A rangefinder scope is a tool that hunters or archers use to accurately judge the distance of their prey, target, etc. So, if you are participating in a tournament or are just hunting with your friends (keep in mind that in some countries, hunting is illegal), a high-performance range finder is a must.
Now, the market has tons of rangefinders claiming to be the best, and finding the actual best rangefinders for bow hunting is like finding a needle in a haystack. Also, the perfect rangefinder is different for a different user. Hence, so many suggestions and options might get you more confused.
You can breathe a sigh of relief as we will present to you the top-notch rangefinders that are available in stores.
Best Rangefinders for Bow Hunting Comparison:
Image | Product Name | Weight | Yard Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Vortex Optics Laser | 12 ounces | 1-1800 yards | |
 | Nikon Arrow ID7000 | 13.6 ounces | 8-1000 yards | |
 | Wosports Hunting Laser | 11 ounces | 5-650 yards | |
 | BIJIA Hunting Rangefinder-650 | 6.4 ounces | 5-650 yards | |
| | Simmons Hunting Laser | 10-600 yards | ||
 | Aofar Hunting Archery | 11.2 ounces | 1-700 yards | |
 | Gogogo 6X Hunting | 6.5 ounces | 5-1200 yards | |
 | TecTecTec Pro Wild | 10.4 ounces | 1-540 yards | |
 | Aofar H3 Hunting | 6.7 ounces | 1-800 yards | |
 | Bushnell Scout DX | 6.6 ounces | 5-1000 yards. |
10 Best Rangefinders for Bow Hunting Review:
Now, let us make the screening process a tad easier. Here are ten reviews of the best rangefinders in the business. Hopefully, you will end up liking anyone. Let’s get started.
1. Vortex Optics Laser Rangefinder
If you desire superior accuracy, then Vortex Optic's Laser Rangefinder is what you are looking for you!
- Modes and Ranges
The HCD (Horizontal Component Distance) mode allows archers to shoot from anywhere and get a bullseye every time. This mode compensates for the angle and hence, is a great rangefinder when the target is in range.
Along with the HCD, the LOS (Line of Sight) mode is provided, which is an exceptional choice for long-range shooting. Hence, providing you a clear advantage on both long-range as well as short-range shooting. By the way, the rangefinder, also known as Ranger 1800, has a marvelous range of 1800 yards.
Now shooting a still object is like a walk in the park, but the real deal is shooting a moving target. And the scan feature of the item automatically and continuously provides a range-readings, even if you’re moving. Therefore, reducing your chances of missing a shot.
- Angle Compensation
Plus, its inclined angle feature provides an accurate angle compensation if you are shooting up/down a sloped surface and thus, assures more accuracy. In addition to all these, the item has some exceptional other features.
- Others
One of those features is its multi-coated lens that provides excellent light transmission. And the next feature is its fog-proof and waterproof build assures you optimum build in the direst environments.
Lastly, its lightweight, compact, lanyard neck and detachable utility chip let you pack it anywhere you want.
Pros
Cons
2. Nikon Arrow ID7000 VR Bowhunting Laser Rangefinder
Every time one hears the name Nikon, the first thing that pops into their mind is the exceptional camera quality. Meaning, you can accurately zoom in/out attribute along with superb picture quality. Now, imagine the same performance and quality form Nikon's exceptional laser rangefinder.
- Range and Accuracy
The ID 7000 VR (Vibration Reduction) laser rangefinder comes with an innovative vibration reduction mechanics. So, you will not have to refocus every time you move, as the VR feature aligns the image to the viewfinder and laser light. Thus, it helps in increasing the accuracy further!
Furthermore, the rangefinder has an exceptional range. Its range starts from 8-1000 yards with a 0.1-yard increment. In addition to that, the Hyper-Read feature allows quicker and more stable response and assures superior accuracy of the image displayed.
- Modes
Plus, it comes with two modes. One mode (the primary one) lets you zoom in on the furthest and most minuscule targets that too with exceptional clarity. And the second mode enhances and magnifies the furthest object.
