While choosing the best rangefinder for hunting, you will come to know there are two types of rangefinders in the market. Actually, some rangefinders are for hunting and others for golf.
Accuracy and range are the two most critical factors for a hunter. Without considering these two factors, success in hunting may be a nightmare. Open sight hunting is excellent, but when you use the accurate rangefinder, you will fall in love with this tool.
Top picks
★★★★★
Vortex Optics Ranger
- 6x magnification
- Weight 12 0z
- 1800-yard
★★★★★
Bushnell Scout DX
- 6x magnification
- Weight 6.6 0z
- 1000-yard
★★★★★
Leupold RX 650 Microlaser
- 6x magnification
- Weight 6.3 oz
- 650-yard
Whether you are a hunter or a golfer addition of this rangefinder to your gadgets list will never disappoint you if you are thinking of this as a burden on your pocket.
Then, Think again
This small piece of technology is an excellent invention. Whether you have experience or a newbie will help you determine the accurate range from your target. So, always have one whether you are a bowhunter or long-range shooter.
But wait
Before making the buying decision, decide which type of hunting you are doing. Additionally, what is your budget?
Whether you are buying a rangefinder or binocular rangefinder, we have a complete guide for you.
Contents
- 1 Best rangefinders for hunting 2022
- 2 1. Vortex Optics Ranger hunting Laser Rangefinder
- 3 2. Bushnell Scout DX 1000 ARC hunting Laser Rangefinder
- 4 3. TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder
- 5 4. Leica CRF 1000-R
- 6 5. LaserWorks LW1000PRO Professional-Class Laser Rangefinder
- 7 6. Nikon 8398 ACULON Laser Rangefinder
- 8 7. Leupold RX 650 Microlaser
- 9 8. ATN Laser Ballistics 1000 Smart Laser Rangefinder
- 10 9. Leupold RX-1600i TBR/W with DNA Rangefinder
- 11 10. Sig Sauer KILO 1200
- 12 How to select the best rangefinder for hunting?
- 13 Best hunting rangefinder brands
- 14 Final Verdict
- 15 FAQs
Best rangefinders for hunting 2022
- Vortex Optics Ranger – Overall Best hunting rangefinder
- Bushnell Scout DX 1000 ARC- Top hunting Laser Rangefinder
- TecTecTec ProWild – Best budget hunting Rangefinder
- Leica CRF 1000-R- Best simple hunting rangefinder
- LaserWorks LW1000PRO
- Nikon 8398 ACULON Laser Rangefinder
- Leupold RX 650 Microlaser
- ATN Laser Ballistics 1000 Smart Laser Rangefinder
- Leupold RX-1600i TBR/W with DNA Rangefinder
- Sig Sauer KILO 1200
There were golden days when people were skilled without using the device. But modern technologies have made people lazy. Now, the masses are keener to opt for technology rather than learning new skills.
It’s true our life without modern gadgets is incomplete. However, selecting the right tool is so important. Maybe in last season, you have missed bucks of hunting targets due to your low-quality rangefinder.
We have reviewed a lot of products keeping in mind the critical factors.
Hunting Rangefinder | RATINGS | PRICE |
---|---|---|
Vortex Optics Ranger | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
Bushnell Scout DX | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
TecTecTec ProWild | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
Leica CRF 1000-R | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
LaserWorks LW PRO | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
Nikon 8398 ACULON | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
Leupold RX 650 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
ATN Laser Ballistics | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
Leupold RX-1600i | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
Sig Sauer KILO 1200 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
1. Vortex Optics Ranger hunting Laser Rangefinder
- Easy to use
- Visible Red LED reading.
- Lifetime warranty
- Three times press required to fix a target
Whether you are a gun hunter, crossbow hunter, or target shooter, Vortex 1800 is perfect for you. Its rubber texture makes it nonslip. The vortex ranger is best for long-range shooting as well as for bowhunting.
Vortex use is effortless. Furthermore, it has a brighter view. A fully multi-coated lens and waterproof feature make it more likable. The Vortex 1800 is the best rangefinder for hunting.
It provides two modes of operation HCD and LOS. The continuous scan mode helps a lot when the target is moving. The utility clip makes it easy to attach to anything.
HCD mode
This primary feature provides angle compensated distance. It is helpful while you are shooting at the level ground or up to 800 yards range with a minor slope.
LOS mode
Advanced LOS mode is used for long-distance and higher slopes. The refile shooting mode provides high precision.
