What is the best rangefinder for hunting? Today we will decipher the best hunting rangefinders to help you find the best pick for your hunting needs.
Rangefinders are essential instruments that provide reliable distance measurements. They simplify hunting activities because all you need to do is press a button and the distance between yourself and the target, is quickly brought up on the screen.
When collating the list of best hunting rangefinders we conducted thorough fact-finding, comparison of features and sampled customer reviews. Gogogo Sport Vpro Laser Rangefinder for Hunting was top of the list for its budget-friendly price and versatility.
What Makes a Great Hunting Rangefinder?
There is no fortune telling when it comes to range estimation. That is why having a good rangefinder is important.
The best rangefinder for hunting should be one that can last by withstanding abuse and weather pattern variations.
It should be functional in terms of optical performance and possess quick-ranging speed. Ranges read should stay consistently accurate with a minimal margin of error.
8 Best Hunting Rangefinders
The market is flooded with numerous rangefinders. Finding the best hunting rangefinders can be a taxing process especially if you are buying for the first time.
If you find yourself unhinged, we have come to your rescue. We combed through the market and found the best hunting rangefinders. Walk with us and explore dedicated rangefinders for hunters.
1) Vortex Optics Impact Laser Rangefinders
Vortex Optics Impact Laser Rangefinders are the ideal choice for rifle and bow hunters. It has great acclamation among tactical shooters as well. If you want the most out of 500 yards, Vortex Impact meets and surpasses that limit. It offers you an extra 500 to make it an effective rangefinder for 1000 yards.
Its pack of features with a 200-dollar price tag is almost an unbelievable offer. These features include different modes and HCD angle compensation. Scan mode is used to browse an area for multiple target acquisition. LOS mode provides a straight line of sight range. HCD is helpful for archers and mountain hunting.
The minimum effective distance is 5 yards with that of non-reflective objects being 800 yards. 15mm worth of eye relief is ample for bespectacled hunters. CR2 3-volt battery power is used in the rangefinder. Its lenses are fully multicoated and the unit is completely waterproof.
A combination of reliable performance, tough construction and intuitive features makes Impact Laser rangefinders top contenders as the best hunting rangefinders.
The lightweight design and angle compensation function are very resourceful for treestand hunters. You can also use this rangefinder the range to get precise horizontal distances.
Pros
- Simple clean user-centered menu
- Affordable
- Has a lifetime warranty
- Excels in light transmission thanks to the coated optics
- Easy to switch between modes
- Continuous scanning of targets
- Water and shockproof
- Lightweight
Cons
- A black display may not be appealing to all hunters
2) Bushnell Engage Hunting Laser Rangefinder
Bushnell is a world-class industry leader in optics. Their rangefinders are powerful enough to cut through bushes and scrubs to identify deer hidden within them. Bushnell prides itself as 50% brighter than others in its category owing to the large size of their objective lens.
The lens is fully multicoated to gather more light. Bushnell Engage is therefore the best rangefinder for hunting in the early mornings or late evenings. Color fidelity is maintained by the ultra-wideband coatings applied on all glass surfaces.
Since targets vary in size and speed, this rangefinder has modes that are easy to switch. For instance, for smaller targets, you can utilize the Bullseye mode to scrap out background objects from your display.
In brush mode, foreground obstructions are eliminated. Intelligence scan mode keeps tabs on the moving game. ARC technology compensates for inaccuracy caused when shooting at inclined or declined spots.
Bushnell Engage Hunting Laser Rangefinder incorporates the durability factor by keeping lenses free of oil, water and debris through the use of EXO barrier coating.
Pros
- Clear display due to large size lens
- Multicoated optics for true image colors
- Accurate ranging tech for angle shots
- Swift ranging speed
- Great performance in low light
- Tough on harsh weather
Cons
- Not tripod ready
- Accuracy in angled shots may require one to read through the user manual
3) Halo Range Finder Hunting Laser Range Finder
Halo Range Finder Hunting Laser Range Finder is the best rangefinder for the money. The rangefinder has a beautiful vertical body that is comfortable to hold. It is easy to interact with and offers precision for the hunter.
