In bow hunting, accuracy determines success or failure. Compared to firearms, bows have a shorter range and arrows travel at a slower speed. Any misjudgment of distance can result in a missed shot or, worse, a wounded animal escaping, preventing a humane kill.
So, do you need a rangefinder for bow hunting?
Some experienced hunters rely on experience to estimate distances by eye. However, with advancements in hunting technology, rangefinders have become a preferred tool for many modern bow hunters.
Today, we will explore the impact of rangefinders on bow hunting and help you decide whether investing in one is the right choice for you.
Part 1. The Role of a Rangefinder in Bow Hunting
A rangefinder's primary function is to measure distance precisely, helping hunters make the necessary shooting adjustments. Unlike firearms, where a small margin of error in distance estimation may still result in a hit, bow hunting demands precise range calculation due to the relatively slow arrow speed and parabolic trajectory.
Below are the key roles of using a rangefinder in bow hunting:
1. Eliminating Distance Misjudgment
Estimating distance by eye is prone to significant errors, as various environmental factors, such as lighting, terrain, and background contrast, can distort perception. Even experienced hunters can misjudge distances by 5 to 20 yards, which is a critical mistake in bow hunting.
A slight miscalculation in range can cause an arrow to fly too high or too low, leading to a missed shot or, worse, a non-lethal hit that allows the animal to escape wounded.
A rangefinder ensures precise distance measurement, allowing hunters to aim correctly and increase the likelihood of an ethical, one-shot kill.
2. Angle Compensation for Elevated Hunting Positions
Hunting from a tree stand or on hilly terrain introduces additional challenges, as the line-of-sight distance differs from the true horizontal distance that affects arrow trajectory. Shooting at an incorrect range can result in overshooting or undershooting the target.
Rangefinders with Angle Compensation Technology, such as Angle Range Compensation (ARC) or True Ballistic Range (TBR), adjust for the incline or decline and provide the actual horizontal shooting distance.
This feature ensures that hunters can compensate for elevation changes and make precise adjustments for a clean, effective shot.
3. Helping Hunters Select the Right Aim Point
Most bow hunters use a multi-pin sight, where each pin corresponds to a set distance (e.g., 20 yards, 30 yards, 40 yards, etc.). Without a rangefinder, determining which pin to use relies on estimation, increasing the risk of an incorrect shot.
A rangefinder instantly displays the exact distance to the target, allowing the hunter to select the correct sight pin for the shot.
This ensures maximum accuracy and confidence, reducing the chances of a misplaced arrow and improving hunting efficiency.
Part 2. The Challenges of Bow Hunting Without a Rangefinder
Without a rangefinder, bow hunters face several challenges that can directly impact their accuracy and success rate. Let's take a deeper look at the challenges faced when hunting without this crucial tool:
Increased Shooting Errors
When estimating distance by eye, even seasoned hunters can make errors in range estimation, which significantly affects the accuracy of their shots. Misjudging the distance by a few yards may seem small, but in bow hunting, where arrow trajectory is highly sensitive to changes in distance, these errors can be catastrophic.
A slight underestimation of distance could cause an arrow to fall short of its target, while overestimating the distance could lead to overshooting.
With no rangefinder, you're left relying on experience and intuition, both of which are prone to inaccuracies, especially in dynamic hunting conditions. This increases the risk of missing the shot entirely or making a non-lethal hit that results in a wounded animal escaping.
Increased Risk of Game Escaping
A poorly executed shot caused by misjudging the distance can result in a wounded animal that is not killed immediately. This makes it harder to track the animal, and depending on the injury, it may escape into difficult terrain or die later, causing unnecessary suffering.
Difficulty in Complex Terrain
Hunting in challenging environments like forests, mountainous regions, or while in a tree stand introduces an entirely new set of difficulties. Estimating the correct horizontal distance or calculating the correct shooting angle in these settings can be incredibly difficult, even for the most experienced hunters.
Inclines and declines can drastically affect the trajectory of the arrow, making it crucial to know the true distance rather than the line-of-sight measurement.
Without a rangefinder, estimating the angle of elevation or decline and adjusting for it becomes nearly impossible, leading to incorrect shots that either miss the target or fall short of the intended spot. In areas like steep hillsides, dense woods, or elevated tree stands, such miscalculations are even more likely.
Part 3. How to Choose the Best Rangefinder for Bow Hunting?
As a professional rangefinder manufacturer, we recommend looking for the following hunting rangefinder key features to ensure performs at its best in bow hunting:
- Angle Compensation: When hunting from elevated positions or tree stands, the rangefinder should be able to automatically adjust for shooting angles, providing the True Ballistic Range (TBR) to ensure accurate shots.
- Fast Range Acquisition: A rangefinder that measures distance in 1 second allows hunters to quickly lock onto the target and adjust their aim without losing valuable time.
- Effective Bow Range: Since the typical bow range is between 20 to 70 yards, it’s recommended to choose a rangefinder with a measuring range of 400 to 1000 yards. This ensures you can plan your hunting strategy and account for longer distances as well.
- High-Definition Optics: A 5x to 7x magnification provides a clear view of the target, helping the hunter quickly lock onto the game without losing focus or wasting time.
- Compact & Lightweight Design: The rangefinder should be lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and operate with one hand, without adding extra bulk during the hunt.
- Weather Resistance: Look for a rangefinder with waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant designs, ensuring it can perform reliably in harsh weather conditions.
Part 4. Gogogo Sport Vpro GS60 - Best Rangefinder for Bow Hunting
If you're considering a rangefinder for bow hunting, the Gogogo Sport Vpro GS60 could be the perfect choice for you. Offering an excellent balance of affordability and high performance, this rangefinder is an essential tool for both hunters and shooters.
How Gogogo Sport Vpro GS60 Can Help in Bow Hunting?
Precise Distance Readings
The GS60 delivers accurate distance measurements ranging from 5 to 800/1000 yards, with an impressive +/- 1 meter accuracy. Its 6x magnification ensures a clear and detailed view of your target, allowing you to make precise shots every time.
Adaptive Red Display
Equipped with the latest display technology, the GS60 ensures optimal visibility in both bright and dark conditions. When you press the side button, the display automatically turns red in low light and black in bright light, making it easy to read in any environment.
Horizontal Distance & Angle Compensation
The GS60 includes a built-in horizontal distance calculator (ARC), which provides accurate horizontal distance and angle data. This feature is perfect for both bowhunters and shooters, as it adjusts for shot angle, eliminating the need for additional calculations. Simply use the appropriate sight pin or bullet drop and wind adjustment for the displayed range, and you're ready to shoot.
Brighter and Clearer Optics
Compared to earlier models, the GS60 boasts upgraded optics that allow more light to pass through and provide a brighter and clearer view, even in darker environments.
Risk-Free Guarantee
With the GS60, you can purchase it with peace of mind. If you experience any quality issues, you can receive a full refund or a replacement within 1 year of purchase.
Whether you're a seasoned bowhunter or a beginner, the Gogogo Sport Vpro GS60 is an excellent rangefinder that delivers on both performance and value, ensuring a successful hunting experience every time.
Summary: Do You Need a Rangefinder for Bow Hunting?
The answer is: Yes, a rangefinder can significantly increase your success rate in bow hunting! For hunters who want to improve their shooting accuracy and adapt to challenging terrains, a high-quality rangefinder is an essential piece of equipment. If you're looking to gain an edge in your hunting adventures, Gogogo Sport Vpro can be your most reliable hunting companion!
