A Laser Rangefinder (LRF) is an excellent tool for the rifleman. While some diehard purists prefer to range with their riflescope or spotter reticle (no batteries), a good quality LRF is an excelent training tool and also allows you to "be sure" what the range for your target is. I consider the LRF a must for those who engage in so-called long range hunting. You owe the game animal at least that much.
A LRF is handy for setting up practice targets, training to estimate distance, and for confirming distance of unknown targets before pulling the trigger.
For 2016, and likely beyond, we back the Sig Kilo 2000 as THE LRF to get under $500, and likely under $1000 too....it's that good!