- Battery
And the whole contraption is powered by a CR2 lithium battery. Furthermore, its ID (Incline or Decline) technology provides an accurate horizontal distance to the viewer, even if you are aiming up or down a slope (around 89 degrees).
- Magnification
Also, its magnification factor is off the charts. This item can provide a magnification of up to 6 times on the target and hence, provide the accuracy you need to get the prey every time.
- Size and Weight
Lastly, it weighs merely 7.1 ounces (excluding the battery), and its compact design provides effortless storage as well as allows you to take it anywhere you desire.
Pros
Cons
3. Wosports Hunting Laser Speed Measure Rangefinder
Finding an affordable rangefinder that also assures superior performance is like finding a needle in a haystack. Well, Wosports has a solution for that!
- Magnification
The product comes with a special optic lens. It allows you to zoom in on your target with a magnification factor of times-6, and thus, allows you to superior accuracy even from a great distance.
Along with its simple read attribute, which provides measurements in both yards and meters, the rangefinder is a superb tool to have in your arsenal.
- Precision
Furthermore, to further enhance the accuracy, the item comes with quick range-assessment and uncomplicated reading. So, you can entirely depend on the item for precise measurements of distance, speed, etc.
- Mode
Will you come across a stationary target? Not always! In such cases, the scan mode of the item comes in handy. It provides efficient and quick measurement of speed, angle, distance (Vertical and Horizontal) of a moving target in the present time.
- Range
Plus, its range is remarkable. It has a range of 650 yards and provides accurate measurements with +-1 error. Therefore, as long as the target is in that range, you will see a crystal clear image. By the way, the item comes with a range of accuracy of around 60-degrees. So, assures accurate reading no matter where you are.
- Construction
Finally, the product weighs only 223 grams and has high compact dimensions. These attribute to its exceptional portability and storage and keeps you ready all the time. And on the purchase, all the necessary accessories will be provided.
Pros
Cons
4. BIJIA Hunting Rangefinder-650 Yards Multi-Function
As the name suggests, this item is not only a rangefinder used for hunting. BIJA hunting rangefinder is on the big leagues when it comes to rangefinders. The rangefinder comes with three modes.
- Modes
The first mode is the hunting mode, which gives you exceptional and on-point readings of speed and distance with a range of 5-650 yards. Hence, it gives you the accuracy you need to get the job done with optimum efficiency and minimum efforts. Next is its golf mode!
This mode allows a golf player to lock-on a flag and accurately measure the distance within a range of 5 to 150 yards. Thus, it increases your chances of winning! Lastly is the scanning mode.
A rangefinder must be able to measure the speed, distance, angle of a moving target, or object. And this item can continuously provide precise readings regardless of the motion of the object that too in the fastest time. Therefore, the item is capable of numerous things, including hunting.
- Easy to Carry
Plus, it is lightweight, and compact design allows you to effortlessly carry it anywhere and also lets you store in anyplace. Furthermore, when you purchase it, all the necessary accessories such as straps, cleaning cloths, manual, carry bags, and a lot more will be provided.
- Durability
Unlike general rangefinders that usually have a weak build, this one is made of sturdy and durable material. As a consequence, the product is highly durable and resistant to damage. So you do not need to worry about the rangefinder if you drop it on the ground.
Pros
Cons
5. Simmons Hunting Laser Rangefinder
Looking for a futuristic-looking rangefinder? If you are, then you have come to the right spot.
- Magnifications
The item is also called volt-600, and its 4xtimes magnification assures superb zooming-in and zooming-out. Thus, any object that comes within its range, it will accurately inform you about the measurements and lets you superior aiming.
- Range
If we are talking about the range, the item has an excellent one. It comes with a range of 10-yards to 600-yards and guarantees to accurately provide all the measurements within this range. Thus, you can rest assured that your prey will be bagged in a few moments.
- Accuracy
And when coupled with its efficient built-in LCD monitor, you are going to hit your prey. The LCD provides a crystal clear image of the bullseye and is a superb choice when participating in tournaments.
- Construction
Most conventional rangefinders are made with weak material that cannot handle bad weather. Well, not this one! It was made to be waterproof, dent-resistance, fog-proof, dust-proof, and hence, will provide you unhindered reading in the direst conditions.
