Get ready to explore the best rangefinders for bow hunting. Gauging distances when bow hunting can be a painstaking process. The same cannot be said when using a rangefinder. These portable optical devices offer comfort accompanied by matchless accuracy you no longer have to worry about snapping your arrows.
They prove to be useful in the identification of potential interferences for correction before taking shots. These are just a few of the many reasons why a rangefinder is highly recommended for hunting activities.
Both pros and amateurs benefit from the use of a rangefinder. In the optics market, there are countless options you will be met with when looking for the best rangefinder for your next bow hunting expedition.
Settling for a specific one may not be easy. Here, we shed light on what makes a rangefinder best suited for bow hunting and what key details to look for when purchasing one. We have also shortlisted eight models we found a great fit for this outdoor sport.
What Makes Best Rangefinder for Bow Hunting?
Knowing the right distance between you and a target makes the job of taking them down easier. Not every rangefinder will work as intended but a really good one has to be accurate. It should be able to detect objects located in far distances/long ranges.
Aside from that, it should be very responsive by giving readings quickly to the user. Finally, the best rangefinder for bow hunting should be made out of durable materials for resilience against harsh outdoor use and varying weather conditions.
Here are our favorite models
#1) Leupold RX-FullDraw 4, Digital Laser Rangefinder
Leupold RX-FullDraw 4, Digital Laser Rangefinder is arguably one of the best rangefinders for bow hunting. It is built with much precision to meet every archer’s needs. It comes fitted with a ballistics measuring mode that calculates range based on the specific equipment you are using.
TheFullDraw 4 features what Leupold calls Archer’s Advantage, a software, that utilizes arrow height, weight and speed to give reliable range calculations for short to high-range shots. This rangefinder has 6x magnification power which offers a sufficient field of view.
Under this power, identifying and keeping up with fast-moving targets becomes easy. Leupold incorporates Trophy Scale Technology known for its accuracy in measuring the height and width of a target.
This is then combined with telemetry technology that involves signal processing intelligence for fast target acquisition. For better visuals, the lenses are multi-coated for brightness and sharpness.
An LCD screen with over 50% light transmission and a quick settings menu is present in the rangefinder. The casing is made of aluminum covered in rubber coating for durability. As one of the best rangefinders for bow hunting, the rangefinder, this superior device will transform your bow hunting escapades for the better.
Features
- Magnification: 6x
- Objective Diameter: 22mm
- Eye Relief: 17mm
- Maximum Range: 1200yards
- Field of View: 315ft@1000yards
- Weight: 5oz
Pros
- Excellent light transmission through multicoated lenses
- Precise range calculations through the built-in ballistic calculator
- Multiple reticle choices
- The advanced technology used to allow for quick target acquisition
- Long battery life. The battery is rechargeable.
- Durable
- Weatherproof
- Lightweight design easy for the hand
Cons
- High price
- Fixed magnification
#2) Vortex Impact 6x15mm 1000 Rangefinder
Vortex listened to the needs of bowhunters and designed an innovative rangefinder designated for archery. Vortex Impact 6x15mm 1000 Rangefinder harbors a spectrum of impressive features to transform any bowhunting experience.
A combination of outstanding and dependable performance makes Impact 1000 one of the best rangefinders for bow hunting for tree stand hunters. It features an eye relief of 15mm and a diopter adjustment setting to reduce strain on the eye.
This rangefinder has a Horizontal Component Distance (HCD) mode for angle compensation in the case you are shooting from an inclined position. In addition to this, Vortex Impact has a LOS mode that works collaboratively with the HCD mode for an inch-perfect shot.
Magnification is fixed at 6x with an objective lens diameter of 15mm. This explains the compactness and lightweight of this rangefinder. With this choice, you will be rewarded a maximum effective range of 1200 yards.
It also features an intuitive display with a user-friendly menu. The rangefinder is packed with accessories such as a neck strap, lens cloth and carrying case. Its waterproof body retains its integrity in cold, hot and rainy weather.
This no-frills rangefinder is easy to use thanks to its intuitive design. No doubt whatsoever, Impact 1000 is one of the best rangefinders for bow hunting.
