When you’re out in the wild, tracking that elusive game, having a trusty rangefinder by your side can make all the difference.
But with countless rangefinders to choose from, finding ‘the right one’ can be a real challenge.
That’s where I step in. After extensive testing and hours in the field, I’ve distilled the options down to my top five must-haves:
- Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 (Best Overall) $199
- AOFAR HX-700N Hunting Rangefinder (Best Budget) $64.99
- TideWe Rangefinder (Good choice) $69.99
- Bushnell BoneCollector 850 (Best For Dusk/Dawn Hunting) $120
- Leupold RX-FullDraw (Best For Bow Hunters) $369.99
Below, I’ll talk about what makes these rangefinders the ultimate hunting companions and share what other hunters are saying about them online.
Plus, sprinkled throughout will be my own hands-on experiences, those little quirks and features you only get to know when you’ve got the rangefinder right there with you in the field.
So, strap in and keep reading because by the end of this guide, I’ll help you zone in on the right rangefinder for your hunting needs.
1: Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 Laser Rangefinder
In first place on my list of the best rangefinders for hunting is the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 Laser Rangefinder which is currently priced at $199 on Amazon.
A trusted product from the renowned Vortex brand, this device has gained quite a reputation in the hunting community, and it’s easy to see why.
With its impressive range, accuracy, and durability, this rangefinder is a must-have for any serious hunter.
Let’s take a closer look at the key features that make it stand out from the competition.
- High-definition Optics: The Crossfire HD 1400 is built with a 5x magnification and a 21mm objective lens. This guarantees a stunning 1,400 yards max range (750 yards when on game) – perfect for ensuring you don’t miss a shot.
- Superior Clarity and Transmission: The HD optical system employs select glass elements that excel in minimizing chromatic aberration. This results in a rangefinder that offers superior resolution and outstanding color fidelity. Coupled with the XR lens coatings, you’re guaranteed maximum light transmission especially crucial during those dim evening hunts.
- Advanced Display: The red TOLED display keeps your readouts crisp and clear in any lighting conditions. With three target modes (Normal, First, and Last) and two ranging modes (HCD and LOS), it’s versatile enough to cater to all your hunting needs.
- Durability: Designed for the real world, this rangefinder boasts ArmorTek coatings to shield the lenses. It’s also waterproof and shockproof, so come rain or rough terrain, the Crossfire 1400 is built to withstand it all.
- Additional Perks: The rangefinder comes with a soft carry case for effortless access whether you’re in the field or at the shooting range.
The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 currently holds an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Most customers have praised its clear lens quality, lightweight design, and intuitive setup, with 88% of them leaving 5-star reviews.
One satisfied customer, DNC, gave the Crossfire a 5-star rating, emphasizing its excellent optics, intuitive setup, clear lens, and solid carry case with a strap.
Compared with other rangefinders they’ve tried in the past, they feel the Vortex is a cut above the rest, especially with its lifetime guarantee.
My Experience
I’ve had the pleasure of using the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 Laser Rangefinder for an extended period, and I can confidently say it’s been an absolute game-changer for my hunting trips.
Here are a few highlights from my experience:
- The HCD mode has been a lifesaver, providing accurate distance measurements even in tricky terrain. I recall one particular hunt where I was stalking a deer through dense woods. The HCD mode allowed me to quickly and easily determine the distance to my target, even with branches and leaves in the way.
- The Scan feature has been a huge timesaver, allowing me to quickly measure distances to multiple targets without having to manually adjust the rangefinder. This feature has saved me tons of time and frustration in the field, greatly improving the accuracy of my shots.
Overall, I’m thoroughly impressed with the Crossfire HD 1400. Its reliability, lightweight, and feature-rich design make it an essential tool for any hunter.
If you’re in the market for a rangefinder that can deliver in the field, I highly recommend giving this one a try.
Click here to read more reviews and get the Crossfire HD1400 rangefinder on Amazon.
2: AOFAR HX-700N Hunting Range Finder 700 Yards
Second on my roster of best hunting rangefinders is the AOFAR HX-700N Hunting Range Finder priced at just $64.99 on Amazon.
With a jaw-dropping 700-yard range, this powerhouse of a rangefinder is designed to deliver the accuracy and precision you need to take down your target with confidence.
Let’s look into its key features and see what it has to offer.
- Advanced Precision: With the inbuilt advanced pin sensor technology, this rangefinder offers 6x magnified imaging and measures with an accuracy of ±1 yard, ensuring you get a clear shot.
- Broad Measuring Range: The HX-700N doesn’t falter, be it 5 yards or 700. The versatility in distance measurement ensures you’re ready for any situation out in the wild.
- Two Modes For Every Scenario: Equipped with both Range and Speed modes, the AOFAR HX-700N is adaptable. Whether you’re gauging distance or the speed of a moving target, this rangefinder has got you covered.
