Best NIKON Rangefinders: Review and Comparison
Drawing from decades of expertise, Nikon has ventured into the realm of rangefinders, offering a diverse range of solutions tailored for a multitude of activities, from golfing and hunting to forestry and surveying. In an era where precision is paramount, selecting the right rangefinder is essential for both amateurs and professionals.
This comprehensive guide, updated for 2024, is your compass through the labyrinth of Nikon's rangefinders, designed to assist you in making an informed choice that aligns perfectly with your specific requirements.
If you're pressed for time, here's Our Pick of Top 3 Nikon rangefinders:
Nikon Rangefinders: Buyer’s Guide
Nikon, a name synonymous with optical excellence, extends its expertise to the realm of rangefinders, offering solutions tailored for various activities such as golfing, hunting, forestry, and surveying. Drawing from our experience, we understand that choosing the right rangefinder is pivotal for precision and satisfaction in these fields.
This guide aims to elucidate the myriad features and benefits of Nikon's rangefinders, guiding you to the perfect choice for your specific needs.
Diverse Range for Diverse Needs: Types of Nikon Rangefinders
Nikon's foray into rangefinders includes two primary categories: golf and outdoors. The golf rangefinders such as Nikon COOLSHOT PROII or Nikon COOLSHOT LITE are precision tools for golfers, aiding them in accurately gauging distances to pins, greens, and other course obstacles.
For a more universal application, the outdoor rangefinders such as the Nikon Laser 50 or the PROSTAFF 1000 cater to hunters, foresters, and those requiring angular measurements. Each category boasts a range of models with varying specifications and price points.
Factors to Consider
Let's explore the key factors to consider when selecting a Nikon rangefinder:
Range Capacity: The range, indicating the maximum measurable distance, varies across Nikon models from 6 to 3,000 yards. Typically, a longer range comes with a higher price tag. It's crucial to select a rangefinder with an adequate range for your purpose, but avoid overreaching, as it might compromise accuracy and battery longevity.
Precision in Measurement: Accuracy, a critical aspect, varies between ±0.5 to ±1.5 yards in Nikon rangefinders. Based on our firsthand experience, we recommend opting for high accuracy, especially for activities like hunting or surveying, where precision is paramount.
Magnification Clarity: Magnification, determining how much the image is enlarged, ranges from 4x to 8x in Nikon models. A higher magnification aids in target visibility but can reduce the field of view. Choose a balanced magnification that offers clear target visibility without compromising the broader perspective.
Display Quality: The display, which shows the distance and other metrics, comes in either LCD or OLED variants. While LCD is common and cost-effective, it may be less legible in extreme lighting. OLED displays, though pricier, offer superior brightness and contrast. Select a display that ensures readability in diverse conditions, equipped with necessary features and functions.
Additional Features: Nikon rangefinders also boast features like slope compensation, vibration reduction, and continuous measurement. These enhance usability and performance. Evaluate which features align with your specific needs and choose accordingly.
Nikon's rangefinders, with their commitment to quality, offer precise and reliable distance measurements for various professional and recreational needs. Whether you're a golfer, hunter, forester, or surveyor, Nikon has a rangefinder that aligns with your needs and budget.
