Swaro EL Range Bino 10x42...Advise

I wasnt really shopping but another thread has got my juices going. My binos are ancient and I could use a new pair with RF and Im ready to "buy once cry once". Judd posted this link on Swaro and said it was a great price. Its a close out price at $2500. Swaro EL Range Bino 10x42.
https://www.eurooptic.com/swarovski-el-range-binocular-fieldpro-package-10x42-70020.aspx
My problem is I want this to be easy. I will just keep using my old ones if I have to do a bunch of research. Unless yall can talk me out of these then I will probably pull the trigger, maybe tomorrow or Thur.
What I WANT is GREAT glass and GOOD RF, along with simplistic and minimalistic operating. 10x.
What I do NOT WANT is ballistic stuff or anything complicated. If I need instructions or training then Ill stand pat with my old reliable.
I also DO NOT care if its the perfect product or the cheapest product. I just want it to do what I want it to do and I want it to last about forever.
Thanks in advance for any input.

What is your "old reliable"?

I have elected to keep the binocs and RF separate. Binocular technology is, arguably, about as good as it gets these days. Rangefinders, on the other hand, keep getting better. Admittedly, I just hunt on this place any more, and I know distances to most spots, so a RF is something I need, but not something I need all the time. Hunting multiple places and unknown distances, however, would possibly lead me to a combined unit.

Absolutely buy those or Leica Geovid 3200. They are alpha glass, and good lasers.

The Leica is supposed to be a great laser, with 3200 yard range (which I do need). I went with the Leicas, since they compensate for angle, and have and have a smaller reticle.

Creek, old reliable is Leupold 10x40 I won at DSC big buck contest in 1992ish. No idea what model. I look through friends high end binos and can’t seem to tell difference but they laugh at me and say I’m blind, which I am.

603, very good idea about bino tech kinda leveling out while RF may not be. In my case I don’t need big improvement in RF since I won’t range very far and don’t want the ballistic stuff.

Fireman, how much are those Leicas? These Swaro are supposed to do angle compensation as well.
I guess for bow hunting I still have to carry separate RF cause specs say it only goes down to 33 yards. Do others go lower/closer?

I don’t own a swaro el range Binos, but I have two pairs of swaro binoculars. They are nothing short of phenomenal in optics quality. I have played with a pair of el range my guide had on one of my hunts. I can’t imagine anyone being unhappy with the optics quality and range finding ability. You’ll pay a steep price but as you said buy once cry once.

freerange, I think I read where the new Geovid Pro's like DStroud talked about range from 10 yds to 2500. I doubt there's much discernable difference between the Swaro and Leica optics. The new Leicas have a 10 yr passport warranty, no fault, covers everything including electronics. That's a great warranty in comparison to most everyone except Vortex.

Thanks Erny and others.
Jgraider, if any of the other high end ones range down to 10 yards(bow hunting) then that may be enough to get me off the Swaros. Is all else the same? 10x? Its probably got the ballistic stuff though which I guess I wouldnt have to use as long as it didnt complicate other functions. Price is more I assume...???

I think the MSRP is around $2800. Not sure if there are deals to be found or not.

Look at them at Camera Land and Euro Optic.

Think the laser goes down to 10 yards.

Thanks Fireman. Double thanks for teaching me to fish instead of just giving me the fish. I guess Camera Land and Euro optic can answer a lot of my questions(duh.) I dont buy much stuff and Im not used to researching. I guess I assume any phone call will be like most tech support where you talk to robots or in foreign languages. Is Camera Land the guy thats on here? Doug/Bullfrog or something?

Doug here and my pleasure to speak with you, 516-217-1000, if you have a few moments to give a call.

Update...New box to check. This is a good example of why I shouldnt buy a high price item without researching. I never even thought about using the RF Bino in a bow hunting application. I would hate to spend 2500 to 3000 and still have to fumble with a separate RF for short distance bow hunting. My passion is rifle hunting and the quality bino is more important for that, but I have just started to hunt the same big WT with an xbow and would want the RF Bino to work there also. The Swaro only ranges down to 33 yds(per specs) and apparently others will go closer. The main reason I got on Swaro was it was a good closeout price. This knocks Swaro out so Im more open now to options. If I can get a human sales rep on the phone that represents multiple lines then maybe I can narrow this down.

Well, Doug typed faster than me. Give me a little bit and Ill call.

FR, doug will take care of you, good dude and will give you as good a price as you will find.

Having said that, i know you hunt mostly xbow, but one thing to consider is the bulkiness of the binos vs the small form factor of a simple range finder, and how that will impact your ability to put down the binos at that range or let them hang and potentially clang against your xbow while attempting to shoot. For that reason A LOT of bow hunters prefer two separate units, one to use while gun hunting and scouting and one for bow hunting.

The swaro ELs are great, as are the Leica RF binos. Premium glass and excellent range finding capabilities in terms of ease of use and reliability. Each can connect to a ballistic app in some form but you don’t need that.

Just adding more thought to the pile you are already thinking about

Agreed.

Nothing wrong with getting a fairly inexpensive, separate, range finder just for bow hunting. I wouldn't think you'd ever need binos for bow hunting, especially not 10X. And there are range finders small enough that they will fit in a shirt pocket. Sig Kilo being one.

But back to the 10X Leica binos. Where I hunt in SW Texas, there is line of sight on the ranch for literally over a mile. Glossing canyon walls, looking for animals, I se trails and believe I could hit something on that trail. Then I range it, and it's over 1000 yards, then think "better not". Point being extremely clear and crisp 10X will make you think things are much closer than they are.

An example \/\/

Texbuck and Fireman, thanks for advice on maybe a separate RF for bow. I’m new to adding xbow hunting along with rifle so I’ll admit to being unsure incorporating binos and RF with xbow. So far I have used RF AND binos so I’m assuming going to RF/bino combo will be better. Some of our bow setups you can see a long ways so can’t imagine hunting without binos.
I’m at my retina specialist(yep, blind) so I’ve got another update in a bit.

Ok, talked to Doug at Camera Land. VERY impressed with him. Family owned company for years and he’s part of family. Did not seem hard sell in any way and took all the time I needed. Seemed knowledgeable and even seemed a little old school like me. I’m sure he’s able to speak to whatever audience he has but he seemed relatable to me and my situation.
Doug had an expensive suggestion and one half the price and I’m now considering the two.
Leica Geovid 3200 10x40. I don’t need the ballistics but it has them. Seems to check all my boxes and at a higher level than maybe I need.
GPO Range Guide 10x50. Does NOT have ballistics but I don’t need anyway. He says great glass and RF. I think this may be in the class of Vortex Fury HD. I assumed the “50” would make a size difference that I wouldn’t like but it’s same size as Leica.
Any comments on the two or anything else? Remember, I need(I think) an option that ranges close for bow hunting.
Also, where can I walk in and put my hands on some of these? DFW, ETx or I’ll drive about anywhere.

Scheels, Bass Pro, Cabelas in DFW for the Leicas. I would call and have them put on hold so you can guarantee they are there when you arrive.

As far as the GPOs the only place I see in DFW listed is DFW shootings sports in Bedford. I would call to make sure they are in stock. I have never heard of GPO before, which doesn’t mean anything.

