Do bow hunters use rangefinders?

biederboat · 02-14-2003, 05:17 PM

I found a Leica laser "range finder". It's not a typical style, it shoots a visible laser target and gives you an extremely accurate distance, much better than a look-through unit (typically used in construction). Trouble is, only goes to 100 meters (just over 100 yards). Would such a device be useful for a bow hunter? It has an optical attachment with a target that assists in longer distances. I might offer it up for sale (tried to find owner with no luck). Retail is over $400. I would try and trade it for a rifle or something. Would a bow hunter possibly be interested?

Thanks,
Biederboat

[ 02-14-2003, 06:27 PM: Message edited by: biederboat ]

hickwithaflyrod · 02-14-2003, 05:37 PM

What type of rifle are you looking for????private message me.....

John

Crayfin · 02-16-2003, 05:17 PM

I would think that that thing would be the cats meow for a bow hunter! Alas.................I already own the "other" one!

Crayfin

Pan Fry · 03-06-2003, 03:20 PM

Just got a rangefinder (Bushnell Yardage Pro - Scout) for my birthday from my wife. I've been wanting this for awhile. As I stalk and walk, I can set up and instantly know what yardage the animal is at and choose the correct pin on my bow. It beats guessing. I used to walk the distances, but you can;t do that everytime.

Gus Orviston · 03-08-2003, 09:15 AM

I use them often, I have a yardage pro, and during archery season I use it to practice judging distances, and when I am in new terrain to get an idea of how the timber, background, slopes are playing with my head. And of course if I am just sitting still. However, when close to critters I might not use it because you are often too close at that point for the extra movement...this is where the practicing and experience comes in.

gus

stick flicker · 03-10-2003, 03:07 PM

I bought one to use last season, but when in the final seconds of crunch time I just couldn't use it. I need to come up with a way to attach it to me so it is easily accessable and then use it. I missed a six point bull this year on opening day because I over shot him, I didn't have time to range the bull. Practice all the time I do, but its tuff bowhunting period.

6wapiti6 · 03-10-2003, 03:31 PM

Hey stick flicker...I use the binosystem from cabela's. It's a great way to carry your bino's or rangefinder. Stays tight to your chest and remains out of the way while shooting. Best $20 I've spent.

fishingfirst · 03-10-2003, 03:58 PM

A rangefinder would take all the fun out of it! Actually I'm sure that would make life much easier, I just choose to be stubborn and do it the old fashioned way......and by the way I still cuss every time I mis-judge the distance. Just part of the fun I guess.

Practice, practice, and more practice, not only at home, but in the woods as well. It makes a big difference when it comes time for that really important shot!

Good hunting,
Scott

outdoor.spec.ops · 03-11-2003, 08:44 AM

I have to disagree about range finders "taking the fun" out of bow hunting. I am much happier after ranging an animal prior to shooting, giving me time to decide if the animal is in a high percentage shot range, or if it the range you thought. I shot an elk a few years back I judged at 45 yards upon first look, but ranged at 57 yards. If I would have flung my arrow the elk would be packing the arrow in the lower brisket. Instead, I creeped closer and got the double lunger.