Navigating hilly terrains, mastering steep slopes, and tackling uneven ground – the life of a bowhunter is full of challenges, especially when it comes to accurately measuring sight distances for that perfect shot.
Enter the world of advanced rangefinders with angle compensation, the game-changer that allows archers to precisely gauge their position and ensure a clear, successful hit.
Dive into our expert guide to discover the crème de la crème of archery rangefinders tailored for bowhunting.
We’ve hunted down the best options to enhance your hunting experience, with the Vortex Optics Ranger 1800 snagging the spot as our top pick.
Join us as we explore a variety of models that stand out for their precision, affordability, and a host of features designed to elevate your bowhunting to new heights.
Get ready to transform the way you hunt with insights that promise to make every arrow count.
Best Overall – Bushnell Bone Collector 1000
I’ve come to rely on the precision and reliability of Bushnell, an American-owned powerhouse in outdoor optical gear.
The clarity of the images, even in the dim light of dawn or dusk, is remarkable.
Thanks to its all-glass optical system and fully multicoated lenses, I’ve been able to enjoy up to twice the brightness compared to other models I’ve tried.
This feature alone has made a significant difference in my ability to spot and track game in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Speed is another area where the Bone Collector 1000 shines.
The scan mode and Angle Range Compensation technology allow me to quickly adjust for elevation, ensuring my shots are on target every time.
The +/- 1-yard accuracy gives me confidence in my measurements, allowing me to focus more on the hunt and less on second-guessing distances.
read our full review here: Bushnell Bone Collector 1000
Specs:
- Ranges to 1000 yds. on reflective targets
- All-glass optical system with fully multicoated lenses
- Best-in-class light transmission
- Up to 2x brighter images
Features:
- Scan mode
- Angle Range Compensation technology
The ergonomic design deserves praise as well.
It fits snugly in my hand, making it easy to carry and use throughout the day without discomfort.
This level of thoughtfulness in design, combined with its performance features, makes the Bone Collector 1000 not just a tool, but a trusted companion on my hunting adventures.
Most Precise – Bushnell G-Force DX 1300 ARC
Having used the Bushnell G-Force DX 1300 ARC Rangefinder extensively in my own bowhunting adventures, I can attest to its remarkable performance, particularly in challenging, steep terrains.
This rangefinder, with its Second Generation ESP (Extreme Speed Precision) turbo processor, elevates the hunting experience by offering unparalleled accuracy and speed.
The precision it provides, even at long distances, is a game-changer, ensuring that each shot is calculated with the utmost accuracy.
Its performance in varying environments, from dense forests to open fields, consistently impresses me.
The device’s ability to quickly adapt and calculate distances, accounting for the angle of elevation or depression, has made a significant difference in my shooting accuracy.
Moreover, its user-friendly interface and durable design mean it can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities, making it a dependable tool in any weather condition.
The Bushnell G-Force DX 1300 ARC has proven to be an indispensable part of my hunting gear, enhancing my confidence and success rate on numerous hunts.
(read.. the best bow stabilizer).
Check out all products from Bushnell here
You can anticipate an accuracy of about half a yard in Bow Mode or Rifle Mode. Angle Range Compensation (ARC) technology calculates terrain angles to provide a true horizontal distance figure for up to 99 yards.
Specs:
- Maximum range: 1,300 yards
- 6x Magnification
- Accuracy: +/- 0.5 yards
Features:
- Display is accurate up to one-tenth of a yard
- Bow and rifle modes
- Four display settings for different light conditions
Three target modes are available to suit a variety of terrains, from flat open plains to rugged forests: Scan, Brush, and Bulls-Eye. The display screen includes four brightness settings to adjust to difficult lighting conditions. This comes pretty handily when bow hunting.
To get the most out of the DX 1300 ARC, ensure your draw length is correct, and you follow proper archery technique.
If the Bushnell is too much of a splurge, but you’re unwilling to compromise on multifaceted optics, you should check out the AOFAR HX-1200T/H2.
Best Value – Halo XL450 Laser Rangefinder
Halo Optics is a brand that caters specifically to outdoor sports enthusiasts, making it an ideal choice for bow hunters and rifle hunters.
The Halo XL450, designed with bowhunters in mind, incorporates Angle Intelligence Technology for precise measurements.
This model represents great value for those in search of a straightforward rangefinder for short-range activities.
Included with your purchase are all the necessary basics to get started: a battery, a lanyard, and a lens cloth for keeping your device clean.
While its maximum range of 450 yards is less than some other angle-compensating devices featured in our selection, the Halo XL450 offers distinct advantages in performance.
Its user-friendly design ensures quick activation with just a tap of a button, and its lightweight, compact size means it won’t add unnecessary weight to your gear, whether you’re carrying a daypack or other equipment.
