5 Best Rangefinders for Deer Hunting (Buying Guide 2021)

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A major problem which hunters face is that they find themselves in a situation where they cannot aim at the target because of the inability to focus. For this purpose rangefinders with laser are used by the users of firearms to measure the distance from the target which results in aiming at the target with greater accuracy. If you are looking for the best rangefinder, you have reached the right place.

This article lists the 5 best rangefinders for deer hunting including rangefinder under 50, rangefinder under $100 and rangefinder under $200 with variations of vortex rangefinder, bushnell rangefinder, Nikon rangefinder, Sig Sauer and TecTecTec.  They come in different designs and sizes with particular specifications such as lightweight rangefinder or waterproof rangefinder. You can use a rangefinder on a shotgun for deer hunting as well as on rifles. The two major things you will be looking for is their magnification power and the capability to range up to certain required yards for example 600 or 1800.

Best Rangefinders for Deer Hunting On the Market

Starting with

1 – Vortex Optics Ranger Laser Rangefinders

Vortex optics ranger laser rangefinder is an impressive long range rangefinders for deer hunting. It has high magnification power and a long range which comes in handy while hunting. Its brightness setting can be changed and managed as per liking. It is also lightweight and has a clear display.

Technical Specs

The ranger 1800 rangefinder has range of 10 to 1800 yards, best rangefinder sight for AR deer hunting. Three brightness setting provides a clear display in different unfavorable environmental conditions or ambient light conditions. It has the magnification power of up to 6x.

Design

It is lightweight and compact. Its dimensions are 5 x 4.1 x 2.7 inches. Its weight is 11.8 ounces. Its rubber armor texture proves helpful in providing a secure and non-slip grip.

Features

It has a clean illuminated display and highly intuitive menu and is easy to use. Its primary HCD (horizontal component distance) mode provides an angle compensated distance which is ideal for majority of the hunters. Continuous range reading is given by the scan feature as you move across a landscape or even track a moving target. Fully multi-coated lenses deliver optimal light transmission. It is waterproof and fog proof.

Performance

It performs very well as it is built to handle tough situations. It operates even in the harshest environmental conditions. Once you power up it takes only one click and the range is displayed to you within a second or two.

What’s In the Box?

It includes neck lanyard, removable utility clip, soft carry case, CR2 battery and a user manual.

Pros/Cons

Verdict

With 4.8 out of 5 ratings, excellent reviews and satisfied customers this is one of the best rangefinder camera. With its life time warranty it makes this great rangefinder one of a kind. Vortex Optics is a well known company which have almost 34 years of experience in manufacturing optical equipment such as binoculars, spotting scopes, rifle-scopes and rangefinders for deer hunting, bird watching, outdoor recreational sports, wildlife watching and law enforcement. We will be discussing its Vortex optics ranger laser rangefinder.

2 – Sig Sauer Kilo 1000 5x20mm Laser Rangefinder:

It is one of the most advanced, yet simple to use 5x20mm Sig Sauer Laser Rangefinder. This rangefinder has an unlimited life time guarantee. It’s specification of anti reflection lens coatings help reduce surface reflections to an extreme low level across the whole visible spectrum. Apart from that it also offers a 5 year warranty from the date of manufacture.

Technical Specs

It has a high transmittance LCD display. Its range on deer is up to 600 yards whereas as its range on trees is 800 yards while the maximum reflective is up to 1200 yards. It has the magnification power of  up to 5x.

Design

It weighs 12.8 ounces. It comes in two colours; black and flat dark earth. It is user friendly as it only has range and mode buttons.

Features

It has the famous 5×20 mm monocular with its spectracoatTM anti-reflection coatings for superior light transmission and optical clarity. It features a fast, digital signal processing engine using the revolutionary lightwave technology for the fastest and longest distance rangefinder. It is water-resistant.

Performance

It is very quick in performing its actions the second you push the button, you instantly have a range.

What’s in the box

It requires 1 Lithium Metal batteries which are included in the box.