Doug is good people. You're talking to the right folks. I can't comment on any of the options you're considering, but the Leica or Swaro would normally get my vote. That said, if you're half blind, the glass quality may not matter that much and the GPO option Doug suggested would get some serious consideration.

TheRing, thanks, Im gonna call around.
Patriot, good comment on my eyesight. My eyesight is probably not THAT bad. I have wondered if less than ideal vision would keep a person from being able to really get all out of the top end glass. Common sense says that better optics make bad eyes better but I wonder if the difference is appreciable over the next level down of optics.

I have the GPO Range Guide 10x50. To me the glass is clear, they are light, smaller than a lot of 10x50's. The range finder is fast and will range out to 3000 yds hard target and out to 800 yd soft non reflective target (deer etc). Can't compare them to the Leica's as I wasn't able to look through them.

Pardon me here - I am finding this rather hard to believe.

Hud, I knew you would. Been waiting for your remarks. The money I save from wearing old jeans and boots, I put towards binos.
The cookie jar money is enough to buy new binos about every 30 years or so, rather I need them or not.
I may still go the "cheap" route with the GPOs in an attempt to keep your image of me intact.

FR, better optics will make any eyes better.

Hudbone, i have compared alpha glass in store to beta glass and the difference can be subtle and difficult to determine if not pushed, something impossible to do in store. Most reviews talk of edge to edge clarity being the biggest difference and lack of induced aberration (spherical or chromatic being the two chief ones discussed) and those typically wont come out much until lower light.

Were you saying you find it hard to believe the GPO glass is pretty good or that anyone would compare it To Leica or Swaro? I guess i am trying to say your statement needs a littler clarification please….

Tex Buck, I will clarify Huds statement. Its a somewhat inside joke that he makes fun of me never buying anything new. Hes part right and part wrong, but its all in fun....
Think twice before ever taking Hud too seriously.
TexBuck, thanks for the info on the eyesight. Coming from an eye surgeon, it carries some weight.

freerange, Meopta has a bino/rf too that doesn't have all the ballistic software, the Optika HD long range or something like that. Just figured I'd convolute the decision making process a little more......

Yes you did but that’s ok. I know the guy owns STx Tripods and he carries Meopta so I can call him for solid info. 👍
JG, no comment on the GPO? Doug said very comparable to Vortex Fury.

All I know about GPO is that a guy from Zeiss helped start and runs the company. They're not German, but Asian manufacture, in this case I think they are Chinese made. Quite frankly I would think/hope they are better than the Fury's, as I found them to be very, very average optically. Deans told me one time the glass in his was very good though. Sig's/Fury/ Nikon Laserforce are practically clones of each other in build quality and optics, and like I said they are very average. If the GPO is really in that class, I'd look hard at Meopta personally.

My two cents. For a hardcore trophy whitetail hunter the alpha glass is worth what you pay. Resolution of detail in low light and extended viewing are where the benefits are realized. If you are buying to shoot long range targets get the binoculars with the range finder. If you are buying to trophy hunt and spend a lot of time glassing buy alpha binocs and a quality one handed range finder. You will like the lighter weight and better balance without the range finder for glassing. Extended glassing with heavy binocs get bouncy without a tripod or a rest. Alpha binocs are lifetime warranty on the binocs. Range finder will have a specified time limit they are covered. I find I much prefer a small quality one handed range finder in my pocket and a more ergonomic pair of top of the line binoculars around my neck while hunting. The target guys and hunters that spend all their time in a box blind may disagree.
Best of luck on your choice of binocs to invest in.

Here's a little more info, but a little dated by now.

https://www.outdoorlife.com/top-rangefinding-binoculars-put-to-test/

I own the Leica Geovid 3200 10x42 and have looked thru the Swaro EL Range Bino 10x42 side by side with a buddy who owns the Swaro's. The Leica's are not nearly as crisp and clear as the Swaro's under the same lighting conditions. The rangefinder on my Leica's will range from about 10-12 yards out to 3300+ yards. I ranged a deer blind on the side of hill from a good rest on a deer blind window ledge this past hunting season here where I live that was over 3300 yards from me. I get no eye fatigue when glassing from daylight till dark with my Leica's and did not with the old Geovid 10x42 I had before. IIRC the Leica's were a little bit heavier than the Swaro's. The Leica's have a lot of other things added to them now the old model did not have. I could do without most of it. The biggest change for me was adjusting the button placement for rangefinding compared to the old model. I hate if for bowhunting since I am righthanded and that button is on the left of the new button. Had I started with the newer model it would not be an issue.

I didn’t know the Zeiss connection, that’s cool and good to know.

I know this crap is so subjective and I’ll admit I’ve got good vision but normally don’t see big differences in glass other guys do. I must have one of the superb Sig’s and a buddy has a crappy Zeiss RF binos because I could ID animals sooner thru them faster than I could in his. The location of the range button would keep me from buying them.

My opinion is it’s the Leica, Sig 10x or Swarvo’s in the high price range finders…or you should go down to the cost group JG listed as being the clones.

I didn’t know you bow hunted, sorry freerange…my fault but you’re right, that won’t work with the 33y.

Having utilized Swaros for years now, I have little complaint with them. Wasted too much money on what turned out to be sub-par optics prior. I do not have a built in range finder in mine. Klappenbach made the unfortunate decision to let his wife look through his Leica's one hunt so he now has two pair of their range finding binos. I know he likes them bunches.

Free's looking into something he can only hope is similar to Swaro or Leica so he can save money is pretty much just how I wasted money on prior purchases. The focal clarity difference in quality lenses while being used in broad daylight is not as big as most would think and some think not enough to be worth it, but the ability to heavily utilize without eye fatigue and in low light conditions is, well, pretty darn nice. Ain't no way I could go backwards.

Swarovski with no RF here also. 'Nothing like them.

JG, Thank you for tossing the Meopta Optika LR 10x42 HD binorangefinder into the mix. I have been using a pair for over a year now and have zero complaints. For your purposes, I think they would fit your needs just fine, very nice Meopta glass and ranges from 4-2600 yards with incline decline correction.You will definitely appreciate the price as well and hopefully Doug can help you out a too. While I appreciate wanting a binorangefinder, I am not sure that that is going to be what is best for your needs. Perhaps a stand alone 1200 yards range finder and then a top shelf set of binos like the MeoStar B1 Plus will fit your needs better? If youy want to take a look at the Optika LR's, here's a review that has some great info. https://www.americanhunter.org/content/hardware-meopta-optika-lr-10x42-hd/

Bart, I couldn't find this info aywhere.......warranty on electronics? 2 yr, 5 yr? Thanks.