Continues scan
Continues scan option is available in both HCD & LOS mode. It is helpful when the target is moving.
- Dimensions 5 x 2.7 x 4.1 inches
- CR2 battery required (included)
- Weight 12 0unce
- 6x magnification
- Range reflective 9-1800 yards
- Range deer 9-900 yards
- 3-yard accuracy (at 1000 yards)
- Objective lens 22mm
2. Bushnell Scout DX 1000 ARC hunting Laser Rangefinder
- Compact and lightweight
- Water and fog proof
- ESP technology
- Diopter adjustment
- Compatible with magnetic attachment
- Costly
It has two modes of operation ARC rifle mode and ARC bow mode. The ESP (Extreme, Speed, Precision) turbo processor enhances its accuracy. Its accuracy is 0.5 yards.
The beautiful design is small enough to fit in your pocket. Scout DX 1000 has 6X magnification with diopter adjustment for a clear view. It is fully water and fog-proof.
Bushnell scout is the best value hunting rangefinder, especially for long-range shooting.
ARC bow mode
This mode gives true horizontal distance out to 99 yards.
ARC Rifle mode
This mode gives a built drop or holdover in inches.
Scan mode
Continues scan option is helpful when the target is moving.
Bullseye
Bullseye provides the distance of the closet target, not what is behind it.
Brush
It is helpful when the target is behind the obstructions.
- Dimensions 1.3 x 4 x 2.9 inches
- 3-volt CR2 battery required (included)
- 6x magnification
- Range reflective 5-1000 yards
- Range deer 9-325 yards
- 0.5-yard accuracy
- Weight 6.6 ounce
- Built-in inclinometer
3. TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder
- Dimensions 104 x 72 x 41 mm
- CR2 battery required (included)
- 6x magnification
- Range reflective 5-540yards
- 1-yard accuracy
- Weight 185gram
- Multilayered optics
- Some defective units
- No slope
TecTecTec is producing quality products at a reasonable price. The ProWild ranges up to 540 yards. Moreover, it can measure distance and speed accurately.
It provides a clear image with a multilayer coating. The Prowild comes with a carrying pouch, battery, wrist strap, and cleaning cloth. The continuous scan and fast measuring technology make it more likable. No doubt Pro wild is the best rangefinder for hunting for the money.
Continues scan mode
Continues scan option is helpful when the target is moving. So, you always receive perfect results.
Speed measurement
This rangefinder can also measure speed with distance. Only a few devices in the market have this feature.
Fast measuring technology
It is helpful to measure the distance quickly.
- Dimensions 104 x 72 x 41 mm
- CR2 battery required (included)
- 6x magnification
- Range reflective 5-540yards
- 1-yard accuracy
- Weight 185gram
- Multilayered optics
4. Leica CRF 1000-R
- Compact and lightweight
- Fully waterproof
- Brighter LED display
- Very quick
- Easy to operate
- Costly
This entry-level rangefinder has a soft black paint surface.
Leica CRF is submersible so, it is waterproof. It is an ideal combination of accuracy and durability. With a weight of less than a half-pound, it is incredibly portable. It takes only 0.5 seconds to be ready for the perfect shot.
Its red LED is easy to read. This rangefinder can range up to 1000 yards. CRF has to fold down rubber eyecups. The 7X magnification brings another comfort. It is among the best-hunting rangefinders.
Continues scan mode
This option is helpful when the target is moving. So, it provides accurate results even when the target is changing positions.
Stationary mode
The stationary mode is used when the object is constant.
Aqua Dura coating
The external lenses have an AquaDura coating, which makes them water and dirt repellent. So, we get a clear view all the time.
Prism system
We gain improved contrast with a roof prism.
LED display
Its LED display is readable at any light conditions.
- Dimensions 4.5 x 2.25 x 1.25 inches
- CR2 battery required (included)
- 7x magnification
- Range reflective 11-1000yards
- 1-yard accuracy up to 400 yards
- Weight 7.8 ounce
- Objective lens 24 mm in diameter
5. LaserWorks LW1000PRO Professional-Class Laser Rangefinder
- Compact and lightweight
- Measure speed
- Measure the height of an object
- Can be used for golf
- Can use in fog
- Very quick
- Easy to operate
- Size may be too small for some users
Despite having a small size, it is versatile. The LW 1000pro is very simple to use and has only two buttons. One button is for the measurement and the other for switching the mode. This rangefinder ranges 5-1000 yards. Furthermore, 1600 yards are highly reflective targets.
