Best Value Bow Hunting Rangefinders (New 2021 Guide)

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Looking for best value bow hunting rangefinders? This special optical device provides range outputs so hunters can make aim adjustments. For bow hunters, distance ranging needs are much different to those of a rifle hunter. Instead of huge distances, bow hunters prefer to have excellent accuracy at the best price.

Don’t assume “value” means bad quality. Lower-end bow hunting rangefinders may seem “basic” in comparison to high-end models. Yet, the models in this article will provide quality readouts with clear optics.

What Are Value Bow Hunting Rangefinders?

Value rangefinders are models which cost between $85 to $275. They will use a class 1 laser aperture and be at least water-resistant. For this price they should be compact, lightweight and simple to use. The best models are fast and accurate with a range from 5 to 1000 yards (914.4 m). Some are basic and others will have added features. Which one you choose is dependent on where and what you hunt.

This article is split into two sections. First, is a comparison table and second are reviews of each rangefinder. Also, for ease of reading there is a navigable table of contents or choose to read the whole article. Let’s get started.

We updated this review article in February 2021 to make sure the products and information is up to date. We removed one model from Leopold. As well, we replaced two models from Bushnell and Nikon. Read on to discover which bow hunting rangefinder is best for your hunting needs in 2021.

Darren Coleman
February 2, 2021

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Comparison Chart: Value Bow Hunting Rangefinders

Rangefinders 1-3

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Rangefinders 1-3

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Best All-Round Value Bow Hunting Rangefinder

SIG Sauer Kilo1000 Rangefinder

Magnification: 5x
Range: Min-Max/Reflective/Deer (yards): 5-1000/1200/600
Objective Lens Diameter (Millimeters): 20
Eye Relief (Millimeters): 17.78
Angle Compensation: AMR Ranging Technology Using On-Board Inclinometer
Field of View, Angle: 7.5 Degrees
Dimensions (Inches): 4.3 x 1.4 x 3
Weight (Ounces): 5.3
Features: SpectraCoat Anti-Reflection Coatings & Revolutionary LightwaveTMDSP Technology
HyperScan 4 Range Updates Per Second In Scan Mode
Waterproof Rating: IPX-4
Included Components: Rangefinder & Soft Carry Case
Warranty (Years): 5

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

SIG Sauer Kilo1000 Rangefinder Review

Last year the SIG Sauer Kilo 1000 was the “new kid on the block.” For 2021, it takes top spot for best value bow hunting rangefinder. If you ever owned a SIG Kilo 850, consider this as its natural successor.

Moving on to specifications of this laser rangefinder. It has 5x magnification with an objective lens of 20 mm and a range span of 5-1000 yards (4.57 to 914.4 m). For ranging reflective surfaces, it will range up to 1200 yards (1,097.28 m) and for deer up to 600 yards (548.64 m).

Handling The SIG Kilo 1000

At first touch, you’ll notice is how lightweight the Kilo 1000 is, at a mere 5.3 ounces (200.34 g). Next the materials feel rugged enough to survive a drop and purposeful in use. There’s textured bits on top for to prevent hand slippage and smooth sides for easy pocketing. The lenses have anti-reflection coating called SpectraCoat. In direct sunlight the lens has excellent optical clarity. The diopter adjustments are smooth and the eye relief is best-in-class at 17.78 mm. Which is great, for glasses wearing hunters.

For peace of mind the Sig Kilo is water resistant with an IPX-4 rating. Powering this rangefinder comes from a single 3-volt CR2 battery. Plus, it’s inexpensive in comparison to all the amazing tech packed inside.

Ultra-Fast Range Performance

Out on the range I was able to get readings super quick with the Kilo. Another bonus for bow hunting, is it has increment readings to a tenth of a yard or meter. Moreover, it has line of sight and angle compensation that was perfect. Sig Sauer uses “HyperScan” which gives 4 range updates per second in scan mode.

For example, I was out in an open field area and ranged a coyote at 579 yards. I took 3 readings; the first was at 578.4, second at 579.2 and third at 579. Those are precision readings if you ask me.

Any Downsides?

My main complaint with the Kilo rangefinder is the clumsy buttons. There are two buttons, one on top to range and another on the side for modes. Left-handed hunters may become annoyed with accidentally engaging the mode button when handling. Another problem is it uses black outputs, which in low light can be hard to see for some people.

