Halo Rangefinder Reviews – 2021 Buyer’s Guide

| Last Updated December 22, 2021

There are numerous brands and types of rangefinders in the market, making it difficult to decide which one to buy. Well, Halo rangefinders are a great option to consider.

They offer accuracy and precision when ranging as well as easy handling.

This article takes a detailed look at Halo rangefinders and reviews some of the top Halo rangefinders for your consideration.

Comparison of the Best Halo Rangefinders

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Horizontal distance can be calculated at any elevation
  • Dimensions and Weight: 2.54 x 2.54 x 2.54 cm; 220 Grams
  • Magnification and Objective Lens: 6x; 15mm
View Latest Price →
  • Highly accurate for up to 700 yards
  • Dimensions and Weight: 6 X 2 X 7″; 3.07 lbs
  • Magnification and Objective Lens: 6x; 20mm
View Latest Price →
  • Best for the Money
  • Dimensions and Weight: ‎21.59 x 6.35 x 16.51 cm; 1.29 kg
  • Magnification and Objective Lens: 6x; 24mm
View Latest Price →
  • Has high-end, premium quality glass for clarity
  • Dimensions and Weight: 12.85 cm x 6.50 cm x 2.55 "; 0.5 lb
  • Magnification and Objective Lens: 6x; 15mm
View Latest Price →

Who is Halo? 

Halo Optical products Inc. distributes a wide range of rangefinders. The company has been in operation since 2007. WildGame innovations manufacture the Halo line of products. The main manufacturing plant is in China. However, Halo Optical Inc., the primary distributor, is headquartered in the USA.

Halo rangefinders incorporate the most advanced technology and high-quality materials for quick and accurate ranging. The company offers a one-year limited warranty on all their rangefinders against replacement and repairs on workmanship defects. But it does not apply for damages that result from alterations, improper connection, shipping, theft, or neglect.

Why Are Halo Rangefinders So Popular?

There are several reasons why Halo rangefinders are popular. These include accuracy and precision when ranging, high-quality build, ease of use, and long-life battery.  Most buyers report that they can find a good quality rangefinder at an affordable price from the wide range of Halo rangefinders.

Halo rangefinders also incorporate top-notch technology such as angle intelligence, auto acquisition, scan mode, and a glass lens to ensure accurate ranging within microseconds. The rangefinders are ergonomically built to not only feel good on the hands but also to enhance performance.

Key Terms to Know 

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 and Weight: Length, width, height, and weight of the rangefinder.

  • Magnification and Objective Lens: Amount of magnification the rangefinder can provide.
     
  • Measurement Range: The entire range the rangefinder can measure accurately.

  • Angle Compensation? Whether the unit automatically adjusts based on the angle and actual distance to your target.

  • Measurement Metrics: The unit of measurement used by the range finder. Usually in CM, IN, MOA and/or MIL.

  • Accuracy: Refers to how closely accurate the rangefinder is at measuring distance.

  • Modes: The maximum distance the rangefinder can measure to given optimal conditions. In practice, this is rarely achieved.

Review of the Best Halo Rangefinders

In this section of the article, we will look at some of the top Halo rangefinders. For each of the 5 Halo rangefinders reviewed below, we provide a compiled list of their specifications, pros, and cons, what recent buyers say, and what stands out to us about the particular model.

Best Overall:
HALO XR700-8

Halo Optics XR 700 6X Magnification Accurate Precise Water-Resistant Hunting Laser Range Finder

PROS

  • The 6x magnification level provides a wide field of view
  • Ranges accurately and instantaneously within 700 yards
  • Has an ergonomic no-slip grip for comfortable handling
  • Comes with all the necessary accessories, including CR2 battery, lanyard, lens cloth, and carrying bag
  • Incorporates Angle Intelligence technology that compensates for decline or inclines angle to give the true horizontal distance when ranging

CONS

  • Battery life depletes quickly
  • Blurry or dim display that inhibits a clear view of the target

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers like the small, light, and compact size of this rangefinder. They also like that it has a dusk or dawn display mode that enables ranging in low-light conditions. However, there are numerous complaints regarding low battery life, dim display that does not offer a clear view of the target, and fogging up the lens when the weather is cold.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The XR 700-8 uses auto acquisition technology to range instantaneously.  It also employs the Angle Intelligence technology to offer angle compensation when ranging from a slope. You can use the Scan mode to range different targets or a moving target.

