Carl Zeiss Victory 10X56 Rangefinder Binoculars Review

The Carl Zeiss Optical Inc Victory 10X56 Rangefinder Binoculars are like no other! I could not believe the clarity I was seeing with when I first tried them out after getting them. The brightness of the view through the lenses was like I was looking with my own two eyes, just magnified and crisper!

A Clear Shot

carl zeiss victory rangefinder binocularsThese binoculars are made with premium optics, and the images I saw were as clear as day, if not clearer! Due to the fluoride and special, multi-layer glass, it was not even hard to see my targets right before it was completely dark outside. There is a coating on the lenses, LotuTec®, that allows the images to be so vivid and superior. There is no way that I can blame missing a shot on not being able to see it clearly again.

Measured Up

One of the features that I was absolutely ecstatic over was the laser technology that is used in these binoculars. I have never used a pair of binoculars that had this type of technology before. The laser rangefinder (as I found out it is called), enables me to measure up distance so easily and quickly. The laser takes out all of the guess work that I was so unsure about before.

Again, this is another reason these binoculars are superior to any other I have ever used; the laser lets you see more efficiently when the lighting is something to be desired. Sometimes when I am out in the field or the woods, there are real small targets, like squirrels and rabbits for example, that can be so hard to shoot at. These binoculars help me to aim correctly.

When Things Get Unsteady

I have to make mention of the unwavering steadiness of this product. The laser is so accurate, that even in the most unsteady or shaky of conditions, I am able to keep a steady aim. I remember before these binoculars, it would be such a task to hold my stone age, no bells and whistles binoculars, and try to get a good shot. With the reliable laser system in these though, I am able to have a more accurate shot every time.

When I go to the mountains and go hunting, the rocks can sometimes prove to be a bit of a problem for me. When I think I have a good shot, I often find myself precariously placed on top of one rock or another. Of course these rocks are not stable, so I sometimes shift in position. That is a real good example of what I mean about how the laser stays steady, even through unsteady times.

Built Strong

I would be the first one to say that I just do not know how to “play nice” with my belongings. I am the first one to drop something, or to mistakenly smash it into the wall or some other surface. These binoculars have unfortunately taken a fall down to the ground more times than I would be willing to say. Every time they fall, I think to myself that I am going to have to be off to buy another pair. That is not the case though, they are resilient!

Another factor I am thoroughly pleased and quite impressed with, is the ease of cleaning the actual lenses. It must have something to do with that special coating I read about that is put on the lenses. They are a dream to simply wipe off dirt and water or smudges with just a soft cloth and some water.

I would enthusiastically recommend these binoculars!

Nikon Archer’s Choice Rangefinder Review

The Nikon Archer’s Choice Laser Rangefinder is a high tech rangefinder made for bows. The rangefinder boasts many impressive features including compensation for inclines and declines, 89 degree angular range, and a close ranging distance of within five yards. Additionally, the rangefinder is advertised as both waterproof and fog-proof, making it ideal for bow hunters who shoot in nearly all weather conditions. Overall, the rangefinder lives up to its claims, and gives hunters a high tech option for improving depth perception during a hunt, with just a few areas that could be improved.

The is very easy to use and fast to use, so you can get in shots even when you don’t have much time. The rangefinder also performs very quietly, making it a great choice for hunters. The compact size of the Archer’s Choice makes it very easy to carry when you’re walking a long distance. Its smaller size also makes it manageable, especially when you are in a confined space.

The rangefinder is incredibly accurate and is able to give a reading in just a few seconds. After shooting against measured distances, its distance reading was right on every time. Perhaps the best performance feature of the rangefinder is that it maintains accuracy even as targets are on the move, although you need to make sure to keep the button pressed while following the target. Even in the rain, it maintained an accurate reading of distance.

The rangefinder can be used while wearing glasses, and it is easy to use even if you’re visually impaired. It does perform as both waterproof and fog-proof and worked perfectly when used in cold, rainy conditions. Optics on this Nikon are impressive, although the field of view could be slightly larger. It would also be nice if this product could also be used with a rifle, but given its performance for bow hunting and shooting, it is a high quality product with little room for improvement of its performance features.

