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Best Hunting Rangefinders

Updated July 2022
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Vortex Optics Ranger
Vortex
Optics Ranger
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Rugged Build
Bottom Line

This is a comfortable, accurate rangefinder that shines in low-light and wet conditions.

Pros

Range of up to 1,500 yards even in adverse conditions. Features a durable build that makes it well-suited for hunting under different weather conditions. Has 3 brightness levels. Scan function is fast and effective. Weatherproof.

Cons

Not great for computing wind effects and ballistics. Priciest model on our shortlist.

Best Bang for the Buck
Sig Sauer Kilo 2200 BDX Laser Rangefinder
Sig Sauer
Kilo 2200 BDX Laser Rangefinder
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Long Distance
Bottom Line

Great for hunters or golfers, this provides a crisp view with its monocular and can bring images up to 3,400 yards away into focus.

Pros

High tech rangefinder syncs to an app that can be used on most phones to give additional data and insight into your rangefinding habits. OLED display automatically adjusts to light conditions for optimal viewing.

Cons

Has a hard time zoning in on objects that are very far away when weather conditions are poor.

TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder
TecTecTec
ProWild Hunting Rangefinder
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Bargain Pick
Bottom Line

This isn't for seasoned and experienced hunters, but it's worth considering for beginners.

Pros

The lightweight build makes it easy to carry. Delivers crisp images and speedy scans. Simple to use. Low price makes it a great choice for novices and occasional users. Camo look appeals to outdoor and hunting enthusiasts.

Cons

Not the most accurate or durable model. Doesn't work well in low-light settings.

Aofar Hunting/Archery Rangefinder
Aofar
Hunting/Archery Rangefinder
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Simple Yet Solid
Bottom Line

This choice doesn't skimp on features despite being only a fraction of the price of its high-end competitors.

Pros

Accurate up to 700 yards and has 6x magnification power. Features a fog setting for inclement weather conditions and speed scanning option. Can display in both yards and meters.

Cons

Performs poorly in low-light conditions and may be difficult to read display.

Bijia Hunting Rangefinder
Bijia
Hunting Rangefinder
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Most Versatile
Bottom Line

This rangefinder is made for hunting, but it has the capabilities to be used on the golf course as well.

Pros

Programmed with three settings: Range, golf, and speed. Accurately measures elevation. 600 yards. Battery, carrying case, cleaning cloth, and manual all included. Clear LCD Display.

Cons

Some found the hard exterior too slippery to hold.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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Considered
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Consulted
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Buying guide for Best rangefinders

Rangefinders help you target the specific distance of an object. They are useful in golf, hunting, or any other endeavor where mere estimating distance could adversely affect the activity. Though optical and ultrasonic rangefinders are viable options, in most instances a laser rangefinder will perform the best.

No matter which type you choose, however, you want a durable model that is rated to handle the weather conditions you will be experiencing. The best investment is in high-quality optics (lenses), but you also need a model that is consistently accurate – within a yard for every 500 to 1,000 feet is generally acceptable. Depending on your usage, you may need a model that can compensate for elevation changes as well.

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Although golfing rangefinders can be used for hunting, and vice versa, they are different. Best results come from buying a function-specific model.

Types of rangefinders

There are three types of rangefinder available:

  • Optical

  • Ultrasonic

  • Laser

Optical rangefinders

Optical rangefinders of one kind or another have been around for well over a hundred years. Early models – theodolites – were used for surveying. During World War I they were adapted for judging distance and elevation for land-based and naval artillery. By World War II, “coincidence” rangefinders were widespread.

Ultrasonic rangefinders

Ultrasonic rangefinders project a sound wave, then measure the time taken for the wave to return from the target. It's the same basic principle as a laser. The problems come from extraneous noise. Wind, traffic, even birdsong, can all affect readings. As you seldom play golf or hunt in a vacuum, it's a system that never gained great popularity!