- Portability
And its compact design allows you to effortlessly stash it anyplace you want. Also, you can carry the item in your bag when you are planning to go for a hike or any other outdoor event, which is attributed due to its weight.
Pros
Cons
6. Aofar Hunting Archery Rangefinder
Unlike conventional rangefinders, the HX-700N is specially made for hunting bows. And Aofar has assured me to give all you archers the best range of experience.
- Range
Let us begin with the range. The finder comes with a range of 700 yards. Meaning that if you have this masterpiece with you in an arsenal, you are guaranteed to get a hit no matter how far away the target is!
- Modes
Apart from the superior range, the item comes with four modes. One of the modes is for long distances and hence, assures superior precision. And the other mode (Scanning mode), allows you to track your moving target and measure the speed, distance from as far as possible.
The rest modes are fog and speed. When all these four modes are combined, you get a rangefinder that is ideal for all situations and is therefore deemed the best rangefinder for hunting. And its precision is off the charts. It is capable of reading anything with a precision of +/-1 yard.
Plus, its innovative pin-sensor technology allows you superior accuracy in all your hunting sessions. Furthermore, it comes with a water-resistant exterior that provides its protection in direst rains.
- Ergonomics
Lastly, it weighs on 180g (that is 0.18kg) and has a convenient design. These features let you effortlessly carry the item anyplace and also provide uncomplicated storage of the product in your bag. And when you purchase the rangefinder, every necessary utensil will be provided during the purchase.
Pros
Cons
7. Gogogo 6X Hunting Laser Rangefinder Bow Range Finder
If you are looking for the rangefinder that provides exceptional magnification, then you have come to the right spot.
- Magnification
The Gogogo hunter laser rangefinder provides a magnification factor of times 6. Hence, you can effortlessly spot your prey or target from a huge distance and aim accurately.
- Accuracy and Range
Including magnification, the item assures an exceptional range of 5 to 650/1200-yards. And with an accuracy of +-1, you can rest assured that anything that comes within its range, you can effortlessly spot them. And if you are using this to locate flagpole, the item has a range of 150-yards.
- Lens
And its fully multi-coated lens minimizes reflected light, and therefore, enhances the transmitted light. Thus, it increases the clarity and accuracy of the readings and therefore provides you a better chance of getting a hit.
- Modes
Next, the item comes with numerous modes. These modes include an ARC (Angle Range Compensation) for tracking long-range objects, pin-sensor mode, flagpole vibration mode, and speed mode. Ergo you can use this product is all kinds of situations and still get optimum results.
- Design and Others
When coupled with its compact dimensions, stashing the product in your bag is like a walk in the park. And its exceptionally lightweight feature enables you to effortlessly carry the product anywhere you want.
All the necessary accessories like bags, manuals, cleaning cloths, etc. will be provided on the day of purchase. And there is no need for you to buy anything separately.
Pros
Cons
8. TecTecTec Pro Wild Hunting Rangefinder
If you enjoy the thrill of hunting, then it is quite obvious how important it is to ensure that you are not getting too close to your prey. And to provide you that, Tectectec has come up with the product that is ideal for you.
- Lens
It comes with multilayer coating on the lens and hence, reduces the light reflected and boosts the light transmission. Hence, it allows you to get more accurate readings.
- Design
In addition to that, the product is quite feathery. Its lightweight feature and compact structure assure that you can carry it in your bag, gun-case, or bow-case without any complications.
- Modes
Next, the product has three superb modes. The modes are speed, scan, and hunt modes. And these modes enable you to find the range of targets at all times. You get all of these modes with an accuracy of +/- 1-yards. Hence, it provides reading in all situations and does so with exceptional accuracy.
- Range and Accuracy
With its exceptional accuracy and superb usability, the item had exceptional range. Its range is 540-yards! So, when coupled with its +/- 1-yard accuracy, various modes of reading, the item ensures that anything that is within this 540-yard radius will be perfectly scanned, and the respective readings will be provided.
- Accessories
And all the necessary accessories are provided during purchase like bags, manual, etc.