The Archer’s Choice is built with very sturdy construction and also comes with a camouflage carrying case for added protection when you’re on the move. The carrying case is comfortable to carry even when walking long distances and provides good protection for the rangefinder. One of the reasons I was drawn to this rangefinder in the first place was the endorsement it got on Supreme Finds, which toted its abilities to withstand tough conditions.

The display on the rangefinder is black on grey. Although the display performs adequately in most conditions, it is somewhat hard to see it in low light conditions. It would work better if the display were another color, but in most conditions it performs acceptably.

Some possible shortcomings of this rangefinder are the fact that the protective cover for the front lens is only secured with one snap, making it possible that the cover could easily come loose and get lost. It is easy to bump the cover while moving around and cause it to fall off. You must pay close attention to make sure you don’t lose the piece. The rangefinder also seems to become less accurate when tracking small objects, but given the fact that most bow hunters won’t be shooting very small game, this is probably a small issue.

It is not inexpensive, but overall the price is worth it since it is so effective and accurate. The Archer’s Choice would be especially useful for those with vision or depth perception problems, given its accuracy in reading distances. It is also great for those who hunt in wet or foggy conditions, as it performs well even in extreme weather conditions. The rangefinder is a great choice if you’re looking for a quality, compact rangefinder.

Rangefinder Review: Simmons 4×20 LRF 600

simmons lrf 600There are several factors that account for excellent spotting and range finding. Accurate distance, readings, and clarity are all important and essentially non-negotiable for high-quality finders. The Simmons 4×20 LRF 600 Rangefinder is able to deliver on all fronts while fitting comfortable in one hand.

Featuring an LCD display with a clear read, the Simmons 4×20 LRF 600 Rangefinder provides distance that is exact within a yard between a range of 10-600 yards. The rangefinder also boasts 4x magnification and sharp optics that give the user a clear and crisp picture. The visual makes it feel like there is no distance between the user and the target while bringing subtle details into focus, and all on a 9-volt battery power supply with the push of a button. Superb clarity and instantly accurate distance are only two of the rangefinder’s best qualities.

While it’s crucial that a rangefinder be accurate and clear, it must also have functional utility. A star-gazing telescope can provide great magnification, but would be extremely cumbersome to carry and set up during excursions. The Simmons 4×20 LRF 600 Rangefinder is a great adventure companion at under 10 ounces and less than 6 inches at its longest. It’s compact size makes it easy to take anywhere, and since it fits in your hand it is always ready for use. Harsh conditions were kept in mind when building this rangefinder as it is designed with a durable, water-resistant housing that stands up to nature’s hazards. Rounding out the list of impressive features is the affordable price which is marked below $150.

The Simmons 4×20 LRF 600 is a great rangefinder, but it does have its limitations. The visual quality is impressive, but in distance intervals. It’s suggested that spotting wildlife such as deer is best around 200 yards while the 600 yard capability is for looking at reflective objects, like the roof of a car. For trees and shrubbery, the effective range is around 400 yards.* There also isn’t any protection for glare or fog which can make viewing difficult while in adverse conditions. As with any rangefinder, finding the distance for the correct object can sometimes be tricky. Although very accurate, this rangefinder can sometimes give the distance to something that is between the user and the intended target. This can be frustrating, but it may have more to do with human error than performance shortcomings.

For what you pay for, this rangefinder is great. A lot of its strength comes from its simplicity. It doesn’t accommodate a lot of peripheral features, but that allows for the ones it does have to truly shine. The one button design streamlines the range-finding process and provides a simple, easy-to-read display. The optics are clear and the picture is poignant which makes this rangefinder great for viewing as a secondary focus. The price purchases a lot of quality for relatively little investment and allows the user to better understand what his needs are. Perhaps the best feature of the Simmons 4×20 LRF Rangefinder is the compact size and weight. It’s easy to carry and maneuver, and the durability means that it doesn’t have to be neatly packed away in the carrying case at all times.

On the course or in a tree stand, this rangefinder is very reliable. It takes the guessing out of the equation and replaces it with quick and accurate information, which can make all the difference during that big hunt. There are other rangefinders with more features, but they also come with much price tags. With this Simmons rangefinder, it’s as easy as point and click.

