Many people are into archery as a hobby, a time pass activity, as a sport, and sometimes even as a profession. For archery, a lot of technique and precision goes into it.
However, without the right tools to practice with, you cannot get the most out of this experience.
Whether you are a beginner at archery or a professional looking for an archery rangefinder, we will guide you through the various factors to consider before buying one and help you decide which one's the best for you.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Archery Rangefinders
- OUR TOP PICK: Bushnell Elite Rangefinder
- RUNNER-UP: Nikon ACULON AL11
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: TecTecTec ProWild
Comparison of the Best Archery Rangefinders
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What is a Rangefinder and How Does it Work?
Rangefinders are popular amongst street photographers due to its smaller size than that of heavy film SLR cameras. These are the original mirrorless cameras. They may be used by users of firearms over long distances to measure the distance to a target to allow for a projectile drop. They used 35mm film similar to that of SLRs, however, had a different focusing method that did not require a mirror.
A rangefinder does not look directly through the lens via a mirror, but its viewfinder is an entirely visual system attached fairly close to the lens. It shows 2 overlapping images of the subject. When the images are brought together, the distance to the subject can be calculated, and you can focus the lens.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
To make a sound purchasing decision, you must be sure about your needs for the product. An informed decision could be made if one knows about the major factors or aspects to be considered before buying a particular model. For rangefinders, there are a few aspects that need to be considered. These include:
- Make sure that the rangefinder is rated to be +/-1 yard. If it is more than that, the product will not serve its purpose.
- Look for the size of the product as it matters quite a lot. You must go for a lightweight category if you’re going for bow hunting. If you are hunting at greater distances, then opt for a mid-price rangefinder.
- You might need a rangefinder that offers angle compensation if you hunt in areas covered with thick bush. Moreover, if you hunt in varying light conditions, then it would be suitable to get a rangefinder with low-light or bright-light stabilization for those specific conditions.
- It will be better if the model is waterproof as the camera could be taken to places that demand rugged use. Therefore, it will be wise to get a waterproof camera for better use.
Spec Glossary
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean:
Dimensions: Length, width, height, and weight of the rangefinder.
Max Range: The maximum distance the rangefinder can measure to given optimal conditions. In practice, this is rarely achieved.
Measurement Range: The entire range the rangefinder can measure accurately.
Magnification: Amount of magnification the rangefinder can provide.
Measurement Metrics: The unit of measurement used by the range finder. Usually in CM, IN, MOA and/or MIL.
Review of the Best Archery Rangefinders
The market is filled with several types of rangefinders that are beneficial in their own unique way. Therefore, we've chalked up a list of different categories for rangefinders. These products are our favorite picks from the market that qualify for a particular category. They are reviewed in detail, enabling you to choose the perfect one for yourself.
Best Overall:
Bushnell Elite Rangefinder
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users of this rangefinder are highly satisfied with the versatile feature and functions the product has to offer and that too at a great price. They have positively reviewed the product to be highly suitable for its capability to cover long distance targets. They have also praised its laser range finder. However, there have been few complaints about the product being delivered defected, broken, and not being durable.
Why it Stands Out to Us?
The most distinctive feature is its incredibly long distance target range. It makes the product useful for several purposes and will be great for all types of uses. Another most unique feature is its LED screen. Moreover, we also love how so many features are offered at a reasonable and affordable price.
Who Would Use This Most?
The rangefinder is equipped with a powerful waterproof, weather-resistant body. This means that it is highly suitable to be used in harsh and tough conditions. Therefore, it’s a great pick for people who travel long distances to places where the climate is unpredictable and harsh.
What Could Be Improved and Why?
Perhaps the only thing with this otherwise excellent rangefinder that can be improved is the delivery system. Since there are so many complaints about how the product was delivered defective, it can be reassured by improving their delivery system, return policy, customer support and packaging to ensure that it does not happen again.
