Range Finding Binocular

muleymaddness · Feb 15, 2016

I'm starting to look for a different binocular / range finding setup and would like some opinions.

Currently, I have Swaro SLC 10x42 coupled with the Vortex 1000 range finder. I found myself needing more out of my range finder frequently, so this off season I figured I'd upgrade. But if I'm going to upgrade, should I just go ahead and get a range finding binocular? And if so, are the Swaro EL Range finding still the way to go? Or has anyone else introduced a binocular except Zeiss and Leica? Or should I just keep my SLC's and just upgrade the range finder???

Cornhusker · Feb 15, 2016

I have had the Swarovski 10x42 rangefinder binos for 2 hunting seasons now and can't even think of going back to my old non rangefindtng binoculars. They are quick and have never failed to range accurately in spite of below zero cold. I love them when spotting and ranging by myself or with a partner.

I looked at the other rangefindtng binoculars and just liked the ergonomics of the swaro's better, they just looked a little sturdier to me. I replaced another nonranging swaro's 10x42's I'm kind of a cheap guy on most things but I decided to cry once and buy these and I'm glad I did. Best of luck.

Togwotee · Feb 17, 2016

I have the EL Range's as well and I 2nd what corn said.

The Leica's have more features if you're into that, but they're bigger and feel cheap to me. if I had it to do over I'd choose the Swarovski's again.

Stay Thirsty My Friends

Country · Feb 17, 2016

I also have the El Range, and have loved them. Couldn't imagine going back to bino's without them. My buddy has the Leica's, definitely more features so you might want to check them out as well, but as mentioned they are heavier. I just think you can't beat swaro's.

RIchardi503 · Feb 28, 2016

I bought a set this last year and have to agree with the others. Excellent glass and good ranging capabilities. Only thing I will buy in the future is a G7 BR2 Rangefinder for the long shots.

wyoflythrower · Mar 17, 2016

What's the reliable top distance limit on the swaro's and the lieca's ? I'm in the market too and this is an important part of the equation for me.

Thanks all!

snoodafruff · Mar 17, 2016

How close will the swaro binoculars range?....10..15....20 yards?

WVHUNTER · Mar 18, 2016

Leica is going to have three models this year.

Geovid HD-R 1,200 yards $1,800

Geovid HD-R (type 403) 2,000 yards $2,600

Type 403 has open hinge, looks more like a Swarovski

Geovid HD-B 2,000 yards $3,200

Then you have the Swarovski EL Range 1,500 yards $3,200

I think all the Leicas all range down to 10 yards

Specs on the Swarovski says minimum 33 yards

WVHUNTER · Mar 18, 2016

Since Leica is coming out with the lower price model for 2016 some of the on line optics stores have had the 2015 HD-R models on sale for $1,699. Was selling for $2,499 last year. 1,400 yard model.

BIGJOHNT · Mar 18, 2016

I love my Leica's ! I have the older 10 x 42 non HD model.They where the only rang finding binoculars at the time. Well except for the Bushnell's and they where just a toy. Hard to go in the woods without them. I also use a G7 range finder when I have time and on long range shoots. But I can always get the yardage with my Lieca's in a second. The further you go out in yardage the steadier you need to be. But it has never not giving me a good number.

snoodafruff · Mar 18, 2016

33 yard minimum!....,kinda sucks for a bow hunter.

azbow · Mar 19, 2016

>33 yard minimum!....,kinda sucks for a
>bow hunter.

Leica makes a model that ranges from 10yds-2,000 yds. The compensated yardage is 10-600yds and doesn't take a micro chip to program your ballistics. I think the 10x42 is the 403 and is basically the best for archery. I love mine. They have the 8 power also which is the 402. I am going by memory and might have those model #'s reversed.

PCPython · Mar 19, 2016

I have the 10x42 Leica model 403s and really like them. As stated they have compensated distance from 10-600 yds and line of sight to 2000 yds.The minimum distance of 33 yds for the Swaros is a major downfall in my opinion, especially for bow hunters.