Specs:
- Maximum range: 450 yards
- Magnification 6x
- Accuracy: +/- 1 yard
Features:
- Simple one-button use
- Compact body
- Includes battery, lanyard, and lens cloth
One notable feature is a scan mode to track prey in motion. You can track multiple targets at various yardages, which is handy if you’re in an area with plenty of game.
This model is accurate up to approximately one yard, which is decent considering the limited range.
Bear in mind that the optics are less sophisticated than other options. If you’re willing to expand your budget, the TecTecTec ProWild S with Angle Compensation could be a better alternative.
Best Full Package Deal – TecTecTec ProWild S with Angle Compensation
TecTecTec is known for offering budget-friendly rangefinders suitable for both hunting and golf, along with other products like GPS watches.
For those who value comprehensive hunting equipment that’s also economical, the ProWild S is an excellent choice.
Included with this angle-compensating product are several valuable accessories: a camo pouch, battery, strap, and cleaning cloth.
The addition of a quickstart guide is particularly beneficial, as it helps users easily navigate setup processes that can be confusing with other devices.
Functionality is a key aspect of the ProWild S, which doesn’t disappoint. It boasts a water-and-dust-resistant construction, ensuring durability in various outdoor conditions.
With a maximum detection range of 500 yards and an accuracy of approximately one yard, it’s more than capable for bow hunting purposes.
Specs:
- Max Range: 500 yards
- Magnification 6x
- Accuracy: +/- 1 yard
Features:
- Camo carrying pouch
- Water Resistant
- Dust Resistant
- Two-year guarantee
Two modes allow you to switch between angle compensation (Slope) and tracking moving quarries (Continuous Scan Mode). The display shares both the exact distance and angle compensation to help you get a steady—and deadly—shot.
A guarantee covers the ProWild S for two years, and you’re entitled to lifetime customer support.
Most High-Tech – AOFAR HX-1200T/H2
AOFAR stands out in the market, offering products that cater to golf and hunting enthusiasts, as well as compasses for navigation. Bowhunters with an eye for innovative gear will find the AOFAR HX-1200T/H2 a valuable addition for their next outdoor adventure.
With a maximum range of 1,200 yards, it competes closely with our top pick.
Its accuracy is impressive, maintaining a margin of error at plus or minus one yard.
The HX-1200T/H2 effortlessly computes the distance to your target by considering both incline or decline angles and the true horizontal distance.
Key features that make this gadget stand out include a diopter-adjustable LCD for archers with visual impairments and a Scan Mode for continuous tracking of your target.
An additional beneficial feature is its energy-saving automatic shut-off, which activates if the device is not used for eight seconds, enhancing battery life.
Specs:
- Maximum Range: 1,200 yards
- Magnification: 6x
- Accuracy: +/- 1 yard
Features:
- Diopter lens.
- Automatic shut-off after eight seconds.
- Includes carabiner, case, lanyard, battery, and cleaning cloth.
- ergonomic design
AOFAR ensures you’re fully equipped for the wilderness right from the start.
With your purchase, you’ll receive a comprehensive package including a battery, carry case, lanyard, carabiner, and cleaning cloth.
To help you get acquainted with its array of features, a user guide is also provided.
This product is perfectly suited for bow hunting, offering a crucial resource for ethical and precise bow-hunting adventures.
In terms of customer support, AOFAR provides two years of VIP assistance following your purchase, ensuring you have the help you need as you make the most of their product.
Best Archery Rangefinder with Angle Compensation?
After carefully evaluating all five options, my conclusion is that the new Bushnell Bone Collector 1000 stands out as the top choice.
A close runner-up is the Bushnell G-Force DX 1300 ARC, which is particularly appealing for novice bow hunters due to its high precision and more affordable price.
Before you go…
In bowhunting, precision is key, and devices designed to assist in this regard have become indispensable.
They have been refined to support bowhunters specifically, with features designed to adjust for angles, which is crucial for accurate shooting on uneven terrain.
Accuracy in bowhunting is critical, and having the right tool to adjust for angles can significantly enhance your success.
Conversation | 2 comments:
Perhaps your readers will want to know that I’ve performed numerous accuracy (or lack thereof) tests on multiple rangefinders (with compass) and smartphone apps (Android/iPhone) to prove that a) they all are quite inaccurate – up to 20 degrees or more and b) the azimuth errors can be corrected in almost all cases – down to the 1 to 2 degree range. These azimuth errors are “residual” (after calibration) deviation errors; and they have always existed even though the rangefinder / smartphone vendors just ignore them.
Take a look at the test results on “http://www.tru-path..org” and share these results with your readers. I’m sure some of your readers will be interested. There’s more to come on this subject.
Thanks for your time and consideration.
Thank you!