Bottom Line
Overall, we have chosen this rangefinder as our best pick due to its affordable, yet versatile features. Therefore, it makes a great choice for absolutely anyone looking for a convenient, advanced, and powerful unit.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
1.7 x 5.1 x 3.7"
Max Range:
1760 yards
Measurement Range:
5 to 1760 yards
Magnification:
7x
Measurement Metrics:
CM, IN, MOA, & MIL
Accuracy:
± 1/2 yard
Runner-up:
Nikon ACULON AL11
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have positively complimented the rangefinder for its compact and travel-friendly size. It weighs only 6.5 pounds, which is loved by its users. Moreover, users have also reviewed its one-button functionality, which makes it extremely convenient to operate. However, a major issue reported is that it often gives false readings. It also does not come with any warranty.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For us, the size of the rangefinder was a winner. It perfectly fits in your hand; it’s easy to carry and is also actually easier to operate. This makes it great for traveling and on-the-go use.
Who Would Use This Most?
It’s a great tool for frequent travelers. It’s also a good pick for beginners who don’t want to get stuck with too much of a complicated product. This is easy to use and carry. Therefore, it’s appropriate and useful for beginners and frequent travelers both.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Since the customers have reported largely about defective pieces being delivered, that could be worked upon by Nikon. Their packaging and delivery system should be improved in order to ensure there are no future complaints. Moreover, they can also work on their warranty and customer support.
Bottom Line
Overall, like all of Nikon’s products, this is again an excellent choice. We would recommend this highly to beginners. It’s extremely user-friendly and also easier on the pocket. However, there have been complaints about defective pieces delivered. Other than that, it’s affordable, versatile, advanced, and great for outdoor activities like gun shooting.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
3.6 x 2.9 x1.5"
Max Range:
550 yards
Measurement Range:
6 to 550 yards
Magnification:
6x
Accuracy:
± 1 yard
Best for the Money:
TecTecTec ProWild
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers love how affordable yet efficient this is. The most important features that stood out for buyers are the dust resistant body and the accessories that are included with it, such as a bag and wristband. These features have allowed users to use this rangefinder conveniently in their outdoor activities. There have also been some reports about defective units.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The most distinctive feature that we found to be the most impressive thing about this product is its affordability. It offers a range of about 500 yards, comes with a capability of calculating speed and distance both, and also has a powerful scanner. Even then, it is still available at a rather competitive price.
Who Would Use This Most?
We would highly recommend this rangefinder for shooting purposes. It is also useful for people going for rifle hunting and golf. Moreover, with its robust body and convenient extra add-ons, it is also a good choice for travelers and adventurous people.
What Could Be Improved and Why
The only thing that TecTecTec may need to work upon is the black LCD. It makes viewing and readability in the dark difficult. Also, almost all new models and competitor products have color LCD screens. Therefore, this should be improved.
Bottom Line
To sum it up, this rangefinder has great value for your money. It’s durable and has seen no complaints about false readings and durability issues. Therefore, your investment will be safe with this great choice of a laser unit.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
4.06 x 1.63 x 2.81"
Max Range:
540 yards
Measurement Range:
5 to 540 yards
Magnification:
6x
Accuracy:
± 1 yard
Best from Bushnell:
Bushnell G-Force DX ARC 6X 21mm
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have loved how functional and beneficial rainproof construction is. It has proven to be very beneficial for people who travel or are outdoors a lot. However, many have complained about the high price and think they could have gotten the same features at a better price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We have added this product to our list for many reasons. However, the most unique and impressive feature we found in this model is the adjustable screen brightness. This ensures that readability and view are of the same quality even at night time or darker places.
Who Would Use This Most?
