Lightweight rangefinder recommendations?

[Sundodger]

I am looking to replace my Nikon 550 rifle hunter (7.6oz) with a newer unit with a little more range.
So far I have found the Vortex 1500 is about the same weight with a great range, and many of the others I have looked at in this class are heavier.

Any other recommendations? Would always love to lose another oz or two.

 

[mtswampfox]

My leica fits in a tshirt pocket. Not sure of weight but not bulky

 

[tyeager2964]

Nikon prostaff 7i is 6.2 ounces without battery and can be had for 250 to 300. It says it will range out to 1300. In real world conditions over the last 3 weeks I can consistently get trees and hillsides at 700 to 750. The only advantage I think the vortex has in this price range is an illuminated read out that would be easier to see in low light conditions.

For the price I think it is very hard to beat. You can get better glass and more range for significantly more money but in the 300 and under group I think this is the best.

 

[Sundodger]

Nikon prostaff 7i is 6.2 ounces without battery and can be had for 250 to 300. It says it will range out to 1300. In real world conditions over the last 3 weeks I can consistently get trees and hillsides at 700 to 750. The only advantage I think the vortex has in this price range is an illuminated read out that would be easier to see in low light conditions.

For the price I think it is very hard to beat. You can get better glass and more range for significantly more money but in the 300 and under group I think this is the best.

Thank you, that looks like a great option.

Couple others I found:
Leopold RX-1200i ($350) is 7.8oz
SIG Sauer Kilo1250 ($300) is 5oz

The only other advantage the Vortex 1500 seems to have (from what you mentioned) is the warrantee. Its lifetime for the Vortex and the others are 2-5 years.

I like the simplicity and cost of the Nikon, as well as not trying out a new product (like the SIG).

 

[Justin Crossley]

Read my article on the Sig. It should help with your search.

 

[Brightwhite]

I have the leupold 1200 and it fits easily in the front pocket of my AGC bino pack, but:..every time I see a Leica I want to upgrade. The Leica is pretty slick and fast.

 

[Sundodger]

Thanks guys!

Great info.

 

[CLICKBANGBANG]

I have the leupold 1200 and it fits easily in the front pocket of my AGC bino pack, but:..every time I see a Leica I want to upgrade. The Leica is pretty slick and fast.

This is what I have. The Leupold rx1200i tbr did well for me this year. It fits in a Kuiu pack hip belt with enough room for ear plugs, hard candy, and other snackie stuff... You're welcome for this extremely scientific field research that I've meticulously compiled.

 

[JO.]

My Leica Rangemaster 1600 weighs 7.8 oz and I've maxed it out at 1999 yds. 17-1800 is typical in mountainous areas with good conditions. After owning a Leica RF I will have a hard time ever buying another brand. Starting my 3rd year with it and I haven't regretted once buying this thing!

 

[micus]

I have nothing but positives to say about my SIG kilo2k, never weighed it but its small and light enough to be inconsequential

 

[twall13]

My Sig Kilo 2000 weighs in right at 8 oz. Personally, I think you'll have a tough time finding a better unit for the price than Sig's offerings. The 2000 is super fast and provides reliable yardage for me. Unlike my old Nikon, it actually provides readings out to the claimed distance of 2000 Yards. My old Nikon 800 struggled to get readings out past 350 yards. Some of the other Sig models weigh less if that really is your priority. Check with Savinglots.com, they have typically had the best price on them.

 

[TheCougar]

I'm not sure what my Leica weighs, but even if it is an ounce or two heavier than cheaper models I would rather find another way to save the weight. The Leica is the first LRF I have used that performs at the advertised distance and it has excellent optics. I've heard good and bad things about the Vortex.

 

[Sundodger]

I ordered the SIG. little worried about the IPX4 water proof rating, but I figure for elk hunting the rainforest I can use my old Nikon.

 

[Mark]

I use the Leica CRF 1000R weighing in at 7.8oz including battery.

Clear 7X optics and fits in the top of my AGC bino harness.