Verdict:

Choose the SIG Sauer Kilo 1000 if you want a capable and fast rangefinder. It’s by far the best performing rangefinder for bow hunting at a value price.

Great Rangefinder Bundle For Small Handed Hunters

Photo of a dark grey colored Nikon Prostaff 1000i Rangefinder, green colored batteries, plus black colored carry case

Nikon Prostaff 1000i Rangefinder Bundle

Magnification: 6x
Range: Min-Max/Reflective/Deer (yards): 6-1000/1000/600
Objective Lens Diameter (Millimeters): 20
Eye Relief (Millimeters): 16.70
Angle Compensation: ID Technology Up To +/- 89 Degrees
Field of View, Angle: 6 Degrees
Dimensions (Inches): 3.6 x 1.5 x 2.9
Weight (Ounces): 4.6
Features: Tru-Target System - Select Either First Target or Distant Target Priority
Multilayer Lens Coating & Automatic Measurement Up To Four Seconds
Waterproof Rating: IPX-4
Included Components: Rangefinder & Case, Lanyard, CR2 battery, 3 extra Viridian CR2 batteries, One Lumintrail Cleaning Cloth
Warranty (Years): 5

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

Nikon Prostaff 1000i Rangefinder Review

Many will know Nikon for their binoculars, as they’ve been building them since 1917. Today, Nikon also has a few different rangefinders on the market. In 2021 the Nikon Prostaff 1000i is the best choice for hunters with smaller hands. Due to it having a very compact profile, one that’s almost too small for big hands. This replaces the Aculon model that I reviewed in 2020.

Is the Nikon Prostaff 1000i too small to deliver decent ranging? Nope, this is a good performer that offers quick, consistent ranging capabilities. Display is black LED, but in daylight it has a clear view and is easy to operate.

Quick Specifications

6x magnification with an objective lens of 20 mm.
Long eye relief of 16.70 mm. For hunters who wear glasses you will love the long eye relief.
Adjustable optic diopter to optimize comfort and clarity.
Max range span of 6-1000 yards. To range reflective surfaces, it will range up to 1000 yards and for deer up to 600 yards.
Ultra lightweight at 4.6 ounces.
Two button operation.
IPX-4 Waterproof.

The Nikon Prostaff 1000i range finder is great for bow hunting in mountainous terrain. Due to it boasting Nikon’s excellent ID angle (arc) compensation technology.

Nikon Prostaff 1000i Features

The biggest selling point for this Nikon rangefinder is the added ID technology. This mode is the one bow hunters will use the most often. It measures horizontal distance even if angles become as steep as 89 degrees.

For rifle shooters, Nikon has the Tru-Target System. This allows shooters to select either First or Distant Target Priority. First Target Priority mode displays the distance of the closest subject. Which is good for areas that have overlapping backgrounds. Distant Target Priority mode displays the farthest subject, useful in wooded areas.

As well, you have a scan mode, an 8-second continuous measurement reading. Completed by engaging and holding the power button down.

Concerns With The Prostaff 1000i

The big issue for this hunting rangefinder is the “Tru-Target System.” For bow hunting this might not be a concern for you but I wanted to give a heads up anyway. For some reason it doesn’t like objects with varied textures, like bushes. In heavy brush its finicky and has a hard time targeting.

A second problem is for hunters with shaky hands trying to range animals over 700 yards away. While Nikon provides vibration-reduction, at this distance it has trouble locking on prey.

Last, the actual size of the buttons are small which is a pain to press wearing big gloves. Plus the mode button takes a long time to operate, increasing real time frustrations.

Bottom Line:

The Nikon Prostaff 1000i is the best value rangefinder for archers with small hands. Such as kids or female hunters that want a rangefinder that’s fast and very accurate up to around 700 yards. For the price, this bundle package is the best bang for your buck laser rangefinder.

