What is a rangefinder? A rangefinder is a device that is used to analyze the distance from the observer to the target. Well, there are different rangefinders for different purpose like golf, shooting, and hunting. In this post, I would be discussing the best rangefinders for hunting.
So before I begin with my unbiased reviews, let me tell you about the key features that I kept in my mind while reviewing these 2022’s best hunting rangefinders.
- Affordability– The list contains the range from most affordable rangefinders to the professional collection of rangefinders.
- Functionality– Irrespective of price, all the rangefinders should solve our purpose i.e. provide an accurate distance for shooting our target.
- Portable– Hunting is an aggressive sport. There is no room for sensitive people as well as rangefinders that cannot withstand rigorous hunting and shooting sessions.
- Design– The rangefinder should be good to hold with a firm grip. It should not be too fancy that it does not solve its main purpose.
Keeping these factors I have prepared the list of the best rangefinders for bow hunting as well as rifle shooting.
Now that you have seen the list of best rangefinders, I would suggest you read this post till the end as now I will be discussing 10 best hunting rangefinders in more detail including their pros and cons. Although, if you are running out of time, I would highly suggest you read the review for Nikon 8397 ACULON as it is the bestseller hunting rangefinder for 202.
You may also read the conclusion of this post where I have mentioned my top rangefinders for different purposes.
Hunting is truly a game of great patience and precision. A good equipment increases your chance of getting an accurate shot at your target. Be it the compound bow or your pair of hunting boots, you should have all the necessary equipment that would help you to excel in the sport.
Now, let’s dig deep and know more about the specific rangefinder models mentioned in the list.
Best Rangefinders for Hunting
1. Halo XL450– Cheap Rangefinder for Bow Hunting
Starting the list from an affordable and cheap rangefinder, the Halo XL450 is a perfect product for the money. But hey, don’t think that being one of the most affordable rangefinders it is just there to do formality.
The Halo XL450 is a great buy if you are looking for a short range rangefinder with great durability and accuracy. It comes with a maximum range of 450 yards to reflect target. Also, the amazing AI technology accounts for slope to the target. You can enhance the visibility of your target by 6x magnification feature of the rangefinder. Talking about the precision, the Halo XL450 provides you the target distance with a precision of +/- 1 yard.
The best part about the Halo XL450 is, it is waterproof. Well, I would typically choose it mainly because of this feature as handling bad climate should be one of the top priorities for any rangefinder manufacturer. Hunting is an outdoor sport therefore, all your hunting equipment should be both durable and weather resistant.
The Halo XL450 has got great ergonomics and would fit easily in your hand. Getting so many features for such an affordable price is a great deal. It is a great buy for beginners and hunters who are running on a limited budget.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 450 Yards |
| Precision | +/- 1 Yard |
| Water Resistant | Yes |
| Dimensions | 8.5 x 2.5 x 6.5 inches |
| Magnification | 6x |
| Battery | 1 CR2 Battery |
- Cheap Rangefinder for bowhunting and target shooting.
- Good Ergonomics supports great handling.
- Water Resistant to avoid any accidental water splash.
- Precise and correctly measures the distance.
- The rangefinder has a good range to hit short distance targets.
- Reading display can be improved.
- Just a beginner level rangefinder with basic functionality only.
2. Bushnell Michael Waddell Bone Collector Edition
Moving up the game now, the second rangefinder in our list is the Bushnell Michael Waddell Bone Collector Edition. Coming to the design first, as the name suggests, it is a rangefinder from the Bone Collector edition, the rangefinder looks extremely classy and dynamic.
The Bushnell Michael Bone Collector edition is a simple lightweight rangefinder which suits all types of hunting sessions, be it just for a hobby or a rigorous long hour hunting session.
Using the rangefinder, you can take out a target from a decent range of 600 yards with +/- 1 yard accuracy. The Bone Collector edition is a little different from the other models as it is rainproof, more durable and sturdy. No doubt, it can handle the hunting beast in you even in extreme climatic conditions.
When you look at this rangefinder, in the first instance you will think that it would be too heavy but it is not. The rangefinder weighs less than 10 ounces and would fit great in your hands due to its great ergonomics.
