You, the discerning hunter, have stumbled upon the definitive guide to the best rangefinders for hunting in 2024. You’re lucky, too, because the internet is an abyss of lousy information and computer nerds trying to sell you something.
Not us.
Our writing is exclusive to what we know: our passion for all things hunting. That passion drove us to write up this in-depth guide to the best rangefinders for archery, bowhunting, and long-range rifle shooting that money can buy. Here, you will find expert reviews from experienced hunters who actually use these products in the field.
We poured through various rangefinders with our first-hand knowledge and read expert opinions on forums, Facebook groups, and YouTube reviews. From our research and field testing, we’ve whittled down the list to 13 of the best on the market.
The ultimate question is: what is the perfect rangefinder for YOU?
Let’s say you’re searching for the best no-frills budget rangefinder. We have you covered. Ready to invest in a top-of-the-line bowhunting rangefinder for the archery season? You came to the right place. Do you need the best long-range shooting rangefinder of 2024? Done. Thinking of switching things up and getting a slick new set of rangefinding binoculars? We’ve got some recommendations for you as well!
We review top brands like Sig Sauer, Bushnell, Leupold, Vortex, GunWerks, and more. There are options for every budget and hunting style, so stick around.
Why Picking the Right Rangefinder is Vital to Your Hunt
When I began hunting as a young boy, I didn’t have fancy gadgets like rangefinders. Heck, I was lucky to wear a hand-me-down orange vest from my older brother. But today, as a lifelong outdoorsman, I’ve come to enjoy some of the finer things in life. I even have my own vest these days.
Hunting success is about putting together all the right pieces at the right time to make an ethical, accurate shot. Few gadgets are as crucial to that process as a precise and reliable rangefinder. The importance of determining your shot distance accurately can’t be overstated.
When I reach my hunting spot, I immediately take out my hunting journal and record accurate ranges for all possible shot opportunities. This data gives me an upper hand in heat-of-the-moment situations because I’ll be confident in the distance of my shots.
You can use these recordings for close-range bow hunting, long-range hunting, and shooting; a quality rangefinder helps in each situation. Whatever type of hunter you are will determine how powerful a rangefinder you will need.
Best Rangefinder for the Money
We’ve chosen a rangefinder for the first section that lands perfectly at the intersection of quality and value. The gadget listed here has been thoroughly reviewed, tested, and determined to be the best bang for your buck. If you need a no-nonsense rangefinder for hunting and don’t want to break the bank, this is your best bet.
Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 2000
Range: 2,000 yards
Magnification: 7x
Objective Lens: 24 mm
Out with the old and with the new. Vortex discontinued their 1800 series but don’t fret; the Vortex Ranger 2000 suits both bow and rifle hunting and long-ranger shooting. This widely trusted gadget made the list because of its reliability and excellent reviews from our staff. We feel it’s the best selection for the price because:
Vortex Optics provides a lifetime warranty on all their glass, which is real value!
I own a pair of Vortex binoculars, and the eyepiece broke off during a hunt. I sent them in, and Vortex had a new pair shipped to my home within the week. Because of that experience, I don’t lose any sleep peddling their products. You can feel comfortable with this purchase too.
So how well does this thing work? The Vortex Optics Ranger ranges to an impressive 2,000 yards! It’s also excellent at adjusting for low-light conditions due to its three reticle brightness settings that match ambient light conditions. This is a needed feature for hunters who hunt during twilight, like me.
- Pros: Waterproof, easy to use, good for low light, incredible warranty
- Cons: Inability to range some non-reflective surfaces 600 yards, which may not be the best for guaranteeing ballistic accuracy beyond this range
High-End Buys for Those Who Leave Nothing to Chance
The two rangefinders in this section will certainly punch you in the pocketbook, but as the old adage goes, “You get what you pay for.” If you’re the type of hunter who has to have the latest and greatest, this section is for you.
Sig Sauer KILO8K-ABS
Range: 8,000 yards
Magnification: 7x
Objective Lens: 25 mm
Boy, have I had my eye on this bad boy for a while now! This may be the year that I finally test-drive the marvelous Sig Sauer KILO8K-ABS rangefinder. I’ve bought a bit of high-end glass over the years, and I feel that this may be the missing piece in my repertoire.
The KILO8K-ABS comes with all you could ever ask for. From an 8,000-yard reflective ranging capability to Bluetooth BDX, you can’t get any better than this regarding compact handheld rangefinders. It blows the competition out of the water (and it’s not even that close).
