rangefinders, practicality for hunting

[mistermohawk]

I'm heading out west for Elk, and would prefer to have a range finder, because I don't trust my judgement of distances. I don't anticipate taking shots over 300 yds. Howsabout some feedback as to the utility ( under field conditions) of the optical vs laser raqngefinders?
thanks!

[eroyd]

Lazer rangefinders are fast to use, are great for pre-determining distances and for practising distance judging. If you are limiting yourself to 300m shots on elk and are using a reasonably flat  shooting cartridge you don't need one. With your rifle zero'd at 200m your bullet should still fall into the vitals.

[Tracker]

I have found that many hunters coming form the ease to the west to hunt have a hard time judging distances.  Especially if you and used to hunting in the thinck woods.  The big open areas are vry decieving.  The forst time I traveled to NV for a mule der hunt I passed on a shot that really seemed long to me.  Ranging it with my partners range finder I realized it was well within my range for my 270.  I have had one now for around 7 years.  I can honestly say tht I have never ranged a deer or elk beofer the shot.  However, I routinely cxheck distances when I get on stand so when the passing animal arrives I know what distance I am shooting.  Considering the big dollars ypu ad up for a trip out west I think the extra few hundred dollars is money well spent.  I previously mentioned its a great tool to use to practice range estimation.  I use it for judging distance in the woods all the time fro practive for the bow season.  5 yards can make a difference with a bow when you are estimating between 35 and 40 yards