Rangefinder for archery elk

[backcountrymuzzy]

I have an 8 year old Nikon rangefinder that I am looking to replace before my next hunt in a week. Not sure if it is just me or my lower quality rangefinder, but I have a really hard time instinctively finding deer/elk in my rangefinder when they are 60 yards and in or so, especially in really thick timber.

I blew my chance on a buck last week because it took a few seconds too long to locate him in my rangefinder, I really don't want that to happen if I have a bull in my sights.

It seems like 99% of rangefinders are 6x magnification, and none of the ones I have found that are 4x have an illuminated LED readout. Does anyone else share this problem or have any recommendations on a good rangefinder? I am guessing the higher quality 6x ones with a better field of view might help, I just can't help but think 6x is super overkill for archery hunting.

Thanks!

 

[backcountryshaffer]

This might sound stupid but I keep both eyes open when looking through the monocular range finder until I need to focus on the display readout. I never have an issue acquiring my target at 6x.

 

[Brett8133]

I love my Leopold with 6x and red read out very easy to read in low light conditions n


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[SWOHTR]

Why not just practice with it more frequently? On walks, around the house, etc.

 

[backcountrymuzzy]

Sounds like I just need to get one with better glass. Now that I think about it, almost every time I struggle with it it's in low light conditions. If my current piece of junk was 4x it would probably be beneficial, but I bet a 6x with good glass would be just fine.

What do you all think about a Sig vs Leupold? I used both at Cabelas once playing around, seemed like the Sig had a quicker reading but the Leupold had better glass, any preferences??

 

[backcountryshaffer]

Sounds like I just need to get one with better glass. Now that I think about it, almost every time I struggle with it it's in low light conditions. If my current piece of junk was 4x it would probably be beneficial, but I bet a 6x with good glass would be just fine.

What do you all think about a Sig vs Leupold? I used both at Cabelas once playing around, seemed like the Sig had a quicker reading but the Leupold had better glass, any preferences??

I sure like my Leica.

 

[Scooter90254]

Get a cheap one. Seriously. They are faster and have less magnification for archery hunting.

 

[Cockeye]

I have brand new in box leopold 650 for sale for cheap hit me up if interested

 

[String&stick]

Simple solution. . .Don't range animals inside of 60 yards! Range some trees, bushes, etc. When you set up and then just reference those in your head.

Lots of risks trying to range and animal once it's inside of 60!

 

[Rich M]

This might sound stupid but I keep both eyes open when looking through the monocular range finder until I need to focus on the display readout. I never have an issue acquiring my target at 6x.

This - it is also the easiest way to get crosshairs on an animal when gun hunting.

I've got a Leupold 1200 6x that I use for archery as well. Worst part is holding it steady at a longer range thru trees.

 

[backcountrymuzzy]

Simple solution. . .Don't range animals inside of 60 yards! Range some trees, bushes, etc. When you set up and then just reference those in your head.

Lots of risks trying to range and animal once it's inside of 60!

I try to do that whenever I'm sitting or already set up, its mainly slow hunting through the aspens or whatever when something pops out and I need to range it real quick that's tough.

This might sound stupid but I keep both eyes open when looking through the monocular range finder until I need to focus on the display readout. I never have an issue acquiring my target at 6x.

I keep both eyes open shooting a rifle, but I'm pretty sure I close my left eye when looking through my rangefinder. You might be on to something! I will try to focus on that

 

[backcountrymuzzy]

Get a cheap one. Seriously. They are faster and have less magnification for archery hunting.

I'm leaning towards the 4x Sig Kilo 1200, goes on sale frequently for around $150 or so. I think I can live without the red readout

 

[Agross]

I literally just switched rangefinders to get the red display readout. Had trouble seeing the one I have now for the last time(older Nikon) I have had a few times in lower light where I had a helluva time being able to read the display in early morning or later evening. The luepolds come up for sale on here pretty frequently

 

[Randonee]

I’d recommend a rangefinder that calculates the angle adjusted distance. I’ve found it makes a large difference with my accuracy if there is a slope/angle.

 

[Steepandeep1]

You get what you pay for. Personally a fan of Sig. I run the 2200BDX and have zero issues with it.