Best Nikon Rangefinder Models: TOP 6
Here are the top current Nikon Rangefinder models that you can find on the market:
- Advanced STABILIZED technology
- DUAL LOCKED ON ECHO
- HYPER READ laser
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Lightweight and compact design
- Capable of measuring distances from 10 to 2,000 yards
- Enables focusing on both small and distant objects
- Features Nikon's premium multilayer coated optics
- Waterproof and fogproof construction
- Designed for approximately 9,000 actuations
- Ensures precise targeting
- Offers convenient attachment and storage
- Provides accurate slope-adjusted distances
- Features ADI LED
- High-visibility
- VR Stabilization for steady, clear views
- Slope Detection adjusts for terrain
- Super Fast measurements enhance gameplay
- Rainproof and lightweight, perfect for golf
- Competition approved with slope disable LED
- Versatile Measurement Functions
- Quick, Accurate HYPER READ Technology
- Internal and external LCD panels
- Stores up to 250 measurements
- Weighs only 6.0 oz without batteries
- Switches between First and Distant Target
- Suitable for long-range measurements
- Easy to carry and handle
- Reliable in diverse conditions
- Assures quality and durability
Nikon Rangefinders Comparison
For easy comparison, here is a table of specifications of the best Nikon Rangefinders:
| Feature | COOLSHOT PROII | Laser 50 | COOLSHOT 50i | COOLSHOT LITE | Forestry Pro II | PROSTAFF 1000 |
| Measurement Range | 8-1,200 yd. | 10-2,000 yd. | 6-1,200 yd. | 8-1,200 yd. | 8-1,750 yd. | 6-1,000 yd. |
| Magnification | 6x | 6x | 6x | 6x | 6x | 6x |
| Angular Field of View | 7.5° | 7.5° | 6° | 7.5° | 7.5° | 6° |
| Viewfinder Display | OLED | OLED | OLED | LCD | LCD | meters/yards |
| Exit Pupil | 3.5 mm | 3.5 mm | 3.7 mm | 3.5 mm | 3.5 mm | 3.3 mm |
| Diopter Adjustment | +/- 4° | +/- 4° | +/- 3° | +/- 4° | +/- 4° | +/- 4° |
| Power Source | CR2 Lithium Battery | CR2 Lithium Battery | CR2 Lithium Battery | CR2 Lithium Battery | CR2 Lithium Battery | CR2 Lithium Battery |
| Size (L x W x H) | 3.9 x 1.7 x 3.0 in. | 4.3 x 1.6 x 2.9 in. | 3.9 x 1.5 x 3.0 in. | 3.8 x 1.6 x 2.9 in. | - | 3.6 x 1.5 x 2.9 in. |
| Weight (Without Batteries) | 6.3 oz | 6.3 oz | 6.2 oz | 6.0 oz | - | 4.6 oz |
| Objective Diameter | 21 mm | 21 mm | 22 mm | 21 mm | - | 20 mm |
| Additional Features | Image Stabilization | Angle Compensation | Dual LOCKED ON QUAKE | STABILIZED Function | - | - |
Now let's take a closer look at each of the Nikon Rangefinder models.
Nikon COOLSHOT PROII
Premium Choice
The Nikon COOLSHOT PROII is a cutting-edge golf rangefinder designed to enhance the golfing experience through its advanced features. With its inclusion of batteries, the device is readily usable and comes in a sleek design with color options of white, blue, and black. Constructed from durable plastic and specifically tailored for golf, it brings a blend of technology and sport-specific utility.
One of the key features of the COOLSHOT PROII is its STABILIZED technology, which counteracts hand shake and environmental factors. This ensures a steady view and accurate ranging laser, making it easier for golfers to locate and lock onto their targets. The device also boasts DUAL LOCKED ON ECHO, providing both visual and auditory cues when the flag is accurately ranged, distinguishing it from background objects.
The HYPER READ laser technology is a standout feature, offering quick and stable measurements in 0.3 seconds or less, which is crucial in a fast-paced game. This technology is complemented by the device's waterproof and fogproof capabilities, ensuring reliability in various weather conditions.
ID TECHNOLOGY is another significant addition, accounting for incline or decline shooting angles and delivering the essential number for the best shot. For competitive play where slope adjustment is not permitted, the device features an Actual Distance Indicator (ADI) LED for compliance.
Nikon's expertise in optics is evident in the COOLSHOT PROII’s 6x power monocular, which offers anti-glare and high-contrast coatings for a clear, sharp view. Additionally, the rangefinder is lightweight (6.3oz) and compact, making it easy to carry and use on the golf course.
Pros:
- Advanced STABILIZED technology for steady viewing and accurate laser ranging
- DUAL LOCKED ON ECHO for precise targeting of the flag
- HYPER READ laser for quick, stable measurements in diverse distances
- Waterproof and fogproof, ensuring functionality in various weather conditions
- Lightweight and compact design, offering ease of use and portability
Cons:
- Made of plastic, which may not be as durable as metal counterparts
- Limited to golf, not versatile for other sports
- Requires familiarity with technological features for optimal use
Summary: As indicated by our tests, the Nikon COOLSHOT PROII is a technologically advanced golf rangefinder that offers precision, speed, and ease of use. Its unique features like STABILIZED technology, HYPER READ laser, and waterproof capabilities make it a valuable tool for golfers seeking accuracy and confidence in their game. Despite being sport-specific and requiring some technological familiarity, its benefits strongly enhance the golfing experience.
