One of the fastest-growing areas of shooting sports is long-range precision shooting. Many long-range precision shooters routinely look at targets at one thousand yards and beyond. Shooting at these distances requires precise aiming and range-finding abilities. Finding the right rangefinder for long-range precision shooting is a necessity.
Estimating range when shooting at long distances is critical for consistent scoring. Many rifle scopes can be used for estimating distance. However, a top-quality rangefinder is a must in your range bag for the best in accurate shooting. The confidence you gain from having the data from a rangefinder can often be the difference between a solid hit and a complete miss.
There are hundreds of rangefinders available on the market. However, finding a rangefinder that is suitable and reliable at the distances required by most long-distance shootings can be challenging. Many shooters want to know the best rangefinders and how to judge the quality of a rangefinder for long-distance shooting.
Our Long Distance Rangefinder Choices: Top 4 Picks
These are our choices for rangefinders for long-distance shooting. We believe that these rangefinders offer the best compromises in quality, performance, and price. Each of these rangefinders offers a slightly different set of options from which to choose based on your needs and expectations.
Best Overall Long-Distance Rangefinder – Vortex Optics Razor HD 4000
Vortex Optics is well known in shooting circles for its high quality and reasonably priced scopes and optics. The Vortex Optics Razor HD 4000 rangefinder fits well into the Vortex family of products. The Razor HD 4000 is a full-featured long-distance rangefinder that won’t break your budget.
Vortex has considered the needs of both long-distance hunters and precision long-range competitive shooters in the design of the Razor HD 4000. The features included with this rangefinder easily meet the needs of both types of long-distance shooters. Among these features that stand out are the following.
- 7X magnification makes finding your target easy and quick
- A 25mm objective lends offers a generous field of view even at full magnification
- Adaptable to a tripod or a window mount.
- You can select from four target modes when using the rangefinder. These modes include:
- Two range modes
- Scanning feature that allows continual distance readings when panning the rangefinder
- All-weather range finding capability for adverse weather conditions.
- Ranging can be read in yards or meters
- Vortex Optics X-Plus multi-coating for superior performance under almost any light conditions
- Fully armored aluminum housing is tough and resists the most extreme conditions
The Vortex Optics Razor HD 4000 is also covered by the Vortex Optics VIP lifetime warranty. This no-questions-asked repair or replacement warranty is one of the best in the industry.
What Users Say about the Vortex Optics Razor HD 4000
- The multiple modes are great options and make this rangefinder very versatile in the field.
- If you want to use the Vortex Razor 4000 beyond about 1000 yards, you need a tripod or other mount to keep it steady
- The continuous scan and display of distances is great if you are tracking a moving target
- You should carry extra batteries. The battery life with the Vortex HD 4000 is short.
One shortcoming of the Vortex Razor HD 4000 is the lack of a Bluetooth connection to capture images to your smartphone or transfer data. However, many shooters don’t use these features regularly, so the lack may work to your advantage.
Vortex Optics Razor HD 4000 Laser Rangefinder
- The Razor HD 4000 with 7x magnification and a 25mm objective lens is the essential companion for the…
- The Razor provides four target modes (Normal, first, last and extended laser range) and two range…
Last update on 2022-01-23 at 21:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Runner-Up Best Overall Rangefinder – Leupold RX-2800 TBR Rangefinder
Leupold is a brand name that is familiar to any shooter. Leupold has made a name by designing and building world-class optics. Many shooters swear by Leupold and won’t mount any other scope on their hunting or precision rifle.
Our runner-up for best overall rangefinder goes to the Leupold RX-2800 TBR rangefinder. The Leupold RX-2800 runs close to the Vortex rangefinder. There is no question that the quality of these rangefinders is above reproach. You won’t find the Leupold RX-2800 TBR rangefinder lacking in features.
- Accurate ranging out to 2,800 yards
- Red OLED display for easy acquisition of readings and ranges
- Improved Alpha IQ ranging system features increased pulse rate, boosted signal to noise ratio, and one of the most intelligent processing systems on the market
- True ballistic ranging that accounts for incline angle, range to target, wind management, and ballistics information
- Scan mode provides continuous data as you track the movement of your target
- 100% waterproof construction for reliable and durable operation despite the conditions.
