Pretty easy, pretty solid smooth transition. The included user manual, while small, contains several pages of useful application information. I only gave this model 4 stars because the vertical resolution is only 1 degree since it doesn't have a vernier; as a result, its usefulness for range estimation is rather limited. The device arrived in good condition, but the well-folded plastic carrying case was damaged in transit as the relatively heavy device was not securely sealed in the case. The case replacement was provided by David White after some thought.