November 08, 2023
By Colton Heward
The ability to know the exact yardage of your intended target, with the simple push of a button, arms you with the knowledge necessary to execute a precise shot when the moment of truth arrives. Fortunately, there are many great rangefinder options to choose from that perform a variety of useful functions and tote a wide range of price tags.
From angle compensation to onboard ballistics and a smorgasbord of other technological advances, modern rangefinders are nothing short of impressive. There are many factors to consider when selecting the best rangefinder for you including function, features, and cost. Below are some of our favorite rangefinders that meet the demands that our hunting pursuits require.
Leupold RX-1400i TBR/W Gen 2 New for 2023, Leupold Optics launched the second generation of their proven RX-1400i TBR/W rangefinder. The RX-1400i Gen 2 laser engine allows users to rapidly range reflective targets out to 1400 yards while simultaneously providing ballistically calculated ranges thanks to Leupold’s True Ballistic Range technology. Leupold also incorporated Bow Mode as well as Flightpath into the RX-1400i Gen 2 to accommodate the demands of serious archery hunters. Another neat feature of the RX-1400i Gen 2 is the Last Target Mode, which enables users to obtain accurate readings through rain, snow, and fog. With an MSRP of only $200, the RX-1400i Gen 2 is one of the most feature rich and affordable rangefinders currently on the market. $200; leupold.com
Bushnell Bone Collector 1000 Bushnell’s Bone Collector 1000 rangefinder is a capable and compact rangefinder built to fit the demands of rifle and archery hunters alike. The Bone Collector 1000 boasts a bold guarantee of 1 yard accuracy out to 1,000 yards, providing hunters extreme confidence when settling in to execute a shot. ARC (angle range compensation) Technology headlines the Bone Collector 1000, taking shot angle into account and providing a true shoot-to distance. Another noteworthy feature of the Bone Collector 1000 is the built-in Scan Mode, allowing users to hold down the range button and scan while the rangefinder spits out ranges 4X per second. The Bushnell Bone Collector 1000 is a durable and reliable rangefinder with a very economical friendly price tag. $150; bushnell.com
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Vortex Razor HD 4000 GB The Razor HD 4000 GB rangefinder is a new, powerful offering from Vortex Optics, loaded to the gills with premium features. For starters, the Razor HD 4000 GB will range reflective targets out to an absurd distance of 4,000 yards, while still ranging deer and tree sized targets between 2,220 and 2,500 yards. What sets this rangefinder apart from most other competitors lies in its pairing with the GeoBallistics app. This allows shooters to build custom ballistic charts and sync them with the rangefinder to produce precision shooting solutions. Other noteworthy features include the ability to pair with a Kestrel, onboard environmental sensors, tripod adaptable, and a 7X magnification. The Razor HD 4000 GB carries a hefty price tag, but the cost is more than justified for the serious hunter and shooter that consistently shoots at extended ranges. $1,200; vortexoptics.com
Sig Sauer KILO4K The KILO4K rangefinder is the newest addition to Sig Sauer’s lineup of tested and proven laser rangefinders. Applied Ballistics Ultralite and onboard environmental sensors lie at the core of the KILO4K, calculating a precise shooting solution with the simple click of a button. The KILO4K also features optical image stabilization, five different range modes, five target modes and the ability to pair via Bluetooth with other BDX enabled sights and devices. Another neat feature of the KILO4K is its ability to drop ranged-waypoints in the BASEMAP app. As the name suggests, range distance extends to 4,000-yards on reflective targets. $600; sigsauer.com
Burris Signature LRF 2000 Burris has long been known for producing quality products and their Signature LRF 2000 rangefinder is no different. The Signature LRF 2000 measures reflective targets out to an advertised 2,400 yards. Depending on your intended use, the Signature LRF 2000 provides users with either line-of-sight or angle-compensated yardages. The Signature LRF 2000 also provides three user-friendly modes to choose from: Auto, Sport, and Hunt. Burris puts a heavy emphasis on reliability, making the Signature LRF 2000 both waterproof and fog proof to ensure reliable performance regardless of external conditions. $360; burrisoptics.com
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Maven CRF 1 Maven Optics new CRF.1 rangefinder was designed using many of the same technologies as their flagship RF line but comes in at a fraction of the cost. The range-finding engine in the CRF.1 delivers readings from 5 – 2,400 yards and gives shooters the option to choose between both line-of-sight or angle-compensated distance. Another neat feature of the CRF.1 is the field/forest function. This allows users to better obtain accurate readings regardless of common foreground obstructions. Like other Maven products, the CRF.1 comes with a lifetime warranty. $295; mavenbuilt.com
Regardless of what rangefinder you choose, become comfortable and proficient with its fit and features before heading afield. When used properly, a rangefinder is an absolute essential in your gear list and will regularly make the difference between tag soup and a full freezer.
