8x32 Bino's with laser range finder

[VertigoBE]

Hello Friends,

I might be starting to have a look at options for an 8x32 optic (or similar) with an incorporated laser range finder. As far as I can tell, there are only 2 premium options, Leica and Swarovski. And then some lower priced models.

Who has experience with any or all of these? I saw for instance that GPO has a set at about 1/3rd of the price of the Leica and the Swarovski. Any feedback on Leica over Swarovski, either over other options, etc.?

Is the integrated laser function a big benefit, over a separate one? Is there a decrease in optical performance between two identical models, one with and one without a rangefinder?
These need to be charged, how often?

The reason I'm interested in one is for DG hunts, where I intend to shoot big bores, where knowing the distances is just a big bonus. (How far is that herd away, how far is that hillside, how far is the target animal so I know the holdover.) The 8x32, in order to cut down on weight and keep it small and handy.

I already have a simple pair of bino's in 8x32 from GPO. And a pair of Swarovski SLC 10x42's.

Best regards and thanks for your input!

V.

 

[AZDAVE]

Following your request. I have a set of 8x42 RF Leica's that are great but like you said heavy.

 

[slam8031]

I have been down this road also! A few thoughts—-
The swaro and Leica are really good products. NL bino and Leica bino are better glass than their ranging binos, but only by a little (imo).
Swaro and Leica have limits on the rangefinder in the binos that is shorter than lifetime warranty. So if rangefinder dies you have an impressively heavier bino.
Because I choose to reduce variables, I went with a separate rangefinder because it’s cheaper and more easily replaceable.
My son purchased a set of range finding leupold binos that are really nice ( though not swaro or Leica).

 

[Dirtdart]

Over the years I have used the 10x42 Leica Geovid of various generations. I have been very pleased with the Geovid but have to agree that they are a bit heavy.
A couple of years ago I picked up the GPO 8x32 Rangeguide for occasions where weight, or lack of was a higher priority than glass quality such as long walks in hot temperatures.

I have not been able to compare the GPO non rangefinding bino to the Rangeguide but so far I really like the little GPO. I have them set where they display range and ambient temperature which is all I need. I will not hesitate to replace this model with the same if for some reason these go AWOL.