By pushing a single button many functions come to life. It has 6x magnification for a wide angle of view. Long battery life is guaranteed. Ranges of up to 600 yards can accurately be measured by this rangefinder.
It measures both yards and meters. The latest AI technology is employed to correct all forms of angled shooting. Halo rangefinders are durable, portable and waterproof. To enhance its strength a carrying case is included. This rangefinder is suitable for golfers too.
Pros
- Portable
- Wide lenses give sharp views
- Accurate measurements
- Can be used with all eyes open
- Clear display of modes and battery level
- The battery has a long life
- Ideal for all types of weather
- Versatile use
Cons
- Display readings become illegible as light diminishes
4) LEICA Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM Compact Laser Rangefinder
LEICA Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM Compact Laser Rangefinder is not only precise but comes with Bluetooth functionality for greater reliability. Ballistics range finding is easily achieved. You simply feed your rifle properties onto the Leica Hunting App.
From this, you get dependable range estimations up to 3500 yards. If you find your desire for long distances insatiable Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM is the best rangefinder for you. Time is of the essence when hunting and with Leica range finding happens in seconds. There are several laser types used on rangefinders.
This optics is fitted with the class 3R laser type for accuracy in the 3500 yards range. Kestrel Elite weather meter utilizes advanced ballistics technology to factor in all vital environmental factors before remitting the exact distance. The powerful combination of features is nestled in a compact ruggedly designed rangefinder.
Pros
- Has integrated Bluetooth connectivity
- AquaDura protected lenses
- Has a broad operating temperature range
- The display has five manual brightness adjustment settings
- Eyecup design allows folding down to accommodate sun/eyeglasses
- Dioptric correction maintains the sharpness of images in both eyes
- Single-button operation
- Strong reinforced plastic
Cons
- Expensive
5) Leupold RX-2800 TBR Laser Rangefinder
What is there not to like about Leupold RX-2800 TBR Laser Rangefinder? It is without a doubt one of the best hunting rangefinders for anyone who understands what quality optics are made of. Its excellence in long-range performance is stunning.
The non-reflective maximum range is 1800 yards for animals. For trees, it measures 2200 yards with so much ease and at a lightning-fast speed. The speed is attributed to Alpha IQ technology a set of complex engineered optics.
Reflective targets up to 2800 yards can be netted in by this rangefinder. True ballistic ranges alongside wind measurements provide unmatched accuracy for slay shots. Readings are +/- 1 yard accurate. The OLED display has you seeing animals even when they are too dark.
The 7x magnification power is yet another admirable feature. The other is the TBR-W feature for angle compensations. Comparing this rangefinder to other rangefinders from Leupold, you will note that it is lower in price. Included accessories are a two-year warranty, protective case, lanyard, CR2 battery and tripod mount allowance.
Pros
- Laser meets FDA manufacturing requirements. You can trust it with your eye
- Integrated Bluetooth for multi-device connections
- Corrects for windage and elevation
- Displays angle corrected distances
- Sufficient magnification power for easy reticle-to-target alignments
- Stunning color rendition and contrast
- Long-lasting finish
Cons
- Battery drains a little too fast
6) Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Laser Rangefinder with Arc
Bow hunting is made better by the Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Laser Rangefinder with Arc. Fusion of an internal inclinometer for measuring the relative angle to your target which is then reconfigured to match true horizontal distance.
ARC tech loaded with the specific ballistics properties of a bow gives an accurate horizontal distance from 4 to 90.5 meters. Other important ranges are 850 yards for reflective targets, 600 for a tree and 200 for a deer. You can choose to have measurements in yards or meters.
An in-view display is also available. 4x magnification is what you need for edge-to-edge clarity of images. The lower the magnification the bigger the field of view and this is especially true in Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Laser Rangefinder with Arc.
