Looking for the best rangefinder for prairie dogs? Read on and find the best rangefinders for prairie dogs. Precision and aim are the most important requirements when hunting prairie dogs. Without the two, you will have a hard time hitting your targets.
A rangefinder provides the necessary distance data needed for the execution of precise shots. Over the past years, the popularity of rangefinders for prairie dogs has grown tremendously. It has become one of the most vital pieces of gear a hunter can buy.
What Makes a Great Prairie Dogs Rangefinder?
In a market flooded with rangefinders, sorting through the options can be taxing. However, you can simplify the search by being intentional in your quest. This is only possible if you know what you are looking for. Several attributes define a prairie dogs rangefinder.
Firstly, the rangefinder should be easy-to-use and carry around. The best rangefinders for prairie dogs should have clean displays and an intuitive menu for hassle-free functionality in the field. A lightweight design means you can move around strapped to your neck without feeling burdened.
Like other optics, the quality of a hunting rangefinder is determined by the type of glass used in the lenses. You want the best images in the field, so high-quality glass is imperative in a prairie dogs rangefinder. Rangefinders with the finest glass transmit light optimally, reduce glare, and resist scratching.
Another critical component is angle compensation. This feature is useful in directing the shot where they are supposed to hit. This function makes the difference when taking down small targets from a distance.
First-rated hunting rangefinders should have adequate power. This is crucial as you will only have the reticle fixed in the right spot. The most ideal power for ranging prairie dogs is 5x to 7x. At higher power, a proper read is hard to get when holding the rangefinder by hand, and a tripod will help hold the rangefinder for a proper read.
Lastly, look for a rangefinder with broad applications. Rangefinders with built-in software for ballistics and Bluetooth capability give hunters precision never heard before. You can match the rangefinder to the rifle loads through these functions for a more tailored shooting solution. This tethering lets you take the best shot possible.
7 Best Rangefinders for Prairie Dogs
If you are looking for the best rangefinder for prairie dogs, you have come to the right place. Below, you will find a review of the best rangefinders which are ideal for hunting prairie dogs. Let’s take a look.
1) SIG SAUER KILO1400BDX 5x20mm Laser Rangefinder
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The SIG SAUER KILO1400BDX 5x20mm is one of the best rangefinders for prairie dogs. It brings virtually every feature you require to have a successful hunting trip.
For starters, it has a compact and lightweight design. This enhances its ease of portability in the hunting field. It is crafted from magnesium for long-lasting durability and has a binocular-style eyecup and diopter adjustment for comfortable glassing.
It has a HyperScan, which provides range updates 4 times per second in scan mode. This helps optimize your accuracy. Furthermore, the 5x magnification is handy when hunting targets at a distance as it brings them closer.
This rangefinder also features a SpectraCoat anti-reflection coating, maximizing light transmission for superior optical clarity. Other noteworthy features included are a liquid crystal display that provides superior low-light performance and weather-resistant housing so you can hunt with confidence even when it is raining.
Pros
- 5x fixed magnification
- 1200 yds maximum range
- Made for Hunting
- 0.1 yds accuracy
- SpectraCoat anti-reflection coating
- Durable magnesium housing
- Compact and ultralight
- Hyperscan technology
- Advanced LCD
- Binocular style eyecup
- Line of Sight
- IPX-7 water resistant
Cons
- Batteries not included
2) Leica Rangemaster CRF 2800 .COM Rangefinders
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Hunting prairie dogs get better with the Leica Rangemaster CRF 2800.COM Rangefinder. It is built using advanced technologies to help you hunt like a pro and has a precise distance measurement out to 2,800 yards.
Featuring a red LED display with automatic brightness, this rangefinder provides outstandingly clear, tack-sharp images even in low-light settings. This guarantees simple and reliable reading of the distance measured and the ballistic output values.
Furthermore, the rangefinder has an extremely fast scan mode, providing range updates 3 times per second and displaying the readings in decimal numbers for greater accuracy.
When it comes to construction, this optical device has a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic housing which is both durable and light as a feather. It is also waterproof and dustproof for added protection. Lastly, it is compact for easy packability and portability.
Pros
- Precise distance measurement up to 2,800 yards.
- 2800 yds range
- Compact and lightweight design
- Waterproof and dustproof
- AquaDura lens coating
- Ultra-fast scan mode
- Easy operation
- Red LED display
- Carbon-fiber reinforced plastic housing
- Bluetooth 4.1, Smartphone App, Leica Hunting App
- 500 hours of battery life
- +/-0.5 yds accuracy
- Connects to a smartphone
- Measurement in both Meters and Yards
Cons
- None
3) Leupold RX-FullDraw 4, Digital Laser Rangefinder
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Leupold has a good reputation for quality in all their optical devices, and the RX-FullDraw 4 Digital Laser Rangefinder is no exception. It is built with the most advanced technology to help take the guesswork of range estimation out of your hands.
