Leupold is a leading manufacturer of binoculars, rifle scopes, rangefinders, and other gears.
Having been in business for over 100 years, the company has recorded many successes from then to now.
The brand is known for making use of the best materials on the market and integrating some of the best features into their products.
Today we turn our focus on one of their best rangefinders on the market, the Leupold RX 650 rangefinder.
In this Leupold 650 rangefinder review, you can find all the information you need before making your purchase.
If you want to know more about the brand and other rangefinders in their line up, check out this Leupold rangefinder reviews post.
Leupold RX 650 rangefinder review
- Range: 650 yards
- Magnification: 6x
- Weight: 6.3 oz
Update: The Leupold RX 650 rangefinder has been replaced by the Leupold RX-950 Laser Rangefinder.
The Leupold RX 650 rangefinder is a durable and easy to use rangefinder that offers crystal clear views that will be loved by any outdoor enthusiast.
It is best used for hunting since it is fog proof, has a long-lasting battery life, and provides accurate distance to target readings.
In addition, the RX 650 is a small and lightweight rangefinder that offers a wide field of view, high-quality optics, and two scanning modes.
Stay as we take a closer look at the features of the RX-650 rangefinder.
The model was replaced by the Leupold RX 950 rangefinder that has all the features of the RX 650 except it can range up to 950 yards and comes with angle compensation technology.
Scan Mode
Scan Mode fires the laser at the target which makes the infrared pulses bounce off the target point back to the optical unit.
This is especially useful when measuring multiple targets or targets on the move.
The rangefinder continuously updates the readings as you track a target on the move or while scanning the landscape.
Line of sight
The line of sight features accurately measures the distance between you and the target in a straight line.
The Leupold 650 rangefinder provides both spot or continuous line-of-sight ranging.
Accurate distance readings
With a high-quality 6mmx20mm monocular, accurately measure the distance to your target.
It can measure distances up to 650 yards of reflective targets or 6 to 600 yards for trees or 6 to 575 yards for deer which is pretty impressive for an entry-level hunting rangefinder.
Wide field of view
The wide field of view feature and the magnification capabilities of the rangefinder go hand in hand.
In this instance, the RX-650 rangefinder has 6x magnification and a wide field of view to keep track of your moving target.
It offers a linear 366′ field of view at 1000 yd, and a ranging accuracy of ±1 yard out to 125 yards.
The RX-50 also offers an angular field of view that is 7°.
Together they all give you a powerful combination to get accurate readings for being just a small basic rangefinder.
High-quality optic system
Equipped with a fully multi-coated optics system, the Leupold 650 gives you clean and crisp images.
The main advantage of a multi-coated optic system is that it minimizes light reflection inside the device.
This is the reason you get clean and clear images no matter the lighting situation.
The RX 650 features a Class one eye-safe IR laser and a high contrast LCD also.
Design
The Leupold RX 650 rangefinder has a composite plastic body with a textured rubberized armor on the top for better gripping.
It has a pretty basic design and has a single button on the top and an adjustable fast-focus eyepiece with precision clicks for quick adjustments whenever you need it.
The RX 650 rangefinder weighs just 6.3oz so it can fit comfortably anywhere when you’re on the move.
Weatherproof
As with all Leupold rangefinders, the Leupold RX 650 is both waterproof and fog proof so you are free to use this device no matter the weather conditions.
The weatherproofing and fog proofing capabilities are all thanks to the O-ring seals around the lenses and a nitrogen-purged optical chamber.
Operation
As a basic and entry-level rangefinder, the Leupold 650 rangefinder is simple to operate and will save you a lot of time.
Its intuitive one-hand operation allows for quick activation and hassle-free operation which is a win when hunting.
You can have the rangefinder in one hand while the other remains on the trigger to increase the chances of hitting the target dead on.
With no complex buttons, you can get your accurate reading in just three steps with the RX 650.
First, you bring the rangefinder up to your eye and allow a few seconds for your eyes to adjust the aim to the target.
You can adjust the eyepiece to focus better if you cannot see your target clearly.
Second, press the single red button once to shoot the laser at your intended target.
Moreover, you can hold the red button to go into Scan Mode and measure the distance to multiple targets.
Third, in just a few seconds, the RX-650 laser rangefinder gives you an accurate reading of the distance to the target.
The distance to target comes up in either yards or meters, all depends on your preference.
Battery Life
Unlike other rangefinders that use special types of batteries that are hard to find and replace, the Leupold RX-650 uses a single CR-2 lithium battery.
Usually, this battery is included in the purchase of the rangefinder and can be found in any convenience store should you need a replacement.
It also comes with an automatic shut off function which turns the rangefinder off after 30 seconds of no use.
This way the rangefinder is prolonging the battery life and not using up energy when it’s idling.
The in-view status indicator on the LCD lets you monitor power levels so you will know when it’s time to replace the battery.
The battery is small enough that you can carry around a replacement when you’re on the go.
Change the battery without any fuss since the battery is conveniently located under the eyepiece.
- Model #176769 - RX-950 Laser Rangefinder in Black
- 100% Waterproof, fogproof, and backed by Leupold's gold ring 2-year electronics warranty
- Fully multi-coated lens system ensures maximum brightness for clarity, contrast, and color fidelity
Leupold RX 650 rangefinder pros
High Accuracy
With a high-quality optic system and a wide field of view, the RX 650 uses a powerful laser to give you the most accurate measurements of distance to the target.
Weather-resistant
In keeping with the line of Leupold rangefinders, the Leupold RX 650 rangefinder is fog proof and waterproof so you don’t worry about the weather.
Compact and Lightweight
The RX 650 rangefinder is compact and lightweight so carrying it around is easy.
It comes with a carrying case and lanyard or if you prefer it can even fit into your pocket.
Long battery life
With a single CR-2 lithium battery and automatic shut off function after 30 seconds, the Leupold RX- 650 rangefinder offers a long battery life.
Easy to use
The Leupold RX 650 features a single one-button design and a rubberized textured armor for better gripping even if your hands are wet.
This way there is no trouble when using the device thus saving you precious time, especially when tracking moving targets.
Leupold RX 650 rangefinder cons
Cannot lock onto smaller targets
This RX-650 struggles to lock onto smaller targets.
It is best to not use this rangefinder for golfing since it is not tailored to pick out flagsticks from the background.
No angle compensation
The RX-650 rangefinder will not compensate for any uphill or downhill shots.
Final Verdict: Leupold RX 650 review
In this Leupold RX 650 review, we found that the RX 650 is an affordable entry-level rangefinder.
It is one of the best laser rangefinders on the market that provides accurate measurements and long battery life.
Being both water and fog proof, it is more suitable for hunting and lets you worry less when the weather is not ideal.
Other than not being able to use to golf nor compensate for uphill or downhill shots, the RX-650 is a good choice if you are looking for a basic rangefinder.