Bushnell’s The Truth 4×20 Laser Rangefinder User Review

Bushnell’s The Truth 4×20 Laser Rangefinder is proof that good things come in small packages. Weighing in at only 6 ounces, this pocket sized black beauty offers precision range measurements for the serious bowhunter.

Take Your Best Shot

Part of the Team Primos’ “The Truth” series of endorsed hunting equipment, this range finder uses ARC (Angle Range Compensation) technology which has the ability to compensate distances based on the angle you’re shooting from. With the push of one button, The Truth 4×20 Laser Rangefinder compensates angle and calculates distance, allowing you to precisely determine what sight pin to use for the perfect aim, at ranges of 7-199 yards away. If this level of precision wasn’t impressive enough, add to it that the ARC technology doesn’t appear to impede the device’s scanning and calculation time. In fact, at ranges of up to 850 yards, it delivers the same speed and precision as devices that provide more simplified line of sight readings.

Specifics

In addition to measurements that are lightning fast and the ability to toggle between Bow and Rifle Modes, The Truth 4×20 Laser Rangefinder features 4x magnification capabilities–when set in Bow Mode–while maintaining crystal clear imagery. It calculates within the ranges of 7-850 yards, with angle ranges of -90 degrees to +90 degrees.

Hunters are sure to appreciate the compact, pocket size, of this rangefinder. It’s ergonomic design and anti-slip, sure-grip finish make it easy to grab in a hurry and fumble free while positioning and aiming and it’s rainproof to offer protection from the most commonly experienced hunting season weather conditions.

The Truth 4×20 Laser Rangefinder is designed to avoid some of the common frustrations of using and caring for electronics. It features a battery life indicator avoids the frustration of discovering that your battery is dead at the absolute worst time. It also has a Posi-Thread battery door and is also compatible with Bushnell’s magnetic attachment system which uses a tripod attachment to allow your device to be affixed to your belt, backpack strap or other harnesses in order to protect it from loss and to make it easily and quickly accessible. The Truth 4×20 Laser Rangefinder comes with a sturdy carrying case and neck strap, and a battery so that you are able to use your rangefinder the moment you open the package.

Value For Your Buck

With pricing between $150-$320, this rangefinder is competitively priced with others in a similar class. A review would be amiss to claim that the device is perfect. Some users have reported issues with slow rangefinding readings. The biggest issue experienced seems to be related to the Posi-Thread battery door. More than a few users have reported having issues with the door coming open repeatedly for no apparent reason. Feedback to Bushnell are perceived to have gone unanswered and the issue unresolved. Bushnell uses a similar battery door system for other rangefinding devices who reportedly are sharing similar issues. Hopefully, their development teams are hearing their customers and working on long-term solutions.

Overall, the features and benefits of this small but power packed device seem to outweigh any negatives; which is likely why the The Truth 4×20 Laser Rangefinder consistently receives 4.5-5 Star overall customer ratings.

Precision in hunting is critical for several reasons. It benefits the hunter by enabling accurate aim, resulting in a clean successful shot. This avoids unfilled tags, especially in draw only areas that are often hard to come by. Precision also helps hunters to avoid situations that fuel hunting controversy with regard to mis-shots that leave animals wounded. An investment in a device that increases the chances of a successful hunt while demonstrating good hunting ethics provides a great return. This Bushnell is a great example of such an investment.

Critical Review: Bushnell Legend 1200 ARC

Bushnell Legend 1200 ARCThe Bushnell Legend 1200 ARC is a lightweight, compact rangefinder with a vast array of listed functions. It features 6x magnification, a Bow Mode touted to provide true horizontal distance from 5-99 yards, bullseye, brush, and scan modes for viewing, and with Rainguard HD an effective range of 5-1200 yards. All of this comes in a simply designed shell that is meant to be ergonomic, easy to access and use. This review will take an in-depth look at how the 1200 ARC’s features perform and contribute to its overall value.

Size and Weight

For any hunting tool, accessibility is one of the most important aspects, and rangefinders especially need to be able to be used spontaneously. In this, the 1200 ARC does very well. It is fairly lightweight but still enough to give purchase and subtle nuances in its shape makes it very easy to hold steady. It can fit in shirt or pants pockets, adds virtually no burden to a backpack, or can be hung from a belt without becoming a distraction.