It has a fixed 6x magnification with a maximum detection range of 1200 yards. This will help you take an accurate shot even when you are too far from the target. Moreover, it has fully multi-coated optics which maximize light transmission to provide excellent optical clarity, and an OLED display that uses bright red characters to provide clear distance readings.
This rangefinder is built and ready for hunting. In addition to having high-quality housing, it is fully water-resistant for use in all weather conditions. It also features Flightpath technology which uses the bow’s ballistics to show the highest point of your arrow’s flight, and a Line of Sight, which measures the distance to a target in a straight line, no matter the incline and decline.
Pros
- 6x fixed magnification
- 1,200 yards maximum range
- Waterproof
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Armored coating
- Lightweight design
- OLED display
- Flightpath technology
- Line of Sight
Cons
- None
4) Vortex Razor 4000 7x25mm Laser Rangefinder LRF-250
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When it comes to versatility, it is hard to beat the Razor 4000 7x25mm Laser Rangefinder from Vortex. It makes an excellent companion for seasoned hunters, archers, and shooters. It has a 7x fixed magnification with a maximum detection range of 4000 yards.
Vortex made this rangefinder with ease of use in mind. First, it has an ultralightweight design for easy portability. It is compact for convenient packability and comes with a utility clip to keep it close at hand. Furthermore, each model is tripod compatible for comfortable hands-free use.
This rangefinder provides a scan feature that provides continuous distance measurements, two range modes, and four target modes; normal, first, last, and extended laser range. It also features an HD optical system and X plus fully multi-coated lenses, which provide excellent image brightness and clarity.
When it comes to construction, this optical device is built to handle tough field conditions. It has an Armortek coating to protect the lenses from scratches and a rubber armor that provides a secure, non-slip grip. It is also sealed with O-rings to ensure reliable waterproof performance.
Pros
- 4000 yds range
- 9 ft minimum focus range
- 2 yds accuracy
- Four target modes
- Scan function
- Tripod mountable
- X plus fully multi-coated lenses
- 7x fixed magnification
- Two range modes, HAD and LoS
- HD optical system
- Waterproof construction
- Rugged rubber armor
- Armortek lens coating
Cons
- None
5) Leupold RX-2800 TBR/W Laser Rangefinder
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Next on our list is the Leupold RX-2800 TBR/W Laser Rangefinder. Whether you are hunting prairie dogs in the backyard or on the farm, this rangefinder has you covered. It offers fast and accurate ranging to 2800 yards with +/-1 yard accuracy.
This laser rangefinder is built with hunters in mind. Thanks to the red OLED display, it delivers exceptional image brightness and clarity for confident target shooting even in low light settings. Even better, it has an Alpha IQ ranging engine, making target acquisition as quick as lightning and incredibly accurate at long distances.
More importantly, the rangefinder is built to last. It has durable and impact-resistant aluminum housing with textured slip-resistant rubber armor.
It is also 100% waterproof to stand used in extreme climatic conditions. Other handy features include a scan mode, shot angle compensation, and a lightweight design.
Pros
- Unparalleled accuracy at short and long ranges
- 2800 yds range
- Rubberized non-slip armor
- Lightweight and compact
- Waterproof construction
- Red OLED display
- Alpha IQ ranging engine
- Scan mode
- True ballistic range with wind
- Robust aluminum housing
- Black Armor finish
Cons
- None
6) Nikon LASERFORCE RANGEFINDER Binocular
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You should invest in the Nikon LASER FORCE RANGEFINDER Binocular for better prairie dog hunting success. It will help you spot the game instantly and get an accurate range to plan your shot.
It has a high-visibility OLED rangefinder display that provides ultra-bright and clear image views and distance measurements. For targets less than 100m/yards, it displays in increments of 0.1m/yard and 1m/yd for distances over 100 yards.
Moreover, this binocular features fully multi-coated lenses, which optimize light transmission for bright and crisp images, and ED glass which corrects chromatic aberration, which causes color fringing.
In terms of construction, this optic is built to withstand a lifetime of tough handling. It is made with rugged aluminum alloy and has tough rubber armor, which offers a sure grip even in the wettest environments. It is also sealed with O-rings and nitrogen purged, so it is fully waterproof and fog proof.
Pros
- Rugged aluminum alloy construction
- 1100 – 1900 yds range
- 10 yds minimum range
- Lightweight design
- Long battery life
- Multi-Layer Coated optical coating
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Tough rubber armoring
- High-visibility OLED display
- Flip-down objective lens covers
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Incline/ Decline technology
Cons
- Quite pricey
7) ATN Laser Ballistics Range Finder
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Another best rangefinder for prairie dogs on our list is the ATN Laser Ballistics Range Finder. It ranges the target at about 1500 yards with unprecedented precision. It is also very simple to use, even for beginners.
