I express my interest in Rangefinders a few years ago. My hunting part told me about a group of hunters who were testing a Bushnell rangefinder (model unknown) and the Nikon 400 one of them had bought at Wal Mark.
The hunting partner told me he preferred the Nikon because it was easier to read.
Another hunting partner bought a Bushnell rangefinder and did not care for it. He gave it to his son. Frankly I think he is a generous dad, and wanted to see his son well equipped. He is also a successful hunter and excellent shot with a lot of field experience in Alaska and the lower 48.
When the wife asked me for my 2006 Christmas list a Nikon 400 was at the top of my list. She upgraded it to a Nikon 800. I believe the 800 is an excellent value, and glass. I have spent the last 9.5 months running around and ranging everything from house cats to deer. The 800 has a 6x glass. I do not think I would want one stronger because without support it is hard to keep on a distant deer when standing and a little bit winded from a hard climb. I have developed the habit of locking myself down so I can get a good reading. The more I have used it the better the results. While there is always something better, even from Nikon, I would recommend the Nikon 800 based on my use. But the Nikon 400 would be more in your price range.
Recommend you stop by a sport goods counter and test them out.
I carry it in a front shirt pocket.