Runner-Up Top Value Rangefinder For Bow Hunting

Vortex Optics Impact 1000 Rangefinder

Magnification: 6x
Range: Min-Max/Reflective/Deer (Yards): 6-1000/1000/600
Objective Lens Diameter (Millimeters): 20
Eye Relief (Millimeters): 15
Angle Compensation: HCD (Horizontal Component Distance) Mode Up To +/- 60 Degrees
Field of View, Angle: 6.5 Degrees
Dimensions (Inches): 3.6 x 1.5 x 2.9
Weight (Ounces): 5.5
Features: LOS Line of Sight (LOS) Mode Displays Actual Line Of Sight Ranges Measured In Yards Or Meters
Scan Mode Displays Continual Distance Readings Panning Landscape Or Tracking Moving Prey
Waterproof Rating: IPX-4
Included Components: Rangefinder & Soft Carry Case, CR2 Battery, Lanyard, Ballistic Cheater Card
Warranty (Years): VIP Lifetime

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

Vortex Impact 1000 Rangefinder Review

In 2021, the Vortex Ranger 1000 laser rangefinder takes the runner-up spot for best value model. Who are Vortex Optics? The company itself is in Wisconsin and began making binoculars in 2002. By 2004 they began making serious moves in the optics marketplace. Today they manufacture rifle scopes, binoculars, rangefinders and more.

The Ranger 1000 boasts 6x magnification and 15 mm of eye relief, with a range span of 6-1000 yards. Or 5.48 to 914.40 meters for international folks. For ranging reflective surfaces, it will range up to 1000 yards (914.40 m) and for deer detection up to 600 yards (548.64m).

First Impressions

Its compact and fit easy in the hand. The body has a comfortable texture and I like that Vortex uses O-ring seals. These rings help reduce intrusion from moisture, dust and debris. Vortex also provides removable belt clip that you can move to either side. It has a multi-coated lens and optic clarity is mid-range quality. To help compensate for eyesight differences there is an adjustable diopter.

The data display inside the Impact 1000 measures in yards or meters. Speaking of the display, it isn’t backlit, so your field of view is only black readouts on the screen. As such, low light capabilities are decent but not as good as the SIG Sauer Kilo 1000. If you hunt in early daylight or at dusk, choose a range finder with better low light ability.

On top is two function buttons, one for the menu and the other are for measure. Using the button is good until you try to target a range, because it often takes three button presses. Which is a nuisance, especially if you are wearing thick hunting gloves.

Press the measure button once to turn on the rangefinder until you can see the black LED display.
Press it a second time to activate the aiming reticle and release to get a distance measurement***

*** Almost every time I had to press the button a 3rd time for the range to display.***

Key Features: Horizontal Component Distance (HCD) Mode

Angle compensation is vital for archery, bow hunting and elevated rifle shooting conditions. To achieve this Vortex provides their horizontal component distance technology. This computer calculation displays the distance to the target taking angle into consideration. Archers use the level ground sight pin on the display for the range and shoot.

If you also like rifle shooting, Vortex provides LOS (line of sight) mode, for ranging a direct line to your target. Plus a scan mode for continuous distance measurements while panning the crosshair back and forth across target objects.

Verdict:

For the average person this laser rangefinder should meet or exceed their needs. Its compact and waterproof rated to IPX-4. The ranging performance is good for mid-range expectations. Although it loses points for three-step range measuring.

Best Mid-Range Budget-Friendly Laser Rangefinder

Sale

Photo of a Realtree camouflage colored Bushnell Bone Collector 850 Rangefinder

Bushnell Bone Collector 850 (New Version) Rangefinder

Magnification: 6x
Range: Min-Max/Reflective/Deer (Yards): 5-850/850/350
Objective Lens Diameter (Millimeters): 24
Eye Relief (Millimeters): Info Not Available
Angle Compensation: ARC™ (Angle Range Compensation with Ballistics Intelligence) Mode Up To +/- 70 Degrees
Field of View, Angle: 6.5 Degrees
Dimensions (Inches): 4.4 x 1.65 x 2.96
Weight (Ounces): 6.3
Features: Range Measurements In Yards, Meters, Or Feet. Scan Mode Updates Range 4x Per Second
50% Larger Objective Lens Now Paired With All Glass Multi-Coated Optical System
Waterproof Rating: IPX-4
Included Components: Rangefinder & Carry Case
Warranty (Years): 1

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

Bushnell Bone Collector 850 Rangefinder Review

Last year, Bushnell introduced an upgraded version of the Bone Collector 850 rangefinder. For 2021, it’s my pick for best mid-range performing, value priced rangefinder. The main upgrade to last years Bushnell Bone Collector 850 is it adds angle compensation.

