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Top Bowhunting Rangefinders Reviewed and Compared
Looking for the best rangefinder for bowhunting? If that’s the case, you’ve ended up in the right place. Following an extensive research that has involved going through hundreds of bowhunting rangefinder reviews, we came to the conclusion that the one you ought to keep in mind is the Vortex Ranger 1800. This unit is a precise optical instrument that is convenient and easy to use, while also boasting effective precision. There are three brightness settings that you can choose from depending on the light conditions of the environment. Also, this model comes with fully multi-coated lenses, which should give you a pointer as to whether it can transmit light efficiently or not. It’s also been equipped with a rubber armor to prevent slips and other such mishaps. If this particular product is no longer in stock, we would advise going for the next best choice, the Bushnell 202442.
5 Best Rangefinders for Bowhunting (Reviews) in 2021
Even if we can’t choose the best bowhunting rangefinder for you, we can at least point you in the right direction. Our selection below comprises some of the most critically acclaimed models we were able to track down, most of which are extremely good at doing what they’re supposed to.
Should you be interested in doing a little reading on other types of hunting gear, we would advise you to check out our posts on great hunting binoculars, reliable hunting headlamps, as well as high-quality bow sights.
1. Vortex Ranger 1800 Laser Distance Meter
One of the features that distinguishes this model from the competition is the fact that it is equipped with lenses that are totally multi-coated. You, as the end-user, will benefit from the increased light transmission as a result of this improvement in performance. It also includes O-rings, which means that it will be able to endure the damage that the elements will dish out to it. When it rains, you can continue to use it without being concerned about its performance being compromised.
On top of that, the Ranger 1800 is equipped with an intuitive menu and a clear display, which makes it very easy for you to tell what your target is going to do and how to best find it in relation to the rest of the environment. A superb choice for both rifle and bow hunters, thanks to the 6x magnification provided by this alternative.
With its lightweight and small design, it is safe to assume that you will have no difficulty wearing this optical gadget around your neck. A neck lanyard, as well as a detachable utility clip, are also included in the box. Several consumers have expressed their satisfaction with its accuracy, and they claim that it performs just as described.
Pros
This unit, in contrast to some of the other units we have examined in order to do our research, is equipped with o-rings, which implies that it is completely watertight and can endure the harsh conditions.
Due to the fact that the maximum range of 1,800 yards is suitable for both rifle and bow hunters, there should be nothing preventing you from utilizing your preferred weapon of choice.
With its fully multi-coated lenses, this rangefinder offers excellent light transmission, allowing you to see your targets clearly and vividly in any conditions.
Aside from that, the menu is simple to navigate and the display is easy to see, making using this rangefinder a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
Cons
Some owners say that the buttons on top can be a little confusing at first.
It’s not one of the most affordable units ever to have seen the light of day, so it calls for a significant investment.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($349)
2. Bushnell 202442 The Truth ARC 4x20mm Bowhunting Laser
As a result of reading this review, you should be in the market for a model that performs admirably when it comes to tracking moving targets. The Bushnell unit under consideration should be an excellent choice. The 4x magnification makes this option more than capable of living up to your expectations when it comes to bowhunting, and the fact that it is capable of monitoring distances ranging from 7 to 850 yards is a significant advantage in and of itself.
Given the non-slip surface of this rangefinder, you’re quite unlikely to drop it, even in the midst of a torrential downpour.
The ClearShot feature, which is included with the 202442, is unquestionably the most impressive aspect of the device. This interface is truly capable of informing you whether you have a decent probability of striking your target or whether the environment presents too many hurdles for you to be successful in your endeavors to do so. Moreover, as we all know, it is highly unlikely that you would come into any roadblocks.
When compared to some of the other alternatives in the same series, this one is not as water-resistant as the others. Instead, it is water-resistant. Due to the fact that it is quite improbable that you will go diving while carrying your rangefinder, there does not appear to be any issue.
Pros
In addition to being one of the most innovative features we’ve seen, the ClearShot function included with this model is one of the most useful because it can advise you whether you should wait and follow the movements of your target rather than risk hitting obstructions.
