Laser Rangefinder Review

The new class of 2012 rangefinders shows a lot of promise for both the hunting and golfing world. The Big 3 of the rangefinder world: Nikon, Leupold and Bushnell have been busy. Below is a quick overview of some of these new models, Laser Rangefinder Review is working to get full write ups on these models and is doing so as the information becomes available.

Bushnell
Hunting – Bushnell has introduced two new models for hunters. The Bushnell G-Force 1300 is a new design and appears to be replacing the Legend 1200 series of rangefinders. The G-Force 1300 is a packed with Bushnell rangefinder technology and introduces a new feature to the Bushnell line called ESP (Extreme Speed Precision). The other new model being introduced is the Bushnell Sport 850, this model appears to be based on the Bowhunter rangefinder series but without any ARC angle compensation mode. The Sport 850 is an entry level rangefinder and appears to have replace the Bushnell Sport 600, and Bushnell Sport 450 models.

Golf – Bushnell has three new models for golfers this year: the Pro 1M, the Pro 1M Slope, and the Tour Z6. The Pro 1M series appears pretty similar in shape and size to the Pro 1600 series rangefinders it replaces. However, there have been major changes both externally and internally, view our indepth write up of the new Bushnell Pro 1M series. The Tour Z6 golf rangefinder appears to be based on the same new platform Bushnell is using on the G-Force 1300 hunting rangefinders. The Tour Z6 is of a vertical design style and isn’t really directly replacing any model in the Bushnell line up. 

Nikon
Hunting – Nikon will be introducing two new rangefinders to their lineup late this spring or early summer. The new models will be the Prostaff 5 and the Prostaff 3. The Prostaff 5 appears to be a new design and will offer some features unique to the Prostaff line. The Prostaff 3 on the other hand seems to be heavily based on the Nikon Prostaff 550 line, which is no longer listed in the Nikon line up. Both models will probably compete in the budget/entry level rangefinder category.

Leupold
Golf – The Leupold GX-3 and GX-4 line are receiving further updates, with the new 2012 models being designated as the Leupold GX-3i w/DNA and Leupold GX-4i w/DNA. The major new feature of these rangefinders is the inclusion of Leupold’s new Digitally eNhanced Accuracy technology, which is suppose to improve both the speed and accuracy of the rangefinders reading. Take a peek at our more in depth look at the Leupold GX-4i with DNA.

Vortex
Hunting - Optics maker Vortex has decided to enter into the rangefinder market this year with the introduction of their Vortex Ranger 1000 rangefinder. The Ranger 1000 is a compact vertical style rangefinder with a 6x magnification that will be capable of a maximum distance of 1000 yards (about 500 yards on deer).  The Ranger is capable of both line of sight and angle compensated readings and is suppose to hit the marker late summer. This new rangefinder will likely compete in the dual purpose rangefinder category.