While your skill is an important determinant of your shooting and hunting experience, adequate equipment can also make a significant impact.
While you might not have needed a rangefinder for normal hunting, if you are stepping in for long-range shooting, then you need a good rangefinder in your arsenal.
This article will not only give you a list of some of the best options in the market, but it will also tell you everything you need to know about them.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Rangefinders For Long Range Shooting
- OUR TOP PICK: Vortex Optics Ranger RRF-181
- RUNNER-UP: Vortex Optics Impact LRF-100
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: ATN Laser Ballistics 1500
Comparison of the Best Rangefinders For Long Range Shooting
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What Makes a Rangefinder Great For Long-Range Shooting?
As the name suggests, a rangefinder comes in handy when you go out for long-range shooting. This could happen when you are going hunting or tactical shooting. In such instances, you need a rangefinder that will allow you to examine the setting around your target and tell you your distance from it. Here’s why it is a great option for long-range shooting:
Accuracy
A good rangefinder will give you a pretty accurate reading for the defined range. This will allow you to make the right shot as you would know how far you are from the target. Most even let you track moving targets, so this will further ensure that you do not miss it. Accuracy and precision are key for long-range shooting, and this will help you with just that.
Modes and Settings
Rangefinders have features that complement their function. Some have different modes that calculate steepness and factor in the rifle's ballistics, while others have various settings to accommodate for different lightings.
Some even have their app and are compatible with your smartphones and devices, which does a lot more calculation and gives better info to the user. This allows the shooter to make a much more informed shot, allowing him/her to be at the top of their game.
Are All Rangefinders For Long Range Shooting the Same?
While they do serve one fundamental function, which is to calculate the distance between you and your target, to say that they are all the same would be highly erroneous. They have varying features and qualities, and some models and manufacturers are far better than others.
There is a difference in the features they offer. While some like to master the basics, others have more glamorous features to attract more people. There are varying degrees of not only ranges that they accommodate but also the accuracy of their results. Some come with a lifetime warranty and are usually from trusted names in the market, while others have shorter warranties.
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.
- FOV (Field of View): This refers to the width of the area you can view through the lens of the rangefinder.
Review of the Best Rangefinders For Long Range Shooting
Now that we have covered the essentials for rangefinders for long-range shooting, it is time to dive into the most anticipated section of the article. These are some of the best rangefinders on the market that can handle the rigors of long-range shooting.
Best Overall:
Vortex Optics Ranger RRF-181
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have been extremely satisfied with their purchase and have left detailed reviews explaining how well this worked for them. First of all, they were really appreciative of the range and how it actually picks up the 1800-yard range. Moreover, they commented on how it was super easy to hold and lightweight. Hence, it could be carried for long shooting trips.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Vortex is a reliable name in the market for durable and reliable products. The Optics Ranger RRF-181 is no different. Due to its different brightness settings and modes, it can be used in several light and weather conditions like the harsh sun or freezing snow and still give you great results.
Moreover, the optics of this rangefinder are amazing, to say the least. In fact, many customers compared it with other big names in the market and highlighted how they preferred the RRF-181 over them. The scan feature is another that we love. It allows you to track moving targets with more ease or sweep across a landscape while still giving you accurate range readings.
Bottom Line
This has been declared as the best overall because of how well it works as a package. The different modes, range, brightness settings, optics, and the overall build and feel of the product make it outshine many others in the category.
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
3.9 x 3" ; 7.7 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens:
6x; 22mm
Measurement Range:
9 - 1800 yds
Angle Compensation?
Yes
Measurement Metrics:
Meter and Yard
Accuracy:
±3 yard
Modes:
Horizontal Component Distance, Line of Sight, Scan
FOV:
315 ft/1000 yds
Runner-up:
Vortex Optics Impact LRF-100
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers have had great hunting sessions with this rangefinder and have lauded its excellent performance on various platforms. They have commented that, in some cases, the range function works better than other brands with a higher range window. Moreover, they found it easy to use, and the controls were appropriately placed.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Impact laser mechanism works pretty well. It gives accurate and reliable readings until 850 yards - something that a shooter can trust. Magnification has a 6x effect, which allows you to get a closer view and accurate ranging. The battery life is also reasonable and is easily available.
The HCD (Horizontal Component Mode) is used in most rifle shooting conditions and all archery shooting conditions. This is also the primary mode. The other is LOS (Line of Sight) mode, which is to be used for ballistic devices or distances beyond 500 yards and a slope steeper than 15 degrees. Together, these two allow for an efficient ranging and optics system for a multitude of scenarios.
Bottom Line
All in all, this is another great Vortex product that is loved by customers around the world. It works as well as it is advertised, and it gives you great value for the money. Like all Vortex products, it comes with a lifetime warranty, which allows the customer to be satisfied with the purchase.