- 7X magnification
- Rubberized armor to protect your rangefinder from accidents
The higher price and shorter-range are the only thing that keeps Leupold from being our best overall choice. However, if you want the reputation and quality of Leupold in your range bag or hunting backpack, this is an excellent choice for a rangefinder.
What Users of the Leupold RX-2800 Saying?
- For most shooters, 2800 yards is more than enough range finding capability. Few shooters and hunters will ever need this much range.
- If you spend much time in the field or on the range, be sure to carry extra batteries. The battery life in the Leupold rangefinder is relatively short.
- On hot days, thermals can interfere with the laser on this rangefinder. This may happen with other rangefinders but is particularly noticeable with the Leupold.
- The clarity of the images in this rangefinder is superb. The image is clear and crisp from one side of the lens to the other without any noticeable distortion, even at full magnification.
Like the Vortex rangefinder, the Leupold doesn’t provide Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections. However, this rangefinder does what it is intended to do. You can expect to get accurate and effective ranging information to improve your shooting.
Last update on 2022-01-23 at 21:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Rangefinder With Bluetooth – ATN Laser Ballistics 1500 Smart Laser Rangefinder
ATN is more known for its night vision and infrared optics than laser rangefinders. In fact, many ATN scopes have built-in laser rangefinders. It is no surprise that ATN builds a top-quality rangefinder. ATN builds on its reputation for some of the best night vision equipment at a reasonable price.
ATN includes Bluetooth connectivity in their 1500 Smart Laser rangefinder. The Bluetooth capabilities open a new range of possibilities for competitive shooters or hunters. But Bluetooth connectivity isn’t the only thing that sets ATN apart. The features included on this rangefinder are impressive in their own right.
- ATN’s smart ballistic calculator operates on your smartphone. The ballistic calculations occur in the background to provide some of the quickest and most accurate ballistic calculations available.
- The ATN rangefinder is accurate out to 150 0meters or 1640 yards. This is well within the ranges needed for most long-range hunters and precision shooters.
- The Bluetooth connectivity with smart HD can also pair with your ATN Smart Scope to give you precision impact calculations and adjustments.
- The software works with mil-dot or MOA calculations.
- When paired with your ATN Smart Scope, the data from the rangefinder can automatically adjust your scope reticle to the point of impact. No manual adjustments needed
- 6X magnification
If you want the convenience of a Bluetooth connection, this is the rangefinder for you. Pairing an ATN scope with the ATN rangefinder may be ideal for some shooters. The price is right and helps get the ATN Rangefinder on our list as the best Bluetooth-connected rangefinder.
What ATN Users say About the Ballistics 1500 Rangefinder
- The real beauty of this rangefinder is the capability to pair with an ATN scope. It is amazing when the rangefinder and scope work together to adjust the point of impact on the reticle
- This is one of the best rangefinders on the market for the price. If you don’t need to go out to 3000 yards, the ATN rangefinder is a no-brainer.
- With the app on my smartphone, I can create a profile of all my rifles. No matter which rifle I am shooting, I always have the best data.
- The optics on this rangefinder are clear and crisp even at the 6X magnification. The eye relief can be a little finicky, but nothing makes the rangefinder unusable.
At half the price of our first two rangefinder choices, the ATN Laser Ballistics 1500 Smart Laser Rangefinder is a great choice. If you want the convenience of multiple gun profiles and Bluetooth connectivity, the ATN rangefinder is worth a look.
Last update on 2022-01-23 at 21:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Runner-Up Bluetooth Rangefinder – Sig Sauer Kilo 2200 BDX Rangefinder
Sig Sauer is a powerhouse in shooting sports. From pistols to optics, Sig Sauer has built a reputation for quality and performance in all of its products. That reputation gets the Sig Sauer Kilo 2200 BDX rangefinder on our list.
The Sig Sauer Kilo 2200 BDX rangefinder has one of the longest operating ranges of any rangefinder on our list. Operating reliably out to 3400 yards, the BDX rangefinder ranks second only to the Vortex rangefinder. In addition, the Sig Sauer BDX rangefinder is considerably cheaper than the Vortex rangefinder. You won’t get short-listed in the features department even at the lower price.
