Laser Rangefinder Review

Nikon knows what they are doing when it comes to optics, they have a reputation in the hunting world for making quality rifle scopes, spotting scopes, binoculars and now rangefinders; all at a price most hunters can afford.  In general, a Nikon rangefinder will have clear optics, a simple display screen and a few features that a hunter would be likely to use.

Nikon Rangefinder Ratings
The five models that had enough reviews to calculate a cumulative review score all scored 90 or more points, which is quite impressive, and is a pretty good indication that owners of these rangefinders feel that they are a good value.  So if you are having a tough time deciding on a rangefinder (don’t worry your not alone) the Nikon that fits you’re application would probably be a good choice.  Below is a brief description of some common features of the Nikon range finder lineup, followed by a comparison chart of Nikon’s current production rangefinders. 

Common Features
Tru-Target – Many Nikon rangefinders are equipped with a Tru-Target feature, this is essentially Nikon’s version of target priority. Nikon rangefinders with this feature can be set to either First or Distant Priority. While in First Priority mode if the rangefinder receives a split reading (i.e. two objects in one push of the button) it will report the closer of the two objects. Conversely when the unit is in Distant mode, it will report the further of two objects when encountering a split reading, this is helpful when trying to range through branches or similar cover.

Diopter Adjustment – Nikon rangefinders are known for there large amount of diopter adjustment. In simple terms diopter adjustment is how much range of focus the optic has. Most Nikon rangefinders are equipped with +/- 4, which is twice as much as some of its competitors. 

ID – Some rangefinders in the Nikon line feature the ID technology, which stands for Incline/Decline and is Nikon’s version of angel compensation. When in angle compensated mode the rangefinder will return an angle compensated distance in yards. Simplicity – Another common feature of the Nikon rangefinder line is their relative simplicity; even models that feature options like Tru-Target and ID technology are very straightforward and user friendly.

Dual Use – Most of the rangefinders in the Nikon line are of a 6x magnification, which generally make them well suited for either archery or bowhunting. Furthermore, models like the Riflehunter series can be used for either bow or rifle hunting without having to change to a “bow” or “rifle” mode like many other rangefinders on the market.

Nikon Rangefinder Comparison Chart

Model	RifleHunter 1000	Archer's Choice Max	RifleHunter 550	Monarch Gold 1200	Archer's Choice	Prostaff 550
Picture
Cumulative Review Score	96(15)	New	97(61)	94(43)	92(88)	90(73)
Estimated Price	$349	$325	$289	$449	$259	$199
Mag.	6x	6x	6x	7x	6x	6x
Weight	6.9oz	6.9oz	6.3oz	9.8oz	6.3oz	6.3oz
L x W x H	4.6 x 1.6 x 2.9	4.6 x 1.6 x 2.9	5.1 x 1.5 x 2.7	5.7 x 1.8 x 3.2	5.1 x 1.5 x 2.7	5.1 x 1.5 x 2.7
Reflective	1000 yds	200 yds	550 yds	1200 yds	100 yds	550 yds
ID	Y	Y	Y	N	Y	N

Nikon Rangefinder Reviews

Nikon RifleHunter 1000 Rangefinder –  One of the newest Nikon rangefinders the Riflehunter 1000 has some innovative new features and has the potential to be a front runner in the all purpose rangefinder category.  One of the most unique features is a new display that changes from grey during the day to orange as darkness approaches.

Nikon Archer’s Choice Max Rangefinder – Another rangefinder from Nikon the Archer's Choice Max is similar to the RifleHunter 1000 but has a max range of 200 yards.  The Archer's Choice Max might be a good choice for those who need a little more range than the 100 yards the standard version offers.

Nikon RifleHunter 550 Rangefinder -  This is a great candidate for an all around rangefinder for the outdoorsman that wants to use one unit for both archery and rifle season.  This Nikon is currently the top scoring model of all Nikon's that have been scored and is definitely worth a close look.

Nikon Monarch Gold Laser 1200 Rangefinder -  If you are looking for a good rangefinder mainly for big game rifle hunting and long distance shooting take a look at the Nikon Gold 1200 which is capable of ranging reflective targets out to 1200 yards.

Nikon Archers Choice Rangefinder –  There are a few major differences between this unit and the RifleHunter 550. First it will only read out to 99 yards and therefore is a little cheaper.  Second, this unit is set on first target priority and cannot be adjusted between a first target and distant target priority like the RifleHunter 550.

Nikon ProStaff 550 Laser Rangefinder – A quality choice for an entry level rangefinder.  While it doesn’t have many “extras” it ranges all the way out to 550 yards on reflective targets and would also be a good choice for you if you wanted an all purpose Nikon rangefinder and didn’t need an angle compensation feature. 

Click Here for Current Prices on Nikon Rangefinders at Amazon.com