The Bushnell 202442 has a magnification of 4x, which makes it an excellent device for bowhunting, as it is sometimes preferable to use lower magnifications due to a larger field of view.
Through the use of the non-slip surface provided by this model, you may extend the life of the product by preventing accidents such as slips.
You may use this optical gadget even in adverse weather because it is rainproof, and you won’t have to worry about the weather harming its internal components.
Cons
The readings within the lens are black, and so it is difficult to read the yards and all the other information especially in the evening hours or early morning.
Click to see the price on Amazon!
3. Bushnell 202208 Bone Collector Edition 4x Laser Rangefinder
Being specifically intended for hunters, this rangefinder is equally effective for both rifle and bow hunting applications. The fact that it weighs less than 10 ounces makes it both lightweight and portable. Additionally, the design is tiny enough that it can be maneuvered comfortably and carried comfortably around your neck.
The fact that it is constructed in the manner of a tank is the most appealing feature of this model. Both waterproof and durable, it stands an excellent chance of withstanding the test of time and being used often. A 20mm objective lens and a 4x magnifying lens make it clear that this gear will be one of your most efficient aids in obtaining a clean kill on as many occasions as you can manage.
Because the LCD screen shines in low light conditions, you won’t have any trouble viewing it even at the crack of morning or the beginning of dusk. It may be a source of frustration for some users as the display’s brightness cannot be customized to meet individual needs.
It does have a little shorter range when compared to other versions, which means you can only use it between a 10- to 600-yard radius. To move between the two units of measurement, meters and yards, you must totally turn off the unit of measurement.
Pros
If you’re on a limited budget and can’t afford to spend more than two hundred dollars on a laser rangefinder for your bowhunting pursuits, the Bushnell Bone Collector laser rangefinder can be a good option for you.
Because of the weather-resistant housing provided by this option, it is capable of operating even under bad weather conditions.
It’s comforting to know that this device weighs less than 10 ounces and has a compact and user-friendly design because it will help you to concentrate much more on your hunting performance.
The 4x magnification provided by this option is ideal for bow hunters since it allows you to see a larger field of view and hence follow moving targets more effectively.
Cons
There’s no angle measurement, so the unit is definitely lacking functionality in this respect.
Some users note that changing the battery can be challenging.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($163.58)
4. Bushnell Scout DX 1000 ARC 6X20 Rangefinder
This one by Simmons is yet another noteworthy option to consider. It has a range of 10 yards to 600 yards, which makes it more than adequate for bowhunting. Due to the fact that it can have errors of less than one yard, this optical equipment is considered to have outstanding precision.
As with several of the other models we’ve looked at, this one can measure distances in both yards and meters, making it suitable for use by both North Americans and people living in other parts of the world. Bow hunters who want to get the most out of their outdoor experiences will appreciate this product because of the 4x magnification and the 20mm objective.
The Simmons 801600T is equipped with an LCD display that will tell you the precise distance between you and your target as long as it is within the range of 10 to 600 yards. Simply pressing a button will cause this information to be shown on your computer’s display screen. It’s really that simple.
Finally, but certainly not least, it’s worth mentioning that this model, like the others, is weatherproof, so you won’t have to worry about its durability in inclement weather.
Pros
The Simmons 801600T’s 4x magnification should provide you with the confidence that it is an excellent rangefinder for your bowhunting needs.
A good range of 10 to 600 yards is provided, and when it comes to ease of use, this model is a winner, since all you have to do is tap a button to see how far away your target is located.
This alternative’s compact, vertical shape makes it a very useful choice for archery hunters due to its compact, vertical design.
Simmons’ gadget is equipped with a proprietary Tilt Intelligence feature that, according to Simmons, is capable of determining the true horizontal distance between you and your target.
Cons
Shaded targets cannot be ranged as effectively, so you might experience some drawbacks when using this device in low light conditions.
Based on the info we’ve found about this product, the tilt function works only to 99 yards, which makes this device less suitable for rifle hunting.
Click to see the price on Amazon!
5. Halo XL450-7 Hunting Rangefinder Bowhunting and Gun
It’s possible that the Xl450-7, if you’re in a tight financial situation and can’t afford to spend a lot of money on a rangefinder for your bowhunting endeavors, will be a reasonably good choice. One thing we must point out, however, is that the maximum range of this device is only 450 yards, which means that it will not be suitable for rifle hunting.