Founded in 1948, Bushnell Optics started making rifle and spotting scopes in 1961. Since then, their laser rangefinders have been some of the most popular on the market.

Bone Collector 850 Upgraded Specs:

6x magnification with a huge objective lens diameter of 24 mm. 100% all glass multi-coated optical system.
Max range span of 5-850 yards. To range reflective surfaces, it will range up to 850 yards (777.24 m) and for deer up to 350 yards (320.04 m).
Measures in yards, meters or feet with +/- 1 degree of accuracy.
Display with 2 times brighter transmission and black LED readouts.
Fast Focus manual rotating diopter.
Weighs 6.3 ounces (178.60 g).
Single button operation.
Waterproof IPX-4.

Angle Range Compensation (ARC) From Bushnell

New to the Bone Collector is Bushnell’s ARC system for angle compensation. This microprocessor accounts for terrain angles up to 70 degrees. Delivering true distances to target uphill and downhill shots.

This model includes better and brighter imaging via an extra-large laser aperture window. As well as fast performance, with ranging up to 4x per second in scan mode.

Performance in the 300 to 500-yard range is great for the price point. But like all the others the black display outputs are terrible in low light. The display layout is simple enough for novice archers to understand.

Downsides Of The Bushnell Bone Collector 850

Using the new Bone Collector 850 should be simple with the one button operation. Although to switch between yards and meters you have click and hold for the button for 3 seconds. This time to make changes varies even longer sometimes which is annoying.

The second issue I have is that while ergonomics are better the body is plastic. Bushnell says it’s waterproof rated at IPX-4 but it’s not rubber coated. I’m worried that rain or fog could damage this range finder over time.

Third, the lanyard attachment is almost invisible, the “RealTree” color actually camouflages it. The attachments are right under the diopter in case you are wondering.

Finally, the fourth issue is Bushnell won’t cover it under their “Bullet Proof” warranty. Instead, you get a one-year warranty, although the customer service is excellent.

Bottom Line:

Pick the new Bushnell Bone Collector 850 if you love this popular model but want angle compensation. Or if you have a budget and aren’t interested in no-name models with short-term durability. Buying this model gets you nice and clear lenses, spot on yardage and simple to operation.

Popular Basic Rangefinder For Bow Hunting

Photo of a woodland camouflage colored TecTecTec ProWild S Rangefinder

TecTecTec ProWild S (With Angle Compensation) Rangefinder

Magnification: 6x
Range: Min-Max/Reflective/Deer (Yards): 5-540
Objective Lens Diameter (Millimeters): 24
Eye Relief (Millimeters): Info Not Available
Angle Compensation: Angle Compensation Technology (ACT)
Field of View, Angle: 7 Degrees
Dimensions (Inches): 4.1 x 2.8 x 1.6
Weight (Ounces): 6.5
Features: Scan (Continuous Measurement Mode) & Speed Mode, Pocket-Friendly Size & Water-Resistant Body
Accuracy at 300 Yards: +/- 1 Yard
Waterproof Rating: Info Not Available
Included Components: Carrying Pouch, CR2 battery, Wrist Strap, Lens Cloth
Warranty (Years): 2 (Register Online)

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

TecTecTec ProWild S Rangefinder Review

The first TecTecTec Prowild was a popular model for bow hunters looking for ranging of 100-yards or less. This is the new 2021 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 (54.86 m) 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 (73.15 m) 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 yards or 36.58 m target) it was off by 2 yards (1.83 m). 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 (91.44 m).

Least Expensive Rangefinder For Bow Hunters

Sale

AOFAR HX-700N Rangefinder

Magnification: 6x
Range: Min-Max/Reflective/Deer (Yards): 5-700
Objective Lens Diameter (Millimeters): 16
Eye Relief (Millimeters): Info Not Available
Angle Compensation: None
Field of View, Angle: Not Applicable
Dimensions (Inches): 4.3 x 2.95 x 1.8
Weight (Ounces): 6.3
Features: Scan, Speed, Range & Fog Mode Plus Automatic Power-Off
Advanced Pinsensor Technology, Accuracy with +/-1 Yard
Waterproof Rating: IPX-4
Included Components: Rangefinder, Carrying Pouch, CR2 Battery, Lanyard, Carabiner, Cleaning Cloth & User Manual
Warranty (Years): 2 (Limited)

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

AOFAR HX-700N Rangefinder Review

This is the least expensive laser rangefinder reviewed, it’s the AOFAR HX-700N. Priced at sub $90 it’s the most popular no frills model currently. AOFAR is an overseas brand most likely from Asia based on the broken English in their marketing. Yet users apparently love the products, as a long term reliable unit I not as convinced.