- Portable and Durable: Weighing just 180g and with dimensions of 110x75x45mm, it’s designed for the hunt. It’s waterproof (rated IPX4), dustproof, and rugged – ready for any adventure you throw its way.
- Full-Package Deal: The rangefinder comes packed with essential accessories, including a carrying pouch, CR2 battery, portable rope, carabiner, cleaning cloth, and a comprehensive user manual.
With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon from almost 9,000 ratings, this is one rangefinder that’s got the hunting community buzzing.
Take Tony, for instance, a satisfied customer who says he didn’t want to spend crazy money on a top-of-the-line rangefinder and thinks the HX-700N is well worth the price.
He even compared it to a Vortex rangefinder and was getting the exact same readings out to 500 yards!
My Experience
I’ve used the AOFAR HX-700N for six months and here are my thoughts:
- Its sleek design and sturdy build make it a pleasure to handle, and its performance in the field is exceptional.
- The speed mode is particularly useful for tracking moving targets, and its accuracy is on par with even the most premium rangefinders.
- What really sets the HX-700N apart is its value. At this price point, you’d expect to sacrifice some features or performance, but AOFAR has managed to pack a ton of functionality into this rangefinder without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect middle ground for hunters who want a reliable, feature-rich rangefinder without breaking the bank.
Overall, I’m thoroughly impressed with the AOFAR HX-700N and highly recommend it to anyone in the market for a new rangefinder who doesn’t want to burn a hole in their pocket.
Currently priced at just $64.99 on Amazon, the HX700N is reliable, affordable, and packed with features making it a clear winner in my book.
Click here to learn more about the HX700N rangefinder and get yours on Amazon.
3: TideWe Hunting Rangefinder
In third place on my list of the best rangefinders for hunting is the TideWe Hunting Rangefinder priced at $69.99 on Amazon.
With its rechargeable battery, this rangefinder is designed with hunters in mind and blends a combination of functionality and reliability that is hard to beat.
Let’s look into its key features and see why it’s my No. 3 pick.
- Multifunctional Display: The TideWe rangefinder doesn’t just measure distances. With its 6x magnification, it also displays a straight-line vertical distance, horizontal distance, and even the speed of your target, ensuring you have all the data you need.
- Precision and Speed: Offering a broad range from 3 to 1000 yards, this device ensures quick and accurate readings within +/- 1 yard, all in under 0.5 seconds. This ensures you never miss your mark.
- Lightweight & Robust: Weighing in at a mere 0.35lb and measuring 4.12” x 2.61” x 1.50”, it’s both compact and handy. But don’t let its size fool you. Crafted from durable materials, it’s drop-proof and weather-resistant, perfect for rugged hunting terrains.
- Intuitive Usage: The TideWe is all about ease of use. A simple point, click and you have the precise range data on a clear LCD display. Switching between modes or units is as straightforward as a long or short press of a button.
- Eco-Friendly and Efficient: With a 750MAH rechargeable Li-ion battery, you can measure up to 20000 times on a single charge. Moreover, its clear LCD display works brilliantly even in low light conditions, ensuring you’re never left in the dark.
With over 6,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.7 out of 5-star rating, it’s clear that the AOFAR HX-700N is a fan favorite among hunters.
Check out what Csma has to say about their recent turkey hunt with the AOFAR HX-700N rangefinder. They were thrilled with how fast, accurate, and easy to use it was, and loved that the battery lasted for four whole days of heavy usage.
Plus, they were amazed by how lightweight it is – so much so that they almost forgot they were carrying it!
My Experience
I recently had the opportunity to try out the TideWe rangefinder during a hunting trip, and here are my key takeaways:
- I love how comfortably the TideWe’s ergonomic design fits in my hand, and how well the camouflage pattern helped me blend in with my surroundings.
- Where the TideWe really proved its worth was its rapid and accurate readings – it quickly and accurately delivered the distances I needed, making it easy to plan my shots and track my progress. I was seriously impressed by its performance.
- I was particularly drawn to the TideWe for its rechargeable feature. It’s a real game-changer, ensuring you’re never left stranded due to dead batteries. And at a great price point, it’s a fantastic value for the features you get.
If you’re looking for a reliable and user-friendly rangefinder for a great price, be sure to check out the TideWe Hunting Rangefinder for yourself.
Click here to learn more about the TideWe rangefinder and get yours on Amazon.
4: Bushnell BoneCollector 850 Laser Rangefinder
In fourth place on my list of the best rangefinders for hunting is the Bushnell BoneCollector 850 Laser Rangefinder, priced at $120 on Amazon.
Cloaked in a Realtree Edge Camo, this device offers an impressive number of features to ensure you get the most out of every hunting session.