- Advanced STABILIZED technology for steady viewing and accurate laser ranging
- DUAL LOCKED ON ECHO for precise targeting of the flag
- HYPER READ laser for quick, stable measurements in diverse distances
- Waterproof and fogproof, ensuring functionality in various weather conditions
- Lightweight and compact design, offering ease of use and portability
Nikon Laser 50
Best Overall
The Nikon LASER 50 6x21 Rangefinder is a robust and versatile tool designed for a wide array of applications including outdoor adventures, forestry, construction, utility work, and surveying. It is especially notable for its impressive measurement range of 10 to 2,000 yards. This rangefinder is presented in a sleek black color, weighs 6.3 ounces, and does not include batteries in the package.
The LASER 50 distinguishes itself with advanced features like the Tru-Target Priority Switch System, which is adept at mapping overlapping subjects - a crucial capability in cluttered environments or when dealing with multiple targets. Additionally, its Incline/Decline technology provides slope-adjusted distances, making it invaluable in varied terrain.
Nikon's renowned ID (Incline/Decline) Technology is a standout feature. It calculates the horizontal distance to the target, accounting for various incline or decline angles, with a remarkable range of +/- 89 degrees. This feature is pivotal for accurate distance measurement in rugged topography.
The device also boasts Tru-Target Technology, allowing users to switch between first target priority mode, ideal for pinpointing small objects, and distant target priority mode, useful for determining the distance of the farthest target within a group.
Durability and reliability are key aspects of the LASER 50. It is O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged, ensuring waterproof and fogproof performance. This makes it suitable for use in diverse weather conditions, reinforcing its application in outdoor and demanding environments.
The rangefinder's optical quality is backed by Nikon's century-long expertise in the field. It features premium multilayer coated optics with 6x magnification, providing a clear, wide field of view. This is particularly beneficial in low-light conditions or when locating distant subjects.
Ease of use is another significant advantage. The LASER 50 offers straightforward operation, allowing seamless switching between measurement modes and continuous scanning for up to 8 seconds.
Lastly, the LASER 50 is covered by Nikon's Five Year Limited Warranty, highlighting the brand's confidence in the product's quality and longevity.
Apologies for missing that. Here are the pros and cons of the Nikon LASER 50 6x21 Rangefinder:
Pros:
- Capable of measuring distances from 10 to 2,000 yards, suitable for diverse professional needs
- Enables focusing on both small and distant objects, enhancing versatility in different environments
- Features Nikon's premium multilayer coated optics with 6x magnification for clear views
- Waterproof and fogproof construction ensures reliability in various weather conditions
- Designed for approximately 9,000 actuations, supporting extended field use
Cons:
- Requires additional purchase of batteries, which may be inconvenient
- Primarily designed for outdoor, forestry, and surveying, which may not cater to all users
- Advanced features might necessitate a period of learning and adaptation for optimal use
Summary: Our findings show that the Nikon LASER 50 6x21 Rangefinder stands out as a highly capable and versatile tool, especially suited for professional applications requiring accurate distance measurements. Its technological sophistication, combined with Nikon's optical expertise, ensures reliable performance in varied conditions. While it's tailored for specific professional uses and requires the purchase of batteries, its benefits like extended range, weather resistance, and ease of use make it a valuable investment for those in outdoor, forestry, and surveying fields.
- Capable of measuring distances from 10 to 2,000 yards, suitable for diverse professional needs
- Enables focusing on both small and distant objects, enhancing versatility in different environments
- Features Nikon's premium multilayer coated optics with 6x magnification for clear views
- Waterproof and fogproof construction ensures reliability in various weather conditions
- Designed for approximately 9,000 actuations, supporting extended field use
Nikon COOLSHOT 50i
People's Choice
The Nikon COOLSHOT 50i Golf Rangefinder is an advanced, user-friendly device designed to enhance the golfing experience. Available in grey and black, this lightweight (6.2 oz) and compact rangefinder is made from durable plastic. It's specifically tailored for golf, with features that cater to the sport's unique requirements.
