Range-finding technology is not new, and these days the choices are numerous and their use is exploding among hunters.
Typically, I am not a high-tech guy when it comes to serious hunting, but I do like to play with technology in order to understand and appreciate its capabilities.
Some, I can do without, like a GPS — so far, but a range finder is something else altogether. I now consider them essential equipment.
A handheld range finder shoots a laser beam to a distant object and the beam bounces back to the device, which measures the distance from your viewing point to the distant object in the blink of an eye.
Why is that so important when hunters have had success for centuries without range finders?
It’s simple: A range finder can get you in the game, or on the game as it were, with increased and reliable accuracy, whether you are hunting in familiar territory or in a different area with unknown layouts.
Ciphering range can be complicated by many factors, including if a hunter is constantly changing from hunting on the ground to varying elevated positions.
Distance is essential information, especially for an archer. It is crucial for a bow hunter to know if a shot is at 35 yards or 40, when an arrow is rapidly losing trajectory. An accurate range can be difficult to ascertain in the woods. Most hunters I know, including me, are not particularly adept at estimating ranges.
The same dilemma exists for gun hunters, just at longer distances. Is that shot 150 or 200 yards?
It becomes even more critical on a big soybean field. Is that buck standing at 300 yards, or 350, or more? Just 25 yards off the range guess can result in a clear miss, or, worse yet, a poor wounding shot.
No matter the gun, the ammunition or the shooter’s ability, it is always best to know an accurate range.
As far as technological devices go, it gets no easier than using an electronic range finder. You simply point and push the button.
Most upscale models even have scope-like reticles to help you line up on the target. There is a full range of range finders with additional features as the price goes up. Models are basically rated on the ranges they are capable of reading.
Some range finders can calculate distances out to 1,000 yards, but, for a hunting application, I have never understood that need. For the majority of white-tailed deer hunters, a range finder covering 500 yards would be sufficient.
Always buy quality and stay away from the absolute low end. Check on the type of battery used. Get a dependable strap, like a Vero Vellini, and you’re good to go.
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