Choosing the Best Rangefinders by Price Range
May 20, 2024
Rangefinders have become indispensable tools for various activities, from golfing and hunting to construction and photography. Selecting the right rangefinder depends on your specific needs and budget. This comprehensive guide explores the best rangefinders across different price ranges, helping you make an informed decision.
Rangefinders are devices used to measure the distance from the observer to a target. With advancements in technology, modern rangefinders offer high precision, versatility, and ease of use. This guide categorizes rangefinders into three price segments: budget-friendly, mid-range, and high-end, providing top recommendations in each category.
Understanding Rangefinder Specifications
Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand key specifications that affect a rangefinder’s performance:
- Maximum Range: The farthest distance the rangefinder can measure.
- Accuracy: The precision of the distance measurement.
- Magnification: The degree to which the rangefinder can enlarge the target.
- Optical Quality: The clarity and brightness of the view through the rangefinder.
- Additional Features: Features like angle compensation, target priority modes, and waterproofing.
Budget-Friendly Rangefinders (Under $200)
For those on a tight budget, there are several excellent rangefinders available that offer good performance without breaking the bank.
1. TecTecTec ProWild
Price: Approximately $120
Features:
- Maximum Range: 540 yards
- Accuracy: ±1 yard
- Magnification: 6x
- Additional Features: Continuous scan mode, water-resistant
The TecTecTec ProWild is a popular choice among hunters and golfers looking for an affordable yet reliable rangefinder. It offers decent range and accuracy, along with useful features like continuous scan mode.
2. Bushnell Trophy Xtreme
Price: Approximately $150
Features:
- Maximum Range: 850 yards
- Accuracy: ±1 yard
- Magnification: 4x
- Additional Features: ARC (Angle Range Compensation), rainproof
The Bushnell Trophy Xtreme is designed for hunters who need a durable and accurate rangefinder. Its ARC feature helps calculate compensated distance for uphill and downhill shots.
3. AOFAR HX-700N
Price: Approximately $100
Features:
- Maximum Range: 700 yards
- Accuracy: ±1 yard
- Magnification: 6x
- Additional Features: Speed measurement, waterproof
The AOFAR HX-700N is an excellent budget option for various outdoor activities. It’s waterproof and includes a speed measurement mode, making it versatile and practical.
Mid-Range Rangefinders ($200 – $400)
Mid-range rangefinders offer enhanced features and performance, making them suitable for more demanding users.
1. Nikon Coolshot 20 GII
Price: Approximately $200
Features:
- Maximum Range: 800 yards
- Accuracy: ±1 yard
- Magnification: 6x
- Additional Features: First target priority mode, rainproof
The Nikon Coolshot 20 GII is ideal for golfers, providing precise distance measurements and a compact, lightweight design. Its first target priority mode is particularly useful for measuring the distance to small objects like flagsticks.
2. Vortex Optics Impact 850
Price: Approximately $270
Features:
- Maximum Range: 850 yards
- Accuracy: ±1 yard
- Magnification: 6x
- Additional Features: HCD (Horizontal Component Distance), waterproof
The Vortex Optics Impact 850 is a versatile rangefinder suitable for both hunting and golfing. Its HCD mode provides angle-compensated distance, ensuring accurate measurements on uneven terrain.
3. Leupold RX-1300i TBR
Price: Approximately $350
Features:
- Maximum Range: 1300 yards
- Accuracy: ±0.5 yards
- Magnification: 6x
- Additional Features: True Ballistic Range (TBR), OLED display, waterproof
The Leupold RX-1300i TBR offers advanced features like ballistic compensation and an OLED display, making it a top choice for hunters and shooters seeking precision and reliability.
High-End Rangefinders (Above $400)
High-end rangefinders provide top-tier performance, advanced features, and exceptional build quality, catering to professionals and enthusiasts who demand the best.
1. Bushnell Pro XE
Price: Approximately $550
Features:
- Maximum Range: 1300 yards
- Accuracy: ±0.5 yards
- Magnification: 7x
- Additional Features: Slope with Elements, PinSeeker with Visual JOLT, waterproof
The Bushnell Pro XE is a premium golf rangefinder with innovative features like Slope with Elements, which takes into account temperature and barometric pressure for accurate distance measurement. Its PinSeeker technology with Visual JOLT provides visual and tactile feedback when the target is acquired.
2. Sig Sauer KILO2400BDX
Price: Approximately $900
Features:
- Maximum Range: 2400 yards
- Accuracy: ±0.1 yards
- Magnification: 7x
- Additional Features: BDX Ballistic Data Xchange, Bluetooth, HyperScan, waterproof
The Sig Sauer KILO2400BDX is a top-of-the-line rangefinder with Bluetooth connectivity and advanced ballistic software, making it perfect for long-range shooting. Its HyperScan technology provides four range updates per second, ensuring quick and accurate measurements.
3. Leica CRF 2800.COM
Price: Approximately $800
Features:
- Maximum Range: 2800 yards
- Accuracy: ±0.1 yards
- Magnification: 7x
- Additional Features: Bluetooth, Applied Ballistics, waterproof
The Leica CRF 2800.COM is a high-performance rangefinder that combines precision optics with advanced ballistic capabilities. Its Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless integration with the Applied Ballistics app, providing customized shooting solutions.
Choosing the right rangefinder depends on your specific needs and budget. From budget-friendly options like the TecTecTec ProWild to high-end models like the Sig Sauer KILO2400BDX, there is a rangefinder to suit every requirement. Consider the maximum range, accuracy, magnification, and additional features to make an informed decision.