Pros/Cons

Verdict

Unlike the first product, it can magnify up to 5 times however it is very easy to use with only two buttons. Its range is 600-1200 yards depending on the user for deer hunting rangefinder sights it might be perfect however there are others with more range. It is one of the most advanced, yet simple to use 5x20mm Sig Sauer Laser Rangefinder. Sig Sauer is a great company which offers an unlimited life time guarantee on their electro optics such as riflescopes, pistol sights, electronic sights, flashlights, lasers, binoculars, spotting scopes and rangefinders. It’s specification of anti reflection lens coatings help reduce surface reflections to an extreme low level across the whole visible spectrum. Apart from that it also offers a 5 year warranty from the date of manufacture.

3 – Nikon 8397 ACULON AL11 Laser Rangefinder

The ACULON Rangefinder delivers great performance in the shape of an extremely compact body. The speed, precision and optical quality of the palm-sized Nikon’s ACULON is worth mentioning. Nikon has manufactured the ACULON rangefinder with a high eye point design. It is the most compact laser rangefinder making it rather very easy to take along with you wherever you go. It has 2 years of warranty.

Technical Specs

It has the 4 blade design which is developed for the ultimate penetration and performance even in the most extreme conditions.The 100 and 125 grain 4 blade broadheads have super strong, sharpenable blades. The primary blade measures 040″ and the secondary blade measures .028″. Its Range is from 6-550 yards.

Design

It comes in colours grey and xtra green.  Its size is 3.6″x2.9″x1.5″ and weighs only 6.4 ounces. Nikon has manufactured the ACULON rangefinder along with many of their other optics, with a high-eye-point design.  This provides a clear view of field for everyone even if the user have sufficient space between his brow and the rangefinder. It gives you a clear view of the targets even when the user is wearing eyeglasses.

Features

Its screen display is easy to read. It is the ultra compact size It is also user friendly as it allows easy measurements with the single button operation of the ACULON rangefinder. The product made with multiplayer coatings to provide an even higher light transmittance across the entire visible light spectrum and has an LCD display. It features long eye relief. It is water resistant or rainproof.

Performance

Operating the ACULON Rangefinder is very easy and requires just the simple push of a button to get an instant distance reading. When the button is held down, the rangefinder gives a continuous measurement for up to 20 seconds as you scroll across the visible area. The display is uncluttered and free of any unnecessary obstructions so you can concentrate on the object you are ranging. It automatically powers down after eight seconds of inactivity. This rangefinder is conveniently programmed to display the range of the furthest target among a group of targets measured which is the best rangefinder for deer hunting, specifically useful when the subject is partially obscured by grass or brush.

What’s in the box

It operates with 1 CR123A batteries. A nylon case and lanyard is also included in the box.

Pros/Cons

Verdict

If you are looking for a small lightweight and compact rangefinder then this would be the right rangefinder for you as it is easy to handle and use. However if you prefer more range capability than easy using rangefinder there are better options of rangefinders you can choose from the this list of 5 best rangefinders for deer hunting. Nikon is a world-famous company in the making of optics and is on the cutting edge of laser rangefinder technology. The ACULON Rangefinder delivers great performance in the shape of an extremely compact body. Its speed, precision and optical quality of the palm-sized Nikon’s ACULON is worth mentioning. Nikon has manufactured the ACULON rangefinder along with many of their other optics, with a high-eyepoint design. It is the most compact laser rangefinder making it rather very easy to take along with you wherever you go. It has 2 years of warranty.

4 – TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder – Laser Range Finder for Hunting with Speed, Scan and Normal Measurements

If you are hunting for laser rangefinder and you are tired of cheap rangefinders with short ranges of measurement then this prowild laser rangefinder is a great product for you which is both cheap and have a good range. It offers two years warranty and amazing deal of “love it or your money back” which means that up to 30 days if you don’t like their product they offer full money refund guarantee.