Yes, it’s a little pricier than your average ranger, but this isn’t an average piece of hunting gear. I’d put it in the same category as far more expensive long-range shooting rangefinders, but it’s much more compact and easy to use on the fly.
- Pros: Feature-rich and can range 2-3x other handhelds on this list, well constructed and heavy-duty, integrated waypoints with Garmin, works with kestrel units allowing for integrated ballistics, has too many features to list!
- Cons: It may be overkill for the average hunter pricey
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GunWerks Revic BR4
Range: 4,000 yards
Magnification: 10x
Objective Lens: 25 mm
After a reader (thanks, Cory) commented on this fantastic rangefinder from GunWerks, we couldn’t help but add it to the list. It’s another fantastic, feature-rich ballistic rangefinder that meets the mark.
The Revic BR4 is similar to the Sig Sauer listed above but doesn’t have quite the same range. I reckon that 99% of shooters and hunters won’t notice the difference, though, as the Revic BR4 can range out to an impressive 4,000 yards. Not bad for a handheld.
Take all the above, add the fact that the Revic BR4 boasts a 10x magnification (the best on this list), and you’re left with one ultra-useful piece of equipment that takes the guesswork out of long-range and short-range shots.
This compact beast has me drooling. Sure, it’s highly rated and thoroughly reviewed, but what sets it apart is its data-rich display, which helps shooters determine wind and elevation adjustments on the fly. I was dying to get my hands on one of these to try out, so I did.
We test-drove and reviewed one of these at the SHOT show, and I was so impressed that I snagged one for my upcoming backcountry New Zealand stag hunt. Needless to say I can’t wait to see this puppy perform in the field.
- Pros: Features that are out of this world, advanced ballistics, ability to store multiple profiles, unmatched display data
- Cons: The only bad thing I can think of is that I don’t own one yet!
Best Rangefinders for Bow Hunting and Archery
If you’re an archery sport shooter or a bow hunter, a rangefinder is absolutely vital. It’s non-negotiable, so don’t even think about hunting without one! Not only will you need a quality rangefinder, but you’ll also need one with angle compensation, a.k.a. bow mode.
Angle compensation is the change in measurement from the line-of-sight distance to the actual distance with the angle of your shot accounted for. I understand this may not make sense if you are a new bowhunter, so here’s a picture from Vortex Optics that explains it better than I can.
Along with angle compensation, there are other essential features that a good rangefinder for bowhunting must-have, like fast-ranging, waterproofing, and the ability to range well in low-light situations.
Most archery shot opportunities present themselves during the first 30 and last 30 minutes of shooting light. That’s why you must have something that’ll range well when the sun is close to the horizon.
It’s also critical that your rangefinder can range quickly. Every microsecond counts when an animal presents you with a shot opportunity — the quick and the dead. Some rangefinders can take three seconds to show you a reading, and in the world of bowhunting, that’s 2.5 seconds too long!
We considered all these factors and made three recommendations for good rangefinders for bowhunting and archery. I’ve also included a budget option for those bowhunters just getting started.
Leupold RX-FullDraw 5
Range: 1,200 yards
Magnification: 6x
Objective Lens: 22 mm
Back for more in 2024, Leupold RX-FullDraw 5 has all the industry-leading features of its predecessor, the RX-FullDraw 4, such as the ability to input your arrow weight, velocity, and peep height which will show you exactly where your arrow will fly and what obstacles may exist.
Version 5 has added features such as fog mode and the ability to lower its input thresholds, making it more useful for recurve or traditional shooters.
Its lightning-fast range time helps you save precious seconds when setting up for your shot. Although a bit more expensive than other options on this list, you get what you pay for in optics.
You’re paying for some serious bells and whistles when you buy the RX-FullDraw 5 rangefinder. It’s perfect for skilled hunters who want to give themselves an advantage while hunting.
- Pros: Amazing bowhunting functions, easy to see through the crystal-clear glass with fog mode, unmatched in low light, lightning-fast, accurate
- Cons: It’s a bit pricey for what it is and maybe a bit overkill for beginners still learning the sport.
AOFAR HX-1200T
Range: 1,200 yards
Magnification: 6x
Objective Lens: 25 mm
If you’re looking for an entry-level rangefinder for bow hunting, here it is. This trusty gadget from AOFAR is an excellent budget option for bow-hunting newbies and those looking to save some cheddar. Yes, it’s inexpensive, but that doesn’t make this a cheap archery rangefinder by any means.
