Nov. 1st. I'm going to call them Monday and see if they will extend the expiration date.

Thanks for your reply.