Features
- Magnification: 6x
- Objective Diameter: 15mm
- Eye Relief: 17mm
- Maximum Range: 1000yards
- Weight: 5oz
Pros
- Compact construct
- Operates well in low and high temperatures
- Multiple scan modes
- Angle compensation is provided for
- Display with an easy-to-use menu
- Convenience-packed with accessories
- Covered for life through Vortex’s VIP warranty
Cons
- Limited field of view
#3) TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder
If you are looking for the best range finder to improve your accuracy and sharpen your hunting skills, TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder – Laser Range Finder for Hunting gladly foots that bill.
This rangefinder gifts you 6x magnification and calculates distances up to 540 yards when set on continuous scan mode. Tops the chart as one of the best rangefinders for bow hunting for budget buyers.
Advanced speed technology to give quick computations saving you time and delivering an accurate shot while at it. This tech gives 1-yard precision meaning that you get the correct range even if the target were to shift position.
Quality of hunting optics is of paramount importance and ProWild in particular sees to it that this rangefinder has ultra-clear lenses for clarity. Besides that, multiple coatings have been applied on the surfaces for crystal clear images when in low light conditions as well as when the target is in a quick motion.
Their class 1 laser is eye-safe for maximum comfort. 4.06×1.63×2.81 inches spell out just how portable this rangefinder is. Also, it is rainproof and weighs 5.71oz. The package includes a carrying pouch, CR2 battery, wrist strap, cleaning cloth and a quick start guide for stress-free use.
Features
- Magnification: 6x
- Weight: 71oz
- Distance measurements from 5 to 540 yards
- 2-year warranty
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- +/- 1-yard accuracy
Pros
- Speedy distance measurement
- Quality-coated lenses give clear target images
- Continuous scan mode for tracking moving objects
- Affordable price
- Durable rainproof body
- Fully equipped with accessories
Cons
- The display is not illuminated. Gives problems when reading data during cloudy weather conditions
#4) Bushnell BoneCollector 850 Laser Rangefinder
Bushnell is one of the world’s best optics manufacturers. Their models are hunter-centered to meet the ever-changing needs of these users. Bushnell BoneCollector 850 Laser Rangefinder has a beautiful finish on its exterior with incredible durability.
The finish entails a Realtree Xtra camo pattern that is rugged and waterproof. The rangefinder harbors many good features that have been thoroughly tested to prove it is best for bow hunting. It has nonpareil HD clarity brought about by the high-quality materials used.
There is a screen that is well lit for legibility in all kinds of lighting. Magnification is at 6x with a lens diameter of 24mm. The advantage with low magnification power such as 4 to 6x is that they offer you a wide field of view.
This power is also useful when bow hunting in a smaller game. Bushnell BoneCollector 850 Laser Rangefinder displays exact stretches to the target from 10 to 600- yard range.
Simply put, Bushnell BoneCollector 850 Laser Rangefinder brings to the table unbeatable clarity and excellent performance. Surely, a top contender among the best rangefinders for bow hunting.
Features
- Magnification: 6x
- Objective lens: 24mm
- Accuracy: +/- 1 yard
- Dimensions: 110x42x75mm
- 3-volt CR2 battery
- IPX4 water resistance
Pros
- Variety of reticle options
- Distance reading is given in yards or meters depending on one’s preference
- Arc technology finds true horizontal distances
- Sharp displays even in bad weather
- Fully multicoated optics keep images color-rich and bright
- Fast long-distance ranging
- Compensates for angle
- Beautiful design
- Fair price
Cons
- Slightly bulky
- It may not function as expected in extremely low temperatures
#5) Sig Sauer KILO1400BDX 5x20mm Laser Rangefinder
Success in bow hunting is not always about prowess in wielding arrows at targets. Sometimes it only requires getting the best rangefinder to help you bag a trophy. Sig Sauer OPMOD KILO1400BDX 5x20mm Laser Rangefinder is a good starting point.
You will find it quick and efficient in measuring distances. 5x20mm lenses draw enough light for the formation of well-resolved and contrasted images. This combination is particularly helpful in dusk and dawn bow hunting. The minimum distance it can range is 4 yards with 1800yards being the maximum.
The minimum focus distance is 4 feet. What’s more, it has BDX technology integration and is Bluetooth capable. SIG BDX app has more than twenty ballistic profiles. you simply load the data as is required for example rifle properties and prevailing environmental factors and range will be quickly computed.
The app works well with BDX-capable SIG riflescopes. App use is completely optional. Still, on technology, OPMOD KILO1400BDX has LightWave DSP and HyperScan.
These two provide four range updates per second when the rangefinder is on scan mode. RangeLock on the other hand gives you the last range result when on scan mode.