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
3.9 x 3.0" ; 5.5 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens:
6x; 20mm
Measurement Range:
Up to 1000 yds
Angle Compensation?
Yes
Measurement Metrics:
Meter and Yard
Accuracy:
±1 yard
Modes:
Horizontal Component Distance, Line of Sight, Scan
FOV:
341 ft/1000 yds
Best for the Money:
ATN Laser Ballistics 1500
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many people complained that it isn’t compatible with 4k scopes, but that is not true. However, some customers rightfully pointed out that the software has been added to the firmware and can be easily connected. Moreover, they love the range reading precision and accuracy and the ease it provides to the customers with its non-slip design and compatibility.
Why it Stands Out to Us
While this rangefinder has many great features, what makes it stand out is its ability to connect to your iOS and Android devices. These devices should have the ATN application. Through this application, you can get not only accurate range readings but also additional information to make your shot. The app can also do all the calculations for you.
Moreover, this entire process is super speedy and gives you quick results. Hence, you do not lose precious time while making your shot. All you need to do is range in your target using the laser ballistics. The distance will appear on the app, and you accept it and then make sure your turrets are dialed in as instructed by the app, and you are good to go.
Bottom Line
To sum up, this is a phenomenal product that gives you impeccable value for money; such sophisticated features and build quality are hard to find at this price. It offers remarkable optics, accuracy and precision, compatibility, and performance.
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
4.17 x 1.38 x 2.87" ; 5.4 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens:
6x
Measurement Range:
5 - 1500 yds
Angle Compensation?
Yes
Measurement Metrics:
Meter, Mil, and MOA
Accuracy:
±1 yard
4. Leupold RX-1600i 173805
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People have had extensive experience with Leupold and felt confident that this rangefinder would be another delightful surprise, and it was. They gave it very high ratings and left tons of positive reviews. Customers found it accurate, fast, and reliable. The optics were pretty clear and not blurry at all. It has been used in many conditions like bright sunlight, woods, and snow, and it performed brilliantly in all of them.
Why it Stands Out to Us
When you are going hunting, you only want the very best equipment and something that will not let you down. Leupold understands that, which is why it has engineered this ingenious rangefinder that will take care of all your rangefinder needs when you go hunting and want to shoot at long ranges.
Its smart TBR-W technology factors in variables like incline and the rifle’s ballistics. This allows you to make an informed and accurate shot, which means you can be at the top of your hunting game.
Although you don’t buy a rangefinder for its looks, it has that going on as well. It has a rubber-armor coated aluminum exterior that doesn’t just add utility but also bonus appearance points.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a rangefinder with a clever design, great working mechanism, and something that delivers, then look no further. The Leupold RX-1600i 173805 is the right product for you. It does what it claims and doesn’t care for fancy and glamorous features just to add more bucks.
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
3.8 x 2.9 x 1.3" ; 7.8 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens:
6x
Measurement Range:
5 - 1600 yds
Angle Compensation?
Yes
Measurement Metrics:
MOA, Mil, Inch, CM, Yards, Meter
Accuracy:
±0.5 yard
Modes:
Scan, Line of Sight, Last Target
5. Leupold Rx-1300i 174555
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers bought this out of loyalty to Leupold, and they were not disappointed. This is another great product by the company that their customers loved using. They mentioned in their reviews that the product is fast, efficient, and pretty accurate. Its range is ridiculously far; one customer reported getting a reading of 1755 yards, which was later verified as well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This rangefinder stood out to us for several reasons. It gives the customer an overall wonderful shooting and hunting experience. The accuracy is also spot-on for shorter and longer distances - 1300 yards for reflective targets, 1100 yards for trees, and 900 yards for larger game. That is pretty impeccable.
Moreover, this product adds significant convenience, as well. It is lightweight and small; hence it is easy to carry. It features a rubberized armor that gives it a rugged exterior, giving the user a firm grip. Coupled with its 100% waterproof feature, it is fit to be used in any conditions.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a fantastic rangefinder that shows great craftsmanship and design. It is easy to use, affordable, accurate, durable, and extremely reliable; it certainly checks all our boxes for a great product!
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
4.0 x 2.5 x 1.5" ; 7.0 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens:
6x
Measurement Range:
Up to 1300 yds
Angle Compensation?
Yes
Measurement Metrics:
MOA, Mil, Inch, CM, Yards, Meter
Accuracy:
±0.5 yard
Modes:
Scan, Line of Sight, Last Target
FOV:
xx
How to Choose a Long Range Rangefinder for Shooting
If you are buying a rangefinder for the first time, you probably will seek some help. Before buying any product, you should know how to choose and what to look for. This section will discuss just that.