The AOFAR HX-1200T still has the same features mentioned above, such as angle compensation, accuracy, and quick range time, but for a fraction of the cost. Don’t get us wrong, this isn’t Sig Sauer, but it’ll do the trick nonetheless.
The HX-1200T is well-reviewed on Amazon, and many users report being surprised that such an affordable rangefinder can perform so well. This is excellent news for many entry-level hunters as they don’t have to break the bank for this piece of gear.
- Pros: Inexpensive, accurate, reliable
- Cons: Flimsy plastic housing, may not survive a drop, harder to read screen against dark backgrounds, hard to use in the dark; experienced hunters should consider a more durable option
Bushnell BoneCollector
Range: 850 yards
Magnification: 4x
Objective Lens: 24 mm
The Bushnell BoneCollector is super easy to use and does everything you’ll ask of it without the hefty price tag of other devices on this list. The truth is, for many hunters, this is all they’ll need.
It is a perfect choice for middle-of-the-line bow hunters and packs a similar punch as other more costly options on this list. Its reviews are excellent, and users report that it’s truly waterproof, easy to use, and durable.
One thing I love about the BoneCollector is its one-button operation. That means you get the reading you need without fumbling around and figuring out which button to press.
Again, precious milliseconds can mean the difference between a clean shot and a hurried one. Lastly, it has a 24 mm objective lens, which lets in plenty of light and makes for a crystal clear picture.
- Pros: Relatively inexpensive, a trusted brand in optics, targets dark objects easily, fast range time
- Cons: Users report having a hard time in low-light situations, only good to 850 yards, not an equitable option for long-range rifle hunting, magnification is only 4x, leaves a bit to be desired for anything past a few hundred yards
High-End Rangefinding Binoculars
Alright, enough horsing around! We wrote this section for the discerning hunter who wants to invest heavily in their hunting optics. If you’re willing to spare no expense for dead-accurate ranging, look no further.
Sig Sauer KILO10K-ABS 2.0
Range: 10,000 yards
Magnification: 10x
Objective Lens: 42 mm
Move over 3000BDX; there’s a new king of the mountain.
The Sig Sauer KILO10k-ABS is one beast of a hunting gadget. Sigs’ rangefinding binoculars can range up to 10,000 yards but also have integrated ballistic technology, making them an incredibly handy rifle-hunting and long-range shooting tool.
The KILO 10k pairs seamlessly with Sig Sauer rifle scopes and accurately determines ballistics like bullet drop over a distance etc. That data is then sent via Bluetooth right into the reticle of the rangefinder. Like its 3000k predecessor, we like these binos’ hyper scan feature, which allows you to range hillsides or multiple targets four times per second.
I had a client this year with a pair of these, and to say my jaw was on the floor is an understatement.
If you aren’t sold already, Sig Sauer features an unlimited lifetime warranty that is transferable to anyone who owns them. In our opinion, this creates massive value to assure that if anything happens to this expensive piece of gear, your butt is covered.
- Pros: Lifetime warranty, suitable for one-handed operation, excellent scan mode, advanced OLED display
- Cons: Some users say it’s a little bit heavy in their pack; you need to be an advanced hunter/shooter to take advantage of the features
Vortex Fury HD 5000 BD
Range: 5,000 yards
Magnification: 10x
Objective Lens: 42 mm
Like the previous recommendation, these rangefinding binoculars pack a powerful punch. They’re highly accurate, angle-compensating glass that takes the guesswork out of long-range shots.
The “AB” in the name refers to advanced ballistics. When paired with the Vortex app, this becomes a powerful tool for long-range shooters looking for top-notch ballistics and shooting data. These advanced electronics take windage, weapon caliber and grain, and other vital factors into account for those long shots.
As mentioned above, Vortex has top-of-class customer service, and if anything ever breaks on these bad boys, you can send them back to Vortex, no questions asked.
One of our pro staff, Moose, rocks these Binos and doesn’t use a standalone rangefinder. Even though he has access to much nicer and higher-end optics, “With Vortexs’ warranty, I can safely say that I’ll likely never own another pair of binos for hunting elk and deer; that’s how much I love the HD 5000s.”
- Pros: Ranges up to two miles, great for archery and rifle hunting, lifetime warranty, has an adapter for a tripod for long-range shooting and glassing
- Cons: A bit pricey, this version may be too advanced for novice hunters; they offer this same model without the ballistics capabilities for considerably less money.