It is a vertical bow rangefinder with a huge range capacity. Therefore, we think that it can be of great use for professionals. Moreover, it is also known for its durable build, which makes it good for traveling purposes in unpredictable and harsh climate conditions.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Users, especially first-timers, struggled a lot with the buttons that switch the three modes and the brightness button. Perhaps placing them in different areas or labeling them clearly with their functions will be able to clear out confusion and complications.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a highly robust and sturdy, professional-level rangefinder. Its 1300-yard range is impressive, including its features like the brightness adjustment and ESP technology.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
3.4 x 1 x 2.9"
Max Range:
1300 yards
Measurement Range:
5 to 1300 yards
Magnification:
6x
Measurement Metrics:
CM, IN, MOA & MIL
Accuracy:
± 1 yard
Best for Hunting:
Vortex Optics Ranger Laser Rangefinder
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have positively commented on the convenience with which you can carry this rangefinder. The credit for it goes to the removable clip and the neck strap. Users have also loved the quality of the image produced by the product. Moreover, they specifically have commented on how suitable this product is for hunting and shooting purposes. However, some have commented on their preference for a much lighter rangefinder than the one that weighs almost 12 pounds.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This outstanding rangefinder has a capacity range of up to 1800 yards! That’s the highest from our list, and therefore we were fully impressed. This makes it great for long distances and professional use.
Who Would Use This Most?
The rangefinder is the best for people who want to go hunting or shooting. It is also great for travelers who will be spending some time on foot, since carrying this product is very easy. It’s also fog proof and waterproof, which makes it more reliable for traveling purposes.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Users have negatively commented on how inconvenient its target setting process is. It’s a three-step process and can be time-consuming when in a hurry. It’s also complicated for some beginners. Therefore, the manufacturer could look into improving their target setting process and make it faster and simpler.
Bottom Line
To sum it up, it’s a great rangefinder that has all the essential features and functionality. You cannot underestimate its versatile functionality like scanning capability, 1800 yard range, and adjustable brightness settings.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
3.9 x 1.3 x 3"
Max Range:
1800 yards
Measurement Range:
9 to 1800 yards
Magnification:
6x
Accuracy:
± 3 yards
Best Under $200:
TecTecTec VPRO500
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers appreciate this product highly for its travel-friendly design. It comes with a carry bag that stores the rangefinder efficiently. Moreover, users also highly recommend this product because of the value for your money. It does not come at a high price and still offers all the essential features and extra add-ons too. They love it for its accurate readings as well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This rangefinder is the most distinctive one from our list because of its affordability. It is under 200 dollars and yet has the most efficient features and functionality. It is equipped with a sturdy body and useful tools. Moreover, even at such an affordable price, it comes with a complete package that includes batteries and a bag too.
Who Would Use This Most?
This is highly recommended for traveling purposes. It is also useful for people going for golf and woody areas. Many users have reported it to be efficient in woody areas; therefore, it will be useful for anyone planning to travel to such areas. Moreover, it is also sturdy and durable, so if you want to buy a rangefinder for rough use, then this will be good.
What Could Be Improved and Why?
Apart from all the excellent features and functionalities, the company can probably try to increase the range capacity. Since the model has all other competitive features, it also needs a greater range to compete with models that have ranges up to 600 and even 1000 yards.
Bottom Line
To sum it up, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a rangefinder at a good price for beginner level. However, we would not exactly recommend this to be used on a professional level where the distance needed to be covered is greater than 600 yards.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
1.61 x 2.83 x 4.09"
Max Range:
540 yards
Magnification:
6x
Accuracy:
± 1 yard
Best from Nikon:
Nikon Arrow ID 3000
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers and users who traveled with this rangefinder absolutely love it for its ergonomic design. The design ensures comfort for the hand as well as hassle-free usage. Moreover, users are also very satisfied with their easy control and operation. They have also reported the diopter to be very easy to use and effective, plus they love the bright and clear readings display.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The most distinctive feature for us in this product is its affordability with its versatile features. The compact, sleek design that fits well in your hand is a unique and great way of ensuring user comfort. Therefore, this product made it to our list of top picks!
Who Would Use This Most?
This is great for people going for golf, rifle hunting, and target hunting. With its ease of operation, it’s also recommended highly to people with no or little experience with rangefinders. However, it might not be the most beneficial model for professionals and for people traveling to difficult conditions.
What Could Be Improved and Why
The only feature that we find missing in this brilliant product is that it does not specifically have a dust resistant or weather resistant body. This feature could make this a much more reliable and durable product. Therefore, we think this should be improved further to ensure a greater experience for users.