The rangefinder works well even in low lighting allowing you to hunt for late evening hours. I think it is a really good feature as you would never want to loose your target due to low lighting. The Bushnell, in this case, fits well as you can get the same accuracy in low lighting and never miss your target.
The Bushnell Michael Bone Collector edition has already become a favorite for professional bow and rifle hunters. This is a major reason why it has got so many reviews from customers. Certainly, it is the best rangefinder under 150 dollars.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 10-600 Yards |
| Precision | +/- 1 Yard |
| Water Resistant | Yes |
| Dimensions | 3 x 5 x 5.5 inches |
| Magnification | 4x 20mm |
| Battery | 1 CR2 Batteries |
- Great design and looks absoultely sturdy.
- Durable and made for extreme hunting sessions.
- Good ergonomics and stable design.
- Rainproof and works great in extreme climatic conditions as well.
- Works great in low lighting.
- Supports 600-yard range to take distant shots.
- A great professional rangefinder.
- Exceptionally accurate rangefinder.
- Easy reading from LCD.
- You’ll have to switch off the rangefinder to switch between yards and meters.
- Can’t measure angles.
3. Simmons Volt 600
Simmons is a well-known brand for providing budget sporting optics. It offers a great choice for hunters who are running on a fixed budget or who don’t need high-end models with a lot of features.
The Simmons 600 is another great addition to affordable rangefinders and works great in providing you an accurate range of your target. The rangefinder uses a 9v battery to work. Being a verticle style rangefinder, it measures over 4 inches longer on the verticle side which might pinch the users who are looking for a compact design.
Simmons 600 is another lightweight rangefinder and offers you 4x magnification only. Thus, the rangefinder is best for hunting close range shots. The rangefinder can return the distance in yards as well as meters. This is a good feature for a rangefinder which costs less than $100. Although it lacks the scan mode, reticle selections, target priority and an adjustable diopter.
Basically, the Simmons 600 is a model that is made for hunters and shooters who are looking for a really affordable rangefinder. You cannot expect many features from such a rangefinder however, it works good and fine for short range hunting and shooting.
The design of the rangefinder is really basic and sober. The black color makes the rangefinder somewhat dirt proof giving it a sturdy look and feel.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 600 Yards |
| Precision | +/- 1 Yard |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 3 x 5 inches |
| Magnification | 4x |
| Battery | 1 9v Battery |
- Cheap rangefinder for close range shots.
- Provides an accurate range.
- 4x magnification to view your target.
- 1-button easy operation.
- LCD screen offers a good view.
- Provides reading in meters/yards.
- Basic rangefinder with not many features.
- Feels really basic to hold.
- Not highly durable for extreme hunting sessions.
- Good for taking close range shots only.
4. Laser Rangefinder– Best Rangefinder for Long Range Shooting
Now, what would you expect when the name of the rangefinder itself is “Laser Rangefinder”. It is currently one of the hot selling rangefinders which can range upto 1600 yards (I am serious :|). Thus it is the best rangefinder for long range shooting in its category.
Talking about the design, it is made up of high-quality material and carries a water resistant body. Durability is one of the main concern when you are talking about any outdoor sport. Just to assure you, the Laser Rangefinder is good to carry for extreme and long hunting sessions. The durable nature of the rangefinder enables it to survive even in the most rugged environment.
Getting into the technicalities of the rangefinder, I have already told you that you can range your target upto 1600 yards and that too with an accuracy of +/- 0.33 yard. Certainly, you will enjoy this masterpiece if you love to take long range shots and that too with precision.
The Laser Rangefinder comes along multiple measurement modes which will enable you to measure the distance, angle, height, and the horizontal distance of your target. The continuous scan mode allows you to range a constantly moving target so that you can hit an accurate shot in the field. To support the accuracy, you will get an 8x magnification system which will enable you to clearly view your target even at long distances.
The built quality is good and I have already told you about it. Also, the lens quality and the display system is surely worth the money. The display is ultra clear, multilayered optics support an easy reading. You can switch the measurement unit between meters/yards depending on your personal preference.
Overall, the Laser Rangefinder is compact, has good ergonomics, lightweight and portable so that you can achieve the maximum output of your hunting session. It runs on a normal CR2 battery which of course you can purchase online or buy from any local store at your place.