Leica Geovid 3200
Range: 3,200 yards
Magnification: 10x
Objective Lens: 42 mm
We saved the best glass for last here. I had the privilege of using these Leica Geovid 3200s on a few hunts last season, and let me tell you: these are the cream of the crop when it comes to rangefinding binoculars.
What sets these binoculars apart is the Leica glass, which is in a world of its own entirely. “Unmatched image quality” are three words that come to mind.
Per Amazon, “The patented Perger-Porro prism system and state-of-the-art glass types deliver exceptionally bright, color-neutral images with unique three-dimensional plasticity and provide excellent contrast and maximum light transmission.” I couldn’t have said it better myself.
But that’s not the only bit of technology. Leica has a useful hunting app that pairs nicely with a cellphone via Bluetooth. This feature provides angle compensation and ballistic information that reads directly to the Leica OLED.
- Pros: Unmatched optical quality, excellent for low-light conditions, great in inclement weather
- Cons: Expensive, users report a learning curve, and the instruction manual leaves a lot to be desired
Best Rangefinder for Long-Range Shooting
Long-range shooting and hunting are challenging sports because you must account for several factors, like distance, angle, wind speed, temperature, and barometric pressure. To accurately shoot at a distance, you’ll most certainly need a long-range shooting-capable rangefinder with all these features and the ability to account for ballistic information like cartridge size and grain.
If you’re a long-range shooter, you can’t skimp on your rangefinder, and unfortunately, there aren’t many budget options for such powerful gadgets. But then again, long-range shooting is an expensive sport, and I bet you’ve already figured that out by now!
Vectronix Terrapin X
Range: 3,260 yards
Magnification: 8x
Objective Lens: 28 mm
The Vectronix Terrapin X rangefinder is one of the most widely used options among skilled and professional long-range shooters. With it, you get all the toys from applied ballistics to highly accurate and fast-ranging capabilities.
It’s so good that Vectronix also produces it for both military and civilian use. With a maximum range find of over 3,200 yards, you can tell why Uncle Sam gives it his seal of approval.
Reviews report an unmatched crystal-clear view and ease of use. Another long-range shooter review says, “This rangefinder is perfect. Life is too short for cheap rangefinders.” For long accurate applied ballistics, this unit pairs via Bluetooth to a Kestrel unit.
- Pros: Extremely durable, military-grade strength, compact, perfect in low-light situations, tripod ready
- Cons: Expensive
Best Overall 1000-Yard Rangefinder for Hunting
We included this recommendation for the no-frills, no-fuss hunter that needs a simple but quality rangefinder that is great for 1,000 yards or less. Look no further than the Vortex Ranger 1000; it comes highly rated by countless lifelong hunters.
Vortex Crossfire HD 1400
Range: 1,400 yards
Magnification: 5x
Objective Lens: 21 mm
Vortex Optics makes the list of 2024’s best hunting rangefinders for the 3rd time with their Crossfire 1400. This 1,400-yard model is the gold standard for those hunters looking for something that will work and has all the functions and features they need and nothing more.
If you didn’t read the other Vortex reviews on this post, know that Vortex Optics has unmatched customer service and a lifetime unconditional warranty, which provides excellent value, especially for someone looking to spend less than $200.
This exact model regularly makes “best of” lists on other hunting blogs, and when you consider the price and capabilities, it’s easy to understand why.
New guides at our ranch always (almost without fail) have this rangefinder when they start out, and honestly, it does everything they need as a guide.
Upgraded from 2023, the Crossfire now ranges further but sacrifices some magnification and objective lens. Take that with a grain of salt on this entry level unit.
- Pros: Easy to use, easy-to-read Red OLED, fast range time, fast scan feature
- Cons: Bare-bones and no-frills features
Budget Rangefinder Under $200
If your budget is limited and you’re looking for the best bang for your buck under $200, we’ve got you covered. While the Vortex Crossfire 1400 above also fits the bill, the following recommendation will undoubtedly work out for you, as well.
Halo Z Series
Range: 1,000 yards
Magnification: 6x
Objective Lens: 22 mm
Simple, affordable, and accurate. There’s not too much more to say about this Halo Z. I own one personally, and it has all the features I need (and none that I don’t).
While it doesn’t have the same warranty as the Vortex Ranger 1000, it certainly has all the features. This reliable piece of gear is surprisingly functional, ergonomic, and durable. If you need a no-frills rangefinder that does what you want it to do at an affordable cost, get this budget buy from Halo Z.