Features
- Magnification: 5x
- Objective Diameter: 20mm
- Eye Relief: 15mm
- Maximum Range: 1800yards
- Field of View: 5 degrees (angular)
- Weight: 5oz
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- 20000hours worth of battery life
Pros
- Extensive maximum range
- Data exchange between devices is possible
- High-tech rangefinder with super-fast ranging capabilities
- Simple LCD with ballistic information
- Has provision for diopter adjustment
- Eyecup style promotes longer eye relief
- Lightweight magnesium housing
Pros
- Fixed magnification
#6) Vortex Razor 4000 7x25mm Laser Rangefinder LRF-250
Vortex Razor 4000 7x25mm Laser Rangefinder LRF-250 optical features dispense much-needed sharp views during bow hunts. They consist of carefully picked XR Plus fully multicoated glass elements for consistent performance even when light conditions are not conducive.
ELR, HCD, LOS, and Scan modes ensure shots hit on target despite the position of the target or angle you are releasing the arrow from. ELR is essential for long-range estimations, HCD compensates for elevation or inclinations while Scan gives continuous readings for animals moving about.
Clean illuminated displays allow for interaction and maneuvering between settings. better focus is achieved through the utilization of the diopter adjustment knob. The range is tabulated in yards or meters.
Vortex takes into account the fact that weather elements can cause damage to rangefinders. this is why the rangefinder is O-sealed to waterproof it. It takes on a rugged design and is covered in rubber armor. The rangefinder is compatible with a tripod adapter.
Features
- Magnification: 7x
- Objective Diameter: 25mm
- Eye Relief: 16-19mm
- Maximum Range: 1800yards
- Field of View: 342ft@1000yards
- Weight: 9oz
Pros
- Top-quality optical system
- Capable of ranging long distances
- Uses angle compensated ranging technology to give bowhunters accurate aiming points
- Easy to hold and use
- Magnesium chassis for long-lasting use
- Waterproof performance
Cons
- Weighty
#7) Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 400 Laser Rangefinder
Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 400 Laser Rangefinder has fully multicoated surfaces comprising BK7 prisms that produce immaculate images. BK7 is used due to its uniformity of transmission, high refractive index and free of obstructive inclusions such as bubbles or aberrations in images.
Best rangefinders for bow hunting give a wide-angle view for quick sighting and tracking of targets. Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 400 Laser Rangefinder offers that and more. It measures ranges precisely to +/-1yard. Battery life is preserved by an auto shut-off battery save feature.
Magnification is 6x with the availability of a diopter adjustment dial to fix focus for finer views. Overall, Hawke Sport Rangefinder is made to be light, compact and ergonomic for a comfy fit on the hand.
Features
- Magnification/ objective lens diameter: 6x21mm
- FOV: 140m/1000m
- Eye relief: 18mm
- Angle range: 90 degrees
- Weight: 6oz
- IPX5 waterproof rating
Pros
- Clear and bright images
- Moderate magnification power for ample field of view
- Long battery life enhanced by auto shutting when idle
- Non-slip design
- Nitrogen purged
- Protected by a two-year warranty
Cons
- Not ideal for bow hunting involving long ranges
#8) Leica Rangemaster CRF 2400-R Compact Laser Rangefinder
Leica Rangemaster CRF 2400-R Compact Laser Rangefinder is another best performer in bowhunting. Its price has maintained a hair over $500 but value for money is guaranteed.
A combination of quality optics, heavy-duty mechanics and electronics are all housed in this compact rangefinder. To start with, in about 0.3 seconds, Leica Rangemaster CRF 2400-R Compact Laser Rangefinder gets the necessary information needed to net an accurate shot.
A reliable range measurement of up to 2400 yards is given by this rangefinder. It also works out repeatable horizontal ranges of up to 1100 meters. Archers engaged in hunting in the mountains would highly benefit from such computations.
A wide field of view from 7x is enough for long scanning moments. Additionally, you can quickly identify targets. For dependable and easy operation, this is the best rangefinder to purchase.
Features
- Fixed magnification, 7x
- Objective lens:24mm
- The maximum range of 8100 feet
- Eye relief: 15mm
- Linear FOV: 347ft@1000yards
- Diopter adjustment: +/-3.5dpt
- Weight: 6.5oz
Pros
- Supports use on tough, hilly terrain
- AquaDura coated optics for clear-cut images
- Superior range calculation speed
- Great performance in extreme temperatures
- Watertight body
Cons
- Limited battery life
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What to Look for in Best Rangefinders for Bow Hunting
Consider the following aspects when getting a rangefinder for archery:
Range
Every hunter has a range they find comfortable working with. Some prefer to shoot down targets situated in short ranges while others relish the challenge of a long-range. The setting for bow hunting will often involve short to mid distances.