Im back. Bottom line, at this time, im LEANING TOWARDS the Leica 3200. Going to Colo tomorrow and Ill go through DFW on the way and go to Scheels(my first time) to put my hands on them(maybe others.) I wont walk out with them cause Doug at Camera Land has earned by business.
The jury is still out so keep the comments coming. This has been an outstanding thread for me. Its interesting that most everyone that responded has been someone that I respect. There havent been any idiots like you often get commenting on other topics. Not sure why that is, but its been nice. Im disappointed Bobo hasnt commented.
-Meopta and the next step down-Doug didnt have anything negative to say but he didnt brag on them. To a somewhat optic novice like me, it seems Meopta, GPO and the ones JG mentioned are about half the price and maybe 80% as good as the big dogs. Depending on a persons budget and their hunting style/seriousness, the half money is likely a smart way to go. Im in a position to buy once cry once and not complain, and based on a lifetime of throwing good money after bad(as Hud mentioned) Im leaning towards top of the line. Swaro is out cause its doesnt range close for bow hunting.
-Separate bino and range finder--Out of tremendous respect for Smokey and Texbuck, I have to address this. Im hoping the extra weight of the combo unit is not a big deal. Admittedly, Ive gotten away from big country on foot hunting(may go back), so maybe itll be ok. Also, STx, Jgraider and MANY other serious hunters use the combo units so I think that says a lot. IF IF IF I need a separate setup for bowhunting, I will ALWAYS have a separate RF and I always carry a small 8x20 Zeiss on my belt. STx, Jgraider and others feel free to comment on the weight and bulk difference of the combo units. Another plus that I anticipate with a combo bino/rf is that now I rarely use my RF but I glass a lot. With the combo unit I anticipate glassing a lot and just go ahead and check the range while Im at it. Glass and range, glass and range, repeat. That should help me learn ranging and ranges of landmarks. No way thats nearly as convenient(so it wont happen) with separate units.
Keep it coming guys, but now your job is to talk me out of the Leica 3200 10x42. THANKS A LOT, so far.

Also, for what its worth, if I already owned a high end bino like Creek, Hud and others, I doubt I would go to a combo unit. My situation is that I have a very outdated pair of binos and if Im going to upgrade it just seems a no brainer(to me) to go the combo route. Even for someone on a mid to low budget, it just seems logical for most to go the combo bino/RF route.

There are fantastic stand alone binoculars and there are fantastic stand alone range finders.

Personally, I only wanted to carry one thing.

Most people have tons of experience hunting alone. And anyone that has done it enough on open terrain (no blind) has the stories of glassing, ranging, then putting that, or those tools down and grabbing the rifle scope. At times, the animal has moved or you can't find what you were looking at in your observation optic in your rifle scope. At least not quickly.

But oh man, when you're hunting with someone else, it is a game changer. A good friend and I have got to do it several times. Big country in Terrell County, Brewster County, and Presidio County. One guy on binos or spotter, and the other in his rifle scope. It's nice to be able to call out ranges for the guy on the rifle. He and I have made some one shot clean kills at some fairly serious distances that way.

Freerange, IF you're committed to the alpha makers, I applaud the 3200.com decision:
1. Leica's new 10 yr no fault warranty includes electronics. No other alpha can touch it
2. Glass isn't Swaro EL quality, but not far off, and is excellent no matter how you slice it
3. Slow focus-Leica has it, and it's easy, easy easy to get a super sharp image the first time
4. The new Leica hunter's app is supposed to be excellent
5. Bigger size-- I use a bino harness, and it's no more of a hassle than regular binos IMO
6. They feel great in your hands, very comfy. You can glass all day with these things.
7. Enjoy, and have some fun with it.

I will second JGRAIDER’s endorsement of the Leica 3200. 4 of the men I hunt with have them. They all rave about them. I have used them and they are high quality. I own the Zeiss victory SF and a quality pocket range finder I wear on a lanyard. I sold my Zeiss Victory RF to go that route. If I was going back to binoculars with a rangefinder I would prefer the Zeiss. It weighs less than the Leica and will range at 10 feet. I prefer the truer color rendition of the Zeiss over the greenish high contrast image of Leica. The alpha binoculars all add an extra coating to the lenses to facilitate the laser. The alpha range finding binoculars are fantastic but are not quite as bright in low light due to the added coating for the laser. Having the most Low light capability I can get is my priority in a pair of alpha binoculars for what I get out of them.

Several years ago the only game in the range finding binocular was Leica. I bought the 10X42s. I loved them, but they were bulky and cumbersome. Since then several more manufactures entered the game and Leica updated their design with a much better ergonomic design. I update to the HD-Bs. I can say even with the old version it's the single handed best piece of hunting equipment I own. I've never regretted the purchase. I use mine all the time from bow hunting, at the range, turkey hunting, etc. You won't regret any of the higher end binos with a range finder built in.

Jgraider, thanks for spelling all that out. By "slow focus" do you mean it just has real small increments to keep you from blowing by the ideal focus one way then the other???
Smokey had to throw Zeiss out there. Ive always thought they were right there as the big 3 but havent had anyone mention them. May be too late across the stream to change horses. Also, never heard about a green tint. Anyone comment on that?
Barney-thats a good basic real world endorsement. Since Im leaning real heavy to the Leica then any positive feedback sounds good.
Everything like this is so subjective but I feel like Ive considered everything as it pertains to me and Im feeling pretty good. Ill be at Scheels in the morning to put my hands on them.
Thanks to everyone.

Right on freerange.

Just left Scheels and put my hands on the Leica. Dang, they seemed bigger and bulkier than I thought. Then got to truck and my old pair was right at same length. Gotta think on it more. I’m so far in that direction I’m not sure I’ll turn/stop.
That ranger is so fast and easy, I don’t know that I can do without that upgrade. That’s really a game changer.

Whatever you purchase, take better care of them than Bobo would.

How rude.

Look, I tried to help him. Mailed him an Anti-lost Bluetooth Button. Get this, it was lost in the mail.

I can say i have a leica rf and i bought it as at the time it was the top of the class, since then many new comers and leica is still up there.
BOBO has recommended leica to me as a all-in-one combo unit in the past. I wont speak for him now as that was about a year or so ago, but i do not think you will miss too much with the Leica 3200 from the swaro ELs.


Now if swaro ever made their pures into a combo unit…that would be the cats meow. For pure glassing, the swaro NL Pure 10x42 are supposed to be IT.

FR, when you are at scheels you might look through them and see what you think (if they have some in stock). They are not a combo so not what you are looking for, but they are currently the pinnacle of alpha glass, so you will be able to compare the Leica 3200 to the best of the best.

Edit, i see i am about a day late and a dollar short. Its what I get for bonefishing….anyway, i digress, my apologies for being late to the game.

I doubt Scheels have the new Leica Pro’s in stock as they are pretty hard to find still. They are the perfect size to me.
They do have Ballistic built in that you didn’t need if I read correctly but might be worth looking at.

Well, I put this decision on back burner for a few days.
When I tried them at Scheels they really seemed big and bulky. Still really like a lot about them and not sure what else I would get. Wish I had them now in Colo to try them out. Maybe when I go back through I can take my regular pair in to get a direct comparison.

I've seen the Leica RF binos, way too big and bulky for mountain hunting for me anyway. They ado work tremendously well though range finding.
For us good glass in binos are best and a stand alone range finder for when needed.

Hit up Sportsman's Warehouse also to look.

My bet he was all good with the cost of the binos but backed out when the sales tax was added.

Dang extra 8.25%.

No sales tax or shipping costs from Doug at Camera Land.
I’ve been outa town for a week and put decision on hold till I can refocus on it.
Keep thinking how big and bulky the Leica RF 10x42 was when tried them at Scheels. If not for that I would of bought.
I’ve considered the 8x32 thinking they would be smaller. Ive had 10x for decades and don’t think I would be happy with less.
I may research and consider no RF binos since they would be smaller but I really like the concept of combo unit. Really torn right now. I wish I would hear more from guys with the bigger stuff that say they are ok for on foot hunting.