Power and Magnification

Rangefinders are best judged by their maximum range but are never expected to actually achieve it. Different conditions always produce different results, so in clear conditions one might be able to work with a reflective object over its maximum range, but less responsive surfaces, such as the skin of a deer, only over a third of its range. The higher the maximum, the more likely a rangefinder is to respond to an object within a fraction of its total range. The ARC’s 1200 yard range is a pretty fantastic maximum, as few people are likely to try to target a deer from more than 400 yards away. For reflective surfaces like practice targets, the maximum comes into play.

The 1200 ARC’s 6X magnification is more than enough to satisfy most people. Rangefinders are less about spotting and more solely for the purpose of determining distance, so most people will only zoom in a few levels for subtle adjustments. The rangefinder’s picture quality diminishes as expected when zoomed in, but not drastically so.

Picture Quality

The 1200 ARC’s glass is of an acceptable quality, with a few spots around the edges that sometimes appear during the manufacturing process. The rangefinder’s picture quality isn’t great or poor but noticeably better than other models in a similar price range. As a tool for determining range, picture quality isn’t the most important feature of the 1200 ARC, but hunters will appreciate the extra clarity.

Viewing Modes

The 1200 ARC has three different viewing modes: scan, brush, and bullseye. Scan is the most frequently used setting on any rangefinder, as it allows users to see changes in depth continuously as they survey an area from afar. The 1200 ARC’s brush mode does the same while ignoring trees and bushes while bullseye automatically fixes on the nearest object within the scope. Some people may find more utility for the extra modes than others, but the ARC’s scanning, the only thing that universally matters, is impeccable.

Final Impression

The Bushnell Legend 1200 ARC is very highly regarded among hunters as a versatile tool that performs well day and night, in virtually any environment. It has an effective range, good picture quality, and several other extra features to satisfy situational necessities that most people wouldn’t expect to require. Despite being loaded with a variety of additional tools, the rangefinder’s fundamentals are solid and finely tuned. Ultimately, it has value that exceeds its own competitive price tag. Everything the 1200 ARC does is with incredible accuracy.

Bushnell Tactical Elite ARC 7x26mm Laser Rangefinder Review

The Bushnell Tactical Elite 1-Mile ARC 7x26mm Laser Rangefinder is 20 years in the making. The very first laser rangefinder came from Bushnell in 1995 and the company has continued to serve as a leading innovator of rangefinder technology. This latest model Bushnell rangefinder is the first laser rangefinder in the Bushnell line. It first debuted at the 2014 National Rifle Association (NRA) trade show and has been turning heads ever since.

The Bushnell Tactical Elite 1-Mile ARC is designed specifically for the outdoor user who needs gear that can stand up to ever-changing conditions without complaint. Read on to find out why customers regularly rate this Bushnell at 4.5 stars (out of 5 stars) and higher.

Rangefinder Features

First things first – the Bushnell Tactical Elite actually does sight up to 1 mile (1,760 yards) with great accuracy. Customers report that practice can be required to increase accurate sightings, since part of accuracy involves choice of target, ambient reflection and more. But for many, this feature alone is worth sacrificing the other long list of bells and whistles this rangefinder also offers.

Those other bells and whistles include the following:

  • RainGuard HD water repellent coating on the lens.
  • Full waterproofing (including full immersion) and fog proofing for all multi-optics.
  • Bushnell’s 100% money-back guarantee policy.
  • E.S.P. (extreme speed precision) turbo processor (second generation) built in.
  • 7X magnification and vivid display technology (VDT), which is critical to enhance viewing even in overly bright or low light conditions.
  • Accurate up to 1/2 yard and display precision up to 1/10 yard.
  • Number of selective targeting system options, including auto-SCAN, brush, and bulls-eye modes.
  • Eyepiece that is rubber armored twist up.
  • Tripod mount built right in.
  • Variety of sight-in options (start at 100 yards) when in RIFLE mode.
  • Diopter adjustment to adjust for differences between the user’s two eyes (somewhat like a pair of binoculars do).
  • Posi-Thread™ battery door which reduces the tendency for the door to open while in use.
  • Comes with its own carrying case.

