The Laser Rangefinder - An Increasingly Popular Optical Device
The following article is from a series of digital product articles, tips, videos and information about laser rangefinders …
There are some instances when simply guesstimating a distance between two objects is just not going to work. In the past, people would use rulers, measuring tapes and wheels, or simply pace off the distance between two objects in order to get a close estimate of the gap. In modern times, there is a more accurate method for getting that end number. It is a laser rangefinder. Laser binocular rangefinders are great instruments to have to find any distance between two objects that are within sight of each other.
At its most basic, a laser rangefinder works by firing a short laser pulse at a target, and measuring the amount of time it takes for the beam to reflect back. An integrated circuit then calculates the distance covered in that time. Prior to 1987, this technology was reserved for the military and high end users. Thereafter, handheld consumer versions began to appear and became popular within the golfing community. Since then, several new applications have been discovered, especially amongst hunters. Originally available as standalone devices, they have recently become popular binocular accessories, built into the field glasses.
With all this technology on optical components, there is a downfall. The laser beam must be able to reflect back in order to measure the range. This also limits the distance to about 1500 yards, in consumer versions, as larger distances affect the tool’s ability to provide an accurate reflection. Alternately, an object located behind trees or brush can become obscured, with early returns providing inaccurate readings. The technology is still quite expensive, as a Nikon Monarch monocular system will set you back around $400. Lower-priced systems with a narrower range can be found for no more than $100. Specialized optical systems with a greater range, and designed for more difficult environments, can cost you in excess of $17,000!
There are many different applications for which you can use a laser rangefinder. Professional and amateur golfers and hunters still make up a large number of the consumer market but new uses are being discovered for the laser binocular rangefinders and monoculars. These items are no longer as pricey as they once were, so people are now finding everyday uses around their homes for a laser range finder. It certainly makes hanging those art prints easier!
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