Not sure if you are looking at this correctly. Do you ever take shots over 300 yards?

No, but it makes a difference(to me) if it’s 225, 250, 275, 300.

Then why is a range finder capable of 1,000 yards so important?

Did you get your taco this morning? I'm picking up a little low blood sugar.

1000 yard range finder not important at all. But I want it for lesser yards and ease of quickly checking. Wouldn’t that be a good deal for you looking down those long senderos.,..!

Free, it’s an individual decision. I went through it not so long ago. Thought that was what I wanted. Probably partially because several of the men I hunt with have and raved about the RF binoculars to hunt with. After using them for a season, the number of times I actually needed the range finder was not worth holding the extra weight every second I glassed. Factor in that I hunt a lot. (At least st 2-3 days a week after or before work and every weekend except when I’m bird hunting) That was with the Zeiss which has the lightest weight of the big 3 alpha binoculars.

Good luck with your decision. Regardless of whether or not you go with RF binocs, you will love any of the the Alpha glass for trophy hunting.

Bino slides out, rifle slides in and then things die.

So, that’s all you got for me, Bobo..?
If I need a tripod/rifle rest, I’ll get one of those, but meantime your opinion on the topic would carry some weight with me. Are you endorsing Maven?

Size and weight of the gear matters to me, just like it does for many others. That’s why, mostly anyway, why I still use the old Leicas I have. Great binocs, but maybe not as good as what’s available now. But, due to the prisms they use (too expensive for production any more), they are quite small for 10x40’s. In the past I’ve looked at replacements, but they are bigger and heavier. But, the other day while wandering through Cabelas, I saw a pair of Swarovski 10 powers that were about the same size as my old Leicas. Very expensive, and lust worthy, but deserves consideration. Like I said earlier, I’d go for the great binocs and separate RF.

And somebody asked the obvious question: do you need 1000 yards or more of RF ability? It’s a good question, but as I have found out, 1000 yards to a shiny white target is one thing, but will the fancy RF range a mud covered hog at 500 or a small very non-reflective coyote at 400.

Anyway, we are all waiting to see what you buy.

Maven doesn’t make a combo unit.

From on optical standpoint Maven has nothing that beats or even
evenly match’s the EL’s and NL’s. They do compete with the EL’s but don’t match. The old EL range did not have same coatings as regular EL’s, the new ones do. So optically Id say the NEW EL range is slightly above the Maven’s B.2 and slightly below the Swaro NL pure.

I will likely step up to combo unit once Lecia or Swaro release a 12x combo unit. Both those run together giving similar optics with different ergonomic and software that will be more user preference. I care more about 12x then glass and I can live with the user preferences for the glass and 12x

Honestly the Lecia and Swaro to me is a toss up and will come down to ergonomics and personal preferences

My advice is get the RRS “cinch” and take your glassing to a new level on a tripod or even monopod

Best thing I can tell you is drop $7k on the CC and run the Lecia and Swaro SxS and see what you like. Send the others back

On the way back from Colo now so I guess we stop in FW Bass Pro and do more of a comparison than I took time for at Scheels. I’ll take my old pair in.
Of course, if we take time to stop I may have to factor in price of “cute shoes” for her.

Well, Bobo FINALLY responded while I typed:) Thanks, and thanks to everyone.

FR I ordered the Swaro's but have not had them in the field yet. They are crystal clear, sharp and impressive glass for sure.

Honestly think you would be happier ordering both from Cabelas(or any where with a good return policy) and using them out side the store. I always fell cheated on optics viewing inside the store. Need natural shadows at sun up and sun down is the real test

Thanks for advice Bobo but I have ZERO plans to learn anything optical in store. Just wanting to compare size, weight, bulk etc.

Yeah ol' "Big Deal" gots it going - take heavy butt binos, complicate matters with a cumbersome tri-pod, sleep in the bed of your your truck and lose something. Wait until he picks an outfit for you.

Let me know when your ready for a optical viewing stabilizing device

Hud you got to admit those socks are the bee’s knees and the perfect complement to any Lederhosen derived type apparel!!

Exactly!

Afternoon waterhole eh Bobo. A tripod makes a lot of sense in that setup and gets the most out of a pair of binoculars. With 12x, A tripod or a rest is a necessity for me if I’m glassing for any length of time. I’m more traditional. 8x if you can’t hold a 10 steady. 10x if you are steady. My wife is a died in the wool birder. Her and her birdwatching friends gave me an education on binoculars.

Tell us what you get Free.

Those are 11x and In addition to glassing a bunch, I video/photo through my phone also. Even with 8’s I can find more animals on a tripod. Tripod has just become second nature to me. It’s light weight carbon fiber <3 lbs

That picture I hiked it in 3 miles.

I would love to learn more about the tripod set up BOBO…

And the leiderhosen Hud, at least maybe a picture is warranted now. Affer all, BOBO did show a pic of his sleeping hole and his honey hole, but we dont need fo see any Hud holes, just some pics of the bavarian leathers.

FR, you are making me want to spend some money on alpha glass…you need to buy something quick! But drive safely back home from CO

"And the leiderhosen Hud," - it takes a real man to wear leather shorts.

I looked at a tripod bino setup an AK guide had. Holy-moly they're proud of that stuff! To me, only a full-time guide could justify spending that. Can't remember the brand. "Outdoor" something maybe.

And a little wool hat in 100+° Texas heat.

I thought they were too pricey as well but I must admit I use the heck out of mine since I broke down and bought one.
I use it for shooting matches 2-3 times a month. Pig hunting/ Varmint and Big Game hunting so Its definitely getting used but they are still expensive but mine is excellent quality!
It’s a RRS with a BH55head IIRC

You have top of the line 2vets, RRS and Outdoorsmen etc.

Then you got the Amazon prime versions that are a few ounces more and slightly lessor carbon fiber but work extremely well for a 10th of the price


That picture above is a Sirui v5 head and this tripod. I was wrong on weight is about 5lb all in. My sub3lb is a Sirui but it’s shorter and doesn’t work as well with full size spotter

I know! I have a friend who I travelled to bavaria with and at that time he talked about wanting some, and shortly after got some. Not sure if he mail ordered from bavaria or if he just got some in the states.

I was just saying we need some pics of those. Since BOBO gave us some pics, how about a pic of the leathers?

Nice set up. Did you switch over to an acra plate on rifle too?

I don't recall the sirui head having an adapter for the rifle...do you just remove the glass and then rest the rifle on the tripod or is there some other piece on the rifle you use to attach to the tripod?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B092CHZTQ2/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_4?smid=A176JZWP3HA4ZJ&psc=1

^^ my tripod...it has a little wider footprint than I prefer for a sitting shot but for standing this thing is AWESOME. I have a Really Right Stuff (RRS) Anvil 30 head on it...I glassed all morning last weekend with my binos with an Outdoorsman stud/arca plate on the binos and then shot an axis off it at 356y. I was apprehensive at first but I'm a believer now, I used the picatinny rail on the end of my gun...I will end up with short arca rails more back toward the mag in the future.

If I was to use it to shoot from sitting mainly, I would get a different one but I really like the inverted legs and anvil 30 head. I'm also of the opinion that the less sections the better...those joints have flex in them.

The RRS is the top of the heap...I bought the Leofoto to try to see if I'd actually like and use it...they are Chinese and 1/3 the cost of the RRS.

