What To Look For In A Hunting Rangefinder?
Callaway 350 Pro Slope Laser Golf Rangefinder, Grey/Red
Aim is crucial when it comes to large game hunting. Usually, you only get one chance, and if you miss it, your opportunity is gone. However, aiming involves more than just pointing your gun in the direction of your target. Figuring out how far away the target is psychologically is a key component in ensuring that your shot lands.
Regretfully, it’s not always simple. It is not ideal if you estimate your distance from an animal incorrectly and your shot occurs sooner or later than you anticipated. This is where a rangefinder really comes in handy, but choosing one might be a little overwhelming. For all of you who are purchasing rangefinders for the first time, here are some pointers.
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Understand How They Work
Finding out how rangefinders actually operate should be your first step before making a purchase. Finding out more about rangefinders helps guide you toward the one that best fits your needs and preferences.
Here’s a brief summary. In order to locate a target, rangefinders aim a harmless laser at it. After that, the laser is reflected and returns to you. Based on the time it takes for the laser to return, the rangefinder can then determine with precision how far away the target is. Although it seems sophisticated, all you have to do to find out how far away something is is point the device at it.
Bushnell Prime 1300 Hunting Laser Rangefinder 6x42mm – Archery and Rifle Modes, slope angle compensation, crisp clear image
Caddytek CaddyView
Halve the Given Range
Every rangefinder has an advertised maximum range at which it works optimally. A high-quality, contemporary rangefinder typically has a 400-yard range. That’s excellent to hear, but bear in mind that most rangefinders are made to work with reflected targets.
Every rangefinder has an advertised maximum range at which it works optimally. A high-quality, contemporary rangefinder typically has a 400-yard range. That’s excellent to hear, but bear in mind that most rangefinders are made to work with reflected targets.
Hold It Before You Buy It
Many new rangefinder purchasers make the crucial error of not actually holding the rangefinder in their hands before making the purchase. Before you purchase a rangefinder, make sure you can really handle it comfortably and raise it to your eyes. This may not seem very important.
It needs to be the ideal size for you because you won’t be mounting it on your weapon. Mostly, size is a matter of taste, but check sure the item feels comfortable in your hand and in your pocket (or bag).
Leupold RX-FullDraw 5 Rangefinder with DNA with Black/Green OLED
Bushnell Prime Hunting Bundle, Prime 10×42 Binocular and Prime 1500 Laser Rangefinder with Vault Bino & Laser Rangefinder Caddies, Waterproof
Consider Waterproofing
While many rangefinders are waterproof, not all of them are. Try to recall the locations you hunt in the most frequently. Is there a possibility that you will find yourself in the rain and in the middle of nowhere? Do you go hunting in marshy places where you might accidentally drop your rangefinder into the water?
If you have even a remote danger of getting your rangefinder wet, it might still be a good idea to acquire a waterproof one. Try to think of every location you could use your rangefinder to hunt. If you intend to go to locations that are more moist, it’s worth it to purchase a waterproof one, even if your usual spot is rather dry.
Pay Attention to the Brand
By now, it should be common knowledge that a product isn’t always wonderful just because it comes from a high-end brand. Conversely, something need not be awful merely because it is reasonably priced. However, it’s often true that the most expensive rangefinders aren’t the best.
To avoid being duped, you should aim to stick to a few well chosen brands when choosing a rangefinder. You’ll be familiar with some of the most reputable brands in the business: Nikon, SIG Sauer, Simmons, and Bushnell. Deals are undoubtedly to be found, but attempt to avoid unreliable brands.
Muddy Hunting Outdoor Precision Rubber Trim Watertight Laser Range Finder
Bushnell V6 Shift Patriot Laser Rangefinder
Magnification is Important
Rangefinders are useful tools that can do more than just measure a target’s distance. Additionally, they can enlarge your target so you can see it more clearly. Investing in a rangefinder with a magnification feature would be wise if you frequently hunt animals that are located far away from you.
As a result, you can use your rangefinder in place of your binoculars, leaving them at home. You might also consider looking at a pair of binoculars with an integrated rangefinder if you require higher magnification than what is typically available in rangefinders. It all comes down to efficiency.
Find a Display That Works for You
Each rangefinder will have a unique type of display. While some lack displays at all, others do. It’s probably just a matter of getting used to any display type you choose, but it’s a good idea to test out a couple before choosing one.
If you like all other characteristics of a rangefinder but aren’t sure what would work best for you, don’t just buy one because you think it looks nice. While some have transparent OLED panels, others have red LED displays. In the end, it will depend on your personal preference, so try a few different things.
Callaway
Bushnell 4×21 Hunting Laser Rangefinder Bone Collector Edition in Realtree Xtra Camo
Camouflage Can Be Your Friend
As a hunter, you are well aware of how crucial camouflage is in avoiding frightening an animal. When using rangefinders, the same idea holds true. An animal will undoubtedly be more interested in a shiny black rangefinder than one that is camouflaged, even though many of them are quite little.
Seek out a rangefinder that will complement the surroundings in which you intend to hunt the most. Even if it’s a minor element, it will undoubtedly have a significant impact on your attempt to be as unremarkable as possible. Try a few different styles; there are plenty to pick from.
Bow or Gun?
Although rifle hunters use rangefinders frequently, bowhunters also need to utilize them, if not more so. If you shoot a projectile, it will fall a specific distance from the target depending on your distance; the same holds true for arrows and bullets.
Naturally, the rate at which arrows and bullets fall varies, thus the type of rangefinder you need depends depend on the weapon you want to use. If you are using a bow or a gun in addition, you will probably require a different maximum range.
Garmin Xero A1i PRO Bow Sight, Right-Handed Auto-ranging Digital Sight with Microadjustments for Elevation, Windage and More
REVASRI Hunting Laser Rangefinder with Rechargeable Battery 1000 Yards Hunting Range Finder with Target Acquisition Technology
Choose Your Reticle
To use a rangefinder, point a reticle at a target and then press a button to launch the laser at the point where the reticle is pointing. Considering this, it is imperative to select a rangefinder with a reticle that allows for precise aim.
Similar to numerous other aspects we’ve covered thus far, each hunter will have a different favorite reticle. I is unable to name a single reticle type as the best. In case you are uncertain, go for a rangefinder that offers an assortment of reticle choices. This will enable you to choose which to utilize at any given time.
Conclusion
Selecting a hunting rangefinder requires taking into account a number of parameters, including as display style, reticle selections, waterproofing, and magnification. Knowing how rangefinders operate, keeping an eye on their maximum range, and selecting one with features that fit your needs and hunting style are the three most crucial aspects. You’re likely to locate the ideal rangefinder to improve your aim with a little study and practical testing.
FAQs
How accurate are hunting rangefinders?
Most quality rangefinders are accurate to within 1 yard at distances up to around 250 yards when used properly. The accuracy stated by the manufacturer is under ideal conditions, so expect a bit of variance in real-world use.
What is the maximum range I need for a rangefinder?
Consider your typical shot distances and maximum ethical shooting range. 600 yards is more than enough for most big game hunting situations. Anything above 800 yards is overkill for most hunters.
Should I get a rangefinder with angle compensation?
Angle compensation is very useful for shooters at longer ranges or in steep terrain. It provides true horizontal distance readings, improving accuracy.
Is lens coating important in a rangefinder?
Quality lens coatings increase light transmission and clarity. Fully multi-coated lenses are ideal, reducing glare and increasing rangefinder performance.
Do all rangefinders work well in low light conditions?
Low light performance varies. To be effective at dawn/dusk, look for rangefinders with good light transmission ratings and generous exit pupil size