It is certainly your best bet if you are looking for a highly affordable long-range Rangefinder that is precise, accurate and durable to last for many hunting sessions.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 1600 Yards |
| Precision | +/- 0.33 yard |
| Water Resistant | No |
| Dimensions | 4.33 x 5.91 x 2.48 inches |
| Magnification | 8x |
| Battery | 1 CR2 Battery |
- Best long range rangefinder for hunting.
- Available in gray, black and white.
- Highly affordable.
- Ergonomic design makes it a really handy.
- Durable and made of high-quality material.
- Accurate even at long ranges.
- Continuous scanning for a moving target.
- Lightweight design and pocket-friendly size.
- Supports highly rugged environment.
- 8x magnification supports clear sight.
- Not water resistant.
- Display is tough to read in low lighting.
5. Nikon 8397 ACULON– Best Rangefinder for Hunting
The smaller means better and the Nikon 8397 Aculon is a perfect example of that. Nikon is a well-known brand which provides great products.
The Nikon 8397 is one of my favorite rangefinders as I can always rely on it for a great hunting session. Although, there are various rangefinders labeled under Nikon but, Aculon is a favorite rangefinder of hunters from all levels, be it a beginner or a professional.
The Nikon Aculon is surely my first choice to suggest you if you are looking for the best rangefinder for hunting. It is highly compact and would fit easily inside your hand.
The rangefinders manual says that it can range out to about 550 yards accurately. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor activities. The Nikon 8397 Aculon laser rangefinder also supports a single button operation which is quite essential when you are continuously moving to track your target. Nobody likes complex functions, especially when you have got really less time to track your moving target.
The LCD screen display is of good quality and you can read the essential metrics pretty easily. The rangefinder uses a CR2 battery. The best part, it automatically powers down after about 8 seconds if not used. This is a great feature which preserves the battery power, especially for people like me who have the tendency to forget to power down their rangefinder when not in use.
Talking about the eyepiece, the Nikon 8397 has used a good eyepoint design which enables the people wearing spectacles also to see a full field of view. Also, you will get an accurate reading for targets that are obscured by obstacles such as bush or grass. Due to all these amazing features, the Nikon 8397 Aculon is a bestselling rangefinder and has got great reviews from the existing customers.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 550 Yards |
| Precision | +/- 1 Yard |
| Dimensions | 3.6 x 1.5 x 2.9 inches |
| Magnification | 6x |
| Battery | 1 CR2 Batteries |
- Great accuracy even when there are obstacles like bush or grass.
- Durable and highly compact design.
- Water resistant design.
- Powers down automatically after 8 seconds of no usage.
- Battery life indicator to display the battery level.
- High-quality optics to support a clear view.
- 1 button operation.
- Best hunting rangefinder.
- Can display units in yards/meters.
- Double casing makes the rangefinder highly sturdy.
- Not completely waterproof.
- No brightness control.
- No advance features such as slope or distance compensation.
6. Wildgame Innovations XRT62-7
The Halo XRT62-7 is another addition to to the affordable rangefinder category. It is an upgraded version of the Halo XL-450.
This rangefinder can determine the accurate distance of our target upto 600 yards with an accuracy of +/- 1 yard. The optics used in the rangefinder enable you to see your target with 6x magnification. Also, the scan mode allows you for constant ranging your target.
The rangefinder runs on a CR2 battery, which is standard in almost all the rangefinders these days. I found the design of the rangefinder to be utterly simple. It has got good ergonomics so that it can be handled easily. You can adjust the focus of the eye using the adjustable eye piece.
It is certainly not the most durable rangefinder but is highly sturdy and apt for hunting sessions and golf. The XRT62-7 now comes with an updated frustration free packaging.
The rangefinder is highly accurate to measure the distance when the sight is obstructed with grasses and bushes. You know that the actual range is determined when the line of sight is clean. Even the most expensive options would not be able to provide you with a correct distance when the sight is disturbed by the environmental barriers such as the grass and bush. However, the XRT62-7 is highly accurate when it comes to measuring the range to your target.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 600 Yards |
| Precision | +/- 1 Yard |
| Water Resistant | Yes |
| Dimensions | 8.6 x 6.4 x 2.5 inches |
| Magnification | 6x |
| Battery | 1 CR2 Battery |
- Highly accurate in measuring the range between you and your target.