Its fog mode makes it useable even in the fog. Interestingly this rangefinder can measure distance, height, and speed. Furthermore, golf trajectory mode and continuous scanning make it more valuable.
Same as the other rangefinders, it provides 6X magnification.
The laser works LW1000 Pro is the best rangefinder for hunting for the price with lightweight.
Continues scan mode
This option is helpful when the target is moving.
Fog mode
Whether you are hunting are playing a game in the fog, it provides you convenience without any hurdle.
Speed and vertical height measurement
It provides Horizontal distance and vertical height. Furthermore, we can measure speed up to 300 KM/h.
Flag pole locking
It’s easy to lock the pole with the littery background with this advanced option.
Golf trajectory correction
Specially designed features for golfers provide the gradient.
- Dimensions 4.5 x 2.25 x 1.25 inches
- CR2 battery required (included)
- 6x magnification
- Range reflective 5-1000yards
- 1-yard accuracy
- Weight 152 gms
- 7.2 view angle
- Objective lens 21 mm in diameter
6. Nikon 8398 ACULON Laser Rangefinder
- lightweight
- very small size
- Easy to operate
- Difficult to read due to its small size
The single-button operation makes it very simple to use. Therefore, this rangefinder automatically shuts off after 8 seconds when not used.
It has multilayered coated optics to provide a better view.
Programmed in Distant Target Priority Mode
This model is programmed to focus on the furthest target. So, it is beneficial when you have obstacles in front of your target object.
Automatic power off
This rangefinder automatically powers off after 8 seconds if not used. Therefore, it is beneficial to save battery.
Multilayered coating
The multilayered coating provides a brighter view.
- Dimensions 3.6 x 1.5 x 2.9 inches
- CR2 lithium battery required (included)
- 6x magnification
- Range 6-550 yards
- 1-M accuracy
- Weight 4.4 ounce (without battery)
- Eye relief 18 mm
- Objective lens 20 mm in diameter
7. Leupold RX 650 Microlaser
- lightweight
- Very simple to use
- Beautiful design
- Reasonable price
- waterproof
- Hard to read in low light
- Not recommended for golf
The Leupold is a famous brand in rangefinders production. Leupold beautifully designs the RX650. Furthermore, it is easily operated and has a reasonable price.
The outer rubber covering provides a firm grip. It also provides water resistance, the most demanding feature of hunters. The 6Xmagnification offers a brighter view.
Moreover, with only one button, it is easy to use. The lightweight RX650 makes it more portable. The reflective range for the distance finder is 650 yards.
Without any doubt, Leupold RX 650 is among the best rangefinder for hunting.
LOS
The Leupold RX650 provides accurate straight-line distance (yard/meter) from the target
Scan mode
The hunters can use scan mode for moving targets. The rangefinder scans cautiously in this mode.
- Dimensions 2.9 x 1.4 x 3.6 inches
- CR2 lithium battery required (included)
- 6x magnification
- Range 6-650 yards
- Deer range 575 yards
- Weight 6.3 ounce
- Eye relief 16.3 mm (high)
8. ATN Laser Ballistics 1000 Smart Laser Rangefinder
- Nice leather pouch
- Optics are clear
- Can Bluetooth to any ATN Scope
- Lightweight
- Mobile app
- Very simple to use
- Waterproof
- The ranging button takes some time to get used to
This rangefinder connects with your phone via Bluetooth with the ATN phone app. All ballistic calculations happen in the background, and we get a quick result.
Interestingly it can pair with ATN smart scope and provides a real point of impact adjustment. Therefore, we get results within seconds with 1yards accuracy. This rangefinder offers precise calculations up to 1000 yards. No doubt, it is the best rangefinder for long-range shooting.
Smart ballistic calculator
The smart ballistic calculator does the math through the mobile app. while connected with your phone via Bluetooth.
Pairs with smart HD
This rangefinder can connect with intelligent ATN scopes and provides real timepoint of impact adjustment.
Maximum accuracy
The mobile app does the complex calculations in seconds hence provides precise measurement.
- Dimensions 2.9 x 4.2 x 1.4 inches
- CR123A battery required
- 6x magnification
- Range 5-1000 yards
- Approximate Weight 6 ounce
9. Leupold RX-1600i TBR/W with DNA Rangefinder
- Easy to use
- Small size
- Crystal clear optics
- OLED Display
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- Maybe too small for users
- No lifetime warranty
It is entirely water and fog-proof and has an easy-grip rubber armor coating. The Leupolds advanced OLED display provides a more splendid view with different intensity light. We can choose one from three different reticles plus point, duplex, and duplex with a plus point.