Good luck, I did my normal paralysis via analysis going down this path...I'm happy with my purchase at this point.

Free listen to me, back away from the cliff and DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT look at the pricing on Judd's tripod. Just repeat over and over, look there's a squirrel.

Dont worry Hud. I bought my Cullman tripod decades ago and don’t think there’s many better. I think it’s 3#s and folds flat and slips into my backpack without hardly knowing it’s there.

and you still have the original box

I finally broke my aluminum Sears Roebuck 1978 model so I had to get another. Only 20x the cost from that one.

Lots of options out there, just google arca rail for rifle, Some of the newer chassis have them built in

https://jaoutdoors.com/product/srs-arca-pic/

That’s actually pretty cool!

The one I posted is $198.

Just make sure that its tall enough you can glass standing up.

All hat and no cattle.

Dang, that hurts.
Im always accused of being too compulsive when it comes to buying anything hunting related(except for jeans/boots and stuff that doesnt actually help out the hunt). I finally take a deep breath and step back to think about it and I get called on it. Oh well, at least some one is paying attention.

FR it’s a big purchase, you have time

Go hunting with Bobo, maybe you'll "find" some things.

Then STX would have like three rangefinder and 10 pairs of gloves… ok maybe the range finders, he actually found that many gloves

Anybody know how to set up a GoFundMe account?

For Bobo or freerange?

Free range, let’s be honest I’d loose it anyway

Help an old man see better, and other mundane musings

Feel free to share this link and lets see what we can run this up to



PS. I know FR does not need the money help, this is more about having a fun time and seeing what can happen. Any proceeds will readily be given away.

Still undecided but seems like I’ll hold off for now. Really think the Leica 10x40 3200 RF would be good except uncertain if I would like the extra size and weight. Hoping to get a pair or comparable in my hands in the field.

Where are you located?

I have those, you could use and see what you see. There's lines of sight over a mile pretty close to my place.

That’s a smokin good offer Free!

Fireman, I really really appreciate that offer. I will probably take you up on it. I go through Greenville and on through Sherman somewhat regular so you shouldnt be too far off course. Otherwise, you are two hours away and I would make that drive if needed. Ive been wanting to meet you anyway. Maybe Ill bring a rifle or two and kill two birds with one stone. Probably needs to be low light to really get a good test.
Ill probably pm you.

I have both the Swaro TA and the 8x10 Leica Pros. I travel all over Texas but not sure exactly what part of Texas you’re in....
I assume somewhere out west? I have a trip to Odessa planned for next week and would be happy to travel a reasonable distance for you to try them.

He is on the opposite side of the state DStroud., without giving any particulars

Greenville to Sherman you pass within 2 miles of me on SH 11.

Have you looked ta the newer Leica Geovid Pro 32s ?

>Fireman, I sent you a pm.
>Wytex, the Leica Pro 32s are 8x arent they. Ive always used 10x and not sure I could change. However, they are smaller so I havent completely ruled them out. DStroud offered to show me his pair so I may take a look. I always carry a camera that zooms to 125x(use like spotter and often carry spotter also), so maybe I dont need the 10x....

DStroud, thanks very much for that kind offer. If we can work something out, you wont have to be the one doing any extra driving.
You said "8x10" but you meant 8x32, correct? Im sending you a PM.

Sorry might have missed you wanted 10x.
I've looked through the older Leica rangefinding binos and while nice they weighed a lot.
My 10x42 SLCs work for glassing and a cheaper Leupold 1600 ranger finder works well enough.
Spouse acquired a Gunwerks G something a few years back and the laser in it is impressive.

Good luck with your search and choice, nice offer above.

If you have the time and are interested in the Leica Pro’s 8x32 here is as thorough as a review as you can possibly get.

https://www.snipershide.com/precisi...32-laser-rangefinding-binoculars-review/

DStroud, I read a long time on that review and skipped over a bunch I wasn’t interested in. Then I realized I was just on the “introduction”. Goodness, must be longest review ever. I’ll get back to it and maybe get through by Tues. Thanks

I’ve had two real nice offers from forum members to let me try out their binos. One I tried out yesterday and another one scheduled for tomorrow. I’ll give a report afterwards on both after tomorrow.
I’ve got my eye chart ready to use-wish I had it yesterday.

You’ve got to much free time on your hands 5 pages and no purchase yet, it’s just money so buy something already

We have progression

You can’t take it with you!

'Reminds me of my ex having to pray about the most minute decision and, in the end, not making any decision.

It appears some are tiring of my thread, sorry. For those that have tried to help, I really do appreciate it.
FiremanJG and DStroud, separately, allowed me to test their binos in the field. First of all, I got to spend a lot of time with both of them and they are great guys, no doubt.
I side by side compared the following. Except my current one, they all are range finding and have ballistic stuff.
>My current Leupold 10x42 that I won in a big buck contest 30 years ago. Im guessing they were $800 back then and if there is any model type info on them then it is unreadable.
>Leica Geovid 3200 10x42. Everything about them is great to my, pretty much, novice eye. Except they seem bigger and bulkier than I am used to and could be a deal killer.
>Swaro TA 10x42. Same comments as the Leica except they dont fit in my hands as good as the Leica and definitely not as comfy as my old Leos. They have a big "hump" right where my thumbs go and the loops where strap go is where my fingers want to be. It was really annoying.
>Leica Pro 8x32. Really hard to compare 8x to 10x for me. Also, I have always used 10x so may be hard to go 8x. As expected, they are not as big and bulky as the other high end ones. If 10x42s were this size it would be an easy choice for me.

I dont know if its my bad eyes, or what, but optically, I couldnt tell much difference in any of them compared to mine. Also, mine fit me like an old pair of boots(as Fireman said). Both Fireman and Stroud could tell a decent amount of difference in all compared to mine. Im sure they are right but I spent a long time trying to split hairs to see much difference. What I did notice is that the high end stuff is clearer throughout the entire field of view compared to mine. But when I focused mine on a small area is when it didnt seem much different. Couldnt measure eye fatigue but Ill assume the good stuff would win out over mine.
I guess the jury is still out, and considering my current pair appears "good enough", its pretty easy to stand pat. I may do some more research and Im going to the TWA Annual Convention next week and there will be optic vendors there. I may keep piddling with some research but for now my decision is no decision.
Maybe Creeks ex will pray for my decision......

I was just busting your chops, my eyes have gotten bad enough in the last few years I can’t tell the difference from a thousand dollar set to a $4,000 set so I can’t justify the expense personally any more. I’ve spent solid money on Swaro’s in the past and once I couldn’t tell the difference in those and the ones I spent a grand on I gave the last good pair to my nephew for helping me one week and havnt looked back.

My 2 cents is if you can’t tell any difference don’t waste your money, it’s pointless.

Thump, I know you were busting my chops. I have no problem with you except youre too busy to ever come look at my pond problem. Its still unfixed....

You are in luck as Leica just released 10x32 Geovid Pro Rangefinding Binoculars

https://www.scheels.com/p/leica-geovid-pro-10x32-rangefinding-binoculars/79942940810.html

Oh, crap! Back to the alter.

