Can you effectively use a laser rangefinder on moving deer?

Challenges with Moving Deer

When deer are running, their speed and direction make it difficult to get an accurate distance reading with a laser rangefinder. This is because the deer’s movement causes the angle of the rangefinder to change, affecting the calculated distance. For example, if a deer is running at 25 yards and closes to 20 yards in a split second, the rangefinder may show a distance of 35 yards due to the changing angle.

Techniques for Improving Accuracy

One technique for improving accuracy when taking shots at running deer is to take multiple readings and use the average distance. This can be done by quickly scanning the rangefinder over the deer’s body, taking multiple readings, and then averaging the results. For example, if the first reading is 35 yards and the second reading is 30 yards, the average distance would be 32.5 yards. Another technique is to focus on the deer’s body, rather than its legs or head, as these can be more difficult to measure accurately.

Considerations for Rangefinder Selection

When selecting a laser rangefinder for hunting, consider a model with a high refresh rate, which can provide multiple readings per second. This can help to account for the deer’s movement and provide a more accurate distance reading. Additionally, a rangefinder with a high speed measurement capability can help to provide a more accurate reading when the deer is moving quickly.