RX models have fully multi-coated lenses and fold-down rubber eyecups.
Built-In-Inclinometer
RX series has a built-in inclinometer with TBR to provide the ballistic range to your target. That is displayed as a holdover aim point
DNA (Digitally Enhanced Accuracy)
Advanced DNA technology offers more accuracy, speed, and range.
LOS (Line of Sight Distance)
LOS provides precise straight-line distance.
Continues scan
Continues scan option is available in both HCD & LOS mode. It is helpful when the target is moving.
TRIG
The Professional can know the true horizontal range(cosine) and true vertical (sine) range with TRIG technology.
- Dimensions 3.8 x 1.4 x 3 inches
- CR2 battery required (included)
- Weight 7.8 0unce
- 6x magnification
- Range reflective 6-1600 yards
- Range deer 6-1000 yards
- 0.5-yard accuracy (Under 100 yards)
10. Sig Sauer KILO 1200
- Sleek design
- Lightweight (5 oz)
- HT-LCD Display
- Waterproof
- Extremely portable
- Difficult to read
The Monocular 4×20 mm has an anti-reflection coating, which provides high-quality light transmission. It has only two buttons (range and mode). The KILO 1200 is very quick and provides results up to 1200 yards.
Yes, this is among the best rangefinders for hunting.
Hyper scan
In scan mode, the hyper scan provides four range updates in each second.
DSP Technology
DSP technology helps to ensure the fastest and longest results.
LOS (Line of Sight Distance)
LOS provides precise straight-line distance.
HT-LCD
The LCD is clear and bright.
- Dimensions 3.9x 1.4 x 2.9 inches
- CR2 battery required (included)
- Weight 5 ounce
- 4x magnification
- Range reflective 1600 yards
- Range deer 600 yards
- +/- 3-yard accuracy
- Eye relief 24mm
How to select the best rangefinder for hunting?
I can’t suggest to you unless I don’t know the answers to the following questions. Are You a bowhunter, rifle hunter, or both?
There is a difference between the archery range and the shooting range. Therefore, first, decide your purpose.
After testing many hunting distance finders and taking reviews from users, we have selected some of the best-performing hunting rangefinders above.
Let’s discuss essential factors to consider while buying a range finder for hunting.
Range
Being a hunter, it is unpredictable how far your target may present. As you are out in the wild, so you need a distance finder that has enough range. The rangefinders in the market have different ranges. I firmly believe that hunting rangefinder should have a 700 + range.
We can miss our target due to the small range of devices. Therefore, to prevent any regret choose a good range device. But, it all depends on your use ( archery or long-range).
Design
The design of the rangefinder is most important to hunters. The ideal rangefinder is compact, lightweight, and durable. As we hunters travel a lot, the heavy rangefinder is irritating.
Durability is the most critical factor for hunters. The metal casing or durable rubber casing of the rangefinder prevents it from damage.
Angle of compensation
Shooting uphill or downhill compensation angle is essential. While we are hunting linear or with some angle up to 200 yards, shooting angle is not a big issue. Moreover, if the range is above 200 yards, shooting angle is important.
The rangefinders which provide angle compensated distance offers more accurate results.
Features
The good rangefinder should have the following features
- Powerful optics
- Good range
- Angle compensated distance
- Water resistance
- Wider LCD
Easy to use
No doubt, everyone wants maximum features. However, more feature makes it complicated. One button, easy to use rangefinder provides a comfortable experience.
Don’t compromise on ease of use over too many functions. Choose the right rangefinder, which fulfills our needs without many modes and features.
LCD vs. LED display
No doubt, LCD provides a clear view in daylight. However, in the morning or evening, It is difficult to read on LCD. In low light, LED is a better option to opt for.
Budget
The price is an essential factor in choosing a rangefinder. Many distance finders in the market provide high-end features but at a high price.
That is not true for all. Some rangefinder is low price even though they have maximum required features. However, you have to compromise on some advanced features. Therefore, always research before purchasing.
Best hunting rangefinder brands
There are a lot of rangefinder producing companies in the market. Very few of them have satisfied customers. Buying the distance finder from well know company is a wise decision.
Whether you are a hunter or a golfer, a low-quality product is a big hurdle to success. So, don’t rely on unrecognized companies. Here are some well-reputed companies.
