Range Finder Needed or just extra weight?
- Thread starter Bigrax82
- Start date
RockyMountainHi
New member
- Dec 28, 2012
- 247
I have consistently underestimated the distance when those huge beasts are in front of me, so I carry one without any regrets. I also practice ranging trees, rocks, stumps and then check them with the rangefinder. It only takes one time of watching your arrow sail over or under one and then your buddy shows you that you 10+ yards off in your pin choice to make the commitment to using one from now on.
4mattmyers
New member
- Dec 28, 2012
- 30
I think it all depends on what kind of hunting you do. me personally here in western Oregon, I rely on some longer range hunting. I love the Leica 1600. I've tried all others including Swarovski and leupold , and he Leica can't be beat.
buglelk
Administrator
- Nov 30, 2012
- 388
I agree with RMHi....sometimes I don't have time to pull it out and use it, but when I have an extra 30 seconds, it sure gives me a sense of security knowing how far it is to a distant tree or rock. When the bull steps out next to it and I know it's 43 yards, I'm far more confident in my shot!
I have used several different rangefinders, and I really like the new Vortex rangefinder.
I have used several different rangefinders, and I really like the new Vortex rangefinder.
Garrett Weaver
New member
- Dec 28, 2012
- 168
Won't go without my nikon 440. I practice with it to get the mental range finder up to date but, after this year and many missed opportunities because of not using it or not having it, its coming with me from now on.
rwheelerii
New member
- Dec 29, 2012
- 33
Wouldn't go without it. Usually don't get to use it right before the shot, but I am always ranging different objects to get landmark distances.
For me confidence is key! Just knowing the yardage helps that much more!! For smaller animals, the difference of a couple of yards can be a killing shot or a wounded animal Different angles can mess with your guess too! Another reason I carry one is the difference in body size between antelope, deer, and elk can mess with your judgment!
I bow hunted for over 20 years without a rangefinder, but after misjudging one to many deer I bought an inexpensive (under $100.00) Simmons rangefinder a year ago. I now consider it a high value tool that adds confidence. there are some minor disadvantages: one more thing to take, one more motion to make. but the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
COLOelkman
New member
- Dec 28, 2012
- 138
I have a Nikon Riflehunter 550 which you can get on ebay around that price or slightly higher. It's good for bowhunting and rifle but not for long range rifle. Although I've not tried many others and bought it based on others recommendations 2 yrs ago and like it.
radmansciteach
New member
- Dec 12, 2012
- 70
Definitely worth it! As most have said, it gives a sense of confidence. If you can hunt with a partner and they are calling for you it only takes a few seconds to scope out trees/brush in your shooting lanes. Sometimes things happen fast and the bool doesn't come in where you think BUT sometimes he steps out from a tree you ranged at 30 and you know the distance!! I have a Nikon Riflehunter 550, works GREAT!
Jared Bloomgren
New member
- Dec 31, 2012
- 19
Won't leave home without it! Vortex Ranger 1000
RockyMountainHi
New member
- Dec 28, 2012
- 247
I have the Nikon Archer's Choice and the angle compensation is a must have in the terrain that I hunt. Last year, my buddy and I were coming down a really steep mountain in the timber and he suddenly saw a 5 pt below him. We didn't get a shot but thought he was about 50 yards as the crow flies, but with the angle compensator after the fact, it said 27 yards. We would have missed him by a country mile!
Definately worth the extra weight, I always carry my Leica 1200. One of these days I will upgrade it to the newer style. Cant beat that Leica. Rain doesnt bother it , Ive had lesser range finders and seems they get water inside and quit working in rainy western washington.
