Reviews - Nikon Forestry 550 Laser Rangefinder 8371 Reviews - NI-RF-8371-EE

Author: Forester (verified customer) from East Texas on Aug 15, 2011
Pros:  Very useful for timber cruising.
Cons:  Won't measure less than about 33 feet horizontal distance.
Would recommend:  yes

Forester wrote:

This device is very useful for timber cruising. It will measure plot radius and merchantable tree heights very accurately. If you can hit any point on the tree, it will calculate the horizontal distance. Although this device will not measure horizontal distances less than 33 feet, you can "trick it" by measuring the height on a tree 33 feet+, and the device will calculate distances less than 33 feet. Some bark colors do not reflect the laser beam very well, and twigs and branches sometimes offer interference (as with any laser device). For grins I have measured distances out to 800+ feet. Handy size, rugged, and weatherproof.

Author: techtalkabc , HighSchool Technology Instructor, from bloomingdale on Dec 1, 2010
Pros:  Great design, eye relief, waterproof, clear optics
Cons:  still high priced but worth it for the features
Would recommend:  yes

techtalkabc wrote:

I have purchased the 550 for school elevation activities. I am also a hunter and have similar nikon at home. The use of rangefinders is standard. Yards/meters two buttons on top etc... This 550 has an lcd screen to display your angles from the base to the top of an object which is great. It automatically determines the hight usung some trig functions and its super easy. The price is firm at 350.oo but you do get great optices and eye relief is much better than other models. If you are just ranging go for a cheep alternative. This is for those of you who like to know more scientific information such as angle to target. I love this little thing.