Laser Rangefinder Binoculars RB800C vs. Quest vs. ???

glenktn · Joined: 01 May 2007 Posts: 2

I borrowed a friend's Bushnell Pro Legend rangefinder for hunting and while it worked great, I thought the field of view was rather limited and the brightness could have been improved (my thought was to change from monocular to binocular).

So I am considering a laser rangefinder binocular and my question is whether I am on the right track to gain better light transmission and field of view?

I have been comparing the Leupold Wind River RB800C and the Bushnell Quest. Do you have any comments or recommendations regarding optics qualities or features especially for hunting?

Most of the areas I hunt in have limited light situations and considerable rainy weather. I also hike a lot so I like to travel light therefore size/weight can be a factor.

Are there any other options/brands to consider?

Cost is always a factor and I'd like to stay under $600 unless there is some tremendous advantage to be had.

Thanks!

opticsplanet.com · Posted: Tue May 01, 2007 7:11 am Post subject:

Hi

Optically, most monocular LRFs have roughly the same field of view as binocular LRFs, about 6 degrees or 300+ feet. What you experienced with the bino was a better percieved field of view, due to the comfort of using two eyes.

Yes, the Leupold RB is better optically and mechanically than the Bushnell Quest, but that's why it is also more expensive.

To be honest, putting an LRF in a bino is always a compromise. The only real adavnatge is the convenience of having two instruments in one and viewing comfort when using the bino, but you sacrifice handling quality on the bino, since the bino must accommodate the LRF in the housing and that means added bulk and weight. You also lose the lifetime warranty supplied with most binos, because your bino is now considered an electronic instrument.

In truth, most hunters opt for carrying both a monocular LRF and a good bino. Look at it this way. You use a binocular almost constantly, but you use an LRF only now and then. It makes more sense to get the best bino with the best handling qualities, since you will be using that part of the package all the time. You also get a full warranty on the bino. Monocular LRFs are small and compact and really don't take up much room. Pull one out of your pocket only when you need it.
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