BOBO just made me laugh

Update.... Ive certainly learned a lot during this thread. Ive learned a lot about RF binos and the various choices that are out there. Ive learned a lot about what I want, dont want, like and dont like. Ive learned what may be a deal killer and what may be icing on the cake. I had about settled on not liking anything out there compared to what ive got. Most of that was because all the options were just too big and bulky.
Then Bobo mentioned the new for 2022 Leica Pro in 10x32(not 8x and not x42). Originally the 8x32 I had a hard time thinking I would like 8x instead of the 10x im used to. I had heard about the 10x32 before but quickly forgot cause I guess I assumed I wouldnt like the 32. But both the 8x32 and 10x32 are very compact compared to ANY of the 10x42. This compact(relatively, considering RF and ballistics) size is really a game changer for me so Im seriously considering the 10x32.
For any of yall that have stayed with me on this, I wish you would revisit and tell me what you think of the Leica Pro 10x32. Mostly it has already checked all my boxes and I am mostly wanting specific opinion on what I would lose between the 32 vs 42. I think I am ok with a loss of field of view(for me.) I think the alpha glass compared to mine will make up for any loss in low light.
Any revisits from the trusted THF? Im afraid I may HAVE to buy these just to try and save face.

I don’t know anything about them but don’t buy anything just to save face!!

For what it’s worth I think we hunt some of the same type deer and similar hunting situations to an extent and personally I’m not hunting with anything but a pair of 10x42’s unless they found a way to draw more light into the 32’s. We generally kill our deer within the first and last 30 minutes of light unless it’s during the rut and that little extra makes all the difference in the world trying to decide if it’s a 160 or a 180 in the brush. I’m not terribly picky about many things related to bino’s but magnification and light gathering ability are my must haves to give me the confidence in a go or no go situation. Everyone has their preferences but mine are 10 power and 42’s,

Just FYI, no need to "save face" just for putting something out there and asking opinions. I have done lots of that in the past, none of my threads ever got as much traction, but ultimately you are in control of the purse-strings.

As I mentioned ot you earlier, my only thought on the x32's is less light gathering ability in lower light. I do not have any real world experience to compare tha to as I have always used x40's, but I am sure someone on here can give a good real world break down of where you might see it the most. I would suspect it woud be in those last trailing moments of light when it really doesn't matter since no one shoots at that late a time anyway.....aside from those mere moments of difference, do the x32's have any draw back on severe overcast days or looking into dark shadows?

I think light gathering will be not near as noticeable as one would think due to quality of glass. Your eyes can only pick up so much to begin with. Biggest difference would be FOV. IMO that’s just personal preference

I think Leica was smart in creating this size. I’d taking them archery elk hunting where I normally don’t even carry binos

It also has the mark map function for guys like me that forget where stuff was standing

Just to add to your indecision I read on another website that the 42mm Leica Pro’s will be added next year.

buzz has probably bought and sold three guns during this post

Now that’s funny!

Thanks for that info DStroud. If that was what I wanted then I would be ok waiting that long. However, I would assume the 10x42 Pros would be very similar size to the 10x42 3200s and the Swaro 10x42s and I really dont want to saddle myself with that.

Question....Field of View. Remember Im not too bright on this stuff so help me confirm.
I "assumed" 10x32 would have smaller FOV than 10x42 but according to specs online thats not true(at least on units im looking at.)
Leica Pro 10x32 shows Linear Field of View is... 345 feet at 1000 yards.
Leica 3200 10x42 shows Linear Field of View is. 342 feet at 1000 yards.
Swaro EL 10x42 shows Linear Field of View is.... 319 feet at 1000 yards.
...Am I missing something???? These are all range finding binos with ballistics.

The FOV is greater as the focal length is shorter. Regarding the two Leicas, the 10x32s have a shorter focal length than the 10x42s. Obviously focal length isn’t the only factor that impacts FOV. Also have to consider tube diameter as well as objective size. Lots of pieces to the puzzle.

I’m supprised, but they are not compact, well there goes the only negative I could see

What the good doctor is saying is, look at the specs for field of view on all of them from 0 to 500 yards.

Theringworm, thats good info but its too much for me. I dont need the WHY but im just insuring that the specs should be correct and transfer to the field.

Bobo, so if they are perfect for you then Scheels has one pair and you can buy them and let me try. I know, you want 12x. Remember, I did say they were "compact" in RELATION and COMPARED to the other high end RF with ballistic info that I was comparing to. Definitely more compact than them but nothing like my Zeiss 8x20 I can stick in my pocket.

Fireman, I hope I can trust the specs and not have to test every unit at multiple yardages in the field. I dont think FOV is super critical to me anyway.

Let’s not leave a stone unturned......

https://www.sigsauer.com/kilo6k-hd....ACT&utm_medium=email&utm_source=

Initial reports I have read say glass is good without the blue tint in the 10k’s. Doug at Cameraland’s website shows them but no stock yet as they are brand new.

According to our rep they "should be" shipping in the next few weeks

If money wasn’t an option I’d buy them for bowhunting the weight and size is pretty appealing.

I’m starting to think 12x just won’t be ever an option, So 10x on chest and 15x in pack might not be a bad way to go. Hummmm

Not too late to turn stones. Grandson baseball all day so just glanced at sig. I guess they chasing Leica on smaller. It’s even smaller I think.

Ok here’s my plan. You send Doug a deposit and get in-line early as soon as you get them call and I will get over there quick to try them out.

Or that could work in reverse. By the way I ordered that RRS Cinch thing you showed me. My duct tape adapter was due an upgrade.

Ha, ya it’s one of the best ones I’ve found. Both price and function. I’ve lost more T-post style adaptors and studs then I want to admit

This has served me, but I can’t say served me well.

I have mad respect for that trust me!!!! It almost brings a tear to my eye. That’s something I would definitely do!!! Lol

That reminds of a pic of a pair of worn out boots. FR is in need of an upgrade for sure!

I can't believe he is considering replacing them.

BOBO is FR’s spirit animal…that’s what that picture showed me

Could I get a link to this little doohickey? I'm just too lazy to look back through 7 pages.

Judd, your post on Strouds other thread about the Swaros good price is what got me started down this rabbit hole. Wasnt even on my radar. So you will get some blame or credit in the end. I dont get off old stuff easily but once I get a notion then its Katy bar the door till its over. Usually once its over I end up with something thats not JUST RIGHT for what I want/need. Im too old to end up with anything that is not JUST RIGHT(like Goldilocks and her parage.) Im trying to change the error of my ways and research thoroughly for a change. I think its paid off cause I really think the smaller unit checks all my important boxes.

Creek the doohickey wasnt posted about. I saw it when Stroud was so nice to let me check out his binos. Just google "RRS Cinch" and you should get there. It cinches onto almost any bino barrel and it has a camera style plate that attaches to a tripod for steady glassing. Compact enough to leave on bino when not on tripod. I think/hope the bottom plate comes off so it will fit most tripod heads. $45 ish.

Muchas Gracias.

If you have any questions, I called RRS and a very nice and helpful lady immediately picked up the phone. No buttons to push, not on hold, a real person and she spoke English. You should call just to BS, it might brighten your day......

All my days are so bright I gotta wear shades Baby.

FR - seems a lot of manufacturers are adding some new stuff and dropping them in the table without much press. I had no idea Sig was making that little one. So via your research, I’ve learned some stuff too.

Creek…the other option is an Outdoorsman stud, I like it better than the cinch. This is the exact one I’m running on my Sigs currently.

