Rangefinder scopes

[meles meles]

We've just read a review of a rangefinder scope (Burris Eliminator) and it was highly rated by the reviewer. That said we're a ikkle bit sceptical of most reviews in magazines these days. Do any of you oomans have thoughts to offer on laser rangefinding scopes? The laser rangefinders and target designators we used in our day job were excellent but many times the cost of the Burris and similar offerings and we have a sneaking suspicion that one gets what one pays for. Reviews included. Now, as you lot tend to squeak your minds, give us your views...

[TJC]

Turrets are poor and controls too far forward, it is huge so depends what you want to mount it on and there have been reports of returns but that's to be expected with new products I suppose. Aside from that i hear it is decent. Good glass, works as advertised. Only keeps data for 90 secs and but matches up to ballistic tables. Better for hunting than tactical shoots.

[Matt]

I've seen one used on a 223 ar thingy used at Lydd on the reactive figure 11s at ranges from 100 to about 800yds using tracer as the day was coming to a close late last year, worked really well switching from distance to distance with a hit on every target smile2

It was the older version but worked well, I think there is a newer version now that it a little smaller with higher magnification etc

Would I have one..... Yep - if constantly changing shooting distances and if I couldn't be bothered working out elevation on the scope reticule and calculating distances etc.

[Scotsgun]

Mate was desperate for one so bought in the US and got it shipped. Far inferior to the Ziess and forget using the animals for ranging. He was soon trying to find rocks and other features near the prey due to it failing to return a reading off soft, dull objects.
Sat next to him on a highseat during an evening and stalk and the scope 'greyed' out long before my or any other average scope would. He soon removed it from his rifle and was trying to flog it.
Personally I'd use a decent handheld rangefinder and mark the ranges on your turrets. That or just work out a doping chart. If you simply must have one then wait a year. I'm sure dealers will be desperate to flog you one of the many not moving from their shelves.