Leica Geovid HD-B vs Swarovski EL Range

atriech,

I was trying to get a sample Geovid B for eval, but so far no dice. I have seen both models briefly, and really liked the quick readings from both.

If you have seen them at all, you know they are pretty impressive optically.

My very preliminary impressions are the Geovid-B seemed really bright for a rangefinding binocular, although that isn't too surprising given it utilizes a porro prism design (fewer reflective surfaces).

I know it isn't the detailed info you were looking for, but maybe adds something.
 
It seems all of the research I find just goes over the specs and states how great the glass is in both. What I am looking to hear is first hand opinions.
Maybe now that the HD-B have been avail for a while, some one might have something to share.
As of now I am leaning towards the Geovids for the fact of the programmable ballistics.
My biggest worry is a big one that neither will satisfy, either ones angle comp ballistics works for archery (under 100).
I just sold my Zeiss FLs and want to be able to carry one bino/rf instead of having the rf and bino on chest.
 
I've owned/own both the HD B' and EL Range along with the Zeiss combo unit and the Leica Geovids.

All four units have their advantages. For me the best rangefinding capablitlies actually goes to Zeiss. If they come with angle comp, I will dump the others for the Zeiss. I am that impressed with their unit. The Zeiss also functions better than the other two in sub zero temps and that is VERY important to me as I do a lot of sub zero coyote hunting.

With that said, they are all three great units with great glass. For me the glass edge goes to the Swaros. I had the most trouble with the Swaros in cold weather. The Leicas aren't much better.

The Leica HD B's definately have the most "bells and whistles" as far as ballistics go, but I don't really use any of those features. I do like the temp, humidity and angle readings the Leica's provide.

I currently own the Leica HD B, but if I had to chose ONE of the four right now, it would still be the Zeiss. If you have any specific questions, fire away. I've put all four of these units through the paces in all kinds of different conditions.

It is an absolute travesty that NONE of these units take care of archers with angle comp. capablities.
 
My 10x42 Geovids range to 8 yards if that data point means anything to archery hunters?

Of the three big dogs in this industry, Leica seems to have the most limited and difficult warranty and service process. Swarovski and Zeiss are about as good as Leupold the gold standard in customer support.

Wonder why Leupold has no offering for this market. They make fantastic rangefinders, and Binoculars. Seems a natural fit?
 
Will do. I figure there will he some experimenting with my current RF to see if the lack of archery incline/decline calculator is gonna mess with me.
 
I read that after Whisky shared it. Good read. My only hesitation with the Geovid HD-B was the lack of archery ballistic calculation.
 
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