Optics - Looking to buy a rangefinder and new binoculars

[Alex]

I was just wondering if you guys had any suggestions for great optics. I would like to stay around $1500 for both, but if it is necessary to have the best of the best in order maximize my potential of success, I am willing to spend the money. I know Cabela's is having a sale on binoculars right now and have been looking at anything from Nikon and Leupold to Swarovski.

For a rangefinder, I have been looking at this Leica http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?id=0039173712561a&navCount=1&podId=0039173&parentId=cat601607&masterpathid=&navAction=jump&cmCat=MainCatcat602006-cat601607&catalogCode=QZ&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat601607&hasJS=true. Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Also, should I invest in a good spotting scope now (before I get a job as a guide), or is that something I can get down the road?

Thanks in advance.

[royaltine]

That is the exact rangefinder I have and it is great!!!  Hold off on the spotting scope for now.  Get a good set of binochs and boots and some other good gear first.

[Alex]

Thanks.

I am headed to Cabela's tomorrow to look at optics. The binoculars I am strongly considering are the Swarovski SLC 10x50. If anyone has any experience with the SLC series, I would love to hear some feedback!

[KILLERBEE]

if you can afford them you will never regret it! optics are a very good example of the more $ YOU SPEND, THE BETTER THEY ARE.


that said, i've killed a fair share of animals while packing far lesser optics. but once you realize the advantage they really do give you, you will wonder how you ever did without them

[animules]

You can spend more on "inexpensive" gear when you have to replace it a few times then you would on one item that is "expensive" but is quality.  Good luck!

(and this is why I always ask for Cabela's gift cards for all occasions.    )

[Beau]

You can spend more on "inexpensive" gear when you have to replace it a few times then you would on one item that is "expensive" but is quality.  Good luck!

So true!

 It was hard for me to spend 2,100$ on my Leica Geovids, but now that the years are rolling by I wouldnt trade them for anything.  The built in range finder still works great as well.