Furthermore, this rangefinder has an adjustable eyepiece that assists in focusing on the target. It has a +/- 1-yard accuracy. It comes with a one-year warranty that covers workmanship or structural defects.

Bottom Line

The HALO XR700-8 enhances the Halo XRT, which is no longer available in the market. Its build and technology have been upgraded for easy handling and optimal performance. It ranges quickly and accurately. It is most suitable for bow and gun hunting. 

Product Specs

Dimensions and Weight:

0.5 lbs

Magnification and Objective Lens:

6x; 15mm

Measurement Range:

Up to 700 yds

Angle Compensation?

Yes

Measurement Metrics:

Meter and Yard

Accuracy:

±1 yard

Modes:

Scan, Angle

Runner-up:
Halo XRT62-7

Halo XRT62-7 Rangefinder

PROS

  • Easy to operate
  • Light and compact size for easy handling
  • Rubber coating for non-slip grip and waterproofing
  • Ranges accurately within 600 yards on reflective surfaces
  • Has long battery life with an automatic power-saving deactivation

CONS

  • Low quality of the body
  • Low visibility in low light conditions

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers say that it is easy to use rangefinder. It ranges quickly and accurately, and you can operate it on scan mode. However, there are complaints about how it is constructed and difficulty reading the screen in low light conditions. Reportedly, the rangefinder feels too light and fragile.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The HALO XRT62-7 is easily operated with two buttons: a power button used to put it on or off and to the range, and a switch for changing between yards and meters. Its 6X magnification offers a wide field of view. 

You can switch to scan mode when ranging from moving targets or multiple targets. It is equipped with a Class 111A laser to ensure low risk for eye injury. This model of Halo rangefinders can be used for both hunting and golfing.

Bottom Line

Although the HALO XRT62-7 is a standard laser rangefinder, it offers 6X magnification for a wide field of view. It is also ergonomically designed with a Class 111A laser to ensure your safety when using it.  However, if you are keen to hunt at dusk or dawn, it may not be ideal for you because it has poor visibility in low light conditions.

Product Specs

Dimensions and Weight:

6 X 2 X 7″; 3.07 lbs

Magnification and Objective Lens:

6x; 20mm

Measurement Range:

Up to 300 yds

Angle Compensation?

Yes

Accuracy:

±1 yard

Best for the Money:
Halo XL450-7

Halo Optics Accurate Precise Water-Resistant Ergonomic Non-Slip Grip Portable Durable Hunting Laser Range Finder with Scan Mode

PROS

  • Has an option to range in meters and yards
  • Has an adjustable eyepiece for easy focusing
  • Class III  laser for reduced risk of eye or skin injury
  • Has a scan mode for easy ranging of multiple targets
  • Incorporates Angle Intelligence technology for angle compensations

CONS

  • Small readings on the LCD
  • Has no autofocus or zoom feature

What Recent Buyers Report

Most buyers like that it is compact, sturdy, and lightweight. It is also easy to operate whether you are using a bow or rifle. There is a divided opinion on whether the LCD is well lit, especially in low light conditions. Besides, some buyers complain that its body has an odd shape and a cheap feeling.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The HALO XL450 incorporates sophisticated technology such as Angle Intelligence and scan mode for easy, precise, and accurate ranging. It has an accuracy of +/- 1 yard. It is powered by a CR2 battery that has a long life, at least a year.

The adjustable eyepiece allows you to better focus on your target. You can set it to read in either yard to meters. The rangefinder is sturdy yet light for easy handling. It is easy to operate with a single button, the power button.