Using the Bushnell Tactical Elite 1-Mile ARC

This latest iteration in a long line of Bushnell rangefinders is the most compact and easiest to use yet. Even beginners find it simple to power up and practice with right out of the box. Users report it performs equally well in clear and cloudy conditions and in flat and hilly terrain. While the Bushnell Tactical Elite is designed for long-range sighting and target conditions, it can improve clarity and contrast even in shorter range conditions.

The multi-optics system ensures minimal light is lost between image capture and transmission, which reduces eye strain. The unit itself works seamlessly with tripod magnetic attachment systems and ballistic calculators.

Other Uses for the Bushnell Tactical Elite 1-Mile ARC

In addition to its popularity with long-range shooters and hunters, the Bushnell Tactical Elite 1-Mile ARC has found an enthusiastic fan base among golfers. Golfers are using the rangefinder during golf practice to improve mid-game swing calculations.

In Conclusion

For the price, the Bushnell Tactical Elite 1-Mile ARC offers tremendous value and is a welcome new addition to the range of professional grade rangefinders available today.

Golf Rangefinder Review: Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt

The Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt Standard Edition Golf Laser Rangefinder is the perfect piece of equipment for beginner and professional golfers alike. This rangefinder features a laser with a rangefinder to measure from 5 yards up to 1,000 yards +/- 1 yard and allows golfers to measure the accurate yardage for each and every shot. It is best know for being user-friendly because it can be held with one hand and includes an easy-to-handle, no-slip grip that improves the accuracy of the laser rangefinder. This rangefinder has a 5x magnification that enables golfers to receive a high-quality image for far-away and close-up shots. With a 3-volt battery, this rangefinder will be ready to use right out of the box and will provide dependability on the golf course for months after the first use. With state-of-the-art technology, the Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt offers many quality features for a great price.

Bushnell Tour V3The Tour V3 comes equipped with Pin Seeker and Jolt technologies. The Pin Seeker technology allows users to scan the fairway and surrounding areas to identify any barriers, bunkers, or slopes. This technology provides users with updated information about the landscape on the rangefinder’s screen to identify the perfect shot. In addition to the Pin Seeker technology, the V3 also features Jolt technology that provides a scanning mode, which will provide a jolted vibration that notifies the user when a target has been found. The Jolt technology makes it simple and easy for the golfer to find that desired target and get lined up to hit. It is the best solution to finding the perfect range for the perfect shot, every time.

Many customers who have tried the Tour V3 Jolt Rangefinder have commented on how easy it is to use right out of the box. This rangefinder does not include any calibration or set-up that will make it difficult to begin using. You can take it right from the box to the golf course. Other customers comment on the helpfulness of the Jolt technology because it provides them with a vibration when they have found the desired target. These customers also explain that this technology gives them confidence in their yardage and, ultimately, in their shot. This rangefinder replaces the “guessing” of your golf game with confidence in each and every shot. Other reviews compare it to other rangefinders and GPS systems in a comparable price range, and customers seem to choose the Bushnell because of features it has that other systems do not. The Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt has the LCD display screen that customers prefer over other GPS systems. Customers replace their GPS systems with a Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt because it gives them more confidence in the range of their shot and provides them with a clear vision so they do not second-guess their shots.

The reviews that can be read about the this rangefinder emphasize that it can improve every golfer’s game and lower their handicap. It provides support on the golf course to give accurate yardage and confidence for every shot. Some golfers want that little bit of extra help when they are playing for enjoyment and others want that extra support during tournament play. This laser rangefinder has something to meet the needs of everyone. Every golfer should have a Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt in their golf bag.

Critical Review: Leupold GX3i

Amongst all the golf rangefinders on the market, the Leupold GX3i is a standout. With its bright red LED display, quick register of distance, and accuracy to within 6 inches, the GX3i deserves to be in your bag over the competition.

Easy Setup:

Once you have inserted the battery, you will be ready to go in just minutes. Just choose whether you would like it to display range in yards or meters and select the aiming reticule best for you.

