Laser Rangefinder Review

Have you ever thought it would be nice to have your range finder and binoculars in one unit?  You’re not the only one and fortunately range finder binoculars are rapidly gaining in popularity. However; they currently aren’t for everyone, below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the rangefinder binocular.

Advantages

• Complimentary Design – The wider body and additional weight of the binocular design allows for a sturdy two hand grip which also aids in the ability to get quick first attempt readings with the rangefinder even at high magnification especially when compared to the vertical style of rangefinders.
• Speed – Another of the biggest positives of the range finder binoculars are the increased speed at which you can range and animal.  Many hunters carry binoculars on their chest and then after spotting game dig out their range finder from a pack or holster to get the distance reading. With the rangefinder binocular you spot the target hit button to get the range and then reach for your gun.
• One Unit – One of the biggest advantages of the rangefinder binocular is having one device pull double duty meaning less equipment you have to take with you and keep track of in the field.

Disadvantages

• One Unit – Yeah this is one of its biggest advantages too; however there is a small downside in that both your rangefinder and binoculars are in one unit. If they get lost, stolen or destroyed you are out two crucial pieces of gear in one shot, while a small negative it is something to consider especially on a big hunt; but hopefully you would have some back up optics (old bino’s or rangefinder) that could get you through a worst case scenario. 
• Cost – No big surprise here, rangefinder bino’s aren’t exactly cheap with the Bushnell Fusion being the only option under $1000. However, when you add up the cost of buying a pair of high end binoculars and a high end rangefinder the price seems a lot more reasonable.

8x Magnification Range Finder Binoculars

Model	Swarovski El Range	Zeiss Victory PRF	Leica Geovid HD BRF
Picture
Estimated Price	$2799	$2699	$2349
Configuration	8x42mm	8x45mm	8x42mm
Max Range	1500 yds	1300 yds	1400 yds
Angle Comp.	Yes	No	No
FOV 1000yds	411'	375'	368'
Eye Relief	19.2mm	16mm	18mm
Length	6.3"	6.6"	6.75"
Weight	32 oz	35 oz	33.5 oz

 10x Magnification Binocular Rangefinders

Model	Swarovski El Range	Zeiss Victory PRF	Leica Geovid HD	Bushnell Fusion 1600
Picture
Estimated Price	$2799	$2799	$2399	$775
Configuration	10x42	10x45	10x42	10x42
Max Range	1500 yds	1300 yds	1400 yds	1600 yds
Angle Comp.	Yes	No	No	Yes
FOV 1000yds	330'	330'	331'	305'
Eye Relief	17.3mm	15.5mm	15.6mm	18mm
Length	6.5"	6.6"	6.7"	n/a
Weight	32 oz	35 oz	33.5 oz	31 oz

Bushnell Fusion 1600 ARC- Bushnell's entry into the binocular rangefinder category, currently one model is available, which is a 10 x 42, this unit features Bushnell's ARC (Angle Range Compensation) technology.  The Fusion 1600 has both the Bow and Rifle angle compensation modes as well as Bushnell's Brush and Bullseye target priority modes.  These units also have four brightness intensity settings for their display to help the user clearly see the readout under various lighting conditions.

Leica Geovid BRF - Leica has been in the rangefinder binocular game for many years now.  Their current lineup consists of the following models : 8 x 42, 10 x 42, 8 x 56, 15 x 56.  All of these models have a maximum range of 1400 yards.  It is important to note that Leica sells these in either yard or meter models and there is no switching between yards and meters on their models.

Swarovski El Range - The newest, and one of the most anticipated, rangefinder bincoulars is now available in either a 8x42 or 10x42 configuration.  The El Range is equipped with a rangefinder that is capable of giving angel compensated readings as well as displaying the angle to the target.

Ziess Victory RF - Recently added two more range finder binoculars to their portfolio, bring their current lineup to four models : 8 x 45, 10 x 45, 8 x 56, and 10 x 56.  All of these models have a max ranging distance of 1300 yards, and contain the Ziess BIS ( Ballistic Information System) which allows the owner to select from six preprogrammed ballistic curves.