Key features include the DUAL LOCKED ON QUAKE TECHNOLOGY, which provides both a visual and gentle vibration alert to confirm that the flagstick is being measured, not an object behind it. The rangefinder's INTEGRATED MAGNET allows for easy attachment to metal surfaces like golf carts or bag carriers, offering convenient storage and access.
ID TECHNOLOGY is a significant feature that accounts for incline or decline angles, delivering the crucial distance needed for uphill or downhill shots. This feature is particularly useful in golf courses with varied terrain.
For competitive play, the COOLSHOT 50i includes an Actual Distance Indicator (ADI) LED to comply with regulations that disallow slope compensation. This ensures fair play while maintaining the device's functionality.
The high-visibility red OLED display provides excellent contrast on distant targets, enhancing readability and ease of use. This, coupled with Nikon's exceptional optics, including a 6x power monocular with anti-glare and high-contrast coatings, ensures a clear and sharp view.
Pros:
- Ensures precise targeting with visual and vibration confirmation
- Offers convenient attachment and storage on metal surfaces
- Provides accurate slope-adjusted distances for uphill and downhill shots
- Features ADI LED for compliance in slope-compensation restricted games
- High-visibility for easy reading of measurements
Cons:
- Specifically designed for golf, limiting its versatility for other applications
- May not be as durable as metal-built rangefinders
- Requires familiarization with various technological features for optimal use
Summary: The Nikon COOLSHOT 50i is a feature-rich golf rangefinder combining accuracy, convenience, and durability. Its specialized features like DUAL LOCKED ON QUAKE technology, ID Technology, and the integrated magnet, make it an excellent tool for golfers seeking precision and ease in their game. While its application is primarily golf-centric, and it may require some getting used to, the benefits it brings to the golf course are substantial.
- Ensures precise targeting with visual and vibration confirmation
- Offers convenient attachment and storage on metal surfaces
- Provides accurate slope-adjusted distances for uphill and downhill shots
- Features ADI LED for compliance in slope-compensation restricted games
- High-visibility for easy reading of measurements
Nikon COOLSHOT LITE
Author's Choice
The Nikon COOLSHOT LITE golf rangefinder, available exclusively on Amazon in the U.S., is a remarkable tool for golfers of all skill levels. Inspired by the popular COOLSHOT PRO II STABILIZED, it offers advanced technology in a compact, user-friendly package. This device is designed in a sleek combination of white and black, made from durable plastic, and is perfectly suited for the sport of golf. It comes with batteries included, ensuring it's ready for immediate use.
A standout feature of the COOLSHOT LITE is the VR (Vibration Reduction) stabilization, which counteracts hand shake, providing a clear and steady view for accurate measurements. This technology is borrowed from Nikon's camera and lens innovations. The device's slope detection capability is crucial for golfers, as it accounts for uphill and downhill shots, helping to choose the right club for each play.
The COOLSHOT LITE prides itself on its super-fast HYPER READ technology, delivering near-instant measurements within a high-contrast LCD display. This speed is essential in a game where pace and timing are crucial. Despite its technological sophistication, it is approved for competition, with a bright LED indicator that signals when slope detection is disabled.
Designed to withstand the elements, it is rainproof and lightweight, making it an essential piece of golf equipment. The device is small and easily portable, not much larger than a smartphone, and weighs just 6oz without the battery.
For golfers who need slope measurements, the ID (incline/decline) mode factors in slopes, vital for accurate uphill and downhill shots. When playing competitively, where slope compensation might not be allowed, an onboard Actual Distance Indicator (ADI) LED ensures compliance with the rules.
Additionally, the continuous measurement mode allows golfers to survey their surroundings in real-time for up to 8 seconds, providing accurate distances to various course features like trees, water hazards, and sand traps.