HX-700N Quick Specs

6x magnification.
Range distances of 5-700 yards.
16 mm objective lens diameter.
Range, scan, speed, & fog mode, plus automatic power-off.
Weighs 6.3 ounces (178.60 g).
Two button operation.
Waterproof rating IPX-4.

Initial Reactions

Out of the box the HX-700N is longer and wider than other models. In my hand it looks and feels bargain-built, the body is plastic with a mode and power button on top. Weight wise its bulky at 6.3 ounces (178.60 g). The optics are basic and the laser is a class 1 like the others. Take note eye glass wearers, there isn’t any eye relief with this model. The adjustable diopter isn’t as precise either, but for the cost what do you expect.

Bare Bones Performance

As a point and shoot range finder the HX-700N is simple to use, push the power button for simple ranging. Or hold the power button down to engage scan mode. It also has a fog mode, but it didn’t work while I used the rangefinder.

Accuracy is inconsistent unless shooting in unobstructed terrain in calm, bright, warm weather. It’s easier to range for objects 75 to 200 yards (182.88 m) away, than it is for short range targets. In heavy rain or fog the optical lens becomes dim, blurry and almost unreadable. Likewise, the black display readouts are tiny compared to others.

For buyers who want a full package, AOFAR provides everything to get started. Including carrying pouch, CR2 battery, portable rope, carabiner, cleaning cloth and user manual. Keep in mind, the included battery is cheap and dies faster than reputable batteries. Also, the user manual is vague and could use a re-writing.

Who Picks These Value Bow Hunting Rangefinders?

Buyers of the HX-700N are newbies or users only needing occasional range measurements. Its super inexpensive and in the right conditions can be an accurate rangefinder. Especially for hunters who shoot arrows in warm, dry, open terrain.

In Conclusion:

Sometimes your budget can’t stretch to get a high-end rangefinder and that’s okay. As of now you should be able to find the best value laser rangefinder to meet your needs. Remember that if you hunt in mountainous areas having angle compensation is vital. Another feature often only found in higher end models is target priority, the models which have it are a real bonus.

Thanks again for letting Outdoors Informed help with your research. We love what we do, so you can spend more targeting prey.

bow hunting, gear reviews, range finders

Last update on 2021-02-25

Best Value Bow Hunting Rangefinders (New 2021 Guide)

What Are Value Bow Hunting Rangefinders?

Table of Contents

Comparison Chart: Value Bow Hunting Rangefinders

Best All-Round Value Bow Hunting Rangefinder

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

SIG Sauer Kilo1000 Rangefinder Review

Handling The SIG Kilo 1000

Ultra-Fast Range Performance

Any Downsides?

Verdict:

Great Rangefinder Bundle For Small Handed Hunters

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

Nikon Prostaff 1000i Rangefinder Review

Quick Specifications

Nikon Prostaff 1000i Features

Concerns With The Prostaff 1000i

Bottom Line:

Runner-Up Top Value Rangefinder For Bow Hunting

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

Vortex Impact 1000 Rangefinder Review

First Impressions

Key Features: Horizontal Component Distance (HCD) Mode

Verdict:

Best Mid-Range Budget-Friendly Laser Rangefinder

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

Bushnell Bone Collector 850 Rangefinder Review

Bone Collector 850 Upgraded Specs:

Angle Range Compensation (ARC) From Bushnell

Downsides Of The Bushnell Bone Collector 850

Bottom Line:

Popular Basic Rangefinder For Bow Hunting

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

TecTecTec ProWild S Rangefinder Review

Specs for the 2021 Prowild S Model:

Pro’s Of The Prowild S

Con’s

Verdict:

Least Expensive Rangefinder For Bow Hunters

What We Like

What We Do Not Like

AOFAR HX-700N Rangefinder Review

HX-700N Quick Specs

Initial Reactions

Bare Bones Performance

Who Picks These Value Bow Hunting Rangefinders?

In Conclusion:

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