The only review i would put any real faith in would be one written by someone i knew and trusted.
As for ranging in the rain, thats a lame comparison as theres almost no chance you'd be needing a rangefinder when its raining.
Take it to the bank that "ALL" lazer rangefinders with the exception of a very few very expensive ones are going to fail you at some point.
That includes the one i own. You might get a reading with yours when your buddy cant with his today. Tommorrow or even 15 minits from
now that could be different. Most reviews wont tell all, only what they choose to tell.
Id personaly be taking the advise of those whove been there and done it over any review.