There are a lot of variables when it comes to hunting, archery or shooting any projectile. Knowing the wind conditions and air pressure are good places to start, but you also need to know the exact distance of your target.
Unless you have a mythical ability in judging distance, you’re going to need a range finder that is accurate under all conditions. The Sig Sauer KILO8K-ABS is the perfect hunting tool for this, as it can read out distances up to 8,000 yards.
The most important function of a range finder is its ability to accurately pick out your hunting or archery targets. There is no use for a range finder to tell you how far a tree is when a deer is standing a few yards behind it. Target detection depends on the reflectivity of the object, as a laser bounces back to the range finder. If the laser is too weak, it will fail in measuring.
While remaining unseen, a critical aspect of hunting is also to be as quiet as possible. That is why you should use equipment that is compact, easy to carry and can be stowed quickly. Every second matters, and if your range finder is too bulky, you run the risk of losing sight of your target while you struggle to put it away.
Together with detecting targets, it is important that your range finder has good magnification and angle compensation. This works very much like binoculars so that you can clearly see the target and get an accurate reading on the distance. Angle compensation helps you to determine the exact distance while factoring in slopes, elevation changes or even the curvature of the globe over long distances.
Getting a distance reading is one thing, but knowing how to interpret it is another. Most good-quality range finders will have ballistic software built into the finder. This will help you, through different settings, to get the most accurate reading. Some finders allow you to input the rifle’s caliber and weather conditions to increase your chances of a successful hit.
For a range finder to be of incredible value to you, it needs to return consistently accurate readings. If your estimations are out by even a few inches, you might hit the target in a spot that can cause unnecessary damage. A quality range finder will be able to accurately determine distances for a long time after purchase.
Any hunter will know that targets very seldom remain still when aimed at. While the distance from the range finder will be accurate for stationary targets, the moment it takes off, it won’t matter. That is why you need a quality range finder that has built-in fast-scanning to get the distances on moving targets.
The average price of a range finder will depend on the manufacturer and the capabilities of the device. An entry-level range finder retails for between $60-$80, while powerful range finders can retail for between $100-$300.
A. A range finder for golf generally focuses on the nearest target, like the pin, and will disregard trees or animals on the fairway. A hunting range finder uses distant target priority mode and ignores closer objects.
A. There are a few differences between a range finder and spotting scope, but the biggest one is how they operate. A spotting scope is a portable telescope that magnifies whatever it is pointing at. A range finder also magnifies, but it sends out a laser beam to calculate the exact distance.
Sig Sauer KILO8K-ABS 7x25 mm Laser Rangefinder
What you need to know: This range finder has advanced technology for accurate range finding.
What you’ll love: From well-known manufacturer Sig Sauer, this range finder has an impressive maximum reflective range of 8,000 yards. It also includes Applied Ballistics Elite (BDX Elite) that factors in angle compensation and can also be connected to other devices like a Garmin GPS. Range finding includes first, best and last targets and a fog mode that makes it easier to see through. It has an onboard LED display that provides you with information like range to target, elevation holdover, wind hold, energy on target and velocity at the target distance.
What you should consider: The price might put it out of reach for most.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Tidewe Hunting Rangefinder with Rechargeable Battery
What you need to know: This is an affordable range finder with lots of functions.
What you’ll love: With a six-times magnification, this range finder gives you a straight-line vertical distance reading, the horizontal distance and the speed to your target. It promises to be accurate on targets between 3 to 1,000 yards and can provide a range within 1 yard in less than a second.
What you should consider: The numbers and crosshair don’t adjust according to the focus knob.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Aofar HX-1200T Range Finder for Hunting
What you need to know: This is the perfect range finder for foggy conditions.
What you’ll love: Ideal for bow and rifle hunting, this range finder is dust and waterproof. It is accurate within 1 yard for distances between 5 and 300 yards and has a maximum finding range of 1,200 yards. It features a six-times magnification lens and weighs only 6.3 ounces. The package includes a carry pouch, a battery, carabiner and a cleaning cloth.
What you should consider: The maximum range might not be enough for long-distance shots.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Charlie Fripp writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