Laser rangefinders

Laser rangefinders (LRFs) first appeared on army tanks in the 1960s. They bounce a beam of light (visible or infrared) off an object, and time its return in order to calculate distance. Given that the speed of light is roughly 186,000 miles per second, readings are almost instantaneous.High-end laser rangefinders can be accurate to 1/10th inch, at a mile distant. While hunting and golf rangefinders don't provide quite that level of precision, they are far superior to optical models. The only real drawback is that severe weather, or dust storms, fill the air with particles that can deflect or absorb the laser beam, thus upsetting calculations.

Laser rangefinder choices

The vast majority of laser rangefinders of the type used by hunters and golfers are monocular. They dominate for good reason: They're light, ergonomic, easy to operate, competitively priced, and as accurate as anything on the market. However, there are a couple of alternatives.

Binocular rangefinders are available. Some still use the optical “coincidence” method, so accuracy is compromised. Binocular laser rangefinders do exist, but  combining the two functions in one device tends to make them bulky. They can also be expensive.

Keen hunters might be interested in rifle scope and laser rangefinders combination units. However, as with binocular models, weight can be an issue – particularly as they're mounted on the gun. They're also very costly. While some hunters prefer them (finding it frustrating to carry scope and separate rangefinder), the overwhelming majority chose monocular LRFs.

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Caution
Condensation on lenses can affect accuracy dramatically. A quick wipe with a soft cloth is the solution. If your rangefinder gets wet, let it dry at room temperature. Never apply heat. You could damage optics or electronics.
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Key considerations for laser rangefinders

There's a lot of focus on the "laser" aspect of rangefinders, probably because it sounds high-tech. In fact, consumer lasers are restricted for safety reasons.

Of far more importance is how the rangefinder deals with the beam of light generated.

The best rangefinders combine three things:

  • Great optics

  • Clever digital technology

  • Superior build quality

Optics

Anything that "sees" is reliant on the quality of its optics. There's really no substitute for excellent lenses. While accuracy depends on a number of features, optics have as big an impact as any other element.

You'll likely be outside in varied weather conditions. Anti-glare and anti-reflective coatings improve both the accuracy of the rangefinder itself, and your experience using it.

If you wear eyeglasses, an adjustable diopter allows you to tune your LRF to your vision.

Magnification gives you a better view of your target, but decreases your overall field of view. It also amplifies any movement in your hand. Large magnification can make it difficult to stay on the target. If stability is important, you might want to consider a tripod – in which case you need an LRF with a suitable mounting point, or an additional mount to fit it to.

Build quality

It's a good idea to treat your LRF with as much care as possible, but it's bound to meet with adverse environments at some point. A good carry case is the first line of defense.

LRF outer shell materials will give an idea of durability. Rubberized, textured or contoured areas improve grip, as well as protect the electronics. Weatherproofing and waterproofing are obviously beneficial. Manufacturers have different approaches, and offer different levels of protection. Sadly there's no universal standard, so it's important to study each one to assess their strengths.

Some rangefinders are very compact, some are not. Most are designed to fit the maker's idea of an "average" person, but if you've got small hands you'll want to check model dimensions.

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If you are having problems ranging a small target, try focusing on something larger nearby.
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Digital technology

Rangefinder displays are either LCD or LED. The target marks or grids are called a "reticle," and are either black or red. Different styles of reticle may be selectable. Black is thought clearer in normal light conditions. Red is better in low light. However, some users feel red reticles can be either too harsh, or not strong enough, depending on ambient light conditions. The solution is adjustability. Some rangefinders offer it as a manual feature, some do it automatically.

One of the most useful tricks that digital technology affords is "scan" mode. This is great for general ranging, whether for hunting or playing golf, because it doesn't require you to pick individual targets. It identifies distances as you scan a variety of objects. Faster scanning means more rapid target acquisition, and quicker readings.

Heavy rain, snow, fog and mist can interrupt the laser beam. Some rangefinders use software to compensate, and there are expensive models that do this surprisingly well.

High-end rangefinders can incorporate ballistics data, with selectable modes depending on the caliber and load you are using. Some even take air pressure and temperature into account.

