Leica 1000-R or 1600-B for my application?

[SquidHC]

Hey all,

I am interested in a quality rangefinder to be used for casual shooting/hunting. I typically don't shoot further than 300 yards, but sometimes out to 500. In the future I may shoot more/further, but who knows. I don't compete, or intend to, and while I like to shoot tight groups I'm more interested in making minute of coyote/deer/elk/goat shots than anything else. I do use a log book, and have a kestrel.

I had been pretty sold on the Leica 1600-B, mainly cause I like techy gadgets, and it has some cool features. I purchased one yesterday, but then realized two things I didn't like: 1. It will only display adjustments in MOA, or hold over in inches or cm. I use a mil/mil scope, and was under the assumption that it would have a mil option. 2. Of all of the ballistic curves, the one that fit's my rifle best still becomes quite incorrect past about 400 yards (+3.9" off at 400, and worse as you go further).

So, that said, should I simply return it and get the Leica 1000-R? (and use the extra money on reloading gear!)

Basically I'm pretty sold on returning it for the 1000; tell me why I shouldn't (if you think that I shouldn't).

The other option is to go with the Vortex, which has a few nice features the Lecia doesn't have, and is $450 cheaper.

 

[threetrees]

stick to the 1600b, but don't rely on the internally provided curves. approximations is probably not what you want, the further you get out. only take distance + angle
- and a proper calculator ('shooter' or a similar app on your phone)
- or a laminated table with precalculated drop (using jbm or again similar stuff) and get the correct hold from there.

personally, i'd recommend you to train with both methods

 

[limamike56]

I have used both the Leica 1000 and 1600B. If most of your shooting is even 600 yards and less I would get the 1000. I don't like some of the same issues with the 1600B as well. I think Doug at CameraLand has them on sale at 425.00. CameraLand has great Customer Service and fast shipping as well. I ranged an Elk at 754 yards last year with the Leica 1000 but it was under excellent conditions.