Hey hunters and welcome to my post where we will check my three best range finders for hunting accuracy this year. Nowadays, hunting with precision is made possible and more manageable by innovative hunting equipment such as range finders. Missing your target could be attributed to several things, and measuring the proper distance is a significant factor you should consider.
Buying a suitable range finder then is a practical solution for you to look at however as usual there are a few options out there to choose form. So to help you out, I have had a good look around and come up with three decent options below.
Let’s check them out…
My three recommended range finders for hunting
I will review these in more detail below, but if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
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What are range finders for hunting?
Hunting range finders are specialized equipment hunters use to measure the distance between them and their target game. Almost all range finders perform the same essential function: point the unit at a target (or something very nearby), press a button, and get a readout of how far away it is.
Just by pressing a button, rangefinders bounce a laser beam off your target where an internal clock measures the time the beam travels to and from the target. It even calculates the distance to within +/- 1 yard. Afterward, the precise range is displayed in yards or meters on an internal LCD.
What should you be looking for?
The following factors should be considered as you look for a good range finder to meet your hunting needs.
- Type
- Construction
- Range
- Magnification
- Angle range compensation
- Lens coating
- Additions
Type
The kind of capabilities you require is an important consideration when shopping for a rangefinder. As a result, you should be familiar with the various types of rangefinders:
- Basic model: Rangefinders in this category typically can switch between yards and meters, provide an angle reading and have a speed setting for range while moving. However, they have limited and fundamental options, so they are the hit-or-miss types.
- Ballistic model: Rangefinders with this feature include built-in software that provides a hunter with ballistics solutions and accurate range readings. The hunter can easily customize the equipment to his specific needs by entering environmental and cartridge information.
- Bluetooth-capable model: These rangefinders can sync with a smartphone or a tablet via Bluetooth. Vital data such as range, environment, and ballistics are relayed to the connected device, which either syncs or offers adjustment solutions for the best available shot.
Construction
In most cases, game will continue to graze, eat, and hunt whether there is rain, hail or shine. As a result, you must purchase a rangefinder capable of keeping up with your prey while enduring whatever Mother Nature has to throw at you. Consider waterproofness, ruggedness and shock-proof features when shopping for long-lasting equipment.
Range
Simply put, this is the distance that the range finder can focus on to give you good results. Look for something of at least 1000 yards however you may also be guided by the capabilities of your weapon as well.
Magnification
A rangefinder is helpful, but if it lacks magnification power, you not be able to gain an accurate measurement. As the magnification increases, keeping the rangefinder on target becomes more challenging for a good read. In such a case, you might want to consider using a tripod.
The majority of the rangefinders recommended provide 5x to 7x magnification.
Angle range compensation
The ability of your rangefinder to take a “line of sight” reading and calculate only the horizontal distance to the target is described by this factor. Angle range compensation allows you to predict whether the best shot will be fired from above or below your target at any significant angle.
Lens coating
The value of a rangefinder, like that of hunting binoculars, is determined by the quality of its lens glass. Because this is an optical device, logic dictates that you purchase a range finder that produces the highest-quality image possible.
Several manufacturers now use glass coatings identical to those used in binoculars. The goal is to maximize light transmission, reduce glare, prevent scratching or chipping and provide the best possible experience for the user.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Tripod mount: This feature is essential, especially if you need to affix the rangefinder at a specific location.
- Scan mode: This capability allows you to pan across your current landscape while readings change as you approach different targets.
- Carry bag: The item helps you keep the rangefinder safely if you are yet to use it.
- Battery: Battery options can include replaceable or rechargeable options.
- Warranty: Manufacturers provide their clients a warranty because this is their guarantee that the product is brand new and defect-free.
FAQ
Are range finders good for hunting?
Absolutely, rangefinders are a great way to improve your hunting success as they not only provide a distance measure to your target, but also can give you sight and aim settings as well. This allows you to seat your weapon and shot more effectively based on real time information.
Can you use golf range finder for hunting?
Yes they can, however most golf range finders are built to identify distance and terrain slope etc. (some will give you golf club suggestions as well) which may not be sufficient for hunting. Golf range finders do not tend to have the range of those for hunting either so they may not work well for you if you like to shoot from a distance.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. TIDEWE Hunting Rangefinder with Rechargeable Battery
If you desire a range finder that comes at a very affordable price yet can still provide a range of functionality, this product suits you. It is lightweight and durable with a straightforward design and does the job by giving you an accurate distance of your prey. See its specifications below:
- Brand: TIDEWE
- Magnification: 6X
- Measuring speed: < 0.5s
- Maximum range: 1000 yards (914.4 meters)
- Dimensions: 4.12 x 2.61 x 1.50 inches
- Weight: 0.35 pounds
Other inclusions:
- IP54 waterproof rating
- Carrying bag
- Scan mode
Why have I chosen it?
Despite coming with an inexpensive price tag, this range finder has the basic functions you would need to catch your target including a quick measuring speed of .5 seconds and an accuracy of +/- 1 yard (meter). Despite being lightweight, the product’s sturdy material ensures it can take any type of punishment and by short or long pressing the buttons, you can access critical integrated functions of the equipment. The scan mode assists you in surveying the landscape for factors affecting your play so that your prey won’t escape as well.
2. Bushnell Black LRF Advanced Target Detection Range Finder
My second range finder option is highly rated and although the reflective distance is stated to be 700 feet, reviewers have ranged animals and objects further out. It comes with long-lasting quality and an ergonomic design for comfort in use as well. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Bushnell
- Magnification: 6X
- Measuring speed: < 0.25s
- Maximum range: 1700 yards (1554.48 meters)
- Dimensions: 5.63 x 5.43 x 2.68 inches
- Weight: 0.37 pounds
Other inclusions:
- EXO barrier
- Scan mode
- Lifetime warranty
Why have I chosen it?
The rangefinder is one of the smallest on the market measuring 4.2″ long and weighs 0.37 pounds, making it perfect to fit in the pocket of your hunting jacket. While small and compact, it is rugged and water-resistant, with an IPX4 rating. In Scan mode, the laser ranges up to four times per second and is accurate to within +/-1 yard from 5 yards to the maximum ranging distance. The rangefinder has three useful modes: Standard, BullsEye, and Brush – all working well with Scan.
3. Vortex Optics Razor HD 4000 Laser Rangefinder
This last product recommendation is a good investment due to its high-performance features, high-end optics, and an extremely long-range laser. The integrated technology in this handheld unit also provides any hunter with a significant advantage against any type of game found in the wild. This is cutting-edge rangefinder technology at its finest. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Vortex
- Magnification: 7X
- Measuring speed: < 0.5s
- Maximum range: 4000 yards (3657.6 meters)
- Dimensions: 4.6 x 6 x 2.7 inches
- Weight: 0.62 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Extended laser range
- Ergonomic design
- Tripod-compatible
- Scan mode
- Lifetime warranty
Why have I chosen it?
This rangefinder has four targeting modes and two ranging modes, allowing it to cover any hunting terrain. Furthermore, the maximum range of 4,000 yards is about as good as it gets and should be sufficient for even the most demanding long-range hunter. Its objective lens is coated with ArmorTek coatings, which provide an ultra-hard scratch-resistant surface while repelling dirt, fingerprints, oil, and other contaminants. A great option for avid hunters of all types and in all locations.
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4.5
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4.5
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5.0
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$499.00
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Conclusion
There you have it, my three best range finders for hunting that will help increase your success. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
