Are you looking for the best rangefinder for Bow hunting? Well, you have come to the right place.
Be a novice or a professional hunter, knowing the range will surely give you a great hunting experience and make every shot count.
Rangefinders are made for both hunting and golfing. However, in this article, we’ll have an in-depth discussion about the rangefinders that are specifically designed for hunting. Keep reading so that you don’t have to go back home with an empty truck this time.
AT A GLANCE : OUR TOP 6 Best Rangefinder for Hunting IN 2020
Best of All: Nikon 8397 ACULON AL11 Laser Rangefinder
Most Popular and Best For Rifle Hunting:Vortex Optics Ranger Laser Rangefinders
Best for Target Shooting: Simmons Hunting Laser Rangefinder
Best Budget $100: Halo Optics xl450 laser rangefinder
Best for Crossbow Hunting:Nikon Prostaff 7i Laser Range Finder
Best For Expert: Upland Optics Perception 1000 Laser Rangefinder
Our guide and reviews are 100% ACCURATE and LATEST so you know you are in good hands today.
Let’s go and find you your perfect best rangefinder for Bow hunting in 2021…..
The Nikon Aculon al11 laser rangefinder is undoubtedly one of the best rangefinders for deer hunting. If you want to have crisp images with superior accuracy, then the Nikon 8397 ACULON AL11 Laser Rangefinder is the one for you.
Nikon is one of the most trusted names in the rangefinder industry and you will have an excellent time out there hunting with this baby equipped. It has a super compact size with a weight of only 4.4oz. It comes in two different colors: gray and extra green. The green one enables your stay camouflaged while hunting.
This rangefinder is super convenient to use and you can operate it with just the touch of a button. Also, it is designed to reduce the power to optimize the battery supply for elongated use. The rangefinder uses a 20mm lens with 6x magnification.
The Nikon Aculon laser rangefinder has a range of 6 yards to 550 yards which is excellent considering the price you have to pay for it. It shows accurate and precise readings even when the target is far away.
Sometimes your eyes get fatigued as you have to long for a long time through the rangefinder. However, the Nikon Aculon laser rangefinder provides optimum space between the rangefinder and the brow so that there is no strain of the eyes. It provides a full view of the field even if the user is wearing glasses.
Scan model to target both fixed and moving objects
Vortex is a renowned name in the hunting industry and if you’re looking for the best rangefinder for the money then the Vortex Optics Ranger Laser Rangefinder is a perfect fit for you. Accurate ranging is extremely important for bowhunting and the Vortex Optics line has proven to be a great fit for bowhunting as it has a range of a whopping 1500 yards.
The rangefinder is highly durable, and it can endure the harshest environment condition with ease. It has an O-ring seal that gives it protection against rainfall. Also, the granulated rubber armor body provides ultra-ruggedness with a firm grip to last through all types of weather conditions.
It features HCD mode that to accurately measure the distance when you’re ranging downhill. Also, the advanced LOS mode helps to calculate the long distance with high slopes and curves with the utmost precision.
Many rangefinders have trouble measuring the distance for moving objects. However, rest assured that with the Vortex Optics Ranger you will be able to measure the distance of the moving targets with the highest precision and accuracy. The scan mode feature provides distance for both fixed and moving targets.
It has a multi-coated lens that ensures optimum light transmission. This will minimize the light reflection and let you have a crisp image of the target. This rangefinder is powered by a lithium CR2 battery that will work for ages without any interruption.
Pros
High range of 1500 yards
HCD and LOS mode to accurately measure the distance in slopes
If you’re looking for a top-rated rangefinder at a budget-friendly price then the Simmons laser rangefinder volt 600 is the best rangefinder for bow hunting for the money for you. It can show you the accurate target distance within 10 yards to 600 yards. However, for deer hunting, the rangefinder is recommended for up to 400 yards by the users.
The Simmons Hunting Laser Rangefinder has a simple operating process. You can operate the rangefinder with just a touch of a button. It offers a magnification range of 4x with a crisp view throughout the range. Also, it will give you a generous field view to have a better look at the target.
When it comes to durability, Simmons is the king of it. It has a weatherproof design that will let you carry it along on all-weather conditions. However, the barrel is not filled with nitrogen, therefore, it tends to fog up in cold weather.
It has a fixed focus design which refrains you from adjusting the focus according to your choice. It has moderate light gathering capacity as the optics are not completely multi-coated. The display is hard to read on low light conditions. However, it works fine under bright sunlight.
The Simmons Hunting laser rangefinder is powered by a 9-volt battery. These batteries are hard to find these days and users generally prefer CR2 or AA batteries over 9-volt ones. If you have a hard time finding the 9V batteries then you may give a pass on this one.
