First Impressions of Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder promises to be a compact, yet powerful tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Winchester, a brand synonymous with quality and reliability, enters the optics arena with this rangefinder aiming to deliver accuracy and ease of use in a lightweight package. I was drawn to this particular model because of its advertised 2000-yard maximum range and the promise of multiple targeting modes, which I hoped would make it versatile enough for both rifle hunting and archery.
As an avid hunter, I often find myself in situations where accurate distance measurement is critical. From judging the distance to a whitetail buck in dense woods to ranging targets at the shooting range, a reliable rangefinder is an essential piece of my gear. I needed a compact and lightweight rangefinder that could quickly and accurately measure distances in various terrains and weather conditions.
Upon unboxing the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder, I was immediately impressed by its compact size and lightweight feel. The black and gray rubber armor housing gives it a rugged appearance, inspiring confidence that it could withstand the rigors of the hunt. Compared to my older, bulkier rangefinder, this one felt like a featherweight champion.
I considered the Vortex Impact 850 and the Bushnell Scout DX 1000 ARC before settling on the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder. The Vortex seemed less durable, and the Bushnell lacked the specific targeting modes I was looking for. The Winchester offered a compelling combination of features and a reputable brand name at a competitive price point.
My first impression of the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by its potential for portability and ease of use, but I knew the true test would be in the field. Would it live up to the Winchester name?
Real-World Testing: Putting Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder came during a whitetail hunt in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was steep and heavily forested, with visibility often limited to just a few hundred yards. I put the Winchester to use immediately, ranging trees and landmarks to get a feel for distances in the area.
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder performed admirably in the wet, foggy conditions. It quickly and accurately ranged targets, even through light rain. The intuitive controls were easy to use, even with gloved hands, and the red LCD display was easy to read in the low light of the forest.
I did notice that the rangefinder struggled a bit when trying to range smaller targets at longer distances through dense foliage. This was expected, but it highlighted the importance of finding a clear line of sight whenever possible. Still, for the majority of my uses, the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder was quick, accurate, and reliable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder has proven to be a reliable and valuable tool. The rubber armor housing has held up well to bumps and scrapes, showing no signs of wear and tear. I’ve also appreciated the IPX-7 water resistance, which has provided peace of mind during rainy hunts.
Cleaning the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder is simple. A quick wipe down with the included lens cleaning cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and smudges. The battery life has also been impressive; after extensive use, the original CR2 battery is still going strong.
Compared to my previous rangefinder, the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder is a significant upgrade in terms of size, weight, and ease of use. While my old rangefinder was accurate, it was bulky and cumbersome to carry. The Winchester is so lightweight and compact that I often forget it’s even in my pocket.
Breaking Down the Features of Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder
Specifications
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder boasts a 20mm objective lens diameter and 6x magnification. This combination provides a clear and bright image, even in low-light conditions. Its eye relief is listed at 14mm, and the field of view is 6.5 degrees, translating to 114 yards at 1000 yards.
It features an IPX-7 water resistance rating and a maximum range of 2000 yards, a minimum range of 5 yards, weighs 6.17 oz, and is black/gray. The IPX-7 rating ensures it can withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. It is 3.86 inches long, 1.42 inches wide, and 3.07 inches high.
It uses a CR2 battery and offers Normal, First, and Last targeting modes. These targeting modes allow the user to prioritize different targets, such as the closest object (First mode) or the furthest object (Last mode). It also features HCD (Horizontal Component Distance) and LOS (Line of Sight) ranging modes.
These specifications combine to create a rangefinder that is both compact and capable. The 6x magnification provides enough zoom for accurate ranging, while the 20mm objective lens ensures a bright image. The different targeting and ranging modes make it versatile enough for a variety of hunting and shooting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder performs its job admirably, providing accurate and reliable distance measurements in a variety of conditions. The ranging is quick and consistent. The multiple targeting modes are a valuable asset.
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder’s greatest strength is its ease of use. The intuitive controls and clear display make it simple to operate, even for beginners. The main weakness I’ve encountered is its performance with small targets at long range when obstructions are present.
Overall, the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder meets and even exceeds my expectations. It’s a compact and capable tool that has quickly become an essential part of my hunting kit.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder is impressive, with durable materials used throughout. The rubber armor housing provides a comfortable grip and protects the rangefinder from damage. The lightweight design (6.17 oz) makes it easy to carry in a pocket or pack.
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder is incredibly user-friendly, with a simple two-button design. There is virtually no learning curve; anyone can pick it up and start using it immediately.
Durability & Maintenance
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder appears to be built to last. The rugged housing and IPX-7 water resistance rating suggest it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Keep the lenses clean and replace the battery as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder comes with a wrist strap lanyard, a padded carrying case, a lens cleaning cloth, and one CR2 battery. There are no readily apparent customization options. These included accessories are sufficient for basic use and protection.
The rangefinder is compatible with standard CR2 batteries. It is difficult to customize the rangefinder itself, but aftermarket carrying cases could be found.
Pros and Cons of Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder
Pros
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Easy to carry and store in a pocket or pack.
- Accurate Ranging: Provides reliable distance measurements up to 2000 yards.
- Multiple Targeting Modes: Versatile for different hunting and shooting scenarios.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple two-button design with clear LCD display.
- Durable Construction: Rubber armor housing and IPX-7 water resistance for rugged use.
Cons
- Can struggle ranging small targets at long distances through obstructions.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder?
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder is perfect for hunters, especially those who prioritize portability and ease of use. It is also well-suited for target shooters who need accurate distance measurements at the range. Anyone who needs a reliable and affordable rangefinder for outdoor activities will benefit from this product.
Hunters focusing on open-terrain environments might find the limited customization options and performance in dense foliage somewhat limiting. If you need extreme long-range capability in heavy cover, this model might not be the best choice.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality lens cleaning kit. An upgraded carrying case is useful for added protection.
Conclusion on Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder
The Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder is a solid and reliable tool that offers excellent value for the price. It combines accurate ranging capabilities with a compact and user-friendly design. Winchester delivers on its promise of quality and performance.
At $209.99, the price is justified by its features and performance. It offers similar functionality to more expensive rangefinders at a fraction of the cost.
I would personally recommend the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder to anyone looking for a compact and capable rangefinder for hunting or shooting. If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use rangefinder that won’t break the bank, then pull the trigger on the Winchester Supreme Optics W6x20mm Laser Rangefinder.