Laser rangefinders determine distance to targeted objects by sending out a laser emission and measuring the time for the reflected emission to return to the detector housed in the rangefinder unit. They are primarily used by golfers and hunters to determine distance to potential prey. In addition, many outdoor enthusiasts and golfers use laser rangefinders. Laser rangefinders available today provide accurate ranging from 400 yards out to 1500 yards.

Performance characteristics of various rangefinders are affected by things such as the size and reflectivity of targeted objects as well as weather conditions. Depending on the intended use, choosing the correct model of rangefinder is very important. The major features of these devices it helps to be familiar with are reflectivity, effective range, view indicators, battery sizes and body construction.

Reflectivity refers to the amount of laser emission signal that a target will reflect back to the emission source, which, in this case, will be a laser rangefinder unit. Highly reflective targets can be ranged at greater distances than other similarly sized targets.

Laser range finder models will have different effective ranges and performance characteristics based on their design. The strength of the laser emission and sensitivity of the unit's detector will determine maximum range to target determination.

Several basic indicators are present in all laser rangefinder view finder: The targeting view finder, unit's operating mode, battery level indicator and range to target in yards or meters. The view finder crosshair shape is usually superimposed on a LCD viewing lens. There are a few manufacturers such as that make LED based displays as well.

Laser rangefinders use batteries in two main sizes: CR2 and 9 volt. You'll find that the smaller CR2 is used by the vast majority of rangefinder models. Battery life tends be around one year.

Body construction is of the utmost importance when selecting a laser rangefinder. Depending on your intended use environment (hunting for instance) you may need a rangefinder which is waterproof. In addition to waterproofing, rubber armored body construction is available in many models.

You can find more information about laser rangefinders by surfing to http://www.rangefindersplus.com.