Weighing just 0.33 pounds, this rangefinder is ultra-portable. It is designed to connect to an ATN day/night/thermal smart HD scope through Bluetooth. Once paired, it feeds the ballistic calculator of your ATN Smart scope with range data for automatic point-of-impact correction.
It also has a fog mode which allows for easy distance measurement reading in adverse weather conditions, and it is waterproof for all-weather use.
Pros
- 1000/1500 yards range
- Accurate to +/-1 yard/meter
- Smartphone/scope Bluetooth connectivity
- Waterproof construction
- 6x magnification
- Class 1 eye-safe IR laser
- Fog mode
- Lightweight design
- Long eye relief
- Slip-resistant rubber armoring
Cons
- Button placement
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Criteria for Choosing the Best Rangefinders for Prairie Dogs
Whether you are looking to upgrade your old rangefinder or are in the market for your first rangefinder for prairie dogs, below are some of the important factors you should consider before settling on a particular model.
Maximum Detection Range
The first and most important point is the rangefinder’s maximum detection range. Your ideal detection range depends on how far you will shoot your targets.
A rangefinder with fewer than 1000 yards is ideal for short-range hunting, while a model with a detection range over 1000 yards is ideal for mid and long-range hunting.
Durability
The durability of any rangefinder determines how reliable it will be. When hunting prairie dogs, it is best to invest in a rangefinder built with high-quality materials to stand rough handling.
Rangefinders built of magnesium alloy or high-grade aluminum offer the best durability. Also, make sure that you select a waterproof and fog-resistant device so you can use it even under extreme climatic conditions.
Magnification
If you are looking to use the rangefinder for long-range applications, make sure that you select a model that has a high magnification. It will help bring the distant targets closer.
Typically, the best rangefinders for prairie dogs have a magnification power between 4x to 6x, which is more than sufficient.
Software
Basic rangefinders mainly have two basic jobs. To precisely range a distant target and provide the ability to customize the result by either choosing a target mode or an angle compensating feature.
On the other hand, sophisticated rangefinders have more handy features to help make your hunting expedition more successful. They have features like ballistic calculators, Bluetooth functionality, GPS, etc.
Portability
Another important feature you should consider is portability. You will want to invest in a rangefinder that is as portable as possible. To achieve this, try to look for a compact model for easy packability and lightweight for easy carrying in the field.
Cost
Different rangefinders out there have different costs. It is always important to set a budget and stick to it. This will help you filter out what is a realistic buy and what is not.
With rangefinders, extra features often make the rangefinder cost more. You should have a list of the features you need, then look for a model that offers those features while aligning with your budget needs.
What Should I Look for in a Hunting Range Finder?
Whether you are a bowhunter or a rifle hunter, a range finder is a critical addition to your arsenal. Hunting rangefinders help eliminate the guesswork of your shot, making your shots as accurate as possible. Leave the measuring to the device on your next hunt.
Picking a rangefinder for bow hunting is not that complicated. With archery, lasers do not need to calculate distances or ballistics calculations. The primary component of a bow hunting rangefinder is accurate angle-compensating software. To precisely aim the arrows, you need the actual distance of the target, considering the angle you are shooting from.
The other key aspect of a bow hunting rangefinder is the last target priority mode. The function ignores all clutter and shows the furthest distance only. This function is useful when hunting in misty conditions and acquiring targets in forested environments.
When looking for a rifle hunting rangefinder, you must look for units with ballistic software that match your hunting-rifle caliber and load. The rangefinder should have the power of at least 7x, an angle compensation function, and a fast-scan mode ranging moving animals.
What is the Best Laser Rangefinder?
Precision and accuracy make laser rangefinders useful in long-range shooting. Proper device use gives you better distance control and, ultimately, better shots. While a high degree of accuracy is one of the noteworthy aspects of a laser rangefinder, you will want a rangefinder that is portable, lightweight, and seamless to carry.
The last laser rangefinder should also have good battery life for a smooth hunting experience. Moreso, the rangefinder should be constructed to withstand outdoor elements. Robust, weatherproof, compact construction is the threshold for a good laser rangefinder.
Best Rangefinders for Prairie Dogs FAQs
1) What is a Good Rangefinder for Prairie Dogs?
A good rangefinder for prairie dogs has all the features you need to hunt better. It should have a decent magnification and range-gauging capability. It should also be highly portable, easy to use and highly accurate.
2) Can You Use a Golf Rangefinder for Hunting?
Yes. You can use a golf rangefinder to hunt prairie dogs and other games if you are hunting at short or medium ranges.
3) Is A Rangefinder Necessary for Hunting?
If you are looking to stay accurate on the subjects you are hunting, a rangefinder is a handy tool. It will eliminate guesswork when ranging and increase hitting your target accurately.
Conclusion
Finding the best rangefinder for prairie dogs doesn’t have to be a long, daunting, and unpleasant experience. As you can see, the market offers a wide array of models. All rangefinders listed above are quality, reliable, simple to use, and ideal for multiple outdoor applications, not just hunting prairie dogs.
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