Let’s see what they are:
- Superior Optics: The Bushnell Bone Collector 850 boasts an all-glass optical system with a 50% larger fully multi-coated objective lens, guaranteeing brighter images, particularly during the crucial dawn and dusk hunting hours. With the ultra-wide band coatings, you are guaranteed true-to-life colors.
- ARC Technology: The Advanced Ranging and Compensation (ARC) technology takes into account the terrain’s angles, ensuring you get the true horizontal distance to your target, whether it’s uphill or downhill.
- Precision and Range: You can expect accuracy up to 850 yards for reflective targets, 500 yards to trees, and 350 yards to deer.
- User-Centric Design: Its one-button design ensures ease of operation, and the fast-focus eyepiece provides clear visuals instantly. The intuitive display offers essential details like incline angle, remaining battery life, and range in yards or meters.
With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 820 reviews on Amazon, it’s clear that Bushnell’s rangefinder has made its mark in the hunting community.
One customer, OneHitCombo, says the Bonecollector’s viewfinder is fantastic, acquiring visuals is quick, and calculations are speedy.
They say it’s ideal for anyone who needs the bow arc calculation and wants a rangefinder with an 850-yard capability.
My Experience
After having taken the 850 on multiple hunts over the past year, here are my thoughts:
- The display is very sharp, even in challenging light conditions. I’ve been on several hunts and this has helped me take down prey that I otherwise would have passed on.
- The ARC technology has proved its worth in angled terrains, providing me with accurate horizontal distances.
- While the build could be a bit more robust, the range and precision of the device, along with its quick calculations, make it a reliable companion in the field.
Currently priced at $120.34 on Amazon, the Bonecollector is a premium rangefinder that’s well worth a look.
Click here to learn more about the Bonecollector and get yours on Amazon.
5: Leupold RX-FullDraw
Fifth on my list of the best rangefinders for hunting is the Leupold RX-FullDraw, priced at $369.99 on Amazon.
Designed explicitly with bowhunters in mind, this rangefinder seamlessly blends technological sophistication with the rugged needs of the field, making it an essential tool for anyone who takes archery seriously.
Let’s look at the key features and see why this rangefinder hits the mark as my No. 5 pick.
- Precision and Range: The RX-FullDraw 4 model offers an impressive accuracy within 1/2 a yard, ranging from 6 yards to an astonishing 1,200 yards.
- Archer’s Advantage: With this feature, the rangefinder calculates ranges using specific metrics like arrow weight, arrow velocity, and peep height. This ensures unparalleled accuracy, especially for steep angle and long-distance shots.
- Flight Path Technology: Understanding the trajectory of your arrow is crucial. With Flight Path technology, you’ll know the highest point of your arrow’s flight, allowing for more confident shots, even in tight cover.
- Reticle Options: Personalize your viewing experience with three reticle options: Plus Point, Duplex, and Duplex with Plus Point.
With a near-perfect 4.7 out of 5-star rating from over 211 reviews on Amazon, the Leupold RX-FullDraw certainly seems to have struck a chord with archers and bowhunters alike.
Take Brandon, for example, a seasoned bow hunter who’s thrilled with his Leupold RX-FullDraw rangefinder.
He raves about its performance, saying it’s “absolutely great” and that the features are “spot on” for any bow hunter.
He can’t imagine heading out on a hunt without it and highly recommends it!
My Experience
After putting the Leupold RX-FullDraw to the test on multiple bow hunts, here’s what I’ve learned:
- The ergonomic design and clear OLED reticle made it a pleasure to use.
- I particularly appreciated the Archer’s Advantage feature, which gave me confidence in my calculated ranges.
- The Flightpath feature also proved invaluable, helping me anticipate potential obstacles in my line of fire.
In short, the Leupold RX-FullDraw is the perfect blend of cutting-edge tech and practical field utility.
Its tailored range calculations and arrow flight visualization features make it a great companion for any bowhunter.
With Leupold’s gold ring 2-year electronics warranty and a competitive price point of $369.99 on Amazon, it’s no wonder this rangefinder is a favorite on Amazon for so many.
Click here to learn more about the Leupold RX-FullDraw and get yours on Amazon.
Best Rangefinders For Hunting Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide has helped you zero in on the perfect rangefinder for your hunting needs.
To make your decision easier, here’s a quick recap of all five rangefinders on my list:
- Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 (Best Overall) $199
- AOFAR HX-700N Hunting Rangefinder (Best Budget) $64.99
- TideWe Rangefinder (Good choice) $69.99
- Bushnell BoneCollector 850 (Best For Dusk/Dawn Hunting) $120
- Leupold RX-FullDraw (Best For Bow Hunters) $369.99
All of these rangefinders are excellent, but if I had to choose just one, it would be the Crossfire HD 1400.
In my opinion, the Crossfire offers the perfect blend of performance, durability, value for money, and reliability.
Thanks for reading and happy hunting!