Best Bushnell Rangefinders – Buyers Guide & Reviews
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Whenever you’re trying to line up the perfect shot from a distance, you need to make sure that you have as much accurate information as possible so as to guarantee that you will hit your target. While many people will try to do this the old fashioned way and guess based on landmarks and line of sight, there is no reason to rely on such inaccurate assessments. Especially not when we live in the era of high technology.
While most of us are used to having gadgets with us at all times, when you’re out in the field you may think that electronic devices have no place. That’s where you would be wrong. One such item that you should carry with you at all times is the best Bushnell rangefinder.
A rangefinder is a handy little device that can accurately measure and dictate how far away you are from particular target. Whether it’s a golf hole or a trophy buck, knowing an accurate distance can make all the difference in whether or not your shot is successful.
As far as these machines go, one of the best manufacturers is Bushnell. This company has a long history of making high-quality field equipment, and you can be sure that you will get the best accuracy and versatility with these range finders.
How To Choose The Right Bushnell Rangefinder
While this device is relatively straightforward (literally), there are still some important factors that you have to consider when picking out the best model for your needs. The best part is that these considerations work no matter what your application is, meaning that you can use the same rangefinder for hunting or golfing or anything else that you may need. Instead of buying separate devices for each use, you can multi-task.
So, with that in mind, here is what you should be paying attention to when comparing rangefinders.
Accuracy
No matter what you need it for, a rangefinder has to be accurate. If it isn’t, then you aren’t doing much better then using your best guess and comparing landmarks. While all of these devices are accurate, some are more fine-tuned than others. The reason for that is that some Rangefinders are specifically designed for closer ranges, which means that they are much more accurate than those that offer a greater scope.
Typically speaking, what you want to have is a rangefinder that is accurate within one yard or less. Some of the higher end models will be precise to a half-yard, but usually, that is only within a specified range. For example, if a rangefinder has a total range of 1000 yards, it may be
accurate to one yard for the whole thing. However, some particular models may be more precise within a span of 100 yards or so, meaning that if you are closer to your target, you can get a better reading.
Finally, some rangefinders that are designed specifically for archery can be accurate to within a foot or half a foot, which is imperative if you use it for that purpose.
Size and Durability
When comparing different models, you want to get one that fits well in your hand. If it’s too small, then you risk dropping it on accident. If it’s too big, however, then you may have a harder time keeping it steady as you scan the area.
Another thing to bear in mind is the shape of the device. Most rangefinders look like camcorders, meaning that you will hold it with your hand on one side. Other models, however, may have a horizontal shape which allows you to use them like a set of binoculars. While the difference can be minimal, sometimes the design will make it much easier to use.
Finally, you want to get a rangefinder that has sufficiently durable housing. If you do wind up dropping it, you don’t want to have to replace it every time. While most rangefinders can take a small drop of a foot or so, only the higher end models can handle the impact of falling from face height.
Range
I mentioned this briefly already, but when looking at a rangefinder you want to make sure that it can cover a sufficient area for your needs. Most models can offer clear views up to 1000 feet, but higher end rangefinders can go up to a mile.
Another thing to look at is the level of magnification. Usually, the level of zoom is fixed, meaning that you cannot adjust it. Thus, you need to make sure that the magnification setting is ideal for your needs. For example, a 7x rangefinder is best for long distance shots, whereas a 5x is perfect for medium or close-range ones.
Display
If you’re trying to find your target on a bright, sunny day, it can be hard to see the readings sometimes. To combat this problem, you will need to find a rangefinder that can adjust depending on the brightness of your terrain. Some will allow you to switch between colors to find the best one, while others will darken the screen to help you see better. Clarity of vision is crucial out in the field; if you can’t see the numbers, then what is the point?
Top 5 Best Bushnell Rangefinders – In Depth Reviews
1. Bushnell Tour V3 Rangefinder
- EXCELLENT COMPATIBILITY - Designed for Phone x, Phone 8/8 Plus, 7/7 Plus, and any device
- Class 1 laser with <0.5mW average power output
Our first stop is the Bushnell Tour V3 Rangefinder. For the most part, these devices are used out on the golf course as a way to measure the distance between the golfer and the hole, but they can be utilized in any situation where distance is a critical factor. With that in mind, the Tour V3 is designed for golf, but can easily be deployed for any field application.
What makes the V3 such a valuable companion is that it is both compact and durable. No matter what the weather conditions are, this rangefinder will work and provide you with the best results. The range of this particular model is between ten and one thousand yards, with an accuracy rating of plus or minus one yard.
If you’re trying to find a golf flag, it will ping it precisely with a range of up to 300 yards, which is more than enough for you to make an informed decision.
Another fantastic feature of this rangefinder is the Jolt Vibration function. That means that if you have to scan an area continuously, the device will keep your view steady, no matter how much your hand shakes. As you scan, it will give you precise distances to any and all targets that you come across, meaning that you can get a broader sense of what you’re dealing with.
2. Bushnell Pro X7 Jolt Slope Rangefinder
- Pin Seeker with JOLT technology ensures you know when you hit the flag
- Ranges from 5 yards to 1 mile; 550+ yards to flags; 1/2 yard accuracy from 5 to 125 yards
- 7x magnification and premium HD optics ensure bright clear images
Our next stop is the Bushnell Pro X7. When comparing this to the V3 model, this is a clear and obvious upgrade. That is not to say that the V3 is not a great device on its own, but if you want added features and increased range, then you will get the Pro X7 instead. For those who are looking for a bit more power out in the field, this is the rangefinder for you.
First of all, what makes the X7 stand out is that it works like a set of binoculars, rather than a camcorder.