It does, however, deliver more than satisfactory outcomes in instances where you may be using your bow or when you require a dependable device for other activities such as golf. If the surface is not reflecting, the 450-yard range can really be reduced to as little as 300 yards, according to current estimates.
A wrist strap and a CR2 battery are included with the purchase of the item. Because the case is not included with the transaction, you will need to purchase it separately from the other items. A peculiarity of this item is that, despite the range restriction, it comes equipped with a 6x magnification, which should be sufficient for virtually all hunting situations.
One advantage of it, on the other hand, is that it is water-resistant. Furthermore, it is rather small and lightweight, weighing only about 5 ounces.
Pros
The fact that it weighs only 5 ounces and is reasonably compact is probably the most significant advantage that this product provides. As a result, you will not have significant neck strain.
You will not have to break the bank in order to get this particular rangefinder because of its low price.
Even though some of those who have evaluated it have been using glasses, some have stated that they have not had any problems with this item in any way.
The product’s operation is quite simple; all you have to do is press a button and the distance is displayed on the screen instantly afterward.
Also, based on the consumer reports gathered through this selection, it appears to be very accurate.
Cons
It doesn’t perform great in poor lighting conditions. The display is also hard to read in bright sunlight or before sundown.
The 450-yard maximum range is a limitation that you have to take into account.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($94.79)
Buying guide
What makes a good rangefinder for bowhunting? If you can’t know for sure or this is your first time shopping in this line of products, we thought we might give you a helping hand. The guide below will let you know the factors that you ought to consider when you’re trying to separate the wheat from the chaff within the broad array of archery rangefinders available for sale today.
While you’re reading about this, maybe you would like to find out new things about selecting a brand new hunting scope or an effective hunting GPS. We’ve also written extensively about trail cameras, as well as hunting flashlights.
Magnification
When you’re in the market for optical devices, it is very tempting to fall into the trap of thinking that bigger magnification is better. After all, that’s the general rule when it comes to most everything else, right? Well, the fact of the matter is that this is false in the case of archery rangefinders.
A 4x magnification will be better than a 6x one simply because you’ll have a broader field of view, which will give you the opportunity to focus on your target without feeling like you’re being blocked by bushes and trees.
Range
Here’s where the saying ‘the bigger, the better’ actually works. For archery and bowhunting applications, you will require a range of at least 800 yards if the target is a reflective surface. Of course, that doesn’t happen in the wild, and that is why we would recommend getting the rangefinder with the longer and most accurate range that you can afford.
Many bow rangefinders have less range compared to their rifle counterparts, but it’s still worth doing a bit of research on this topic.
Ease of use and interface
Some of the models we have come across these days can be really smart and they can even tell you whether you have a clear shot or not. Obviously, these are way easier to use compared to dated models where you didn’t have the chance to make any accurate estimations.
The screen of the unit has to be large enough so that you can comfortably read all of the information displayed. The colors should be crisp and the image ought to be as clear as possible so that you can make the difference between the environment and the prey.
Optics
In fact, you may have noticed that most optical equipment such as binoculars, scopes, and other similar devices have specifications that clearly identify the sort of coating that their optical components have. What is the significance of this?
In the absence of any kind of coating on the lens, it loses around five percent of the light that passes through it. Poor optics can cause as much as a 35% reduction in the amount of light that passes through the objective, whereas a high-end design with several coatings can reduce this loss to as little as a 5% reduction.
Fully multi-coated lenses are the greatest since they are the most effective when it comes to allowing light to pass through the optical components and into your eyes. They are also the most expensive. However, because they do not have enough layers to ensure proper light transmission (as opposed to lenses that are advertised as just being coated or fully coated), lenses that are advertised as simply being coated or fully coated are at the lower end of the spectrum. These can be found in a variety of low-cost bowhunting rangefinders.
The price of the model rises in direct proportion to the number of coatings applied.
You might also be interested in some of our other articles, such as those on hunting socks or high-quality shooting gloves, if you found this one to be informative and entertaining.