Rangefinders are a must have among hunting enthusiasts and golfers, they are known to make measuring distances a lot more easy and accurate for the users. Most hunters who are budget conscious, find themselves in a pickle especially when it comes down to quality for price. Determining how you will use your rangefinder is the first step in ensuring that you choose the most useful model for your application. There are factors you need to look into when buying a cheap rangefinder. These include:
- Price and quality
- Size
- Maximum range
- Angle compensation
- Product research
PRICE AND QUALITY
As quality goes up, so does price, however, in most cases, the more the price rises, the lesser the quality features differ. Therefore, it is likely you will find a rangefinder in the market at a cheap price with similar qualities to a highly priced rangefinder.
In the world of rangefinders, and all optics for that matter, you get what you pay for. Price and quality go hand in hand. Higher quality almost always means higher price. There is a substantial quality difference between the least and most expensive rangefinders. A somewhat law of diminishing returns is also in play here, where to a point, quality goes up a lot with price. But as you go up in price, quality tends to level out. In other words, a $300 rangefinder will be twice as good as a $150 rangefinder, whereas a $1000 rangefinder will not be twice as good as a $500 rangefinder. The best advice is: go with the best you can afford.
RESEARCH
Research on rangefinders that meet your hunting requirements and look for one that meets most of your specifications at the best price you can afford Also look at various manufacturers in the market and choose one that offers the best price for quality rangefinders. Some manufacturers are brand names and as such, their products come at a higher price as they are associated with better performance. Therefore, decide on a manufacturer and choose a rangefinder in their line of products that is not only well performing, but also budget friendly.
MAXIMUM RANGE
When buying a rangefinder, it is very important to note the distance range of the rangefinder. Most rangefinders in the market range from 1-1500 yards. Rangefinders with a higher distance range are likely to cost more than rangefinders in the lower range. It is therefore important to make a purchase that will gve you your preferred range at a budget friendly price.
Even though a hunting rangefinder might have a maximum range of 1200 yards for instance, it is important to remember that this number is only accurate in the most ideal conditions. Most maximum ranges are calculated on a large reflective surface in the perfect weather conditions, which is not typical of a hunting situation. On deer sized animals with typical conditions you are normally good up to about 75% of the stated range. That being said, higher quality hunting rangefinders will live up to their stated maximum range much more than the cheaper ones will. Yet another reason to go with the best you can afford.
ANGLE COMPENSATION
Angle compensation is a crucial component to have in a hunting rangefinder. Most manufactures call it something different, but make sure the rangefinder you choose has some version of it.
When hunting, it’s rare to shoot while being level with your game. When hunting out of a tree stand with a bow, or out west with a rifle, almost all shots will be at some type of angle. The angle you are shooting has a lot of effect on projectile drop. If you are shooting up or down hill, you will need to adjust as if the bullet or arrow will not drop as much. It is confusing, especially how you aim lower than normal for both up and down angles, but there is a mathematical equation that can tell you exactly how much drop you can expect.
SIZE
Size is a crucial factor when it comes to hunting rangefinders. You do not want to lug around a unit that needs a tripod and carrying case. With all the gear that hunters deem necessary these days, the size of gear is important. Most hunters prefer a rangefinder that fits easily into their pockets, yet is easy to hold and use. Too small and you will be fumbling for the right buttons. Too big and you will leave it in the truck because it is too cumbersome to pack around.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Determining a suitable rangefinder at a cheap price boils down to the best you can afford. You, therefore, should look at specific features that are important and buy a rangefinder that meets your specifications and offers the best price.
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