This is an old thread but I do have a very strong opinion on the subject.
I'll never buy a Leupold product again. I spent $500 on an RX-1000 TBR a few years back and thought I was making an investment. Like many others have experienced, the red LED display fades over time. This year I could barely make out the top of the distance digits. Leupold offered me half off a new one. Basically, the 1400 for $100 or the 1600 for $225. Rep said they had the same software but more distance, with the 1400 in a lighter weight package.. (read = cheap plastic) The nice feeling 1600 was going to be $225, and how long do I trust it.
This is on the Leupold service page:
NOTICE: RX-1400I TBR/W LASER RANGEFINDERS
Leupold & Stevens has found that select RX-1400i TBR/W Laser Rangefinders may be affected by an electronics component issue and may not perform to the standard Leupold demands. Leupold firmly believes in a square deal: If you own an RX-1400i TBR/W and are concerned with its performance, please call 1-800-LEUPOLD. If your rangefinder is among those affected, it will be replaced immediately.
I feel like the cheap plastic 1400 is just a warranty stop gap so they can offer $100 replacements to unhappy customers on all order high end models. There are many reviews on Cabela's with the same issue.
I bought the Vortex ranger 1800 this morning on sale for $259 instead. They have been unbelievable from a service standpoint and I'd rather give them my money than throw good money after bad.
My $0.10.