Roof prisms are responsible for the small sizes of optic gadgets and this remains the case for this hunting rangefinder. 5mm exit pupil keeps images looking sharp and bright.
Pros
- Textured body cover for non-skid grip
- Waterproof
- Responsive dials for focus adjustment
- Ergonomic fit on the hand
- Reliable ballistics technology
- Lightweight construction
Cons
- Not ideal for long-range hunting
7) Sig Sauer BUCKMASTERS 1500 Laser RANGEFINDER
The Sig Sauer BUCKMASTERS 1500 Laser RANGEFINDER is a bagful of quality electro-optic components delivered at a price affordable for all budgets. It has a Bullet Drop Compensation reticle with holdover dots that go far as 500 yards.
The ranging performance is very fast. The display has vivid red illumination for the best result in low light. As a bonus, the rangefinder also has Buckmasters mode. It has eight onboard ballistic clusters. This way, you are well-guided on which hold-over dot to opt for.
There are four possible modes of operation; LOS, AMR, Buckmasters hold and MOA hold. Along with that comes three target modes that are first, best and last target. The first and last targets have different responses in scan mode.
Holding down the range button helps with the retention of their functionality when scanning multiple targets on different range spots. Do not worry about the technicalities, a user manual is provided for further guidance.
Pros
- Easily reachable mode configuration button
- Scan mode refreshes four times a second
- Twist adjustable eyecup for long eye relief
- Pocket-friendly size
- Different target and ranging modes
- Illuminated display
- Fully transferable lifetime guarantee
- Packed with a lanyard and user’s manual
Cons
- Complex explanations/procedures involved in identifying the best ballistic cluster
8) Gogogo Sport Vpro Laser Rangefinder for Hunting
For the best price deal on a hunting rangefinder, Gogogo Sport Vpro Laser Rangefinder will do. You pay for less but get more value than you would expect at that price range. We are talking about less than 100 dollars!
To make the deal even better, it combines features that make it handy for hunting and golfing. Its multiple modes give it the power to identify how far an elk is located or how big of a swing you should take on that golf ball.
To break them down, we have scan mode for a range measurement of 5 to 560 yards. Golf mode for 150 yards accuracy, JOLT tech and slope distance correction. In seconds, data is computed and speedily displayed for your convenience.
A single button makes the process fast and easy. It is 184 grams heavy with a mini-body of 106x40x71mm dimensions. Beyond the features, this rangefinder is backed by fantastic after-sales service and a year’s warranty.
Pros
- Firm rubber grip
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 1-year warranty
- Clear images
- Magnetic mount for attachment on a golf cart
- Slope function
- The pin lock vibrates to notify you that the measurement process is completed
Cons
- Batteries are not included
Further Reading
- Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
- Best Scopes for Long-Range Elk Hunting
- Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
- Burris Red Dots for Turkey Hunting
- Best Long-Range Spotting Scopes
Consideration when Buying Hunting Rangefinders
If you are going to use the rangefinder for hunting, here are the features you will need to care about.
Magnification
The amount of magnification you get in other optical devices is not what you are likely to get in a rangefinder. This is because rangefinders often feature low power usually between 5 to 10x.
This range of magnification makes it easier to acquire and track targets. Additionally, the field of view is bigger. Having too much magnification does not appeal to every hunter because of the instability involved.
However, if you are engaging in hunting that involves long distances, you are better off going up a little higher in magnification power selection. Understanding how a rangefinder works to make it easier to know which one fits you best. A good rangefinder can spare you the trouble of carrying binoculars or riflescopes in some cases.
Objective Lens Diameter
Rangefinders have a monocular construct as is found on telescopes and spotting scopes. The slight difference is that in rangefinders, the lens diameter is smaller. Objective lens size determines the size of the view field.
A good number of hunting rangefinders fall in the 20 to 25-mm size category. Just to give you a better picture, you can compare that size to the 40mm to 50mm found in binoculars or the 50 to 100mm of spotting scopes.