Bottom Line

Although HALO XL450 may seem like a basic laser rangefinder, it incorporates sophisticated AI technology for angle compensation. However, the LCD screen's range readings are small, which poses a challenge, especially for people with eye problems. It is suitable for both bow and rifle hunting.

Product Specs

Dimensions and Weight:

‎8.5 x 2.5 x 6.5" ; 2.84 lbs

Magnification and Objective Lens:

6x; 24mm

Measurement Range:

Up to 450 yds

Angle Compensation?

Yes

Measurement Metrics:

Yard

Accuracy:

±1 yard

Modes:

Scan, Spot

4. HALO XLR1500-8

Halo XLR1500-8 1500 Yard Laser Range Finder

PROS

  • Ergonomically designed for easy handling
  • Ranges up to 1500 yards on reflective surfaces
  • Employs AI technology for angle compensations
  • Has a nylon case that offers weather protection and a non-slip grip
  • Has an auto acquisition feature and an adjustable eyepiece for instantaneous focusing

CONS

  • None, so far

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers like it for its ergonomic design and high accuracy. The nylon case offers a non-slip grip and weather resistance. It has one-yard accuracy. It is also easy to operate with a single button. There are no critical reviews about this rangefinder; therefore, it is difficult to tell its shortcomings.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The HALO XLR 1500 ranges further than any other Halo rangefinder. It is a high performer that employs auto acquisition technology and an adjustable eyepiece to focus on the target instantaneously.  The scan mode enables you to easily and quickly change targets or range a moving target.

In addition, it has the Angle intelligence technology for calibrating the true horizontal distance when ranging at an elevation. Its lens is made with premium glass for clear readouts. You can set the range in either yards or meters.

Bottom Line

This 1500yards laser rangefinder is a powerful ranging tool ideal for rifle hunters and long-range target shooters. With auto acquisition technology and AI technology, you will be able to spot your target's precise location and range it accurately and instantly.  

Product Specs

Dimensions and Weight:

5.06 x 2.56 x 1"; 0.5 lb

Magnification and Objective Lens:

6x; 15mm

Measurement Range:

Up to 1500 yds

Angle Compensation?

Yes

Measurement Metrics:

Meter and Yard

Accuracy:

±1 yard

Modes:

Scan

5. HALO Z1000-8

Halo Optics Z1000 6X Magnification Accurate Precise Water-Resistant Ergonomic Non-Slip Grip Portable Durable Hunting Laser Range Finder

PROS

  • Easy to operate with a single button
  • Has an ergonomic design for easy handling
  • Incorporates the AI technology to offer angle compensation
  • Has a scan mode to enable easy ranging of multiple targets
  • Has an auto acquisition feature for accurate and instantaneous ranging

CONS

  • Broken battery cap
  • Difficult-to-fit battery cap

What Recent Buyers Report

Most buyers like the high precision and accuracy of this rangefinder. It easy to use and aesthetically pleasing. However, a number of people report having issues with the battery cap. Some people report that they received the rangefinder with a broken battery cap, while others reported that it was difficult to fit the battery cap well after installing the CR battery.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The HALO Z1000-8 is a powerful and user-friendly laser rangefinder with angle compensation. It ranges up to 1000 yards on reflective surfaces. It has scan mode features for easy ranging of different targets or moving targets. It also has an adjustable eyepiece for quick and easy focusing. The rangefinder comes with all the necessary accessories, including a casing, lens cloth, battery, and lanyard. The nylon casing keeps it weather resistant and provides a non-slip grip for easy handling.

Bottom Line

This is a quality rangefinder with high performance. Its exterior is designed for not only easy handling and protection but also an appealing aesthetic. It is user-friendly and ranges with accuracy and precision.

Product Specs

Dimensions and Weight:

5.06 x 2.56 x 1"; 0.5 lb

Magnification and Objective Lens:

6x; 15mm

Measurement Range:

Up to 1000 yds

Angle Compensation?

