There is no comparisons to the less expensive units. I have compared the Leica's next to my Vectronix on game (antelope and elk). Don't be fooled by the less expensive units with the large beams. Just because they give you a number does not mean it is an accurate range to the animal. Some RF's just grab something more reflective, but the question is what? A 6 or 8' beam at 1000 can get you in trouble. If a guy is giving a report saying a RF will range a deer at 1000, and he is only using the unit he is reporting on, I say how do you know what it was ranging? I put them up against a Vectronix PLRF10 and the " 1000 yard deer ranging RF's" are soon discovered to be liars. The Leica 1600 has the smallest and most precise beam of any of the under $1000 units. And even smaller than one of the $1600 units.
I have seen some Leica 1600's selling under $700... I would do some shopping for the best deal.
Jeff