June 08, 2017
By PH Online Editors
While the laser changed rangefinding estimation forever, ranging made quantum leaps for hunters in 1992 when optical pioneer Leica introduced its Geovid binocular--the first binocular that incorporated a laser rangefinder. Not only was the Leica Geovid a feat of technology, in practical terms the single product combined and simplified the process of spotting and ranging into one fluid, efficient motion.
Thanks to this pioneering development, there was no more stopping the triumphal career of the Leica Geovid binocular. This high-tech product found more and more potential uses. In the early days, the German Navy showed particular interest in the rangefinder. To meet their needs, the first Geovid 7x42 BDA also featured a built-in electronic compass. The rangefinding device enabled the determination of both the distance and compass bearing of targeted objects at sea. The device fulfilled even the most stringent naval specifications and before long more and more civilian users discovered and began to use the Geovid.
1. 100+ Years of Optics Expertise
No matter where it was used, on land at sea or in the air, the Geovid delivered dependable data in every situation and under the most adverse conditions. However, the Geovid binocular revealed its enormous benefits in one particular field — precision shooting. With the use of the Geovid for hunting, the story turned full circle and came back to Ernst Leitz II, the passionate hunter who wrote the first chapter of Leica's long history starting in 1907, with the first serial-production binoculars, the Binocle 6x18. The over 100-year history of Leica binoculars has always been strongly influenced by the needs of hunters. To begin with, the domain of binoculars was the precise identification and observation of game, but later, with the appearance of the Geovid and electronic rangefinding, the emphasis shifted and rang in a whole new era. Now, the hunter's binoculars began to play an essential role in placing the ideal shot for the taking of game.
For a precise shot when hunting, knowledge of the shot distance is critical. The reason for this lies in the fact that the force of gravity causes a projectile leaving the barrel of a rifle to lose height with increasing distance. The projectile follows a ballistic curve--essentially the further away a target is, the higher the hunter has to aim above the intended target point to hit it. This is why before the advent of laser rangefinders, high-velocity, "flat-shooting" cartridges (actually a misnomer as all bullets drop, some just have a less steep curve) were so popular — critical to counter the effects of misjudged range. Hunters were given a huge tool with the advent of laser rangefinding technology. Now, with a click of a button, an invisible beam of light would travel to a target, and return within a fraction of a second and give a reading that was within a couple of yards of being accurate — a game changer for sure.
2. Concise Shot Calculation
If the ballistic parameters and the precise distance are known, it is then possible to calculate the elevation correction required. In the case of modern riflescopes like the Leica ER or Magnus models with Leica ASV rapid reticle adjustment, it is even possible to set the reticle for the required distance with only a couple of quick adjustments. The shooter can then sight on the desired point of impact directly and without having to aim higher to place a precise shot. The Leica Geovid significantly increases the accurate placement of each shot for the hunter and plays an essential role in modern, ethically responsible, hunting around the world.
3. Superior Construction
In addition to precise rangefinding, the Leica Geovid offers all the benefits of Leica products. Since the founding of the company, Leica has registered numerous innovative patents that have confirmed Leica's technological leadership time and time again. Groundbreaking concepts were even used in the construction of binocular tubes as far back as in 1907. A hard-rolled, light alloy replaced the usual rough castings as the basis for superior precision.
4. State-of-the-art Glass and Prism Design
The company developed mechanisms to prevent the penetration of dust and dirt, and pressed ahead with the development of lens coatings. Special solutions for prism mounting were developed to production maturity and new types of glass increased viewing clarity, brightness and color-neutrality to a maximum. With the latest Geovid HD models (High-Definition), Leica offers an additional version featuring fluoride glasses and AquaDuraTM lens coating.
5. Best-in-Class Warranty
Comprehensive warranty terms that go as far as the provision of extended goodwill arrangement give today's customers all-round peace of mind, even years after having purchased their Leica products.
Celebrating 25 years of range-finding leadership with its Geovid binocular and over 100 years of consistent quality, innovation and technology in the entire optical field, Leica is well situated with the experience necessary to take hunters and shooters into the next century.
The Essentials Gear Box.
Our editors have hand-picked these essential pieces of gear to make you a more successful hunter when you hit the game trails this season.