Yes

Measurement Metrics:

Meter and Yard

Accuracy:

±1 yard

Modes:

Scan

Types of Rangefinders from Halo 

Halo rangefinders fall under the following categories:

Hunting Rangefinders

These are specifically designed for easy hunting in the wild. Some Halo hunting rangefinders offer long-range hence are most ideal for rifle hunting, such as the XLR 1500, while others range less than 500 yards thus are best suited for bow hunting, such as the Halo XL and XR series.

HALO XR700-8

Rangefinders With Angle Compensation

Halo rangefinders with angle compensation incorporate the angle intelligence technology to calculate the true horizontal distance by accounting for the decline or incline angle. Most Halo rangefinders have angle compensation except CCL 300 and XL 500.

Halo Laser Rangefinders

All Halo rangefinders are laser rangefinders. They operate by shooting an invisible laser beam to the target. The laser beam travels at the speed of light from the rangefinder lens, falls on the target, and then reflects back to the lens. The amount of time the laser beam takes to travel from the lens to the target, and back to the lens determines the range.

Furthermore, Halo categorizes its rangefinders into four main series depending on their maximum range as follows:

  1. XLR Series: They have the longest range, up to 2000 yards. They include the XLR 2000, XLR 1600, AND XLR 1500

  2. Z series: This series has only one rangefinder – the Halo Z1000, which ranges upt0 1000 yards.

  3. XR series: Examples of rangefinders in this series include the Halo XR750 and XR700. The rangefinders range up to 750 yards on a reflective surface.

  4. XL Series: The XL series offers the shortest range of up to 600 yards. They include CCL 300, XL 450, XL 600, and XL 500.

Comparison Overview 

One of the key factors to consider when buying a rangefinder is the brands available in the market.  Some of the most popular rangefinder brands, besides Halo, include Bushnell, Vortex, and Simmons. Below is a brief comparison against Halo and Simmons, Bushnell, and Vortex.

Halo vs Bushnell Rangefinder

Both Bushnell and Halo manufacture and distribute a wide range of laser rangefinders. They both employ sophisticated technology for angle compensation and quick target acquisition. However, Bushnell is the pioneer of laser rangefinders and has been in operation for over 65 years.

Halo XRT62-7

On the other hand, Halo joined the market in 2007 and has been consistently improving its technology to build reliable laser rangefinders.  While Bushnell manufactures both specialty hunting and golfing rangefinders, Halo rangefinders are mostly designed for hunting.

Bushnell rangefinders particularly stand out for their well-lit screens that range even in low light conditions. Regarding warranty, Bushnell offers a two-year limited warranty on their range finders while Halo offers a one-year limited warranty.

Halo vs Simmons Rangefinder

While both Halo and Simmons offer laser rangefinders, Halo has a wider range of laser rangefinders, and Simmons only has two laser rangefinders. Halo range of laser rangefinders includes basic to high performing laser rangefinders that incorporate technology such as AI, scan mode, and auto acquisition. Both Simmons and Halo have a one-year warranty on their rangefinders that covers material and workmanship defects.

Halo vs Vortex Rangefinder

Vortex has a wider variety of rangefinders compared to Halo.  Vortex array of rangefinders ranges between basic laser rangefinder and high-end razor HD rangefinders. While the Halo XLR 2000 ranges up to 2000 yards, the Vortex Razor HD ranges up to 4000 yards.

When it comes to warranty, Halo has a one-year limited warranty on their rangefinders. At the same time, Vortex offers a VIP (Very Important Promise) unlimited and fully transferable lifetime warranty on all their products, including rangefinders.

How to Use a Halo Rangefinder 

Although some Halo rangefinders may have specific features such as the AI, scan mode, and Auto acquisition, the basic procedure for operating a Halo Rangefinder is the same as follow:

1. Insert the CR2 battery

The battery compartment is located at the back of your rangefinder. Pull up the tab and then turn it to the left to open, and then remove the battery cover. Insert the CR2 battery with the “+” side facing downwards, then close the battery cover by turning the tab towards the right.

