What Should I Look For in A Rangefinder?

The truth is that the right rangefinder can mean the difference between whether the next big game hunt is successful or not. It is unfortunate that most times, hunters miss their targets with guns and bows due to miscalculated range. You should note that when a bullet leaves your gun or an arrow leaves the bow, it begins to fall in what is known as the projectile mission. This is where a rangefinder comes in handy. These are some of the things to look for in a rangefinder.

Things to Consider In Picking the Best Laser Rangefinder

Maximum Distance

You should note that laser rangefinders have evolved over the years since they were first introduced about three decades ago. The good thing about a laser rangefinder is that it can give you an accurate reading within a yard and all the way to a mile or further. Also, there are rangefinders on the market that cannot accurately range to about 300 or 500 yards. If you believe you have a chance of chasing an elk or antelope with a rifle, then going for one that a range of over 1,000 yards is a great idea.

  • The Impact 1000 features an intuitive platform with angle compensation; perfect for bowhunters and range-day lovers. Range targets down to five yards out, with the ability to stretch out to 1,000 yards if need be.
  • The primary HCD mode displays an angle compensated distance that is ideal for the majority of hunters and shooters. An advanced LOS mode provides the option to calculate long distance, high angle shots with increased precision.
  • A scan feature gives continuous range readings to pan across a landscape or track a moving target. All modes can be set to read in yards or meters.
  • The diopter located on the eyepiece adjusts for differences in a user's eyes. Added 6x magnification brings targets in for a closer look and more accurate ranging.
  • Fully multi-coated optics enhance light transmission in low light settings. Waterproof and shockproof performance keep you in the hunt no matter what the conditions.
  • Backed by our unlimited, unconditional, lifetime, VIP Warranty. A fully transferable promise to repair or replace your item if it becomes damaged/defective. Does not cover loss, theft, deliberate damage or cosmetic damage that doesn't hinder performance.

Magnification

Another thing you ought to consider when choosing a rangefinder is the magnification. Ideally, this is important because most of the time, you will range animals that are long-distance away. In fact, you may not even see the animals or even range them without adequate magnification. For a 6x rangefinder, the object you want to range on is six times larger than the way it appears with normal vision.

Nowadays, there are manufacturers who make binoculars that feature built-in rangefinders. They are quite useful as they have a lot of magnification. In addition, it is not difficult to get the range of an animal at a long distance because of the magnification. Remember that these units are quite expensive as they combine two tools. However, if you are a seasoned hunter, you will find them worth the value.

  • The most cost-effective rangefinder you can find on the market to provide you reliable performance for golfing, hunting, bowhunting, and other professional application. Both models have slope functions. The slope switch is for tournament legal.
  • Provide high-precision distance measurement. Integrates latest functions such as continuous range readings, ARC (angle range compensation), Pin-Seeking and Flagpole-Locking Vibration (Vibrate when the flagpole is locked), and Speed Measuring
  • Measuring range from 5 to 1200 yards, with +/- 1m high accuracy and 6x magnification. The flagpole locking function supports a distance up to 150 yards (Flagpole only) and 250 yards (Aim the flag when it's unfolded). Our rangefinder can meet most user’s needs
  • Fully multi-coated optics lenses effectively reduce reflected light and increase the transmission of light giving you a brighter clear image. The diopter is adjustable for precise focus on display
  • TOURNAMENT LEGAL: The "MTL" version features a slope switch that can let you turn off the slope function anytime you want, making your tournament legal.

Aiming Point

The aiming point is also called the reticle. This is an object in the middle of the viewfinder that you can place on whatever you want to find out to take an accurate, safe shot. For many rangefinders, when you aim to point on an object, you depress the button to activate its laser. In this case, the laser beam will travel to the animal and then bounce back to the rangefinder. It will then display the distance or range on the screen. Ideally, some reticles ae easier to hold as compared to others. Remember that choosing the right reticle is a matter of personal preference.