- 6x magnification helps you to view your target in a better way.
- The included Nylon case keeps the rangefinder clean and dust free.
- Frustration free packaging.
- Great ergonomics and handling.
- Scan mode allows constant ranging.
- Adjustable eye piece.
- Good for both hunting and golf.
- Not suitable for low lighting.
- Slightly heavy than other rangefinders.
7. TecTecTec ProWild
TecTecTec is a renowned brand which manufactures high-quality rangefinders. Its rangefinders are quite famous for golf as well as hunting.
The Tectectec ProWild is a premium addition to this list which can measure upto 540 yards along with continuous scan mode. The ProWild is not only a durable rangefinder but also carries advanced speed technology with a water resistant body. The rangefinder is highly precise and measures with an accuracy of +/- 1 yard.
ProWild is a well-known rangefinder for an advanced hunting session. It is one of the few rangefinders which measures both speed and distance. One thing is for sure, you won’t miss your target until you are really a novice or a beginner.
The TecTecTec features a premium, ultra clear multilayered optics which makes you read easily the distance and the battery meter quite clearly. It also supports a continuous measurement mode for fast and convenient measurement.
The rangefinder is lightweight, portable and highly durable for rigorous hunting sessions. You would be quite surprised to see how fast it measures the range with great accuracy. The sweetest spot is between the 20-300 yard range where hunting your target becomes a bliss.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 540 Yards |
| Precision | +/- 1 Yard |
| Water Resistant | Yes |
| Dimensions | 104 x 72 x 41 mm |
| Magnification | 6x |
| Battery | 1 CR2 Battery |
- Ultra-fast and accurate range measurement.
- 6x magnification is a big add on.
- Great ergonomics and handling.
- Scan mode allows for constant ranging.
- Good for both hunting and golf.
- Highly affordable.
- Durable design and highly portable.
- Premium quality multilayered lens.
- Customer service is slow.
- Better options available for more budget.
8. Bushnell Scout DX 1000 ARC
Bushnell Scout DX 1000 ARC is a rangefinder for serious hunters. It is a professional rangefinder that would cost you fairly more as it is loaded with unconventional features.
Bushnell is a renowned rangefinder brand. It’s rangefinders range from the most affordable category to the professional category. The Bushnell 1000 ARC is a simple and sleek rangefinder which is an excellent choice for both bow and rifle hunters.
The rangefinder features a Vivid Display technology and supports 6x magnification with an adjustable diopter for a crystal clear viewing. It also uses an integrated extreme speed precision turbo processor that automatically calculates the horizontal/vertical distance on the basis of the angle of the terrain to provide an accurate and compensated distance readings out to 99 yards along with the distance measurement which is displayed in 1/10th yard increments out to 99 yards.
The Bushnell Scout 1000 ARC comes with angle range compensation and also supports selectable rifle and bow Automatic Range Compensation (ARC) modes. Each mode is designed with their own specialized capabilities such as the MOA, holdover distance, and Mildot.
It also has different targeting modes that will enable you to range for single or multiple targets depending on different types of terrain. This includes Variable Sight-in (VSI) Bullseye targeting mode, a Scan targeting mode, and a Brush targeting mode.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 1000 Yards |
| Precision | 1/2 Yard |
| Water Resistant | Yes |
| Dimensions | 4 x 3 x 1.25 inches |
| Magnification | 6x |
| Battery | 1 CR2 Battery |
- Compact and durable rangefinder.
- Supports a range of upto 1000 yards.
- Highly accurate due to the E.S.P(Extreme. Speed, Precision) system.
- ARC modes for both bow and rifle hunting.
- Extra rubber armoring along with a comfortable grip.
- Water and fog proof design.
- Can measure in yards and meters.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Tripod mount molded in the rangefinder.
- Certainly expensive than the average rangefinders.
- Eye piece could be improved.
9. Vortex Optics Ranger 1000
Adding next to the list, Vortex Optics Ranger 1000 is a professional rangefinder for long range shooting. It will give you adequate data so that you can plan a perfect shot at your target.
The Vortex Optics comes along with a Primary Horizontal Component Distance(HCD) mode that displays an angle-compensated distance reading. The rangefinder has a clean and high-quality display which shows you a highly intuitive menu. There are very few rangefinders in the similar league which can give a direct competition to Vortex Ranger 1000.
