I started out with a Nikon 600 RF, which would read a muddy hog, a deer, or a coyote at 400 yards, but not 410 yards. 400 max was it. The other side of my hay field is 500 yards, and I wanted one that would range that far. After much internet research, I went with a Sig 1250. Mistake. It just was to finicky to reliably range critters. I returned it and got a Leica 2000B (I think that’s the model). It’s great. No problems at all.

So, if 400 yards is all you need a midrange Bushnell or Nikon should do just fine.

And I should mention that a lot of RF reviews rate the units on ranging targets. My old Nikon would range a shiny target way out past 600 yards. What matters to me is how far will it range a muddy hog. To me that’s a real world use.

Leica....

Sig Kilo 2000 or newer.

Sig Kilo 2000 or newer.

I bought the Vortex Ranger 1800 last year after falling in a river and submerging my Bushnell Scout 1000. Bushnell would give me a discount on a new but it amounted to about $50. Nothing wrong with the Bushnell except it wouldn't read in heavy fog. I think that's true of most $225 rangefinders. I talked to Vortex directly and they do give military/veteran discounts. Told them my story and they said the warranty would apply if I ever submerge one again. Their warranty is lifetime, regardless of owner. Covers almost everything except theft or loss. Some on here might say "you'll need it with Vortex". Used it for antelope and deer this year and no complaints whatsoever. I like the red read out. I checked it one foggy morning and I got reads out to about 250 yards. Not sure this is a dependable point because it would obviously depend on how foggy it is. That morning the fog was intense. Sure, it's not a Leica, but most lower priced rf's are not. I believe after the discount, it was $300 for the 1800 I think I read somewhere that the Vortex is one of a couple models that is listed as waterproof. Not many are.

Sig Kilo 2000 or newer.