Though it seems like a tiresome task to squeeze out a view from a single lens, it is the opposite and gives you a critical edge when hunting. The smaller the diameter lens, the more compact the rangefinder. This offers you the advantage of better operation since holding steady becomes easier.
Maximum Range Capability
This refers to the maximum distance a given rangefinder can accurately fetch. It is one of the most critical factors you should check for in these hunting devices. The figures you will get from different products usually include a reflective, nonreflective and deer-effective range.
Reflective as the name describes is the bright or shiny objects and non-reflective points to things like trees and smaller items on the field that are difficult to detect. Note the distance you are planning to get involved with and pick out the best hunting rangefinder that matches it.
Maximum-ranging capabilities in rangefinders are vulnerable to interference by several factors such as wind speed. So, you might not get the best result for extremely long distances but at least you can roughly tell how much more ground to cover to get closer to targets.
Angle Compensation
Hunting down deer on steep terrain is an extreme sport. The angle compensation feature on a rangefinder ensures you get correct range calculations to cater to the inefficiencies brought about by this inclination.
It is practically ethical for any hunter to shoot a game in the first instance. Without angle compensation, this may not be possible since you can miss and end up injuring the target instead.
Also, the gravity effect is taken into account to enable you to tell how much your bullet or arrow will drop before it reaches the intended point. With these corrections, you bolster up chances of accuracy.
LCD or LED Display?
This feature is underrated until its night time and nothing is visible anymore. A display with an intuitive menu should not only be present in any rangefinder but also have automatic brightness adjustments for when lighting varies.
If the display is illuminated, be sure to check that it does not obstruct your view. So, to the big debate now. LCD or LED, which is better? LCDs are ideal for well-lit settings supporting daytime hunting. You are sure in any bright spaces; the reticle will not be faint.
Presented to a darker setup, LCDs have nothing on the LED type. For dusk or dawn hunting, LED is therefore the way to go. Knowing when your hunting activities are going to happen will help you in picking the most suitable rangefinder. There are a few LCDs with backlights.
Construction
Wildlife does not give a hoot whether it’s snowing or scorching hot out there. They will trot across the fields grazing and hunting. No matter the reigning weather condition, your rangefinder should be up to the task.
This explains why best rangefinders are made to be waterproof to handle rainy seasons just fine. They are also rugged and shockproof to keep them protected when you accidentally drop them or when they are subjected to harsh recoils.
Bad weather should not deter you from getting the trophy. In the hunting field, either you are game or awfully a wimp that is likely to be sent home by the mere threat of rumbling clouds. Get your rangefinder that is indestructible!
Related Posts
- Best Rangefinders for Bow Hunting
- Best Rangefinder Binoculars for Hunting
- Best Rangefinder for Western Hunting
Best Hunting Rangefinders FAQs
Q: Are Hunting Rangefinders Worth It?
Yes. They eliminate errors and guesswork for precision when bringing down targets. With repeated accuracy, confidence is boosted and shooting skills are sharpened. They are valuable additions for beginners and professionals.
Q: How Does Slope Work in Rangefinders?
It is automatically calculated. A laser beam is thrown on the target which then jumps back to the rangefinder giving the measurement instantly. The computation involves the detection of angle size, hypotenuse distances and elevation changes. You can already tell how complex these calculations can get for amateurs and beginners.
Q: Can I Use My Phone as a Rangefinder?
No. The only way your phone comes into the equation is via an app and Bluetooth connection. The best you can do is key in data into the phone which the rangefinder automatically picks and applies to estimate the range.
Conclusion
How much you hunt and the style you employ will dictate the type of rangefinder to get. We fully acknowledge the varying hunters’ needs and tastes so we incorporated that by listing more than five of the best models.
It is always our aim to be of help in your search for the perfect rangefinder. and we hope these reviews took a little burden off your shoulders.