If you’re looking for a high-quality rangefinder to take your game to the next level then look no further, the Upland Optics Perception 1000 Laser Rangefinder is the one for you. It’s one of the best rangefinders for long-range hunting as it comes with a range of a whopping 1000 yards.
Key Features
Range of 1000 yards
Weatherproof finish
6x zoom with 17mm objective lens
Provides accurate result within 1 yard
Weighing at 10.4 ounces, it’s slightly on the bulkier side compared to the other rangefinder that we reviewed. This one is more suitable for the professional hunters who’re for an advanced rangefinder to up their game. The weight may seem a bit overwhelming if you’re a novice hunter.
However, it has an extremely sturdy construction that is designed to endure all weather conditions. All Upland Optics products need to go through a rigorous testing procedure to ensure top-notch quality and durability. It comes with a sturdy carrying case that can take some hard falls without deteriorating the quality.
The best part is, it’s completely waterproof, therefore, you can use the rangefinder even during rain. It also has a fog-proof design so that you can have an uninterrupted and clear look at your target.
It has a magnification level of 6x and equipped with a 17mm objective lens that will let you have a clear focus on your target. The Upland Optics comes with a fast focusing system that enables you to keep track of the moving objects as well.
Pros
Long-range up to 1000 yards
6x zoom with top-notch clarity
Weatherproof and fog proof design
Fast-focusing system
Includes neck strap and carrying case for better mobility
The distance can be measured in both yards and meters
Scan model enables to target multiple at once
AI technology to measure distance on slope
Operates on a CR2 battery
The TecTecTec Prowild Hunting Rangefinder is the best rangefinder with Speed, Scan and Normal Measurements. This will effectively serve you on both grounds. It can range precisely up to 540 yards on both uphill and downhill.
It has a super compact size with a weight of only 185g . It incorporates AI technology that accurately measures the distance on slopes. The superior technology rapidly weighs out the angle and processes data according to that.
The TecTecTec Prowild has a robust design with incredibly durable build-quality. You can use this for all kinds of weather conditions. It has a waterproof design that will enable you to carry it along even when it’s raining and in moisture-rich areas.This is the best rangefinder for hunting under 200.
As the name suggests, the rangefinder can effectively target up to 540 yards with the utmost accuracy. It incorporates an LCD display that will let you have a clear image of the target and let you precisely measure the distance as well.
The halo laser rangefinder runs on a CR2 battery that will last you a long time even after continuous usage. You can hunt for hours without worrying about cutting down the power. Also, the battery will serve you for ages with one full charge.
The rangefinder is designed to automatically shut off after 20 seconds of inactivity. This ensures that you maximize power usage so that you can make the most of the rangefinder.
Horizontal distance angles up to an incredible Angle Measuring Accuracy: ±1°
Long eye relief
Tru-Target priority system
Incline/decline technology for better accuracy
Wosport Rangefinder are one of THE best rangefinder for hunting and golf and it helps to measure accurate distance even on slopes.
It has a range of up to 1200 yards that works moderately well for measuring distant targets. The rangefinder has a 21mm lens with 6x magnification to have a crisp look at the target with accurate details. The LCD screen works well under sunlight; however, you may have a bit of trouble seeing under dark lit areas.
Hunters who wear glasses often have trouble looking through the rangefinder for an extended period of time. Wosport Rangefinder reviewed , you will face no such issue as it comes with long eye relief to refrain your eyes from any stress.
When it comes to durability, Wosport Rangefinder is hard to beat.Its is perfect fore hunting, climbing,golfing, wildlife viewing, game watching. Its water resistant, dust resistant, durable premium shell case body that can take some hard falls without causing any damage to the quality of the rangefinder.
Also, this rangefinder is completly water resistant that will enable you to hunt with ease even when it’s pouring down. However, you’re advised to not submerge the rangefinder underwater.
The Wosport Rangefinder features the innovative Tru-target priority system. It also comes with incline/decline technology that will let you shoot with better accuracy and calculate the slope distance with utmost precision.
One of the best features of the waterproof rangefinder that will give you the ultimate flexibility to use the gadget.
Specification:
Increment Reading: .1 yds
Magnification: 6 x
Units of measurement: meters/yards
Eye Relief: 18.3 mm
Waterproof
Weight w/o Batteries: 6.2 oz
Size(Length x Width x Height): 4.4×1.5×2.8 in
Power Source: One CR2 Lithium Battery
Objective Diameter: 21 mm
Angle Compensation Capable
Pros
Long eye relief with optimum spacing between brow and rangefinder
Tru-target system
Innovative ID technology for accurate distance measurement
2-years warranty
Long eye relief
Cons
Not suitable for long-range shots
Buying Guide: Things to Consider Before the Purchase
What is the best rangefinder for bow hunting ?There are tons of rangefinders available out there. Finding the best one can be quite a daunting task if you’re not well of the market scenario. Without proper research, you may end up with a subpar model with below-average performance.