Most rangefinders work vertically, but this one works horizontally. When scanning an area for a target, the ergonomics of this model are much more comfortable.
Secondly, the range of the X7 is incredible. It can magnify up to seven times, which gives it a total scanning area of up to a mile. The total scope is between 5 and 1609 meters, which is more than enough for any golfer or hunter.
Finally, the best part about the X7 is that it will automatically gauge your distance and adjust depending on the slope of the terrain. For most rangefinders, they will give you a straight distance reading, meaning that if you’re shooting from an incline (or decline), you won’t get the most accurate measurement. That’s not a problem with this model.
Other features of this rangefinder include improved HD optics, pin seeker technology to tell you when you’ve hit the flag, and stability control so you can get the best images without worrying about shaking the device. The X7 is also fully waterproof and comes with its own carrying bag for protection. Finally, it has Bushnell’s standard two-year warranty.
3. Bushnell Tour Z6 Jolt Rangefinder
- VDT Technology optimizes digital readout
- Waterproof for consistent use in any weather situation
- PinSeeker with JOLT Technology to confirm the laser has zeroed in on the flag
If you want something that is a cross between the V3 and the X7, then your best bet will be to check out the Tour Z6. This particular model has the power and optics of the X7, but it is priced and sized similarly to the V3. Overall, this is a fantastic rangefinder for anyone who wants to get better at their game but doesn’t care about high-tech add-ons.
The first thing that I like about this model is the shape. While I do prefer the binocular design of the X7,
I find that the Z6 is another winner with regards to ergonomics. The eyepiece is extruded from the base, which makes it much easier to use, especially if you have glasses on.
Secondly, the range for this particular model is excellent. With a magnification setting of 6x, you can see up to 1300 yards away with pristine clarity and accuracy. The total range of this device is between 5 and 1300 yards, making it just shy of the X7. Where they are similar, however, is the level of accuracy at 125 yards. If you measure a shot within that range, you can get a precise reading within a half yard, making it much better for short or medium-sized shots.
While the Z6 does not come with scope adjustment, that only means that it is legal to carry on golfing tournaments. The clarity of vision is superb, and it comes with Bushnell’s stability control, so you don’t have to worry about shakes messing up your line of sight. It also has the pin seeker function which tells you when the flag is in range.
Finally, this rangefinder has a durable, waterproof housing (with case included) and comes with Bushnell’s famous two-year limited warranty.
4. Bushnell Tour X Jolt Golf Laser GPS/Rangefinder
- Exchange technology offers you Slope when you want it and makes it tournament legal when you need it
- Dual Display Technology lets you toggle between bright red display or the crisp black display based on lighting conditions or user preference
- PinSeeker with JOLT Technology provides feedback that you have locked onto the flag
Thus far, we’ve looked at rangefinders that offer only one method of measuring distances. For the most part, these devices can either provide you with a standard measurement (straight line) or a sloped reading, which is when the incline of the terrain is taken into account. One thing to keep in mind is that sloped readouts are not legal in tournaments, which means that if you rely on it during your practice season, you won’t be able to use your rangefinder in competition.
That is unless you get the Bushnell Tour X model. The X in the name stands for “exchange,” which means that you have the option to switch back and forth between straight line measurements and slope adjustments. So, you get the best of both worlds without having to buy a separate device for competition.
The other thing that sets this rangefinder apart from the others on this list is that you also have the option to change the readout settings on the fly. You can quickly toggle between bright red or crisp black readings, which means that you can adjust depending on how bright it is outside.
As far as standard features, the X model has a range of 5-1300 yards, with an accuracy reading of one-half yard. It is set at 6x magnification, which makes it ideal for medium to long range shots. As with all Bushnell rangefinders, it comes with pin seeker technology to better locate the golf flag, and it has stability control to help ensure that you get the best reading possible. Finally, it is waterproof, comes with a carrying case, and is backed by Bushnell’s two-year warranty.
5. Bushnell Michael Waddell Bone Collector Edition
- Quality optics with stunning HD clarity; 100 percent quality materials used and tested extensively
- Beautifully designed with durability built to last; Simple single button operation in a compact, lightweight housing
- Displays exact distance to target from 10 to 600 yard with +/- one yard accuracy
Our final stop on the Bushnell Rangefinder tour is with the Michael Waddell Bone Collector Edition model. So far, we’ve only seen devices that are designed with golfing in mind. However, if hunting is more your style, then this rangefinder is for you.
The first thing you’ll notice about it is that it has a cool camouflage design. Not only is it practical out in the field, but it is rugged and durable as well. While it can’t handle long drops, if it does take a spill it should keep working without any issues. The housing is also waterproof, making it ideal for most hunting conditions.
The range on this particular model is significantly less than the others, but that is because it is built for hunters, not golfers. It can give you an accurate readout between ten to six hundred yards, which is perfect for most rifle scopes. The accuracy rating is one yard, which is ideal for most environments. Additionally, the magnification setting on this device is 4x, making it perfect for close range shots.
The optics of this rangefinder are pristine, giving you precise clarity even in low-light conditions.
How Does Pinseeker Technology Work?
This video will help to explain the pinseeker tech from Bushnell.
Final Verdict
Overall, when it comes to rangefinders, you have to decide what application you will use it for before you can make a final decision. If golfing is your intent, then I would highly recommend the X7 model as it has the best design and features of any of the models on this list. If hunting is more important, then the Bone Collector can be a great option, although the X7 can still be a viable choice for any hunters out there. The reason that I would choose the Bushnell X7 is that it has better accuracy rating for close-up targets, and you get the slope adjustment which will compensate if you are in a hide or a tree.
