Leupold or Busnell combo?

[hunting1]

Between the Leupold rangefinder/binocs or the Bushnell which do you think is better based on experience? I have good optics, but get tired of carrying both all the time. The Leicas are cool, but my wife would leave me. Thanks.

 

[redrabbit]

RE: Leupold or Bushnell combo?

This past weekend, I briefly (30 seconds) looked through a pair of Bushnells. The optics looked clear, although I did not put them on a tripod and evaluate closely. One major annoyance is the thick black box that the range numbers appear in. This box covered the bottom 1/4 of the field of view. I did not try to find the limits or accuracy of the range finder. I have not seen the Leupold version.
If you already have good binos and a range finder, getting the combo may not be putting you ahead except in the area of convenience, (like you said carrying both). Another consideration is the ergonomics: the Bushnells are slightly bulkier than regular binos and would not be as comfortable to use, considering that they would mainly be used to glass.
Definitely find a store that carries both and compare.

 

[AxisBuck]

When I was looking I found the Leupolds just as clear, less bulky and the red range finder numbers easier to read. Neither are like using regular binos., larger bodies and eyepieces adjust by sliding, not hinging.

Almost bought the Leupolds, until I found out the Leicas were coming out. Saved up some (okay alot) more $$$ and bought the Leicas. Don't regret it at all, 10x, clearer optics, larger objective lenses, and range finder numbers are a red LED that dim w/ low light and are bolder in bright light. If you rely on your optics like I do and want the convenience and quality of both in one unit the Leicas are definitely worth thinking about.

AxisBuck

 

[couesbitten]

AxisBuck,
I have been trying to decide if I was willing to spend $1,700 on a pair of the Leica's. After reading your post, I'm going to do it. I just hope that I have a lifetime of flawless performance from them so that the 5 year warranty will never be a factor.
Scott/couesbitten

 

[AxisBuck]

LAST EDITED ON Feb-03-05 AT 11:11PM (MST)[p]LAST EDITED ON Feb-03-05 AT 11:10?PM (MST)

couesbitten,

Me too. My understanding the 5 yr. warranty is mainly because of the range finder portion (electronics) of the binos. I am not too worried about the body or glass.

Enjoy the new tool/toy!!!

I hope to hear from others who have these, good, bad and even the ugly???

AB