Now that you know about some of the best rangefinders for hunting, it’s time to focus on the factors that you should consider before the purchase. This will help you pick the best rangefinder for your hunting type so that you can make every shot to perfection.
Design
When you’re out in the wild, you never know what comes next on your way. The design of the rangefinder needs to be super sturdy and durable so that you can carry it along on different kinds of terrains and weather conditions. The best rangefinder for hunting will stay unharmed even there is a fall or slippage.
Construction
Mother Nature often throw tantrums even at the most ungodly hour. It can be a bright sunny day, yet rain can pour down any minute. Therefore, you always need to be prepared and choose a rangefinder that can take some heavy beatings without a hitch.
Always go for a rangefinder that is completely waterproof so that the quality of range does not deteriorate when if it’s pouring down. Also, it should be rugged enough to endure any harsh fall without damaging the quality of it.
Magnification
Having adequate magnification will let you have a closer and clearer look at your target. Laser rangefinders are known to measure the distance more accurately, however, optical rangefinders have proven to provide better magnification and clarity. Having a rangefinder with 4x zoom will be sufficient to carry out most hunting expedition. However, if you prefer long-range hunting then you may opt for 6x rangefinders.
Durability
Durability is a prime concern for all types of purchases. A hunting rangefinder needs to be rugged enough to endure all kinds of weather conditions. Look for rangefinders with rubberized coating as that will help to protect against falls.
When you are out in the wild, rain may pour down any minute. Also, waterproof rangefinders provide protection against moisture rich areas. So, go for a waterproof rangefinder if you’re hunting in areas that are susceptible to rain
Battery Life
The battery life of the rangefinder is an important feature that you should take into consideration before making the final purchase. Most of the rangefinders that we reviewed here need CR2 or lithium-ion batteries that offer excellent battery life.
Lens
The lens of the rangefinder plays a vital role in the clarity of the targeted image. Coatings are used to reduce the glare and maximizing the amount of light that is transmitted to the eyes.
The number of coatings will determine how much light will be transmitted. In this case, the more the merrier. Most of the rangefinders that we reviewed here come with a fully multi-coated lens to offer you the highest brightness and clarity.
How to Use a Hunting Rangefinder?
Check Beforehand
Checking the rangefinder before the hunting expedition will help you avoid any mishaps on the field. Range a target and shoot at it to see if you can hit the correct spot or not. This will give a clearer idea of how to shoot when you’re in the wild.
Use the Finder in Beginning
Many hunters tend to use the rangefinder at the last minute. This will give you an inaccurate result and give you less time to shoot at the target. However, if you throw the laser as the prey is approaching, this will give you more time and help you shoot more precisely.
Keep Angles in Mind
There is a difference when you are shooting straight or shooting in angles. Shooting on an elevated path is different than shooting on straight lines. Many rangefinders offer a unique technology that helps you measure slopes and angles accurately.
FAQ
What makes the best rangefinder for bow hunting ?
Ans: There is not one but several factors that play major roles in determining the effectiveness of the rangefinder. The range, accuracy, and build-quality everything must be top of the line to ensure the best performance by the rangefinder.
Is a rangefinder necessary for hunting?
Ans: Many times, hunters fail to shoot their target due to misled distance. Having a proper estimation of the distance will help you shoot with more accuracy. Whereas, a range finder will let you have a precise measurement at the target with just a touch of a button.
The laser will target the object and effectively measure the distance. Some of the rangefinders are designed to find the distance of the moving targets and calculate the distance of the furthest target for improved accuracy.
Can you use a golf rangefinder for hunting?
Ans: Rangefinders are used for both golfing and hunting. All the rangefinders that we reviewed are specifically designed for hunting. However, they’re equally good for golfing as well.
How accurate is a rangefinder?
Ans: Rangefinders throw a laser beam at your target and the target eventually reflects back the beam. The finder has a clock that measures the time that the beam to reflect back. Usually, the hunting rangefinders have an accuracy level of plus or minus 5 yards.
Can I use the rangefinder during rain?
Ans: Yes, most of the rangefinders that we reviewed here are weatherproof and waterproof. This means you will be able to use the rangefinder on all kinds of weather conditions. However, submerging the rangefinder will deteriorate its quality.
Final Thoughts
It may seem like an unnecessary splurge to spend on the hunting rangefinder. However, it is very important to know the actual distance to make an accurate shot. This best rangefinder for bow hunting will enable you to measure the distance of the subject with utmost precision and let you have a great hunting experience.
The rangefinders are designed with a variety of different range, construction, and magnification. Make sure that you choose is suitable one that matches up with your hunting style and environment. We have accumulated the best hunting rangefinders out there so that you can make the most out of your hunting expedition.
So, pick your best match and get ready to come home with a truck full!