Type
There isn’t one standard type of rangefinder. Rather, they come in different categories and types. They could be a laser, lidar, optical, radar, sonar, or ultrasonic, to name a few. Each has a different mechanism and is intended for different usages. Optical and laser are preferred for hunting in the wild. However, laser rangefinders usually are technologically advanced and are hence more popular.
Range
Make sure that you have double-checked the maximum range of your rangefinder. This is one of the most important aspects and shouldn’t be overlooked. There is no point in buying a high-quality rangefinder with great features if you are going to be shooting game beyond the maximum limit.
The declared range on the packaging is usually for reflective targets. Hence, when you go hunting, you will be getting about half of that in the wilderness. This is something that you should factor in while deciding the right range.
Size and Weight
You need a rangefinder that you can easily fit in your hand and is comfortable to use. This is why you will see that companies with more experience usually have smaller designs because they know that customers are looking for something that can usually fit in their palms.
Similarly, you do not want a heavy rangefinder, as it will be awkward to use. Moreover, it could slow you down and just disrupt the overall experience as you fumble to adjust it.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Rangefinders For Long Range Shooting
While we have established time and again that rangefinders are something that should be in your arsenal for long-range shooting, we want to clearly mention both advantages and disadvantages of the product. Below is a list of both:
Advantages
This section will highlight how purchasing a quality rangefinder will be one of the best additions to your hunting arsenal. Read on to find out.
Optics
While other features might not always be great, most manufacturers try to ensure that their product's optics are spot on. All other calculations, like rifle ballistics, slope steepness, or range capability, will be pretty much inconsequential if you are unable to view your target clearly. A rangefinder will allow you to do that efficiently.
Customer Experience
Your own game and experience will be seriously amped up with the addition of a rangefinder to your shooting kit. The accuracy and precision, along with angle compensation and ballistic data, will allow you to make better shots as you would have more information.
Disadvantages
We do not want to lead our readers blindly into buying the product that we are discussing. Rather, we want to educate them about why they could need it and some of the things to be cautious about. Therefore, it’s important to mention some cons of a rangefinder.
Expensive
Some models are ridiculously overpriced, and they actually charge for the brand name. This means you now have an expensive piece of equipment that might not be adding as much value as you paid. People on a budget can look into range binoculars as they could serve the same primary function and might be able to shove off some bucks.
How to Use a Rangefinder for Shooting
If you are new to using rangefinders, you are probably confused about how to go about it. Below you will find out steps on how to operate your rangefinder.
- First, familiarize yourself with the device. Read the instruction manual and know what represents what on the screen and where the controls are.
- To look through the rangefinder, make sure you know where to place your eye. Make sure to hold the device steady as it is crucial to getting a good image.
- To search for the target, try to spot it with your naked eye first, and then use the rangefinder to locate it.
- Now, try to estimate the ballistic quantities and range accurately and fire your shot, keeping in mind that it will not go in a perfectly straight line. Also, try to visualize the shooting track in your head.
- To measure distance, adjust the eyepiece degree so that your view is clear and sharp.
- Then press on the range mode option and wait for little crosshairs or reticles to appear. Ensure that you already have the target in view before that.
- You can adjust the distance mode a little until the crosshairs are decently visible.
- For more precise shots, push the power for split-seconds until you can see the target properly.
Conclusion
Every serious hunter and shooter is extremely mindful of the equipment they keep in their arsenal. A rangefinder is an important part of that. In this article, we have tried to include all the basics of a rangefinder for long-range shooting. From product list to buying guides, we have tried to assist you in every way. We hope you found this helpful. Happy Hunting!
People Also Ask
Below are just some questions that have previously been asked by people. We have added them here so that there are no queries and doubts left behind. These questions will greatly help to educate you about the product, so we insist that you read on.
How Much Does a Rangefinder Cost?
As is true for most products, rangefinders come with different features and different price tags. However, generally, the starting point for a decent rangefinder is at least $200 and can go up to $700 or even $800.
Leupold Rx-1300i 174555
Why Are Rangefinders so Expensive?
While there is no definite answer to this, a few reasons could be outlined. Firstly, they are usually found with pros and experienced shooters and hunters, and their equipment is usually not cheap. Moreover, while they can be dated back to fifty years since they work, they add value; hence they are priced highly.
Are Vortex Rangefinders Good?
Vortex is one of the most trusted and reliable names in the market when it comes to rangefinders and for a good reason. They roll out innovative, smart, and top-quality products that deliver what the customer demands. Moreover, they offer a lifetime warranty on all rangefinders.
What Does Slope Mean on a Rangefinder?
This basically tells you the extent of elevation from you and the target. It will allow you to map out the shooting scope of your bullet and better visualize the shot. Hence, when you fire, you will have to take it into account and will have a higher probability of hitting your target.