Technical Specs

It can measure up to 540 yards. It has a continuous scan mode, features advanced speed technology and a durable body which is water resistant. You can get closer to your target without taking a single step forward with the help of this rangefinder for deer hunting. The TecTecTec ProWild is designed for hunting with accuracy and can measure both distance and speed. It gives hunters the distance data needed for accurate shots. It has the magnification power of up to 6x.It has eye-safe rangefinder class 1 laser with <0.5mW average power output.

Design

It is lightweight and portable with dimensions of 104x72x41 mm. It weighs only 185g. Moreover, it is durable.

Features

Its lens display is premium, ultra clear and multilayered which is easy to read. It also displays distance and battery meter and offers continuous measurement mode for fast, convenient measurements. It is water resistant as well as dust resistant.

Performance

It performs very well as it provides fast measurement with +/- 1 yard accuracy. As their laser rangefinder uses the latest technology making it more accurately precise and flexible than any other measuring device. It is quick to measure distance and speed. The ProWild has a continuous measurement mode. Its durable body makes it perfect for carrying while hunting.

What’s In The Box

This rangefinder comes with a complete package for quick setup. It includes carrying pouch, CR2 battery, strap, microfiber cleaning cloth, quick start guide for easy setup, TecTecTec Happy Guarantee for 2 Years (Online Registration Required) and Lifetime customer support.

Pros/Cons

Verdict

It has absolutely great magnification resolution of 6x which proves to be a great one for deer hunting. However if your preference is more range there are certainly other options you can consider. One of the best thing about this rangefinder or any of the products of TecTecTec is that they offer 2 years warranty and money back guarantee for 30 days. If you are hunting for laser rangefinder and you are tired of cheap rangefinders with short ranges of measurement then this pro wild laser rangefinder is a great product for you which is both cheap and have a good range. TecTecTec is a family-owned manufacturer of quality optical products including laser rangefinders, cameras and projectors. It offers two years warranty and amazing deal of “love it or your money back” which means that up to 30 days if you don’t like their product they offer a full money refund guarantee. They have become one of the leading rangefinders vendors online with one of their product receiving Amazon bestseller status with outstanding 4.5 ratings from thousands of buyers worldwide. They provide their customers with first class technology at unbeatable and a satisfaction guarantee.

5 – Bushnell Laser Rangefinder Bone Collector Cam_202208

The bushnell laser rangefinder bone collector cam is an absolute example of a great quality, made using 100 percent quality materials used and tested extensively. It has a beautiful design and clear display.

Technical Specs

It displays exact distance to target from 10 to 600 yard with +/ 1 yard accuracy. The range for deer is 200 yards, the trees for range is 400 yards whereas the maximum reflective range is 600 yards, best rangefinder reflex sight.  It has bright and crystal clear display for targeting in low light. Its magnification power is 4x.

Design

It has a beautiful and different design with camo pattern which is very durable. It is lightweight. The Bushnell Bone Collector cam is small enough to fit in a shirt pocket. It is only  3 x 5 x 5.5 inches and weighs only up to 7.2 ounces.

Features

It is user friendly as it offers the easy one button operation. It has a LCD display. It also has a battery life indicator. It is capable of displaying range in meters or yards.

Performance

It performs very well as it is simple to use with its single button operation in a compact

What’s in the box

It comes with a carrying case.

Pros/Cons

Verdict

Many reviews show that the customers are not very satisfied with the product. However some are also really happy for its fast accurate mechanism and for the less price they had to pay. The choice is always yours in accordance with your preference. Bushnell produces quality optics with stunning HD clarity. It uses 100 percent quality materials used and tested extensively. This bushnell laser rangefinder bone collector cam is an absolute example of its great quality.

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TYPES OF RANGEFINDERS:

To round it up there are different types of rangefinders 5 of which are mentioned below.

Golf Rangefinders

If you use a  golf rangefinder on the course it will help you measure the yardage of a particular target by offering a precise measurement. There are further two types of such devices, namely GPS and laser. The first one requires the user to download the golf course map to achieve the distance. The latter uses a laser technology.

