Need suggestions on a decent rangefinder

Discussion in 'Bowhunting Talk' started by pastorjim08, Oct 5, 2019.

  1. pastorjim08

    pastorjim08 Legendary Woodsman

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    Ok guys, I'm in the market for a decent rangefinder. I don't need something that will range 800 yards and cost $400. I want something that is accurate with a little magnification and lighted reticle. I'd like to stay below $250. Suggestions likes/dislikes?

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  2. NMGuy

    NMGuy Weekend Warrior

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    As far as optics and range finders, you can’t ever go wrong with vortex, leupold, or Nikon.

    The vortex impact 850 is $200 and should work fine for you.

    I think it’s illuminated and goes out to 850 yards. It also does incline for you.

    Vortex Optics Impact 850 Yard Laser Rangefinder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075KGW3WJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CBoMDb2Y7S16D

    I’d go try a few out if you can.

    Vortex has the best warranty. They replace their stuff no matter what happens to it usually.
     
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  3. John T.

    John T. Die Hard Bowhunter

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    For bowhunting, I would think the minimum distance would be important. How close for an accurate reading?
     
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  4. FEB

    FEB Grizzled Veteran

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    I can only add that I prefer Nikon over Bushnell.
    Cabelas just had a great deal on a decent Nikon, it might be over though.
     
  5. FEB

    FEB Grizzled Veteran

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    The Nikon Arrow ID is 179 w/free shipping. I have it, works great for me
     
  6. wl704

    wl704 Legendary Woodsman

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    A few thoughts :
    Like all óptics, you will be well served putting your hands on them. Clarity, magnification and to a lessor extrent, lens coatings will aid with low light conditions.

    Check and compare water resistences/proof differences... Or at least the claims.

    I use my range finder for both rifle hunting and bow hunting. If this is a need, you may want a finder with a line range.

    Angle adjustment is a great feature for bow hunting.

    I'd add Sig Sauer to the brands mentioned. I have some Bushnell optics, I'll never buy another Bushnell.

    After you evaluate then it's just a matter of vshopping for a good deal. I've seen a few recently on Camofire.
     
  7. PinkPony

    PinkPony Grizzled Veteran

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    I have a Halo. Not sure on price, but I love it. Clear, magnify and accounts for angles.
     
  8. pastorjim08

    pastorjim08 Legendary Woodsman

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    I also have a Halo but I've noticed when I hunt in darker places, like swamps, I can't see the reticle. Also it has no magnification, and these old eyes need just a little bit.

    Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
     
  9. Trenton Loewen

    Trenton Loewen Newb

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  10. leastbay

    leastbay Newb

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    Sig Kilo
     
  11. Longdraw

    Longdraw Weekend Warrior

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    I picked up a refurbished Nikon from Natches shooters Supply. Something to consider.
    Good luck.

    Longdraw
     
  12. blackbear

    blackbear Weekend Warrior

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    Another Nikon plug, price was right really all you need.


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  13. Point78

    Point78 Newb

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    Nikon monarch, has angle compensation,and auto or manual illuminated retical. I like it so far. Only downside is it's a little fat so if you use a bino harness and pouch for the range finder it's hard to find one that it slides in and out of easy.

    Sent from my LM-G710VM using Bowhunting.com Forums mobile app
     
  14. PinkPony

    PinkPony Grizzled Veteran

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    Mine definitely magnifys, let me see if I can find the one I use. I have pretty good luck using it when it is "dusk" in the woods.
     
  15. PinkPony

    PinkPony Grizzled Veteran

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  16. pastorjim08

    pastorjim08 Legendary Woodsman

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    Does it have a lighted display? That's probably tj e biggest factor for me

    Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
     
  17. PinkPony

    PinkPony Grizzled Veteran

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    Mine does not...but I think the newer versions do.
     
  18. cdemarse

    cdemarse Weekend Warrior

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    Vortex. Love mine. Lighted display and as always you can't beat the warranty.
     
  19. pastorjim08

    pastorjim08 Legendary Woodsman

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    What model is it?

    Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
     
  20. Shane0709

    Shane0709 Die Hard Bowhunter

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    I would say Vortex or Leupold but I'm not really sure. What I can tell you is that I would NOT go with Bushnell if it was me. Personally, I just wasn't a fan. The Leupold ones look really nice to me though.
     

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