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The following extract is from a series of consumer electronic articles, tips, videos and information about optical devices …

There are some occasions when simply guessing a distance between two objects is just not going to be practical. 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. Times have changed though, and there is a better way for getting that result. It is a laser rangefinder. Laser binocular rangefinders are great tools to own 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 institutions. Thereafter, handheld consumer models began to appear and became popular with golfers. Since that time, numerous applications have been found, particularly in hunting. Originally available as standalone devices, they have recently become popular binocular accessories, built into the field glasses.

With all this technological implementation on optical components, there is a down side. The laser beam must be able to reflect back in order to calculate the range. This also limits the distance to about 1500 yards, in consumer models, as greater distances affect the tool’s ability to provide an accurate reflection. Optionally, an object behind trees or brush may become obscured, with early returns giving inaccurate readings. The technology is still rather expensive, as a Nikon Monarch monocular system will cost around $400. Cheaper systems with a smaller range can be bought for no more than $100. Specialized optical systems with a higher range, and designed for more complex environments, cost in excess of $17,000!

There are various applications for which you can use a laser rangefinder. Professional and amateur golfers and hunters still make up a significant portion of the consumer market but new uses are being discovered for the laser binocular rangefinders and monoculars. These instruments are not quite as pricey as they once were, so more people are now finding everyday uses around their homes for a laser range finder. It certainly makes hanging those pictures easier!

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