Leica's Geovid BRF laser rangefinder binocular combines the greatest traits of monocular laser rangefinders and premium European binoculars, giving accuracy and great optical quality. Most of the monocular type laser rangefinders aren't terribly durable, and the typical binoculars with incorporated rangefinders lack supreme optical quality. The durable housing is built to withstand the harsh environments a hunter would encounter, and the controls are easily manipulated while wearing gloves.

Key Features

Robust die–cast aluminum chassis with nitrogen purging

56–74mm Interpupillary adjustment range

±3.5 Dioptric correction

One set of batteries yields approximately 500 measurements at 68°F

 

The 8x42 Geovid BRF adheres to the USGA® standard of a legal distance–measuring device, as defined by their “14–3/0.5 Local Rule Permitting Use of Distance–Measuring Device.”

Ten years have passed since Leica forged new optical frontiers with the introduction of the Leica Geovid 7x42 BDA rangefinder binocular. While this was a sharp, efficient and groundbreaking hunting glass, ranging to 1000 meters, it was also a very expensive and bulky binocular at 206mm (W) 178mm (H) and 81mm (D), and weighing in at 1402 grams.

The second generation replacement has been released and many significant changes have been implemented. The Leica Geovid BRF series rangefinder binocular comes in 8x42, 8x56, 10x42 and 15x56 models and must be ordered to read the range either in Meters or meters. There is no selector switch provided to choose the distance ranging method.

Included are a Cordura carry case, contoured neoprene neck strap, eyepiece and objective lens covers, CR2 Battery, and a 30 year guarantee. As can be seen from a comparison in size and weight, the new 10 x 42 Geovids have been slimmed and trimmed considerably, losing 500 grams, which is a substantial weight saving and places the combined rangefinder binocular in a similar weight and size bracket to most other manufacturers standard 10x42 roof prism models.

The Leica's are covered in black rubber armoring and the rangefinder 'on' switch falls conveniently under the left forefinger while using the binos for viewing. The CR2 battery chamber is tucked unobtrusively under the bridge in the left barrel and the laser is in line with the front of the central hinge pin.

As to be expected from a product of this quality, the optics are excellent. The view is sharp, contrasty and crisp, with P40 phase coated roof prisms and HDC (High Durability Coating), a recent Leica lens coating technology.

The red LED ranging square that comes up in the center of the field of view when the 'on' switch is pressed has a self-dimming function so that in low light the intensity of the LED is decreased. It switches itself off 4 seconds after your finger is removed from the button.

If a range is achieved, it comes up in LED numbers that are superimposed in the view in a non-intrusive manner. If a range cannot be achieved three horizontal LED lines appear in the view.

The eyepiece covers are practically designed and easy to remove and replace. They can be permanently attached to the neck strap. The objective Lens covers have a band that goes around the ocular housing to keep them in place and are a push fit that I found to be rather tight and not easy to slip off.

The Geovids are well designed ergonomically and are comfortable to use. The screw in eyecups stay where set and all adjustments, including interpupillary distance, focus and diopter are smooth as silk. The gearing of the center focus knob is very low compared to all other binos I had at hand, which some people will like and others will not. The neck strap is contoured to fit the neck correctly and supports the weight of the binos well.

There are two diopter settings, one on each barrel. One is for the rangefinder LED and the other is the conventional method for adjusting the binoculars to suit your individual eyesight.

These fine second generation Leica rangefinder binoculars are another option for the discerning hunter who would like to simplify his load and save a little weight by incorporating the rangefinder into his binos. They are a decided step up in utility value on comparatively priced top of the line 10x42 roof prism binoculars from brands such as Zeiss Victory 11, Swarovski's El, and Nikons HG L.

The tried and true Geovid from Leica only gets better with the upgraded optics of the new Geovid HD. Leica added flouride glass for even better definition, brilliance, and contrast. By combining this increased optical quality with the 42mm objective lens, the Geovid HD delivers unparalleled performance in a easy-to-use size. With a laser rangefinder that accurately measures distances of up to 1400 Meters, you can rely on the Geovid HD every time. Leica provides a limited five-year warranty.

Optical Features Leica 8x42 Geovid BRF Range Finding Binocular Meters 40026:

• Fluoride Glass Enhances resolution, color, and contrast.
• Fully Multi-coated Lenses Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
• Phase Correction Enhances resolution and contrast through roof prisms.