Pros:
- VR Stabilization for steady, clear views
- Slope Detection adjusts for terrain
- Super Fast measurements enhance gameplay
- Rainproof and lightweight, perfect for golf
- Competition approved with slope disable LED
Cons:
- Plastic material may lack premium feel
- Limited use outside of golf
- Requires understanding of advanced features
Summary: Our analysis of this product revealed that the Nikon COOLSHOT LITE is an innovative golf rangefinder combining precision, speed, and ease of use. Its advanced features, like VR stabilization and slope detection, significantly enhance a golfer's experience on the course. While it is tailored specifically for golf and requires some tech-savviness, its benefits in improving game accuracy and decision-making are invaluable.
- VR Stabilization for steady, clear views
- Slope Detection adjusts for terrain
- Super Fast measurements enhance gameplay
- Rainproof and lightweight, perfect for golf
- Competition approved with slope disable LED
Nikon Forestry Pro II
Bestseller
The Nikon Forestry Pro II is an advanced laser rangefinder designed primarily for forestry and power distribution professionals, but its utility extends to other industrial, commercial, and outdoor applications. This innovative tool, housed in a durable plastic body with a striking yellow color, weighs a mere 172 grams, making it highly portable. It comes with a CR2 lithium battery included, ensuring it's ready for use right out of the box.
This rangefinder boasts an impressive measurement range of 8-1,750 yards, accommodating a wide array of professional requirements. Its functionalities are diverse and include measuring actual distance, horizontal distance, height, angle, and vertical separation between two targets. It also offers three-point measurement capability, calculating the height between two points. These measurements are swiftly displayed on both internal and external LCD panels, with the external panel simultaneously displaying all results for convenience.
The Forestry Pro II is equipped with Nikon's HYPER READ technology, ensuring quick and stable measurement responses in approximately 0.3 seconds, regardless of distance. This feature is vital in situations where speed and accuracy are paramount.
The device operates in various modes to suit different measurement tasks: Actual Distance Mode, Horizontal Distance Mode, Height Mode, Angle Mode, 2-Points Measurement Mode, and 3-Points Measurement Mode. Each mode is tailored to specific measurement needs, making the Forestry Pro II exceptionally versatile.
Additionally, the rangefinder includes First Target Priority and Distant Target Priority modes, useful in densely wooded areas or when dealing with distant targets. The external LCD display is enhanced with an adjustable backlight for improved visibility in various lighting conditions.
A new log function can store up to 250 measurement results, adding to the device's practicality in the field. The Forestry Pro II’s design and functionality make it not only ideal for forestry work but also for power distribution, landscape, and construction projects.
Pros:
- Versatile Measurement Functions
- Quick, Accurate HYPER READ Technology
- Internal and external LCD panels for convenience
- Stores up to 250 measurements
- Weighs only 6.0 oz without batteries
Cons:
- May be over-specialized for casual users
- Durability concerns compared to metal bodies
- Multiple functions require familiarization
Summary: The Nikon Forestry Pro II stands out as a highly specialized tool, ideal for professionals in forestry, power distribution, and related fields. Its combination of fast, accurate measurements, versatile functions, and portability makes it an invaluable asset for fieldwork. While it's primarily geared towards professional use and requires some time to master its various functions, the benefits it offers in terms of efficiency and precision are significant.
- Versatile Measurement Functions
- Quick, Accurate HYPER READ Technology
- Internal and external LCD panels for convenience
- Stores up to 250 measurements
- Weighs only 6.0 oz without batteries
Nikon PROSTAFF 1000
Best Budget
The Nikon PROSTAFF 1000 6x20 Laser Rangefinder is a compact, high-performance tool designed for precision and convenience in various outdoor activities, particularly hunting. This rangefinder is equipped with a 20mm objective lens diameter and anti-reflective coated optics, ensuring clear and bright images. Weighing only 4.6 ounces and with dimensions of 3.6"D x 1.5"W x 2.9"H, it is highly portable and can easily fit into a pocket.
One of the standout features of the PROSTAFF 1000 is its Tru-Target Technology, which allows users to switch between First Target and Distant Target Priority modes. This feature is particularly useful in different hunting scenarios, whether you need to focus on a close object like a fence post or determine the distance of the farthest target among a group. The device offers a maximum ranging capability of 1,000 yards, making it suitable for long-range applications.