- Pros: Inexpensive, durable, water-resistant
- Cons: Lacks advanced features; some report an occasionally hard-to-read OLED
Cheap Hunting Rangefinder Under $100
You’re unlikely to find advanced angle compensation mode and 3,000-yard rangefinding capabilities at this price point, but that doesn’t negate your need for a rangefinder altogether. This is why I’ve included a low-cost but decent-quality option for those newer to the sport and those taking a bare-bones approach to assembling their hunting kit.
TideWE
Range: 1000
Magnification: 6x
Objective Lens: 19 mm
Okay, okay. I admit I’m a bit of a cheapass. In a bind two years ago, I grabbed one of these units on sale for $89.99. To be completely honest with you, I love my TIDEWE, and it hasn’t left my Bino pack for several seasons now.
Like many higher-priced rangefinders on this list, Tidewe makes a helpful and powerful little gadget but for a fraction of the cost. But, perhaps most importantly, archery hunters report highly accurate shots courtesy of its angle compensation feature.
While this ranger is helpful, it’s also cheap and a bit plasticky. It leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to add-ons and bells and whistles, as well, but it gets the job done in the end. Ultimately, you should be able to squeeze a few seasons out of the Tidewe before you’re ready for an upgrade.
- Pros: Inexpensive, works as intended
- Cons: Made overseas with minimal customer supper and may not last several hunting seasons. Overall, it is worth the risk at less than $100, not for long distances (the longest I’ve been able to range with this is 800 yards.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rangefinders
There are several different routes you can go when choosing your next rangefinder. Your decision will come down to asking a simple question: How much can you afford to spend? Just because your budget isn’t $1000 doesn’t mean you can’t find something that will work well for you.
Rangefinder Reviews From Experienced Deer & Elk Hunters
We asked for the honest opinions of two lifelong big game hunters about which rangefinder brand they use for hunting. These guys routinely harvest elk and deer yearly, so we tend to look to them for advice when buying a new gadget. We want to share their valuable experience with our readers.
“Any rangefinder is good IF it will calculate angle on the fly for you. It’s especially helpful for archers. Leica makes some 10×42 binos with rangefinder capabilities down to seven yards. I’d trade up and buy those — one complete lightweight package deal — if it were me. If money is the biggest issue, Bushnell used to run a special for $299 for a laser rangefinder 1000 yard/Arc pro, meaning it will show angle and calculate distance; this package also came with binos. I’m running a Leupold rangefinder right now and bought it because it goes out to 4,000 yards. It was helpful mountain goat hunting last year to see how far we needed to close any chance at a shot.”
– Lance Fitzgerald – Owner, “Aspen Camouflage LLC”
“The only rangefinder I carry and have always recommended to other hunters is the Vortex Ranger 1000. I’ve harvested more big game animals than I can count, and this rangefinder does everything I need to gain an advantage in the field. It’s reasonably priced, and Vortex has exceptional customer service. Look no further.”
– Kyle Clarke – Lifelong big game hunter on multiple continents
Which Rangefinder Will You Choose For Your Upcoming Hunt?
If all goes as planned, you’ll get an opportunity to shoot at an animal this season, but will you have what it takes to rise to the occasion? Preparation is vital, and having the right gear — like one of 2024’s best rangefinders — could give you that extra advantage you’ve been looking for.
Hopefully, you leave this article with a better idea of which rangefinder you need for your upcoming hunt in 2024 and beyond. There are hundreds of different options on the market, and we gathered some of the best for hunting just for you. From brands like Vortex, Sig Sauer, Leica, Bushnell, and AOFAR, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a long-range shooter, an archery hunter, or are simply looking for the best high-end rangefinder money can buy, then look no further than the options above. We would never steer our readers in the wrong direction, and we’re confident that any of the hunting rangefinders on this list will help you immensely during the 2024 season and beyond.
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Last Updated on January 7, 2024
Josh Riley lives in Colorado with his wife, Mary, and their three wild and crazy children. He’s an avid hunter, fisherman, backpacker, elk meat connoisseur, and international traveler.
Obviously you didn’t spend much time or money on this article when it came ti high end reviews. Gunwerks has probably the best high end ballistic range finder available.
Thanks for your input, Cory. We’ve heard a lot of good things about it, so we’ll consider adding it to the list when we have time.
Who knew choosing a rangefinder could be so complicated? Thanks for sharing your experience! Personally, I prioritize ease of use over fancy features. What about you?
Ease of use is most important to me because I almost exlusively hunt with a bow these days. Fast target acquisition is a make or break feature for me. However, when rifle hunting, techy features could help you take a better shot.