Precision and Performance: 6 Benefits of Hunting Rangefinders

 
When it comes to hunting, precision can make a lot of difference between a successful expedition and a frustrating day in the field. That's why hunting rangefinders are so important. These sophisticated devices help you measure distances accurately, ensuring your shots are on target. From tracking game to making precise adjustments, this tool can significantly enhance your performance. 

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Imagine standing in the woods, eyeing your target, and being able to determine the exact distance to that buck hiding behind the trees. With the help of an online rangefinder with advanced features, you can get this critical information quickly and accurately, and make the best shot possible. One of their standout features is the incorporation of angle compensation technology. This means that when you’re shooting from an elevated position - like a tree stand - you can get a reading that accounts for the slope of the terrain. Read on to explore the various benefits of these devices and how they can elevate your hunting experience. 

Angle Adjustments

So, how important is a rangefinder for hunting? When you're out hunting in mountainous terrain, it’s essential to have a reliable tool with angle compensation. There’s so much to focus on: the wind, staying hidden, and being quiet. The last thing you want is to be doing mental math right before you take your shot. Your rangefinder should clearly display the angle-compensated distance, or “shoot-for” distance, front and centre. In those critical moments, you need to know exactly where to aim, not just the line-of-sight distance. It’s crucial to have that information readily accessible, so you can maintain your focus on the situation at hand. 

That said, I do like to know both the angle-compensated distance and the line-of-sight distance. It gives you a fuller picture of your effective range. But I find it frustrating when some models display the line-of-sight distance prominently, with the horizontal distance tucked away in a corner or appearing only after a delay. In high-pressure scenarios, that just doesn’t cut it. You want the important information at your fingertips, right when you need it. 

Precision and Accuracy

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It’s interesting how many factors play into using an online rangefinder effectively. While it’s obvious that you need a device that delivers consistent and accurate readouts, there’s more to it than that. One crucial aspect is understanding where your device is “sighted in.” This knowledge is vital for making precise measurements in the field. Knowing how your device is calibrated and the specific distances it’s optimised for can make a significant difference in your accuracy. You don’t want to be second-guessing your range when it matters most, especially in a high-stakes situation. A rangefinder that consistently provides reliable readings allows you to concentrate on your surroundings and your shot, rather than worrying about whether the numbers are correct. 

Crosshair Positioning

To ensure that your device is on point, you can perform a simple alignment test. Start by taking a square piece of cardboard, about three feet by three feet, and stapling it to the end of a 2x4. Then, nail that 2x4 to the top of a fence post or something similar in height. Stepping back to about 40 yards, you face the cardboard, which should be visible while the 2x4 remains out of sight. From there, range the centre of the cardboard to establish the distance. Once you have that, I move the crosshairs to one side and check where the laser starts to pick up readings beyond the square. If you find that you need to adjust the crosshairs several inches above the cardboard before the laser detects anything beyond it, that’s a clear indication that your laser is actually reading several inches lower than where you're aiming at that distance. 

Most rangefinders are perfectly aligned, and some others are slightly off. This doesn't necessarily mean they're inaccurate; it just means you need to be mindful of where to aim, especially when you're working with smaller targets. Knowing this can be a game changer, as it allows you to make precise adjustments and increases your chances of a successful shot when it matters most. 

Laser Focusing

After assessing the alignment of each laser rangefinder, you can move on to another test that highlights the importance of beam precision. Take a piece of cardboard and cut a 4-inch hole in it, then check how far away you can stand with each device while still getting consistent readings through that hole. This exercise is particularly useful because it simulates real hunting scenarios where you might need to get an accurate read on a small target, like the head of a deer, or when you're trying to gauge distance through a narrow lane in thick brush. Some models performed exceptionally well, allowing you to stand quite a distance away while still picking up that small target without issue. 

Understanding how each device handles precision with a narrow beam can really inform your choice. When you're out in the field, having a device that can lock onto small targets from a distance gives you a significant advantage, ensuring that when the moment comes, you're ready to make that perfect shot. 

Fine Precision Across a Distance

When aiming for the centre of a mature mule deer buck’s kill zone, which is about 10 inches vertically, your margin for error is just ±1.7 yards at that distance. Certain rangefinders can provide precise measurements down to 1/10 of a yard. Having that level of accuracy can be the difference between a successful shot and a missed opportunity. In the field, when every inch matters, knowing you have a device that delivers fine precision is a huge advantage. 

Speed

Speed is a non-negotiable factor when it comes to choosing a rangefinder. It’s difficult to hunt with a device that isn’t lightning-fast with its initial readout and quick in between measurements, especially during scanning. Some models might give you a quick line-of-sight reading, but if there’s a delay before showing the angle-compensated horizontal distance, that’s a major drawback. In those moments, it’s the horizontal distance that truly matters for angled shots. So, it’s essential to think about the total time it takes to get the information you need - not just the initial measurement. The right tool should keep up with the fast pace of the hunt, allowing you to stay focused on the target.