Pros
Cons
9. Aofar H3 Hunting Rangefinder 800 yards
Are you okay spending a good buck on a rangefinder? If you are, then you have hit the jackpot, my friend! The H3 Hunting Rangefinder from Aofar is guaranteed to sweep you off your feet.
- Range
The range is of the item is exceptional! The rangefinder provides a sizeable range of 5-800 yards. Hence, if you have this, you can rest assured that anything within this range will easily be targeted.
- Accuracy
Furthermore, it has superior accuracy with exceptional auto angle and true distance calculations. These calibrate distance and angle of your pray with remarkable accuracy, and therefore, provides the precision you need to get a clean and ethical hit.
And if you are someone who has a vision problem, the diopter +/- 3-degree feature allows anyone with impaired vision to effortlessly use the rangefinder and target their prey.
- Construction
Unlike conventional rangefinders, this one is rustproof, waterproof, fog-proof. Meaning you can use it to locate your target in any condition.
- Size and Dimensions
And the rangefinder weighs 191-grams and had convenient dimensions. These features allow you to stash it in your bag, gun-case, or anything without any complications and allows you to effortlessly carry without any issues.
Pros
Cons
10. Bushnell Scout DX 1000 6x21 mm laser rangefinder
When you are looking at accuracy, the Bushnell DX1000 laser rangefinder is the one for you!
- Accuracy
Right of the bat, let us talk about its exceptional accuracy. The rangefinder provides an accuracy of 0.5 yards and a display precision of 0.1 yards. Hence, be sure that you will receive accurate readings on your prey.
- Range
In addition to its superb accuracy, the range of the item is also top-notch. The product provides a range of 5 to 1000 yards. Therefore, if your prey or target is within its 1000-yard range, it can effortlessly read and provide the data on its location and other necessary measurements.
And its VSI (Variable Sight-in Feature) allows you to decide the holdover/ bullet-drop information regarding the item.
- Mode
After the accuracy and precision of the item, let us talk about its modes. The item comes with various modes of reading. One is the brush mode that ignores foreground substances like boulders, tree branches, and gives you a clear lockdown on your target.
The next mode is the scan mode. Naturally, you are aiming for a target that is constantly moving. For instance, the possibility of finding a buck or deer that is standing still is next to impossible. Hence, just shift to the scan mode and let it provide the readings to effortlessly shoot your moving target!
Pros
Cons
Things to Consider before Buying
Even before we go to the choosing part, we must be aware of the things that we have to keep in mind before making the purchase.
Classifications
The market contains three main types of rangefinders! One of them is laser rangefinder.
As we all know, the laser is practically light, and a laser rangefinder gauges the time, and the light takes to be reflected from an object to the receiver. Therefore, it is safe to assume that the accuracy of these types is unparalleled. However, the accuracy drops if you go beyond the maximum range.
On the other hand, optical rangefinder uses two mirrors. These mirrors reflect and rotate the initial image until it becomes a single image. And these are also quite affordable and are exceptional for hitting stationary targets, but the merging of the images might take some time.
Moreover, the last one is called an ultrasonic rangefinder. As the name suggests, these finders use sound to detect and take measurements. These can be highly accurate but are not used on a wide scale. That is because these are quite expensive, and the slightest sound distortion can ruin the readings.
Now, that you have a brief idea on all the kinds of rangefinders, it is entirely up to your personal preference on choosing which one is the right one for you.
Range
A rangefinder without adequate range is useless. So, it is always a wise choice to go for a rangefinder that guarantees a sizable range. And the best range is approximately 1000-yards or more. But a higher range means that it is a tad more expensive so, you need to think about your budget before buying a rangefinder.
Angle
Another thing that you have to keep in mind before purchasing a rangefinder is the angle compensation. Just like the range, when you are aiming down a slope or anything that is not on horizontal grounds, you must keep in your mind about the angle of the target as well.
And similar to the range, the angle should be as sizable as possible.
Optical Lens
The lens is probably one of the most crucial aspects that need to be kept in mind. There are four types of lenses! A fully coated lens, single layer coated lens, multi-layer coating, or multi-coating. And it is entirely on to you to decide the one that is perfect for you!