As it can be assumed that the rangefinder would be water proof due to the presence of the o-ring seal. It also features fully multi-coated lenses that are made to deliver optimal light transmission. For sure, the Vortex Optics Ranger may look a simple rangefinder but it is packed with high-performing elements.
You can set the reading to appear in yards or meters according to your preference. The rangefinder is a boon for rifle shooters, bow hunters, and target shooters.
Getting into more details, the design of the Vortex Ranger 1000 supports good ergonomics which means that you can hold it easily while aiming at your target. It also includes a lanyard which enables it to easily hang around your neck. Like the majority rangefinders, the Vortex Optics Ranger 1000 also runs on a common CR2 battery.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 1000 Yards |
| Precision | +/- 3 yard at 1000 yards |
| Water Resistant | Yes |
| Dimensions | 8 x 6 x 12 inches |
| Magnification | 6x |
| Battery | 1 CR2 Battery |
- A great rangefinder for long range shooting.
- Great ergonomics for better handling.
- Optimum quality lenses used.
- Runs on normal CR2 battery.
- Waterproof rangefinder with o-ring seal.
- Comes with HCD mode.
- Rubber Armored coating for great durability.
- Adjustable diopter for precise focus.
- Supports basically every feature that is featured in an average rangefinder.
- Expensive rangefinder best for intermediate and professionals.
- Accurate to 3 yards.
10. Bushnell 202442 Laser Rangefinder
So by now, you must be wondering why I am covering so many different models of Bushnell. The reason is only one, they are highly accurate, precise and durable.
The Bushnell 202442 being an expensive buy is a well-established rangefinder for professionals and those serious about bow and rifle hunting.
Like the Bushnell Scout DX 1000, the 202442 is also driven by the ARC technology. It helps in determining the compensated distance depending on the angle of your shot so that it becomes easier for you to choose a pin from 7 to 199 yards.
The Bushnell 202442 can be operated with one button and it is easy to use it when you are constantly ranging your shots. The 4x magnification helps you to see a crystal clear imagery when you are eagerly waiting to shoot an accurate shot to kill your target.
The rangefinder can be easily calibrated with a three-step process in order to correlate with the speed of the bow through the site system. After the successful completion of the calibration, you can view a dot that shows the maximum height your arrow will travel.
It is a perfect rangefinder for hitting a perfect long range shot as you can range your target upto 850 yards. It also shows you the angle of your shot while in the process.
The best part, Bushnell 202442 is approved by Team Primos which make it a trusted pick for seasoned hunters.
Adding more to the flavor, the Bushnell rangefinders are thoroughly tested while in the manufacturing phase. This is the major reason they are able to provide their customers with a highly precise, durable and accurate rangefinder collection.
Specifications:
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Range | 850 Yards |
| Precision | +/- 1 yard |
| Water Resistant | Yes |
| Dimensions | 3.8 x 1.4 x 2.9 inches |
| Magnification | 4x |
| Battery | 1 Lithium Metal Battery |
- One button option promotes easy usage.
- 4x magnification enables you to focus on moving targets.
- HD clarity view with quality optics.
- Exclusively tested while in manufacturing thus free from errors.
- Can range upto 850 yards with an angle range of -90 to 90.
- Pocket size design with great ergonomics to make it handy.
- Rainproof and can be used in extreme weather also.
- Great accuracy even at long ranges.
- Comes with Angle Range Compensation.
So now that you have read the reviews of the best hunting rangefinders, you certainly don’t need another guide to decide and choose the best rangefinder for bow hunting or rifle hunting for yourself.
Although, if you are feeling too overwhelmed by reading this post and still not able to decide the best rangefinder for yourself, I have some quick suggestions from my side. The following are my best pick for hunting rangefinders so that you can hunt like a pro.
Best Affordable Hunting Rangefinder – Bushnell Michael Waddell Bone Collector Edition
Best Rangefinder for Long Range Shooting – Laser Rangefinder or Bushnell DX 1000
Best Rangefinder for Hunting (Editors Choice) – Nikon 8397 ACULON
So these are my top picks.
Please share your suggestions, doubts, and queries in the comment section below.
I hope that I may have helped you a little so that you can have an outstanding hunting session this year.