Buying Guide for the Best Scope With Rangefinders
Choosing a scope with a rangefinder can transform your experience, whether you're involved in hunting, shooting sports, or wildlife observation. The right combination makes it easier to estimate distances quickly and accurately, which improves your aim and boosts your confidence. To pick the best fit, focus on how and where you'll use the scope, and consider which features will help you see and measure distance clearly in your typical conditions.MagnificationMagnification means how much closer an object appears when looking through the scope compared to the naked eye. Higher magnification is important for long-range shooting and spotting fine details, but it can make your field of view narrower and may require more stability. Lower magnification is best for quick target acquisition and for shooting at shorter distances. If you plan to shoot at a variety of distances, choosing a scope with variable magnification lets you adjust for your needs.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter, usually measured in millimeters, is the size of the front lens on your scope. Larger diameters let in more light, which can make the image brighter and clearer, especially in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. However, larger lenses are heavier and can make your setup bulkier. If you mostly shoot in daylight, a moderate size will do, but low-light users should consider a bigger objective lens.
Rangefinder TypeScopes with rangefinders generally use either laser or reticle-based (manual) systems. Laser rangefinders provide quick and accurate digital readouts, great for precise distance measurements. Reticle-based systems use marks inside the sight that help you estimate distance by comparing known target sizes to the scale. If you want convenience and precision, laser is best, while reticle systems are lighter and never run out of power. Pick the type you’re most comfortable working with, based on how high-tech you want your gear to be and the reliability you need.
Reticle StyleThe reticle is the pattern you see when looking through the scope and helps with aiming. There are many reticle designs, such as simple crosshairs, mil-dot, or BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticles. Complex reticles can help estimate range or adjust for bullet drop, but may be too busy for beginners. If you need help with distance and windage, consider a more detailed reticle, but stick to simpler crosshairs if you prefer an uncluttered view.
Rangefinding DistanceThis refers to the maximum distance over which the rangefinder can give an accurate measurement. Shorter range (up to 500 yards/meters) is sufficient for most hunting or field shooting, while long-range scopes can reach out to 1,000 yards/meters or more, which is important for some target shooters or snipers. Consider your typical shooting distance and pick a rangefinder distance that comfortably covers your needs.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance you can hold your eye from the scope and still see the full image. Longer eye relief is safer and more comfortable, especially on guns with strong recoil. If you wear glasses or shoot high-recoil guns, look for scopes with generous eye relief (at least 3.5 inches or about 9 centimeters). For light-recoiling firearms, a shorter eye relief is usually fine.
Overall DurabilityScopes with rangefinders can be sensitive to tough environments, so durability matters. This refers to how well the scope stands up to water, fog, shocks, and dust. Look for sealed, waterproof, and fogproof construction if you plan on using your scope outdoors in different weather conditions. If you’re often in rugged terrain, give extra attention to models designed for shock resistance.