Ive ran outdoorsman and vortex one. the outdoorsman you have to have a separate adaptor to run on arca, Not to mention the stud has to be almost perm locticed or it will come out, with that said it won’t work with most the rangefinding Bino’s. Not saying outdoorsman isn’t a good product, but it’s time has passed by what Really Right Stuff developed with the cinch.

Outdoorsman is three pieces and has to be removed to run in bino harness. Three separate points of loose/break. The cinch does not have to be removed to put in a bino harness and no separate prices to break/loose.

Now if you are running a Outdoorsman micro pan head then obviously outdoorsmen works better but I highly suggest sticking with ARCA that way everything is interchangeable among most companies. The combo of Spotter to bino to rifle is much easier with ARCA

Just my trial and tribulations being a gear nut and crash test dummy

Judd, glad you learned something. This whole thread started because of what i picked up on DStrouds thread. Lots of what I learn on here is just from following along on some thread that I may not be real interested in and then someone lays a little tidbit in there. I love the forum.

Bobo said, "a good product, its time has passed." Somes would say that hits home with a lot of my gear.....

Here is another very lightweight option that works well but you have to get correct size.

https://www.aziakequipment.com/bino-clamp

That’s small enough that might not bug me like the RRA. I bookmarked it, thanks DS!

Bobo…I have one and fully understand how they work and the drawback(s). The RRA is little bulky and would not slide in/out of my chest harness smoothly. It’s not the silver bullet

Judd… get a better chest rig

The RRS slides in and out of the Marsupial gear smoothly with Maven b2 11x45(which are big Bino’s but probably smaller then your Vortex RF) . Worst case flip lever, move up the barrel and lock back down. I carried all year in WTX, NM and CO. Zero issues

That’s saves some ounces. I wonder about the smaller depth of the arca base, not being as deep.

My interest got me, Ordered one @ $42, will compare.

Some real good info being traded on this thread! Good work guys!!

Hunting now with deadly "Marsupial gear"? Fear the Koala!, could be the new clown war cry.

Please note the rangefinder firmly attached

I don't know what product that is on the left...but I like looking at it.

It says its a twin pack, but pretty sure there are three pouches there.

Not all pouches are created equal. Just ask any student of marsupials.
I just hope the mods realize those are elbows. Pretty good glassing technique.
I guess Ill save my leather and lug nut comment for the other thread.....

Well if those are elbows, then that makes the pouches catcher mitts

I am sure anyone who has not dealt with double mastectomy surgeries has any idea what that CureDiva double pouch is used for….lets just say they are a harness to catch drainage from a surgical removal of where those elbows wpuld have been….

Funny that it came up with a google search for marsupial gear.

Carry on

Well, thats a buzz kill. Sorry. I didnt know google ever error'd.
Back to topic.

Well I apologize. I didn't know what they were and we, in fact, have dealt with a double mastectomy.

Well that just killed hump day. And we are all aholes

Wasnt trying to he a buzz lkill, just trying to figure out what that was all about. Figured you guys would want to know too

Freerange, did any binocs get bought? I’m not going back through 8 pages to find out.

Dont blame you 603. I am waiting till Scheels gets the pair in I think I want so I can put hands on them. Ive narrowed it down so that if they are compact enough then I am ok with everything else. The Leica Pro 10x32. About the only quality pair of RF binos that are not too big and bulky for me.
I really messed up when DStroud let me spend extended time with his pair is 8x. I also had my old reliable and he also had the more popular big and bulky pair of 10x42. His 8x is exactly the same chassis as the 10x. But at the time I discounted both the 8x and the 32 objective that I didnt pay attention to the size. Im sure its what I want/need but with season a ways away Im just gonna make sure by getting them in hand.
I think this thread would of gone beyond 8 pages but the marsupial gear thinghy really put a buzz kill on it(understandably.)

Well, the thread inspired me to buy a set of Leica 8x42 Geovid HD-R 2700 from Doug at CameralandNY. It's not cheap to read this forum.

Definitely hear ya on the not cheap to read the forum. But for me it definitely is a huge help to keep me from throwing good money after bad when I dont have enough info. Its definitely helping me make wiser choices by getting the right thing the first time. Buy once cry once I am ok with. Its the buy several times and cry several times that has been my lifelong downfall.

I was in Scheels about 10 days ago and they had both the 8x32 and 10x32 Pros in the display case.
The 10x looked bigger but honestly didn’t look that close.

Don’t think you could go wrong with Swarovski or Leica I mainly only bow hunt so went with the 10x42 Leica few years back the new smaller model would be idea sounds like

Doug at Cameraland said that both the 8 and 10 were the exact same "chassis"(on the 32's) and I think I double checked the specs and both identical.

FINALLY... Just hung up with Doug at CameraLand and ordered RF binos(scope too, but another thread.)
Leica Pro 10x32. As previously discussed, they are the only high end RF binos that are "relatively" smaller in size and weight. They came out earlier this year. The potential drawback for some may be they are 32 not 42. For my use I feel they will be the best compromise, all things considered. They market them as "compact" but that would only be as compared to the monsters in 10x42. I have no plan to use the ballistic options, but, oh well.
I feel like these really are the cats meow for someone that doesnt want the bulk. There arent many out there to find so if anyone wants to try mine just give me a shout.
Thanks to so many on this thread for helping me out. Yall definitely made a huge difference.

Congrats my friend!!!

Estimated delivery time?

A "few days" ETA.

it's gonna snow.

I'd settle for some rain...out west.

Congrats FR...both decisions I'm confident you will be happy with.

I started to set you up, but I knew you wouldnt need help.
Are you paying attention TB?....

I want a photo or a copy of a receipt prior to accepting this.

Good decision FR. Decision paralysis is gone! Way to go.

That might be asking too much, his camera will be way too zoomed in to see any details to confirm his purchase, what did he say his camera has, something like a 250x digital zoom?

I cannot believe the big sale with hug savings going on with these binos right now. Who woulda thought?

Don’t tell me that!!
Delivered today but not there to sign so I’ll pick up ups later.

Yea don’t be scaring him like that..... you should have seen the disappointment on his face when I told him Camerland wouldn’t take S&H Green Stamps!

I didn’t realize DStroud was on Huds Christmas card list…..

That is freaking hilarious

You guys are killing it! Keep up the gentle harassment on FR….

Free, i am awaiting a bonafide field report very soon…

Man of man, that there set of range finding binos does all kinds of things. Quite impressive. Thinking here the game recovery system will help you.

Bad news. My Leica Pro’s seem to have quit working. I am still trouble shooting to see if I can figure out why.
I was using them in a PRS match yesterday and they just quit giving distances.
I thought maybe weak battery but it tests good and the readout still flashes but I can’t get the menu to even come up at all.
Going to find another battery here shortly and hope that’s it.

Dang, that is bad news. I got my Swaro scope other day and my Leica Pros were supposed to be in there too, but they werent. Im not sure where Cameraland dropped the ball but ive reordered and due Friday.
Please let me know what you find out on your issue.

New battery seems to have solved it. Just ranged trees at 978yds and rifle dope popped right up as well....whew didn’t want to deal with returning hassles.

Was that the original battery? I will only use mine for binos and some ranging so surely battery life wont be a problem.....

