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Leica 1200 Scan Rangefinder Archery Equipment
Archery Equipment Manufacturer: Leica
Leica Model: 1200 Scan Rangefinder
Review Category: Archery Equipment
Purchase: Archery Equipment I purchased this rangefinder from Cabelas for $549.00 plus shipping. I have found it at a lower price from other on-line camera shops. Cabelas has a proven customer service department, so saving a extra $20.00 or less was not worth the risk for me. I picked the Leica because it had the best performance of any rangefinder I tried. The reason for choosing the 1200 Scan model was simply. "Buy the best with the most power within your required needs." I compared a Leica 800 in a side by side comparison to a Bushnell Yardage Pro 400, 800, Sport, and Trophy models. The Leica was far better in some of the critical test areas. I use my Leica for everything all year long, but I will only cover the Archery use in this review.
Things I like about the Leica 1200 Scan Rangefinder Archery Equipment: The Leica's size is almost perfect for fitting in a jacket pocket. When the Leica is around your neck it lays flat, and does not have the weight to be moving around. The solid construction/housing of the Leica was the quietest when rubbing and tapping it with brush. The Bushnell models seemed to have that hollow plastic pipe sound. The Leica was hands down the best at picking up specific targets at all ranges. I used some obscured targets out to 70yds. I also used pine/fir limbs, and sage brush limbs between the target for testing. The Leica never picked up any objects other then the intended target. At times the opening to the target was less then a foot in diameter. All of the Bushnell models would false read several times, and would also give the correct reading. I did not use any obstruction that would have interferred with a arrows flight to the target. To me it was a absolute requirement that I get a correct reading the first time. Battery life seemes to be excellent. I just changed mine after having it in use for one year. The battery was still working, but I felt it was time to change it out. The scan mode is activated with the same button, and works as it is supposed to. I did not see a very practical use for the scan feature. The optic quality is 100% Leica and is very clear.
What I don't like about the Leica 1200 Scan Rangefinder: The magnification is a little strong and the field of view small for archery. At longer ranges you do not notice the small field of view. I wish it was 100% waterproof on just water resistant. I have hunted with it in the rain and snow, but I try to keep it inside by jacket. It has gotten wet, but it has always worked fine.
Archery Equipment 1200 Scan Rangefinder quality: I covered most of this already. The quality will speak for itself as soon as you pick it up. You get what you pay for in most instances. I have never said or heard anyone say "I wish, I shold have, I could have, etc." who owns a Leica. I continually hear people with other brands say thay "should have just paid the money and gotten the Leica". My favorite is "Yeah that is a lot better, but this is good enough for me". You will hear the same when you get your Leica Rangefinder.
1200 Scan Rangefinder summary: It is hard to afford the best quality items, but you will never be sorry. I have had to finance and make payments on some of my equipment. I like this saying from HK Firearms "IN A WORLD OF COMPROMISE, SOME MEN DON'T"
Rating for this Leica product: 5
Author of this review on Leica Archery Equipment: Ron Oules
Date: 2005-01-19
Usefulness Rating: 4.2 out of 5.
5 reader(s) voted.
This Leica Archery Equipment review brought to you by Hunting & Fishing Gear Review!
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