  • 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐔𝐏𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐃 𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑: Our VPRO500 Laser Rangefinder is a premium product, measuring up to 540 yards with continuous scan mode, advanced Pinsensor technology, and a durable, water-resistant body. This high-precision laser range finder is sure to provide you with a seamless experience and reliable performance for golfing, hunting, and other professional application.
  • 𝐄𝐍𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐃 𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐄𝐂𝐇𝐍𝐎𝐋𝐎𝐆𝐘: Designed with precision to provide fast measurement with 1-yard high accuracy, integrated with enhanced Pinsensor technology to accurately measure overlapping subjects and continuous range readings, perfect for measuring golf flags, hazards, and wooded areas.
  • 𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐖𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄: Measures just 4.09 x 2.83 x 1.61in and weighing just 6.52 oz. Compact in design yet lightweight and portable. This handy laser range finder added extra convenience and confidence, perfect for carrying while golfing or hunting, or for measuring and surveying without extra weight or bulk.
  • 𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐑𝐀-𝐂𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐑 𝐎𝐏𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐒: Advanced ultra-clear, multilayered optics with easy read, through the lens display ensuring best viewing experience with exceptional clarity and sharpness, and continuous measurement mode for fast, convenient measurements; what's more; it is an eye-safe rangefinder for visual comfort with class 1 laser and <0.5mW average power output.
  • 𝐅𝐔𝐋𝐋 𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐀𝐆𝐄: Packed with everything you need, complete rangefinder package for quick setup, including premium carrying pouch, CR2 battery, wrist strap, microfiber cleaning cloth, quick start guide, TecTecTec 2 Years Happiness Guarantee (online registration required), and lifetime customer support to fulfill your core distance measurement needs to maximize your game.

Lens Coatings

Like the binocular, the lens coatings are quite important for the rangefinder. In fact, if you cannot see it clearly, it is difficult to hold the rangefinder for it to determine the distance. Moreover, if you cannot accurately get the distance, you may not make the best hit.

Although not all rangefinders have multi-coated lenses, the top-quality ones do. The lens coating helps break glare and helps increase light transmission, making it easier to see through your rangefinder. This is an important feature when hunting in low-light conditions.

  • RANGEFINDER & HYPOSMETER: Forestry Pro II has a measurement range of 8-1,750 yds with measurement functions that include actual disctance, height, angle and vertical separation. 2 Point and 3 Point calculations mean you can find the exact height of an object, as well as the distance between any two points.
  • MULTIPLE DISPLAYS: Display measurement results are on both internal and external LCD panels. The external panel displays all results simultaneously, and with 3 levels of backlighting, is perfect for any lighting condition.
  • ADVANCED NIKON TECHNOLOGY: Provides quick and stable measurement responses in approx. 0.3 second regardless of distance. An additional log function enables storage of up to 250 measurments.
  • TARGET PRIORITY SWITCH SYSTEM: for measuring overlapping subjects.First Target Priority mode displays the distance of the closest subject—useful when measuring the distance to a subject in front of an overlapping background. Distant Target Priority mode displays that of the farthest subject—useful in wooded areas.
  • DURABLE IN THE FIELD: Waterproof up to 1 m for 10 minutes, fogproof glass, and rainproof, the FORESTRY PROII is the perfect companion for out in the field.
  • BUNDLE INCLUDES: Nikon Forestry Pro II Laser Rangefinder and Hyposmeter, carrying case, 3 extra CR2 batteries (operation only requires 1), and lens cleaning cloth for esssential maintenance

Size

The first rangefinders to be made were quite bulky and large. Although they were effective, they were kind of a pain to carry around when hunting. Fortunately, you can find laser rangefinders that are small and tiny. Whatever you choose, ensure it can fit your hand, and it should allow you to activate the laser easily.