Yes original battery but honestly I have owned maybe 10 Rangefinders and or Range finding Binoculars and have never had to replace a battery in that amount of use….. about 4 months. Usually they last a couple years.
It could be just an old battery from the manufacturer so I am not going to fret unless it goes out again that quick.

Yeah, I don't have that specialized high dollar, high roller equipment but still need those batteries for other stuff. They are cheap enough to just keep a supply on hand.

It makes sense if you think about. Although Free will figure out a way out duct tape on the batteries, what all that stuff does is amazing. Eating up batteries may just be collateral damage.

If you aren't using the onboard ballistic calc and all that on a regular changing from gun to gun, just set it and then turn off the bluetooth. I bet the bluetooth was eatign up some battery life.

Don’t think I’ve ever gone afield with any hunting gear actually on my person that has batteries in it. Flashlight and phone don’t count since they don’t contribute directly to the kill.
Besides the range finder, I won’t be using any other gizmos so not too worried on the batt life.

FR, do you have hands on the goods yet? Any estimated ETA of the new shipment?

Tomorrow, but gotta sign so don’t know how that will go. Soon, very soon.

can't be -

New with box and paperwork.
Won cert at PRS Finale last year and just received them due to backorder..
These are the ones that range find, bullet drop calculate etc..
New, they are $4,100 when in stock.

$3200 SHIPPED or meet within an hour of DFW

https://www.swarovskioptik.com/us/e...s/el-range-10x42-with-tracking-assistant

No way

Hud, those are the ones that are too big and bulky for me.
Finally got mine in yesterday.

Finally got my Leica Pro 10x32 RF binos.
Haven’t used yet but feeling pretty good. My main concern was that all the popular high end RF binos that are 10x42 are just too big and bulky for me. These have just come out this year and pretty much the only thing out there that is smaller. Im showing a pic of my 30 year old Leupolds 10x40(which work fine) and my Zeiss 8x20 next to the new pair.
I think I did good and I could not have done it without a lot of yalls help so thanks.

Don't mention it. I know I was a big help. Enjoy them and may you have good hunting with them.

Boring sidebar: That Zimbo PH friend of mine that got killed by a bull elephant used an ancient pair of Swarovski Nazi navy submarine captain's binos. 'Had the ship range markings and everything. He once had Mr. Swarovski as a client. Mr. Swarovski took them back with him, had them completely rebuilt, and sent them back to him, gratis. I often wonder who wound up with those binos, and his ancient, battered Win. Model 70 .458. I had to buy parts (magazine spring) for that dam old rifle, as soon as I touched down at home and ship them to a client about to fly over to him. The spring broke when we'd been tracking, for hours, a Kudu I'd wounded, him giving me holy hell the whole time 'cause he new me by then, and, it wasn't my first wounded animal with him. We spotted the animal and I ran right around some brush and he ran left. I got another round in the Kudu and put him down. Ian fell flat on his [censored] and the spring broke. Me and all the trackers were laughing our butts off. Ian was none too pleased. But I digress.

Creek, I remember your advice and I threw it in the hat with all the rest. Then I threw out Huds and shook it up and drew out the winner........

Not a boring sidebar. That is a great story!

Help!!!! Got to play with my brand new Leica Geovid Pro 10x32 RF bino.
It seems like it is way off on ranging yardage. Is there a calibration or adjustment or something? I hate reading directions or looking stuff up so hoping y’all can help.
I compared to what my Range finder shows-Nikon Monarch 2000 that I may of paid 300ish for(??).
I used an actual 25 yard tape measure and the RF showed 25 and the Leica showed 23. I thought maybe the Leica was for real long distance and may be off some at short range so I tried further. I had no way to confirm which was right but the RF was right at 25.
I ranged something with RF at 226 yds and Leica showed 202.
I ranged something with RF at 318 yds and Leica showed 293.
My math may be off but that’s close to 8% off on each.
Feedback?
Even if I look it up or call and it’s an easy fix, then I still feel worthwhile post in case y’all can learn from this.

If not mistaken the only way it can be recalibrated is to send it into Leica. What a headache. Sorry for you troubles. This is one of the reasons why I always have kept my binoculars as a a separate unit from my rangefinder. But you already have a spare/backup so it shouldn’t delay your season. I hope they can get it remedied quickly for you. I would get on the phone with Doug at Cameraland where you bought them (I think). He’ll fix you up.

Just realized these things are so snazzy they probably display either meters or yards. I need to get to work at lease and put this aside but would 8% be about the difference?

Well google makes stuff easy. The difference math wise is right at yards to meters and the display reads out meters. Like I said, I figured I would look stupid but hopefully someone else learned from this.

"I hate reading directions or looking stuff up"

That would have prevented this recent question.

At least you didn’t let us “men” down by reading the directions first before using. Glad it was a simple fix. Good luck this season.

Yes, but everyone’s questions on here often help others. And I assume the directions take hours to get to what you need. All good.

“Just one more thing”. People my age DONT DO METERS.
We never played soccer or video games either. It’s a generational thing.

Oh, don't forget, the whole country was gonna be metric by now...and we'd all be in flying cars. I try to keep that in mind during our current "climate crisis."

People my age don't use meters either.

But a fun little factoid, is a meter is almost exactly 10% longer than a yard.

If ever you're watching TV or a movie and they mention meters.

FR, the meter to yard thing makes sense since leica is a European company and pretty much everyone else in the world uses metric. Simple menu fix for you.

I was also going to ask if you were significantly uphill to make such a difference with the “compensated range”.


Hows the view thru those? Can you see any difference between the leicas and the old binos?

This thread has cost me a little money as well, but not from binos, i have since bought a tripod, a spotter, and a camera adapter. Hopefully there will be some good deer pics this season. Not sure there is anything worth shooting at my place but you never know.

Yeah, when you are excited think about all that is to play out and trying to focus, what’s to bother with converting meters to yards?

I will assume that’s what the issue is... to fix just press menu button and first screen shows “EURO/US” just toggle with range button to US and that’s it.
I used mine to shoot a PRS Rimfire Match yesterday and they worked like a charm. Also used last week on golf trip that turned into a pronghorn hunt 😋ranged elk and antelope and cows out to 1400-1500 yds and on reflective stuff they are good past 2000.

There you go

My kind of golf day!!

Yea we were headed to Red Sky in Colorado to play golf for a few days and decided to leave a day early to stop in New Mexico and check out a customers ranch.
We were out riding around and saw a decent antelope and the comment by our golf host that an antelope was on his bucket list….. ranch owner says Stroud if you will clean his antelope then it’s on……..back to camp to buy an online tag fix another drink find a rifle not in any particular order and now we are antelope hunting.

For reals! I dont play much golf at all, but i would sponsor a golf tournament that turned into a pronghorn hunt. Or any hunt for that matter..

“I don’t always golf, but when I do I hunt antelope.”
Thanks DStroud. Now, I STILL don’t have to read the directions.
I’ll give report once I catch my breath. This deer lease WORK is tiring, regardless if it’s fun and satisfying.

I have a couple buddies that almost came to fisticuffs over two different rangefinders ranging different numbers. One finally realized his was set on metric.

I legit almost pissed myself listening to that story

Maybe I should read them.... note I changed my first post to reflect correct button pushing. It’s even simpler than I remembered.

Free, I am so glad DStroud came to your aid before you tried duct tape to fix the issue.

For the record… my was in yards