Best Value Bow Hunting Rangefinders (2021 Reviews)

The first TecTecTec Prowild was a popular model for bow hunters looking for ranging of 100-yards or less. This is the Prowild S version, with the added angle compensation feature. As a result, it’s much more expensive than its basic sibling. Is this new version worth the extra cost? If you shoot from tree stands or uphill it might be, but for the price there are better models from other brands.

Specs for the 2021 Prowild S Model:

• 6x magnification.
• Stated max range capabilities of 5-540 yards.
• Objective Lens Diameter of 24 mm.
• New Angle Compensation Technology (ACT).
• Weighs 6.5 ounces.
• Water-Resistant Body.
• Claimed accuracy at 300 yards of +/- 1 Yard.
• One button operation (Two actual buttons).
• Multi-coated optics with black LED display.

Pro’s Of The Prowild S

It’s compact and fits in your hand but it’s the heaviest range finder of the bunch. New for the Prowild S is the “single button” operation. Yet, the rangefinder has two buttons, a power/range button and a mode button. I suppose TecTecTec means the power/range button is a single operation button…weird.

Adding angle compensation is the main bonus of the Prowild S rangefinder. At short distances it works, but trying to range off of an 18-foot tree stand at 60 yards it was jumpy. At this price point I expect some anti-shake tech, which is lacking in the Prowild S.

For eye comfort the Prowild S has a huge 24 mm objective lens diameter. This optical lens is clear enough and appears coated which is nice. As well the display while being black LED has improved by being less cluttered. Like most black displays, it can be difficult to see in a wooded area or in low light. It does have a scan mode and speed mode both function fine.

Con’s

Considering this is a new and improved model from TecTecTec I expected better ranging. Alas, it wasn’t great, in fact it’s mediocre at best. The best environment for this rangefinder is day light without background obstructions.

Ranging in real world terrain beyond 80 yards is unreliable. During bow hunting these discrepancies could lead to missing your targets. At the archery range, target measurements were all over the place. Sometimes it was accurate and other times (40 yard target) it was off by 2 yards. Which meant I had to do calculations in my head to even attempt to hit the target, which is a nuisance.

Being compact this laser range finder you’d think it would be lightweight. It’s not, as the heaviest reviewed, the Prowild S is noticeable as I walk with it in my pocket and in hand. Plus the brand states its water-resistant but doesn’t state an actual waterproof rating. This doesn’t increase my confidence of long term durability.

Verdict:

Loved the original Prowild rangefinder but want angle compensation? Try Prowild S, it performs like the original and adds functional angle compensation. But don’t expect dependable accuracy over 100 yards.