Augmentation
A rangefinder that cannot zoom-in on the target is of no help. And the current market contains numerous rangefinders with various magnification factors starting from 4x to 8x.
Price
All top-notch rangefinders don't particularly have to be expensive. You can always buy top-notch rangefinders at the most affordable prices.
So, you must set up a budget and stick strictly according to that. Though, if you are picking a rangefinder for a bow, it is wiser to lean for a product that has a horizontal distance measuring feature.
Therefore, before buying a high range, multi-functional rangefinders, it is necessary that you check the price. The last thing you would want is going way over your budget.
Construction
Rangefinders are never too bulky and difficult to carry around. They are quite handy and usually fit in your bag with minimum effort. Now, the tough deal could be finding a rangefinder that has outstanding durability and sturdiness.
Generally, rangefinders are not made of metal. So, it is wiser to go for a range finder that has a more study plastic exterior, as the tougher surface ensures better durability.
(You can check our guide on Best Hunting Bow Stabilizers, Best Bow Hunting Backpacks and Best Ground Blind for Bowhunting.)
Furthermore, the rangefinder that you have set your eyes upon needs to be waterproof. You never know what kind of environment you would need it, and if it is not rainproof, then it is going to be a big issue.
Also, ensure that the rangefinder is dust-proof, fog-proof. When you are in the open, you won’t always end up with a clear sky. There is a good chance that the weather would be bad. Therefore, to not face problems in any weather, you should check the durability and weather-proof attributes if the rangefinder.
In addition to that, the smaller and more compact the rangefinder, the more portable it is! If your rangefinder is not mobile and easy-to-carry, then it is of no use.
Usage
Before we even purchase a rangefinder, it is mandatory that you know what you need a rangefinder for. It can be used in numerous ways starting from hunting, bow hunting, golf, and other sports. Therefore, if you buy a rangefinder that is great for aiming but is too much for golf and you need it for golf, it would be a waste.
Others
There are numerous other features that you might need to check. For example, you would need to check the attachment mechanism before buying it. Attaching the rangefinder to your bow or rifle is an attribute that some rangefinder provides. Ergo, check for all the other miscellaneous cool features in a rangefinder before buying.
How to Use a Rangefinder
Before we jump into how to use a rangefinder, it is necessary to know how a rangefinder works. A laser rangefinder measures the time and distance it takes for the laser light to hit a surface and return to the receiver. How does the rangefinder do that? Of course, using simple mathematics!
The laser dot that comes back is timed, and the speed of laser dot, which is essentially the speed of light, is constant everywhere. Innovative and futuristic technology preinstalled inside the rangefinder allows it to effortlessly calculate the distance by multiplying speed with the time take.
Now that we know the fundamentals way rangefinders work, let us now discuss “how to use it”.
- Firstly, it is necessary to know the magnification and range of the rangefinder that you are using. Then scan the area and lock it onto your target.
- If your target is moving shift to scan mode (only if you have it). Once you are locked onto your target, press the same button again.
- The finder will shoot beams of laser at the target and gives you a precise location and distance of your target. And in the scan mode, the finder can tell you the speed of the object as well as the direction.
- These measurements should help will you make an accurate shot to the target's body. Furthermore, having these accurate measurements can aid you in launching long-range ballistics to the designated target and reducing the chance of missing.
Also, if you are an archer, your range reading ability can help you in choosing the ideal pin on your compound bow to make the whole process less complicated and difficult.
Not only for archery or shooting, but rangefinders are also helpful in games like golf. You can pinpoint the hole and make adequate adjustments to your shot to get optimum results. You can also check our guide on bow quiver here.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Here we have some of the most commonly asked queries regarding the best rangefinders:
What type of battery does a rangefinder use?
When does one need to change the batteries?
Is it always good to have a rangefinder that has a high range?
Are opting for laser rangefinders a wise option?
Can the distance measured be incorrect?
Final Words
Finding optimum rangefinder can be a difficult task, and the hassle for finding the right one can be annoying. And to reduce that effort, we have introduced the best rangefinders for bow hunting. All you have to do is go through them and pick the one that fits your checklist perfectly.
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