Bottom Line
Overall, this Nikon masterpiece is great for use in long-distance shooting where the angles change frequently. It is equipped with the ID technology, has scanner capabilities, features an ergonomic design, and will meet almost all your needs at once.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
3.6 x 1.5 x 2.9"
Max Range:
550 yards
Measurement Range:
6 to 550 yards
Magnification:
4x
Accuracy:
± 1 yard
Best from Leupold:
Leupold RX-650
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The only problems recent buyers seem to have reported is the size and weight of the rangefinder. It’s not humongous; however, it's relatively heavier than other more advanced compact models on the market. Other than that, customers are fully satisfied with how efficiently and effectively this product works.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This model stands out to us, mostly because of its sturdy build. The weatherproof, waterproof, and fog proof body makes it highly appropriate for harsh and unpredictable climates. It also ensures durability. One other feature that we loved the most is its precision buttons. This ensures that the readings provided are always accurate.
Who Would Use This Most?
It is not a good choice for golf, as many users report. However, for people who plan to use this rangefinder for rigorous traveling, this will be of great use. This is because it has rubber sides, which make you grip it better. It also has a weatherproof body. Therefore, it will be safe to carry with you on your next travel. Moreover, it also comes with a carry case included in the box, that further ensures convenience.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Its weight seems to be a little too much. There are competing models that are much lighter and easier to carry. Therefore, the weight can be worked upon a little so that customers are further comfortable using this product.
Bottom Line
To sum it up, it’s a great rangefinder overall because of its versatile features. It has the capability of scanning, features precision control, and has a sleek and sturdy body and an LED screen. Plus, it is also good for the money.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
3.4 x 1.4 x 2.9"
Max Range:
650 yards
Measurement Range:
5 to 650 yards
Magnification:
6x
Accuracy:
± 1 yard
How We Chose These Models
We make sure that the products we add to the list are thoroughly reviewed and qualified for particular categories. There are certain criteria and features that we look for in a product that has the potential of being a good purchase for the readers. Here are some features and factors we look for before choosing the products and adding them on our lists:
Customer Feedback
The most important thing that must be considered before choosing a model is honest feedback from actual customers. This helps us make our reviews honest and based on unbiased reviews. Customers give better insights on how and why a product is useful. Therefore, before choosing a model, we collect and analyze customer feedback.
Brand
We make sure that no unreliable and undependable product is chosen. Therefore, we chose models from brands that have experience in a particular market and have a positive reputation.
Significance For Our Readers
Any model that does not prove to be significant for a diverse range of our readers is not chosen. This is because there are several types of readers and potential buyers reading our reviews, and we need to cater to all of their needs and possible preferences. Therefore, we make sure that the models we choose are significant for them, meaning that they are multi-functional and multi-purpose. For example; we choose models that are high priced as well as those that are budget friendly.
How to Use a Rangefinder for Archery
If you are a beginner or a first-timer with rangefinders, then you will have a big question regarding these. Whether for golf or for hunting, the basic functioning of a rangefinder remains the same. The biggest challenge is keeping your hand steady while you are using it. Therefore, to effectively use a rangefinder, you must ensure that there’s a lot of practice before you get the perfect hold of it.
Before you start using the rangefinder, give it a test, try and make sure that it’s working properly.
For hunting, you should always measure the distance before you finally see a target. For hunting, targets are always moving and on the go, therefore, don’t waste time and measure the distance before there’s even a target.
Some of the products from our list come with brightness settings. If you plan on using the rangefinder during the night, then these products will be needed. You can adjust the brightness settings in order to ensure that the images and the LCD screen are fully visible.
If you are in a woody area or somewhere risky, don’t keep your rangefinder down and rather carry it in the bags that come with the rangefinder. Some of the models on our list also come with neck straps which can be used to hang the model safely around your neck. Safety steps and precautions are essential in order to ensure a positive experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a rangefinder should have features that are suitable for different weather conditions and traveling and should be advanced in terms of their design. An LCD screen and a multi-coated objective lens can prove to be significant. However, the final choice will definitely depend on your experience, your usage, budget, and preferences.
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