Pre-owned Kestrel with AB

[jetmd]

As always, if this subject has been beat too death....please just post a link and I will gladly read it.

I am looking to purchase a Kestrel with AB.

I appears that there is significant savings to be had by purchasing a pre-owned unit.

1) If in the future the unit malfunctions, will I be able to have it repaired/serviced?
2) Any potential issues if a software upgrade is available since I would not be the original purchaser/owner?
3) Other possible factors I should consider?

My little pea size brain is considering:

1) 4500 w/AB
2) Sportsman w/AB
3) 5700 Elite w/AB

Any and all input in regards to purchasing a Kestrel, new or used and reason why are welcomed and appreciated!

Respectfully submitted,

Chet

 

[kthomas]

Contact the folks are Nielsen-Kellerman (manufacturers of the Kestrel). They are really good people to work with, and are some of the only people that can provide an authorities answer to the questions that you seek.

I think that NK will take care of you even if you are not the original owner, but I would call to confirm.

 

[CavReconScout]

If you ever want to connect with Bluetooth to a rangefinder, iPhone, etc you will have to get a Sportsman or 5700 series.

 

[azred33]

I would stay away from a 4500, the last fw for that unit is 4.93 from 12/15 and is discontinued. Additionally, some are prone to have battery leakage that can kill the processor. 5700 series is the way to go. They are warrantied for 5 years by the manufacturer and you can check the serial number on the back here to see the the time left.

https://kestrelinstruments.com/nk/legal/kestrel-plain-language-warranty/warranty-lookup

You might want to look at the new 5700, at $399 new, it is a bargain and can be upgraded to an Elite if and when you need the additional features.

https://kestrelmeters.com/products/kestrel-5700-ballistics-weather-meter-with-link

 

[DocUSMCRetired]

I would suggest getting an Elite, or a Sportsman only. The Sportsman can be upgraded (the simple weather meter cannot) at a later date if you like. Make sure you get one with LiNK so that you get access to AB Connect™. http://appliedballisticsllc.com/products/ab-connect/

If you buy used, it still has the original 5 year warranty from date of purchase.

 

[jetmd]

Thanks for all the input.

After much research and contact with several people who I feel are Much more knowledgeable than I,

I purchased a 5700 Elite AB.