The high-quality 6x monocular enhances target acquisition, and its multilayer coating on lens and prism surfaces ensures optimal light transmission for a clearer view. Its continuous measurement function, activated by pressing and holding the power button for up to 8 seconds, adds to its versatility in the field.
The PROSTAFF 1000 is not only lightweight and compact but also weather-resistant and rainproof, making it a reliable companion in diverse environmental conditions. Its exit pupil of 3.3mm, combined with a diopter adjustment of +/- 4°, offers comfortable viewing even for extended periods.
Nikon backs the PROSTAFF 1000 with a 5-year limited warranty for new products, ensuring confidence in its quality and durability. The device is powered by one CR2 lithium battery, which is included, and it's designed for both meter and yard measurements, catering to a wide range of preferences.
Pros:
- Switches between First and Distant Target modes
- Suitable for long-range measurements
- Easy to carry and handle
- Reliable in diverse conditions
- Assures quality and durability
Cons:
- Smaller lens may affect low-light performance
- Primarily designed for hunting, may not suit all users
- Requires battery changes with usage
Summary: The Nikon PROSTAFF 1000 6x20 Laser Rangefinder is an ideal tool for hunting enthusiasts and outdoor professionals who need a reliable, accurate, and portable rangefinding device. Its ability to quickly switch between target modes, coupled with its compact design and weather-resistant features, makes it a valuable asset for various outdoor applications. While it is highly specialized and dependent on battery power, the benefits of accuracy, portability, and durability make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-quality rangefinder.
- Switches between First and Distant Target modes
- Suitable for long-range measurements
- Easy to carry and handle
- Reliable in diverse conditions
- Assures quality and durability
FAQ about Nikon Rangefinder Models
How can I set up my new Nikon rangefinder?
Setting up your Nikon rangefinder is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps:
- Pop the battery into its chamber, making sure to match the plus and minus signs;
- Hit the power button to bring your rangefinder to life;
- Use the mode button to pick your preferred unit of measurement (yards or meters) and choose the display mode that suits your environment (normal, bright, or auto);
- To measure distance, press the power button again, point at your target, and voila! The distance and other info will appear right on the screen.
What’s the best way to clean my Nikon rangefinder?
Keeping your Nikon rangefinder clean is key for optimal performance. Here's how to do it properly:
- Gently wipe the body and lens with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust or dirt;
- Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive materials as they can harm the rangefinder's surface and coatings;
- It's important not to touch the lens with your fingers, as oils and smudges can affect clarity;
- For stubborn stains or fog on the lens, a lens cleaning kit or a microfiber cloth is your best bet for a gentle, effective clean;
- Always store your rangefinder in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or high humidity.
Can you tell me about the warranty for my Nikon rangefinder?
Sure, Nikon rangefinders come with a limited warranty that varies based on the model and where you live. Here's a general overview:
- The warranty typically lasts for one year from your purchase date, but this can vary depending on local laws and regulations;
- It covers any manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship, but it doesn't extend to damages caused by misuse, accidents, alterations, or unauthorized repairs;
- When you need to use the warranty, have your original purchase receipt or proof of purchase, and the warranty card or registration confirmation handy;
- If you have any questions or need assistance, just reach out to Nikon’s customer service or your local authorized dealer.
Best Nikon Rangefinders: Conclusion
In conclusion, Nikon's commitment to optical excellence extends seamlessly to their rangefinder lineup. With a range of models catering to diverse needs, from golfers seeking pinpoint accuracy to forestry professionals requiring rugged reliability, Nikon has left no stone unturned. In the ever-evolving world of rangefinder technology, Nikon continues to stand as a beacon of precision, innovation, and quality.
So, whether you're honing your golf swing, navigating the wilderness, or surveying uncharted territory, there's a Nikon rangefinder waiting to be your trusted companion. Make your choice today, and step into a world where precision knows no bounds.
Go Deeper:
Meet James, our go-to tech guru and seasoned reviewer. His sharp attention to detail and love for gadgets drive his deep dives into the newest tech waves. James's insightful analysis and real zest for breakthroughs have earned him a solid reputation in the tech world.
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