2. Switch on the rangefinder

Press down the power button on the rangefinder until the LCD screen lights up.

3. Focus on your target

Point the lens towards your target and let it focus. If you are using a Halo rangefinder model that has an adjustable eyepiece, turn it until the target comes to focus.

4. Switch between modes as need be

Most Halo laser rangefinders have four main modes: Yards measurement in the normal distance, Meter measurement in the normal distance, Yards Measurements in AI, and Meters measurements in the normal distance.

The normal distance mode gives you the direct line of sight when you are ranging on a rather flat surface, while the AI mode gives you the true horizontal distance after angle compensation. To switch between the various modes, click on the mode button.

5. Range your target

Once you have set your mode and focus on your target, range it by clicking on the power button once. The distance will show on your screen. Otherwise, if the range was not successful, the LCD will display “-----”. To activate scan mode when ranging, press down the power button continuously and change your target.

Once done ranging, put off the rangefinder or leave it to automatically power off after 20 seconds of no use.

Halo XL450-7

Conclusion 

Halo rangefinders are built to offer accuracy and precision when ranging. They are ergonomically designed for easy handling and weather resistance. There is a wide variety of Halo laser rangefinder to choose from depending on your preferred maximum range, key features, and budget. We hope that this article makes it easier for you to decide which Halo Rangefinder to buy.

People Also Ask

In this section, we provide clear and concise answers to some of the top Halo rangefinders FAQs.

Are Halo Rangefinders Any Good?

Halo Rangefinders are loaded with great features for quick and accurate ranging. They all have a 6X magnification to offer you a wide field of view. The one-yard accuracy ensures that you don’t miss your shot while the AI technology takes away the guesswork when determining the true horizontal distance.

How To Tell Which Model Of Halo Rangefinder You Have

The obvious way to tell the model of your Halo rangefinder is to look at its label. All Halo rangefinders are conspicuously labeled on the top with their model abbreviation. Otherwise, check the rangefinder’s packaging or compare its specification against the models listed on the manufacturer’s website.

What Battery Does a Halo Rangefinder Take?

All Halo laser rangefinders use the CR2 lithium-ion battery.  The battery comes together with the rangefinder and should be installed in the battery compartment before using the rangefinder. The CR2 battery is non-rechargeable and should be replaced and disposed of once its battery life is exhausted. It has a battery life of approximately 1,000 readings.

How To Reset a Halo Rangefinder

To reset the rangefinder after a reading, press on the power button briefly and then release it. Once you release, the laser beam will stop transmitting, and it is ready to focus on another reading.

HALO XLR1500-8

How To Change Modes In My Halo Rangefinder

You can operate the Halo rangefinders on different modes, including scan mode, power saver mode, AI mode, and yards/meters mode. The rangefinders have a mode button that you press to toggle from one mode to another. 

Stop pressing on the mode button once your preferred mode comes up on display. To activate the scan mode, continuously press down on the power button and move the lenses from one target to another.

Can Halo Rangefinders Be Used For Golf?

While Halo does not distribute specialty golf rangefinders, most of the available models can be used for hunting and golfing. However, they do not come with specialized features such as pin detectors. You can leverage the accurate ranging and angle compensation features of Halo rangefinders to plan your shots.

Can You Calibrate a Halo Rangefinder?

You can't calibrate your Halo Rangefinder. If you encounter problems using the rangefinder or if it keeps giving the wrong range, it is best to contact the Halo customer service team for assistance.



My name is Caleb and I am obsessed with hunting, fishing, and foraging. To be successful, you have to think like your prey. You have to get into the mind of your target - and understand Big Game Logic. If you have any questions, or just want chat about your latest hunting score or big catch, you can reach me at admin@biggamelogic.com. Read more about Big Game Logic.