Performance:

The Leupold GX3i’s accuracy, speed, and ease to read are what sets this product apart. It is accurate to within six inches and displays distances to within the tenth of a yard. While this might seem excessive, stop and think. Why wouldn’t you want the most pinpoint accurate reading possible. Furthermore, the GX3i’s advanced technology will separate returned background readings from target readings so that you are getting the right reading to the right target. Using scan mode allows you to just press and hold down the power button to gather readings simply and quickly. This unit will find the flag and give accurate readings within 1 foot up to a range of 400 yards. Knowing the exact distance will give you the information needed to make better decisions and more accurate shots out on the course.

A big difference between the GX3i and many other rangefinders out there is how fast it is. The readings come almost instantaneously which all but eliminates the stress of having to hold the unit steady while registering distance. There is no need to worry about shaky hands or wind when using the GX3i. Indeed, the GX3i’s advanced technology will not only give you incredible accuracy, but will do it in the blink of an eye.

It not only offers accuracy and speed but has the added benefit of a bright red, easily viewable LED display. Comparing this display’s easy to see cross hair and yardage to a finder that lacks this feature is night and day. You and your eyes will be happy for this feature as you easily make out your target and the range readout information quickly.

Design:

The GX3i is compact, sturdy, and easy to hold. The milled aluminum construction also make it solid and light. In fact, the whole unit weighs only 6.8 ounces and can stand up to just about any weather condition you’ll run into on the course. It is also just plain attractive and sleek making, sure to make it a crowd favorite. Some, however, do complain that the unit is too small for those who have rather over-sized hands. So while it’s compact size and weight are ideal for most, there are some who would like a larger sized rangefinder.

Value:

While you can find a less expensive rangefinder, you won’t find a better value. It’s speed, accuracy, design, and durability assure that it will be a welcome and game changing addition to your bag for a good long while. It is also tournament legal making it useful at any level of play. While money of course is an object for most, know that going with a less expensive alternative may result in sacrificing accuracy, speed, ease of use, and durability.

Final Thoughts:

To review quickly, you will not be disappointed in the the Leupold GX3i Rangefinder. It uses state-of-the-art technology to give accurate distance calculations to within 6 inches almost instantaneously. It’s bright red LED display is easy to read and easy on the eyes. Finally, its design is both durable and attractive. No doubt, a quick peruse of reviews of this product will corroborate the high praise from this review. The Leupold GX3i Rangefinder is among the best out out there.

Rangefinder Review: Redfield Raider 600A

The Redfield Raider Rangefinder 600A claims that it provides accurate ranging for up to 600 yards, allowing for precision that will help hunters to land whatever game they choose to hunt. With a scan mode for constant ranging and one button operation for quick response, the Redfield Raider Rangefinder 600A could be the tool that every hunter needs, if it lives up to its claims.

The Raider 600A adds angle compensation to its counterpart, the Raider Rangefinder 600. The rangefinder is more advanced than its predecessor, the 500, since it now includes the viewing angle as part of the rangefinder’s calculations.

After using the Redfield Raider for several months, I found the performance to be good, comparing to other high end models. The size could be a little larger, but this was really the only complaint I had. Overall, this is a simple and great rangefinder for hunters who have not used this kind of equipment before. It provides basic functionality that is easy to use and accurate.

The rangefinder was incredibly useful for zeroing firearms. I took this to the shooting range and set my guns with complete accuracy. This sure beats measuring inexact range marks on the wall. It made my life easier in this regard. This feature alone is worth a lot to me.

Additionally, the rangefinder’s dynamic ranging feature is very useful. During a recent hunting trip, I was able to track a target with the distance changing as the target moved by just pushing and holding one button. It was easy to use this feature, even when the target was moving very quickly. The distance appeared to be measured accurately and updated quickly as the target changed distances. I know I will continue to use this feature in the future.

As a targeting scope, it also performed very well. The magnification allowed me to easily identify the shot placement on the target. This took a lot of the guesswork that I was using previously away, and I feel like I’m able to shoot more confidently, without second guessing myself before taking the shot.

Comparing the rangefinder’s performance to other units, the Raider 600A can hold its own with much more expensive units. I took this rangefinder on a hunting excursion with my friends, who all own much higher end rangefinders of their own. We compared numbers among rangefinders, and the Raider 600A got the same readings as all of my friends’ rangefinders.