Ballistics Rangefinder

This rangefinder is incorporated with the firearm. The most commonly used technology is the laser one. When a target is detected a dot is displayed. The device have a maximum range of up to 1500 yards.

Forestry Rangefinder

One other type of rangefinders is the one that is meant to surveying in a forest. These rangefinders come with different features such as anti leaf filters which prove to be very helpful.

Hunting Rangefinder

There are different types of hunting, while each of them requires special features  you will have to find rangefinders with the required specifications such as those that are made for rifle hunting, bow hunting, or target shooting

Rangefinder Camera

Rangefinder camera allows the user to find the distance to shot the object for a precise and accurate focus, resulting in good pictures.

FAQS

What does a Rangefinder do?

A laser rangefinder is quite essential when you are out on hunting. It displays a dot on your target for precise focus which helps you magnify and also measure the distance between you and your target. Whether you are a beginner or a pro having a hunting rangefinder comes quite in handy as it proves to be essential because to judge a range has always been a difficult task for many hunters regardless of their proficiency. Such a device has many applications. Whether you what to improve your golf skills or hunting abilities it proves helpful in both the cases.

How to shoot with a Rangefinder?

You can use a rifle, a bow or even a muzzleloader to hunt but the way you use your rangefinder mainly determines whether you will be successful in killing your target or will be going home empty-handed.

First of all get familiarized with your rangefinder, read the user manual and make sure you know how to use it. Next, hold the rangefinder, this can be challenging sometimes. Then look through it using only one eye and spot your target. Next step is to find the range. After you have found the range shoot for your target. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the environmental conditions as it may effect the accuracy.

What is the accuracy of Rangefinder?

The accuracy of rangefinders depends upon the quality and specifications of the rangefinder. For accurate range finding you need to take into consideration its magnification power which ranges up to 4 or 6 times the original size. You also need to consider its range capability which can be as much as 1800 yards or as less as 10 yards. Even with the most perfect product the exception is that you should know how to use and handle the product you are using. You need to be well aware about your product specifications. Moreover while choosing a product the same should be taken into consideration that is you should know what you require and what you are buying.

Are Rangefinders good for Hunting?

Rangefinders are of different types, used for different specific uses. A rangefinder is simply a device to find the range. While hunting if you are a beginner or even a pro a rangefinder comes in handy and proves to be very useful for killing your target. Killing/ shooting on a target can be very challenging at times. For this purpose rangefinders are made to assist you in your hunting. So yes, rangefinders are good for hunting. For its accurate use you need to know how to use it and also to buy one according to your specific needs and requirements.

Do you keep both eyes open when using a Rangefinder?

A tricky and curious question asked is do we keep both eyes open when using a rangefinder? Well I believe this is totally up to you. Some people close one eye for better results while others keep both the eyes open which is usually considered peculiar. You can keep or both eyes open depending on your results. Some are used to using one eye while others are used to using both. However, there are no pros or cons to each. The only thing under focus should be your target. As long as you can focus on your target do whatever feels right.

Final Words:

One of the favorite would be the Vortex laser rangefinder because of its absolutely great magnification of 6x, Its outstanding range of up to 1800 yards, best rangefinder sight for deer hunting and good compact design with its three brightness setting to be used in ambient light conditions and clean illuminated display. It is small and easy to handle yet not small enough to make it hard for some hands to use. The crux of using laser rangefinders is to help you focus on the target.

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There are different types of rangefinders for deer hunting mentioned in this article. Now it is your turn to choose the best for yourself. Make sure to make yourself familiar with the product you are using. Must give the user manual a read for even if you have been a user of rangefinders in the past one might be new for you, resulting in facing difficulties. Keep in mind your requirements, compare them with the product’s specifications and try not to settle for less.

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Keep in mind that great products come at a great price. Although that’s not always the case, you can even at times get a good thing for a cheap price. Make sure to thoroughly read the product specifications. For further help with choosing a product, you can always take help from the comments. But while doing so take into consideration both positive and negative comments. Friendly advice would be to choose a rangefinder with the capability of ranging far away to hunt deer using your rangefinder.