Optic Review: Rangemaster CRF 1600-B by Leica

Rangemaster CRF 1600The Rangemaster CRF 1600-B from Leica makes some big promises as a range finder right out of the gate. It lives up to virtually all of them with only a few minor caveats. Despite a few cons that any honest review would mention, this rangefinder along with its advanced features is worth the extra money when compared to other equipment in its class.

Features

The CRF 1600 comes with a considerable number of advanced features. However, this means that operation is slightly more complex than comparable units. Rangemaster took this concern into consideration, providing a one-touch operation mode for simple range measurements. The secondary button on the unit provides you with access to the more-advanced features. The actual range for the equipment is listed at 1,600 yards. At the outside edge of this number, the finder is only performing in top tiers when a reflective object is in the picture. Still, where gauging the distance of deer and trees are concerned, the abilities of this equipment are certainly impressive.

Before we get more in-depth into the accuracy and build, here’s an overview of the key features of the CRF 1600-B:

  • Range: 10-1600 yards
  • Integrated thermometer/barometer sensors
  • Waterproof & fogproof
  • Good light gathering capabilities & easy-to-read LED
  • 7x magnification & wide FOV
  • Adjustable eyecups

Accuracy

The accuracy of the CRF 1600 is par for the course. Up to 500 yards, you can count on being within your target reading by one yard on the outside. When reading distances closer to 1,000 yards, you may experience inaccuracy by as little as two yards. Above 1,000 yards, most experts have found that the accuracy hovers within plus to minus 0.5 percent. The number of benefits one can gain using this rangefinder are nothing to underestimate. On top of the outstanding range, the complete unit is extremely durable and well-suited for almost any environment. It goes on to provide atmospheric temperature and pressure readings as well.

Performance

The advanced features continue to expand in the various additional modes, offering users angles of inclination in relation to targets and potential ballistic curvatures once you have entered information concerning the particulars of ammunition. Another major selling point for this equipment is the optical clarity and its ability to gather light. It can collect visual information in a impressive array of environmental conditions in addition to presenting a stunning LED readout. The optics for the piece excel thanks to the inclusion of Aqua-Dura coating and P40 phase-correction coating. The result is a clear and crisp image in any setting as long as the temperature is between 14 and 131-degrees Fahrenheit.

Durability

The durability of the rangefinder is made possible by plastic that features carbon-fiber reinforcement. This coating is complimented by an interior chassis composed of cast aluminum. Maintaining the comfort of the piece is a soft lacquer finish on the exterior. Unlike many units developed over the past decade, there is no worry of fogging due to the fact that the most critical components are nitrogen-charged. The unit is also totally water tight for depths of up to one yard for a duration of under half an hour. Raw performance also adds to the list of strengths for this field companion. It auto-focuses in seconds, and the linear field of view is generous enough to allow you to locate and close in on targets rapidly.

Verdict

The versatility of the CRF 1600 is worth mentioning as well. The viewfinder features a rubber cupping that is retractable, compensating for use with corrective lens or the naked eye. Users also have the option of utilizing diopter compensation control in order to adjust the image sharpness for their individual eyesight. The piece is powered by a single 3V, CR2 battery. While this hardware is powerful, replacements can be hard to come by in most markets. All points considered, this rangefinder puts itself at the top of the pack when looking at the field as a whole.