Among the possible improvement areas for the Raider 600A is its size. The rangefinder looked and felt to be a bit small, and is just five ounces in weight. I would have liked to use something that was a little more substantial, although the compact size does make it easy to carry. However, I thought that something a little larger would actually be easier to handle, although this is probably a matter of personal preference.

In researching this rangefinder before purchasing it, I noted that some users have reported that the Raider Rangefinder was not reliable and stopped performing not long after purchasing it. I have not experienced this yet, but the most users who report issues with the rangefinder reported that Redfield stood behind their product and made it right. Redfield has a good reputation for customer service, and I feel confident that I would be able to resolve any issues in the future.

Overall, I was quite impressed with the performance and accuracy of this rangefinder. Although the rangefinder could be slightly larger and heavier, the rangefinder seemed to be durable and was easy to carry. I would recommend this product to those who haven’t used a rangefinder before.

Simmons LRF 600 Tilt Intelligence Laser Rangefinder Review

For new users or users on a budget, the Simmons LRF 600 Tilt Intelligence Laser Rangefinder represents an economical introduction to rangefinders. With a vertical design, the rangefinder is sleek and ergonomic. Good size and grip make the rangefinder both easy to use as well as comfortable to hold.

Features

Simmons LRF 600 TiltWith single-button technology, this rangefinder is easy to use. Its features are simple but effective. The rangefinder operates on a single 9V battery that holds up well over many uses. Priced just over $100, the rangefinder sports a rugged plastic exterior that holds up well outdoors. At just 7.7 ounces, it is a lightweight rangefinder that offers 4x magnification and an overall good field of vision.

Pros

Simmons provides an affordable option with this rangefinder. It operates exceptionally in sunlight and with its sturdy casing is very durable. The Simmons LRF 600 Rangefinder is accurate within a yard at 300 yards, though the accuracy of its readings tends to drop at longer distances. Its vertical design and compact dimensions (4x2x3 inches) make the rangefinder portable and easy to store. With single-button operation, Simmons plays to users who are either new to rangefinders or who value simplicity over extra features. Either way, the single-button feature is easy to use.

Cons

Past 300 yards, accuracy suffers on this rangefinder. Though Simmons advertises a range of 600 yards, the realistic range on the finder lies somewhere between 200 and 400 yards. Past 300 yards, accuracy is compromised. Unlike more advanced rangefinders, this device does not include an inclinometer. This absence requires the user to calculate angles and elevations on the fly. Depending on the experience of the user, this can pose a challenge that will further complicate the accuracy of the rangefinder’s readings. For an experienced user, the challenge of assessing elevation may be an intriguing challenge, rather than a frustration.

The rangefinder performs well sunlight, but dim lighting makes the LCD screen difficult to read. Because Simmons eschewed filling the rangefinder with Nitrogen, the device tends to fog. The tendency for the viewfinder to fog up is a detriment in poor weather conditions. Finally, while the single-button operation of the device is simple, the response time of range readings is sub-optimal.

Best Feature

The affordability of the Simmons LRF 600 is easily the most attractive feature of the device. With the low price point, extra features that you would find in some other rangefinders are sacrificed. Still, cost remains paramount, and Simmons delivers good value for the price of this rangefinder.

Worst Feature

With diminished accuracy after 400 yards and a visual sweet spot nestled somewhere between 200-400 yards, the advertised 600 yard spec is ambitious and, for most users, probably unattainable. Also, the difficulty of reading the LCD screen in any but the most ideal conditions is a definite drawback, as outdoor conditions vary widely within any given time period.

Most Unexpected Feature

The battery life that results from a single 9V, in an era of rechargeable devices, is remarkable. Although many comparable devices die after 1,000 or 1,500 uses, the battery life for the Simmons LRF 600 proves strong even after 2000 uses. The economical price of this rangefinder is reinforced by the knowledge that replacing batteries over the life of the device will not be a costly endeavor.

In Summary

There are rangefinders with more bells and whistles. There are rangefinders with better accuracy. However, Simmons presents a rangefinder that appeals to new users with its price and simplicity. The Simmons LRF 600 Tilt Intelligence Laser Rangefinder also appeals to experienced users who are looking for a rangefinder that is both affordable and durable.