  • 【Laser Rangefinder for Hunting】--Class 1, 905nm laser type, Measuring range from 5 to 1200 yards, Provides fast measurement with accuracy ±1m, LCD Digital display, 6x magnification. Through technical improvement, this version is more stable measure for 1200Yards.
  • 【Horizontal Distance】Mode 1 is specially designed for hunting and will display straight-line distance, horizontal distance, and angle. Mode 2 is specially designed for Golfing and provides slope compensation and flag lock function. The rangefinder also has a scanning function, which is convenient for you to quickly catch prey. Last one is Speed mode, Press "M" Button to change measure mode.
  • 【Unique Design & Battery USB Charging】-- Our range finder for hunting with clear optics, Sizes 106x 72 x 40 mm and weight 184g, perfect for carrying while hunting or Golf, durable body, Different from others with External 3.7V 900mah rechargeable lithium battery, this one use Built-in rechargeable battery for the device
  • 【Hunting Rangefinder】-- Designed for hunting and can measure both distance and speed. Provides distance data needed for accurate shots to avoid spooking your target. Give you an amazing experience of hunting.
  • 【Full Accessories and 100% Satisfaction Promise】-- Complete laser rangefinder hunting set, including 1x Rangefinder, 1x Carrying Pouch, 1x USB Cable, 1x Strap, 1x Cleaning cloth and 1x Manual. We Provide 1-year warranty and lifetime customer support

Display

You need to take into account the type and quality of the display of your rangefinder. In fact, most rangefinders on the market provide an accurate distance to your target. You will find it easy to read while others are a bit difficult. It is advisable to consider rangefinders that can be read in low-light conditions and still be visible when there is too much light. Remember that viewing the display is quite critical. In addition, you should consider eye relief feature as it matters a lot, particularly for hunters that wear glasses.

  • Quality optics with stunning HD clarity; 100 percent quality materials used and tested extensively
  • Beautifully designed with durability built to last; Simple single button operation in a compact, lightweight housing
  • Displays exact distance to target from 10 to 600 yard with +/- one yard accuracy
  • Bright, crystal-clear optics for targeting in low light; Magnification x Objective Lens: 4x 21mm
  • Realtree Xtra camo pattern; rugged, rainproof housing
  • Material Type: Plastic
  • Sport Type: Hunting
  • Class 1 laser with <1mW average power output

Brand

Nowadays, there are many companies out there that manufacture quality rangefinders and even low-priced units. Ensure you get a rangefinder that serves your needs even if it means spending more to get it. Some of the top brands include Nikon, Bushnell, Leupold, Vortex, and German Precision Optics.

  • 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑: Designed with art and convenience in mind to provide you with an upgraded golf range finder for more reliable performance. TecTecTec ULT-X rangefinder features Target Lock Technology (TLT), our latest laser technology, and continuous scan mode, ensuring seamless performance for golfing, hunting, bowhunting, and other professional applications.
  • 𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐌𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒: ULT-X Rangefinder uses the latest optical technology providing high precision measurements that will take your game to the next level. Experience an incredible accuracy of ± 0.3 yards at distances of up to 300 yards, ± 0.5 yards at distances of up to 600 yards, and ± 1 yard at distances up to 1,000 yards with our latest laser range finder.
  • 𝐀𝐃𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐃 𝐒𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐃𝐄 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐕𝐈𝐁𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍: Configured with the advanced slope mode, making it first and precise while giving golfers accurate distance on uphill and downhill shots. For added convenience, the rangefinder gives a short vibration when you lock on your target.
  • 𝐅𝐔𝐋𝐋𝐘 𝐌𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈-𝐂𝐎𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐄𝐒: Built with crystal clear optics and 6x magnification, ensuring the best viewing experience with exceptional clarity and sharpness and continuous measurement mode for fast, convenient measurements. The fully multi-coated optics lenses increase light transmission and bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions.
  • 𝐅𝐔𝐋𝐋 𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐀𝐆𝐄: Packed with everything you need, complete rangefinder package for quick setup, including premium carrying pouch, CR2 battery, wrist strap, microfiber cleaning cloth, quick start guide, TecTecTec 2 Years Happiness Guarantee (online registration required), and lifetime customer support to fulfill your core distance measurement needs to maximize your game.