A laser rangefinder uses a laser beam to determine the distance to an object, they operate on the time of flight principle through sending a laser pulse in a narrow beam to the object and calculating the time taken by the pulse to be reflected off the target and back to the sender. There is general belief that using laser rangefinders is difficult as it needs to be held very steady. That is not entirely true, but it may take a little more practice to get the hang of it.
These tips for using laser rangefinders will have you successfully gauging accurate distances:
- Choose a laser rangefinder specifically made for what you want to use it for; as you might have heard, there are rangefinders designed for fishing, golfing and hunting. For instance, if buying a rangefinder for golfing, make sure you choose among rangefinders meant for golf to ensure you pick up only relevant areas of the course for instance, hazards, flagsticks and bunkers.
- Watch video tutorials, since tips are likely to vary as it depends on the user’s experiences. It only makes sense to look for video tutorials for example on YouTube that are prepared by both amateurs and professionals. This way, you can find a video that resonates with your experience. For instance, look for video tutorials produced by a manufacturer of laser rangefinders or by a pro presumably because they have experience and insight to share.
- Read the manual, most users tend to overlook the importance of reading the users’ manual. It is a good habit to go through the manufacturer’s instructions before configuring the device’s set up to avoid compromises. It is also recommended to read the manual online to learn a lot more about how the device works. For example, on the manual, you might read a particular instruction to hold and aim the device at a target. It is usually suggested to aim the laser rangefinder on the ground first and then click the ranging button to check if it’s properly working.
- Make sure to use the built in technology within the device; most industry leading manufacturers have developed cutting edge technology to make laser rangefinders extra powerful in gauging distances.
- Join in a practice game to get the hang of using a laser range finder; at practice it would do no harm to aim at large targets particularly those that are anywhere between 50 and 100 yards. Prepare to aim at any target lying within the said distance. Once your rangefinder starts to pick up a target, get familiarized with what information is available on the display. If you did not understand the instructions, read again and go back to practice with the laser rangefinder. And if you think the device does not work after using it severally, it is likely defective.
- Take your time; it is said, nothing in the world comes easy. Learning about how laser rangefinders work requires a bit of practice and effort. It is essential to identify whether your rangefinder is giving consistent readings or not so you can be certain of how far you should aim. Keep in mind that in some cases, technology will fail so come prepared when that time happens. For example, if you are convinced you are only 10 yards in front of a target and the rangefinder acquired a reading of 100 yards, it is a sign that you should measure the yardage one more time.
- Do your research; it is not enough to rely on your laser rangefinder all the time. Familiarize yourself with environments where you expect to use you rangefinders.
- Do not make it a crutch; do not become too reliant on a rangefinder. It is normally impossible to use the rangefinder when a deer sneaks up to you. This means you might need to be able to ‘eyeball’ the range.
- When using your rangefinder, ensure you can reach it with ease; for example, you may choose to hang it over the neck and under the armpit hence it hangs approximately at belt level which means it can tuck in a coat pocket. This makes it easy to grab it quickly without looking focusing on a deer and letting it drop off while hooking up a release. However way you choose to wear it, think about how you will use it; have a way to access and put it away so you can shoot quickly.
Bottom line
A laser rangefinder is easy to operate provided you know what buttons to press when targeting. Of course you have to read the readings on the display. Some external factors such as weather and the way you hold the device are likely to affect the general readings. It is hence imperative to use a laser rangefinder under good weather conditions. Overall, with its multiple benefits, laser rangefinders are fast becoming a necessity for many sports.
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