Several rangefinders offer specific "bow" settings for archers, and some employ “jolt” technology, vibrating when target distance is acquired.

Golfers should look for "first priority" targeting, because you normally have line of sight on the flag. Hunters, by contrast, usually prefer "distant target priority," which ignores things like trees, bushes, pylons, or anything else that gets between you and the prey.

Rangefinder accuracy

Surface color and texture of the target object impact reflected light, and thus range and accuracy. Bright, smooth objects give the most accurate readings – and are probably what the manufacturer uses when calculating the maximum range of their device.

As a rule, it's safe to assume that real-world performance is somewhat less than stated. Any model's best range is around 50% of the advertised maximum. Further than that, accuracy will tail off.

The best manufacturers accept this and quote a variety of ranges, depending on target type.

Entry-level rangefinders measure horizontally. If the target is several degrees higher or lower than you, readings will be slightly off. Most people soon learn to compensate, but better quality rangefinders will factor in trajectory, and calculate real distance.

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Did you know?
As of 2016, local rules may allow certain rangefinders for tournament golf. Players might want to check model details before buying.
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Conclusions

There are undeniably some rangefinders that are better than others, but each bell and whistle adds to the price.

The major decisions are:

  • Optical quality: Always buy the best you can afford.

  • Range: How far away is your target, most of the time?

  • Accuracy: One yard in 500 to 1,000 is common, and good enough for most purposes.

  • Angle compensation: Probably more important for hunters than golfers.

  • Durability: Is it rugged enough to handle the kind of treatment it's likely to get in your hands?
     

There's a laser rangefinder out there that's perfect for you. It's just a question of identifying the right target!

"If you're not going to use your rangefinder for a while, remove the battery."
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What does a good laser rangefinder cost?

Cheap laser rangefinders go for as little as twenty bucks, but these have concerns with quality and durability.

Good, entry-level laser rangefinders start around $80, though it's worth spending a little more – between $120 and $200 – because higher quality optics mean more accuracy. There's a lot of choice at this price, with models ranging between 500 and 700 yards.

LRFs with more rugged construction, greater distance, better accuracy, and extras like angle compensation, start to cost considerably more. At this level, golf and hunting rangefinders also become distinct from one and other.

The very best, USGA-approved golf rangefinders are yours for around $300.

High-end hunting rangefinders can offer customization options to suit your rifle, and specific ballistics data.

However, a $1,000 rangefinder isn't necessarily twice as good as a $500 model. For between $400 and $500, you can buy an excellent rangefinder that offers all the features most hunters ever need.

However, if marksmanship is your thing – long-range shooting in the toughest conditions – be prepared to invest the $1,400 to $1,800 necessary for the finest instruments available.

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Abrasive cleaners will seriously damage your rangefinder optics. Camera cleaning equipment is often recommended, but always follow manufacturer's instructions.

FAQ

Q. I've looked at rangefinders costing from a little over a hundred bucks, to around a thousand. Laser power seems very similar. Why don't I just get the cheap one?
A.
 Laser power is restricted for safety reasons. You should never shine laser beams directly in someone's eye, but if you do so accidentally, the type found in rangefinders (Class 1), won't cause permanent damage. In terms of range-finding accuracy, this means laser power is almost incidental. The quality of the optics and electronics can be far more important than having a more powerful laser.

Q. Some rangefinders say weatherproof, some say waterproof. What's the difference?
A.
 Spelling. Seriously though, unless a product has a specific IP (Ingress Protection) rating, it hasn't been independently tested. Makers of top laser rangefinders understand that their products will often be in harsh environments. They put considerable effort into ensuring they are rugged enough to survive both wet and dusty conditions. However, they are not usually designed to survive complete immersion.

Q. Does elevation have an impact on rangefinder accuracy?
A.
 It depends on the model. Cheap rangefinders are normally only capable of horizontal ranging. Better rangefinders offer angle compensation. A golfer might never play courses that have enough variation to make a significant difference. On the other hand, if you're hunting deer from a high overlook it becomes vital to accurate targeting.

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