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People often ask, why don’t rifle scopes have built-in rangefinders?
Let’s find out!
Why Don’t Rifle Scopes Have Built-in Rangefinders?
Rifle scopes don’t have a built-in rangefinder because they are designed to be used with a specific rifle.
How Do Laser Range Finders Work?
There are various kinds of machines available from lots of different companies, but the general concept behind them is the same.
A device uses beams of light to measure distances. Using the speed of these beams of lights, it then determines the distance.
You used to need at least two devices to measure distances and then manually adjust the focal point.
Now some scopes offer an auto-adjusting reticule. Some even automatically adjust the reticule for you!
It has both advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
Simplicity
Use one tool instead of using two different ones.
By consolidating these devices into one, you’ll be able to use them on the same power source. And you won’t need to learn two different devices.
If the LRF is in range, it will be attached to the gun instead of being carried separately from it.
Shot Speed
Since you can keep your eyes focused on where you want to shoot, you’ll be able to take better photos by staying on track while finding the right distance.
If you keep practicing, you’ll be able to take more hits without breaking your firing position; accuracy depends on practice.
It lets you shoot from different positions without having to change your grip.
Disadvantages of Rifle Scope With Built-In Rangefinder
1. Size/Weight
Combining LRFs with scoping devices makes them heavier and bulkier.
It has more parts and technology, so it naturally needs a larger scope. If you’re carrying your rifle around the huntÂing ground, it may be inconvenient for you.
It can also be difficult to shoot from a standstill when using a tripod.
2. Cost
High-tech optical lenses come at a hefty cost.
You get two products in one but sometimes you might pay more than if you had purchased them separately.
It’s nice having a two-in-one device, but you will have to be willing to spend extra money on it.
3. Option Availability
Because the LRF scopes come as a package, there isn’t much customizability.
The LRF systems in scopes are different from one another so what you purchase is what you get.
With so many different types of scoping and handheld laser rangefinders available, you can choose from various brands and find one that suits your needs.
After going through the ups and downs of this new technology, let’s take a look at some of the best high-end riflescopes available today.
Why Dont Rifle Scopes Have Built In Rangefinders?
The 3 Best Rangefinder Scopes
Here’s a quick rundown of the three best rangefinders for your rifle.
ATN X-Sight II HD 5-20
The ATN XSight II HD 5/20 is the best choice among the options.
It has some cool features even though it is the cheapest.
With this rifle, you must first determine where the top and bottom of your intended targets are before calculating the range.
It has an excellent laser rangefinder, video recording capabilities, and wireless internet connectivity.
It records in high definition (1080p) and has an auto-recording function that lets you record and saves your best shots. You can also use it to analyze your shooting technique by reviewing the recorded footage.
That’s not all! This version also includes a ballistic CPU that calculates the exact angles and trajectories of the bullets fired from the gun.
Once all these environmental factors have beÂen taken into account, the scope will create an entirely new point of focus for you.
There are seven different reticle options available for purchase. The magnification ranges from 5X to 20X and uses four AAA batteries.
You can swap them out for a rechargeable battery pack.
With so many features, this device has a huge range of possibilities. It’s 19.5 inches long, weighs 4.4 pounds, and comes with an impressive array of features.
If you’re just starting out with long-range shooting, then this is a good beginner rifle scope. It won’t be anything special, but it will get the job done.
You get a lot of features at a fair price. It is a little bulky and heavy for a rifle scope.
It might be better suited for use as a training aid rather than a dedicated hunting scope, like the Vortex HSMT or PST.
With its ATN X-SIGHT II HD 5-20 rifle scope, you get an amazing day/night optic for hunting, target shooting, and tactical applications. It has a high-resolution display, ballistic calculator, rangefinder, e-compass, GPS,
Use Day & Night in high definition (HD) resolution – our HD technology gives you clear, crisp images at any time.
Zero Range: 100 Yards.Day & Night Vision in Millions of ColoursBest Hunting Optic that Fits the Situation at Hand Field of View at 1,000 Yards240 Feet Initial Velocity 2850FoV
Ballistic Calculator lets you easily figure out exactly where you need to shoot to hit a target at different ranges. It calculates ballistics for both expert long-distance and angled shots.
Burris 200116 Eliminator 4-16×50
The Burris 200116 Eliminator 4-16×50 is a moderately-price option. It isn’t jam-packed with fancy technology but still has its place for quality and added features.
The LRH has a maximum range of 1,200 meters (1,000 yards) on reflective target and 750 meters (500 yards) on non-reflective targets.
It points the scope at the target using a laser beam and presses a single trigger.
It’s an easy-to-understand system that also includes a built-in incline meter for taking pictures at different angles.
The scope will also take into account the trajectory of your bullets for you. It will adjust your aiming points for you.
The magnification is from 4X to 16X (or even greater).
A reticule is a set of crosshairs with a range display at its upper left corner.
This simpler design uses CR123A batteries.
It’s not quite as bulky as the original, but it’s still pretty heavy. Overall, it measures 13 inches long and weighs 1.63 pounds.
It’s a good optical lens for use in everyday life.
It’s lighter than most other rifles but has a long-range RF (radio frequency) scope and other useful techy options. This makes it a good choice for taking to the hunting ground.
It will cost you a bit but won’t be expensive.
Burris Eliminator 4-16x50mm Laser Rangefinding Rifle Scope with Ballistic Calculator, Eliminator III
PRECISION SCOPES – Use the Eliminator to determine where your target is located, figure out your trajectory, and then use the Eliminator to help you land perfectly.
Make hunting more efficient by eliminating the extra variables and guesswork.
Long-distance Range Finder – This laser range finder has a maximum range of up to 1,200 yards, allowing you to shoot from longer distances than ever before.
ATN Thor-HD 640 5-50
The ATN Thor HD 640 is the most expensive rangefinder optic among the three.
It has a laser rangefinder, thermal imaging system, high definition camera, and live stream capabilities.
The LRFP is accurate up to 600 yards and uses a laser beam to mark the upper and lower edges of the intended range.
Thermal systems pick up infrared radiation (IR) instead of visible light. This allows them to operate even when there is no ambient light available.
It has a ballistic calculator built into it as well.
With these features, the optic creates a new aiming reticle for you.
With seven different reticles and a magnification range from 5X to 50X, the camera has a wide variety of uses. It also includes video capture and Wi-Fi compatibility and is compatible with Android devices.
It also stores video footage using a micro SD memory stick.
It helps when you’re reviewing your photos and videos and capturing those memorable moments.
It uses four AAA batteries which can be changed for a rechargeable battery pack.
This lens’ overall length is 10 inches (25 cm) and it weighs 2 pounds (0.9 kg).
If you’re already an experienced user, then this is what you buy next time you need to replace your current optic.
It’s expensive, but you get everything you need for a high-quality product.
ATN THOR HD 640 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope – Up to 50X Magnification, 640 x 480 Sensor, 3-Year Warranty
Thor HD Thermal Rifle Scope – 50x magnification, 5-50x zoom, 640 x 480 video recording, Wi-Fi, GPS, smooth zoom, matte black
Conclusion
We hope that this article was helpful. If you have any queries feel free to reach out in the comments section below.