Arrows unlike bullets cannot travel so far thus a bow hunting rangefinder will help estimate targets situated not so much far off from the hunter. Therefore, for hunters interested in short-range shooting, a rangefinder that can cover 300 to 400 yards is ideal. However, should you be interested in reaching for further distance there are options available with coverage of up to 1000yards.
Accuracy
Rangefinders are built to minimize errors in distance estimations. Choose a rangefinder that is most precise to increase the chances of a successful shot.
Where the target is located is another determining factor in how accurate the rangefinder will be. The closer it is, the more accurate the reading. Most rangefinders have a margin of error of ±0.5m and ±2.5m.
Read: Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
Modes
Having several functions and modes increase the versatility and functionality of a rangefinder. Some of these modes include; target speed, ballistics, scan mode, distance with angle compensation and horizontal line distance.
More modes translate to complexities in operations. Some have a variety of modes but are offered in form of simple, user-friendly menus. Whatever choice you make, ensure it is one with modes you can easily work with.
Optical Features
Images seen through the rangefinders should provide enough clarity in distance calculations. For this to happen, quality optical features should be used. Magnification helps in bringing objects closer to the eye.
Most rangefinders have a magnification of between 4x to 8x. The objective lens diameter matters as well. The larger the diameter the larger the exit pupil which means that more light can be let in for a brighter image view.
The diameter and magnification paired together will often determine how wide a field of view you get. The wider the view field, the better you can scan objects, even the ones in motion, and their environs comfortably.
Another important addition to rangefinders optics is chemical treatment in form of coatings on the lenses. They help improve light transmission for crisp images.
Read: Best Low Light Leupold Scopes
Weight and Size
When traversing hunting grounds, you do not want to attract more weight. It is best to select lightweight hunting gear. When picking out a rangefinder for bow hunting, choose one that is of this characteristic.
Ensure they are compact so they do not take up much space. Heavier rangefinders may need tripod mounting which is not a cost you necessarily have to bear if you have the chance to avoid it altogether.
Durability
Bowhunting is largely an outdoor activity that needs equipment you can rely on. The rangefinder you go for should be made from materials that are resistant to unfavorable weather and all forms of abuse they will get subjected to when in use.
Waterproof sealing is essential in averting leaks in humid weather, dust and debris. Shock-proof material helps protect optic gadgets from scratches and drops.
Other factors to consider include batteries, LCD displays and data transmission. Find out what batteries are involved and how much run-time they offer. LCD screens should be simple but carry all vital readings.
Many models now come with the ability to share data between devices through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Others still require manual data input. Whatever style you opt for ensuring it meets your style of shooting arrows and other preferences.
Read: Best 243 Leupold Scopes
Best Rangefinders for Bow Hunting FAQs
Q: What is the Best Rangefinder for Bow Hunting?
We recommend Sig Sauer OPMOD KILO1400BDX 5x20mm Laser Rangefinder. It has a long-ranging capability, generous eye relief and strong magnesium housing. Its calculation speed is one to rely on and generally the rangefinder is foolproof.
Q: Do You Need a Rangefinder for Bow Hunting?
Yes. As much as you practice thoroughly, targets 250 yards and beyond may still be out of your reach. Much more consistency and accuracy are offered in a rangefinder than one would get from eyeballing distances.
Q: Can I Use a Golf Rangefinder for Hunting?
Yes, but you have to select one carefully because very few rangefinders are this versatile. The features on that rangefinder should support both sports. Extra costs may also be incurred. However, there is not much difference, price-wise, between buying two separate rangefinders one for golfing and the other for hunting.
Conclusion
Best rangefinders for bow hunting are never out of reach for anyone who desires to hit their target on the mark. They make the difference between well-guided and misleading arrow paths.
All the rangefinders on our list are specially made for archers as well as rifle hunters. They are easy to operate and complement other hunting gear to deliver success. Some are sold along with accessories to make it easier to handle or carry them around.
Now that we equipped you with more information on rangefinders, finding one will be a less stressful process. Which of the above best rangefinders for bow hunting will you be trying first?