A rangefinder is a valuable piece of equipment for golfers, hunters, surveyors, and the like. Most of the models go much beyond providing you with a clear image of the object: they also perform complex calculations, including angle compensation in shooting or slope adjusting the distance for golfing. To maximize your performance, you should choose the best rangefinder.
There are different types of rangefinders available on e-commerce sites. After going through thousands of rangefinder reviews, we have listed some points which will help you buy the right one out of the multiple options.
- Determine whether you need a first priority or a second priority rangefinder: Rangefinders are often classified as first priority and second priority. The first priority rangefinder concentrates on the first object in its line of view and is more suitable for golf. The second priority rangefinder focuses on distant objects and is best for hunting.
- Keep your activity in mind: Look for a rangefinder designed specifically for the activity you have in mind. A hunting rangefinder may be used for golf, or vice-versa. However, the results may not be optimal.
- Check the distance Range: Although rangefinder models clearly indicate the maximum distance up to which the unit can read clearly, it must be kept in mind that this figure is the best estimate in ideal conditions. The actual performance may fall short of this.
- Check power and magnification: Power and magnification are measures of how closely you can view a distant object. A 7X magnification simply means that an object will appear seven times closer. Anything between 6X to 7X should be good enough in most situations.
- Opt for ease of use: Look for a model that is easy to use. The usefulness of a rangefinder in any situation, from golfing to hunting, depends on how easily you can master its use.
- Choose lightweight models: Size and weight are obviously important since you will be carrying the rangefinder along with your other equipment. Look for a model which is not too difficult to carry around with you.
- Ease of use: It is always better to settle for the golf rangefinder that is easier to use. A rangefinder should be user friendly and very easy to use. It shouldn’t take you more than a minute to locate and lock a particular range by pressing the button. The ease of use also has a little to with its compactness. Most good rangefinders also give clear readings even in dark conditions. The eye piece needs to be adjustable to give you customization options when using the rangefinder.
- Weigh and Size: The weight of the rangefinder should also be considered here. Light rangefinders are usually very easy to hold and operate. However, you need to settle for the ideal golf rangefinder that is not too big and not too small. If it is too small, you might find it very difficult to hold the device with both hands. For more accurate readings, it is better to hold the device with two hands to make it steady. Another excellent feature you should look for in a rangefinder is the water resistant and eye relief properties.
- Scan Mode: This feature allows users to press and hold a button to scan your field of view and watch the distance of objects change as you scan. As closer objects come into view (such as a flag or deer) you will notice the distance decrease, giving you assurance that you’ve found your target. Both hunting and golf rangefinders usually have this type of feature.
- Magnification: Another important feature you should consider is magnification of the particular device. As you can probably guess, magnification is the process of enlarging objects in the distance, to make them easier to target. High magnification can aid golfers and hunters while they’re on or in the field and it is often advised that for these purposes you opt for a model with at least 5x to 7x magnification for the best results. Many times for Archery or Bow Hunting, the typical magnification will be 4X which is sufficient. Although there is no reason why an archer couldn’t purchase a higher magnification rangefinder if that was their desire.
- Budget: Before investing in any particular model, it is important you consider your overall budget. When purchasing a rangefinder, you will find yourself choosing not only between different brands, but different models within those brands and those differences can equal SUBSTANTIALLY different price points!
- Battery Life: Good quality rangefinders will have a comparatively good long battery life. Not all batteries (or products) are created equal and this feature will mean the difference between having to swap out batteries or recharge during one outing, or making through the day with your new trusty companion.
- Waterproof or Water Resistance: Ensuring the device is capable of withstanding all kinds of weather is important, especially since this is a device that is predominately used outdoors where mother nature loves to surprise us with an unexpected shower!
- Durability: Much like being waterproof or weather resistant, you want to make sure that the rangefinder you select can handle whatever beating you may throw at it. (Not that you should be throwing anything at your rangefinder) But you know yourself and the purpose for which you’ll be using this device and you want to make sure that the rangefinder you select can handle the pressure. Some are built more rugged for a wilderness adventure and some are more delicate like an expensive camera.
- Customer Reviews: Reviews and ratings by customers is one vital aspect you should not neglect. This is because these people have used the product an have first hand experience on the pros and cons of the device. Before you buy a rangefinder, look at customer reviews on such product on Amazon, Ebay and other top notch retail websites. This will definitely give you a clue and help you make a better buying decision. Usually, best sellers and products with more than 4 point ratings with a lot of customer reviews should be given much interest than those with lesser reviews and ratings.
Last Word:
The best rangefinders on the market will be accurate and durable. We are always working on updating this site, getting better reviews and providing you with current information. The information here is changing often and we try to also point out the negative points of various rangefinders so you can weight the good and bad before making your decision. Hopefully, we will be able to provide you with all the information you will need to make the right purchase.