- 7X magnification lets you find targets out to extreme ranges.
- A 25mm objective lens gives an exceptionally wide field of view even at the highest magnification.
- The lenses are multi-coated with Sig Sauers exclusive SpectraCoat anti-reflection coatings giving the best light transmission despite the ambient light conditions.
- Capable of ranging accurately out to 3,400 yards.
- The Sig Sauer Ballistic Data X-change is built in. When connected via Bluetooth with your Sig Sauer rifle scope shows an automatic holdover dot in your scope reticle.
- OLED display provides accurate and quick visual responses. A precise aiming circle and ballistic info are clearly displayed
- All ballistics data is available, including holdover angle. The data can be captured on your smartphone using the Sig Sauer app.
- The BDS smartphone app is available for android or IOS and is available for free from Sig Sauer
You won’t find many more features on other rangefinders. If Bluetooth capability and superior ballistics calculations, Sig has hit the mark with the features included in the 2200 BDX rangefinder.
What Users of the Sig Sauer 2200 Rangefinder?
- The Sig Sauer rangefinder displays the ballistics data and the MOA adjustments on the display and on my cell phone when it is connected. This is very convenient.
- One disadvantage of the Sig Sauer rangefinder is the lack of a tripod mount. It is difficult to hold the rangefinder steady enough to get a reading at higher magnifications and longer ranges.
- The lack of a scan function is a handicap when you are hunting big game at longer distances
- Some users report that the clarity and crispness of the images in the Sig Sauer rangefinder at not as good as they might expect at the longer distances.
Sig Sauer has met the challenge of a reasonably priced rangefinder with superior optics and Bluetooth capability. If you are a Sig fan or just in the market for a reasonably priced high-quality rangefinder, you should consider the 2200 BDX rangefinder.
Last update on 2022-01-23 at 21:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What Makes a Quality Long-Distance Rangefinder?
Finding the right rangefinder for you is a very personal choice. Long-distance shooters are, by and large, very picky about their equipment and have their own ideas about what makes a quality rangefinder. However, listening to long-distance shooters gives us insight into the common elements that make a rangefinder suitable for long-distance shooting.
In the end, finding the right rangefinder for your needs boils down to the right balance of several critical factors. In our view, these critical factors that most long-distance shooters consider include the following.
- Ranging Performance – If long-distance shooting is your goal, you must find a rangefinder with enough ranging performance to meet your requirements. Many rangefinders are great under 1,000 yards, but their performance degrades at longer distances. You should choose a rangefinder rated for at least twice your expected shooting distance. If you expect to shoot regularly out to 1,500 yards, a rangefinder with a 3,000-yard rating is the minimum you should purchase.
- Size – The size of your rangefinder may not seem like much of a problem if you are a bench rest precision shooter. However, if you are trekking into the field for long-distance hunting, size and weight can become significant issues. Even on a bench, the size and weight of your rangefinder figure into the overall package you must tote to the range for competitions and practice. Smaller is often the better choice.
- Durability – No one wants to spend their shooting budget on a rangefinder that doesn’t withstand the rigors of going into the field or regular trips to the range. Any rangefinder should be fog proof, rainproof, and shockproof. This is especially true if you go into the field for a long-anticipated hunt.
- Price – Budget is a consideration for most of us. We would all like to buy the best equipment on the market, but often we must compromise to meet our own financial situation. Finding the balance between features and cost is a challenge that almost everyone faces every day. The purchase of a long-distance range finder is no different.
There are, of course, other considerations that you will have when choosing a long-distance rangefinder. Your shooting style, the type of shooting you do, and your expectations of your rangefinder will all also figure into your choice. However, we cannot speak to those factors. You must make those decisions for yourself.
Going the Distance – Finding a Rangefinder that Works for You
A good rangefinder can make the difference in a successful hunt or competition or going home disappointed. A rangefinder is a tool and should be chosen as a tool. It should perform the functions you need and return the service you expect. Finding a rangefinder in your budget range that provides the performance and results you want is the key.