Bushnell
The Bushnell is a well-known USA-based company. From optics to outdoor, it has a long list of products. The Bushnell is producing high-quality rangefinders and binoculars at a reasonable price.
Overview
- They are building a lot of rangefinders with the latest features.
- The Bushnell is the trendsetter in the market.
- It produces beautifully designed reliable rangefinders.
- The Bushnell rangefinders have a lot of advanced options to select from.
Conclusion
No doubt, Bushnell products are highly trustable at a reasonable price. They are playing the leading role in the industry. If you are a professional hunter, then it could be an excellent choice for you.
Their designs have a lot of operating options, so it is not easy to use for beginners.
Leupold
Without any doubt, Leupold is a top optics giant. The USA-based company is producing high-quality rangefinders, binoculars, and scopes. The designs are practical.
Leupold products are in use by the Israeli defense force and the USA army. I can say, without any hesitation that they are producing top-quality products, but they are costly too. You should give it a try if you can afford it.
Overview
- They are producing high-end durable products.
- Leupold products are trustworthy.
- They provide a lifetime guarantee.
Conclusion
If you love high-end products, then definitely, it is a superb option. This rangefinder provides you luxurious feel with trust.
The problem with this brand is the price factor. So, if you can afford it, you should go for this brand.
Nikon
I know most of us are familiar with this name. From the camera to rangefinders, they have a large number of products. Their cool shot series is top-rated for golf, while Aculon and Monarch are famous for hunting.
They are providing modern features in their products at a minimal price. The design and accuracy of devices are also great.
Overview
- The Nikon rangefinder is a compact and beautiful design.
- Lightweight products are another plus point of Nikon.
- They include the latest features in their products.
- Their battery timing is good
- Most products are waterproof
Conclusion
If you are looking for any handy product, but at the same time, you are not compromising on quality, then go for it.
No doubt, Nikon’s beautiful design provides a luxurious feel. The Nikon rangefinders are lightweight and have modern features at a reasonable price.
Simmon
The Simmon hunting rangefinder is very simple to use. They do not opt for modern features. However, they provide trustful measurements.
They provide a primary function.
Overview
- The Simmon rangefinders are easy to use
- They don’t provide modern features
- The Simmon product is lightweight, and the design is beautiful.
- There is no rubber armor; instead, they have hard plastic.
Conclusion
It is a good option for beginners. The Simmon provides simple to use rangefinder at almost half the price of its competitors.
The measurement it gives is accurate.
TecTecTec
The TecTecTec made its name in a short period. They import parts, assemble, and market them. Interestingly their rangefinders are hot selling on Amazon.
They have the famous VPRO500 series in golf. Meanwhile, the Prowild series is popular in hunting.
Overview
- Small and compact
- Latest features
- Ergonomic design
- Low price
Conclusion
The TecTecTec rangefinder has almost all modern features at an economical price. I think they are not as refined as other expensive brands. So, summing up, it has an unbeatable price with the latest features.
Vortex
Vortex optics is a famous, USA-based company. They are producing many products from the rangefinder to the scopes. The vortex products are durable and accurate.
Overview
- Ergonomic design
- Accurate reading
- Lifetime warranty
- Waterproof
Conclusion
The Vortex brand is trustworthy for most hunters. If you are searching for a genuine luxurious brand, it is the right option for you.
Final Verdict
After testing so many hunting distance finders and taking reviews, we come to know that every product is not perfect. There are small loopholes, even in costly products. However, most customers are satisfied with high-end brands.
If you have a limited budget, also you have some excellent options. Yet, you have to compromise on some features. If you want a long-lasting product with the latest features, you should increase your budget. I recommend you to go for a high-quality product if you have enough budget. It will pay back to you.
FAQs
what is the best rangefinder for hunting?
Vortex Optics Ranger – Overall best rangefinder for hunting
Bushnell Scout DX 1000 ARC- Other Best rated rangefinder
Leupold RX 650 – Best micro hunting rangefinder
What is the best 1000 yard rangefinder?
Vortex Optics Ranger– 1800 yards
Bushnell Scout DX ARC– 1000 yards
Sig Sauer KILO-1200 yards
Is there a difference between golf and hunting rangefinders?
Usually, a golf rangefinder uses the first target mode to select the target (pole/pin). It locks the closest target, not what’s behind. On the other hand, hunting rangefinder uses distant target mode to target the object, which may be behind obstacles. If a rangefinder has both modes, it can be used for both purposes.