How to Aim a Handheld Laser Rangefinder

Laser rangefinders such as this one are used in land surveying to evaluate the distance and terrain for construction projects.

Laser rangefinders are tools that incorporate a military technology and have been adapted for civilian use. Initially used as an advanced aiming system to help smart bombs and missiles pinpoint their intended target and avoid collateral damage, rangefinders have a wide variety of everyday applications, from professional use in building construction and forestry, to recreational uses in golfing and hunting. They work by bouncing a harmless infrared beam off the intended target; the time it takes for the beam to bounce back to the rangefinder is measured and converted into a unit of distance. Laser rangefinders are relatively simple to aim and operate.

Instructions

Aiming a Laser Rangefinder

1. Ensure that the rangefinder's battery is fully charged. Insufficient power could result in inaccurate readings.

2. Look through the viewfinder to locate your intended target.

3. Click and hold the "range" or "fire" button once your target is in view. A red dot will appear that should be held on the target.

4. Release the "fire" button. The red dot will remain on the target for a few seconds while the rangefinder fires lasers. Be sure to stand as still as possible while holding the rangefinder to ensure the most accurate finding possible.

5. Read results on the rangefinder display when the device completes its measurement. Many models give an audible tone when results are ready; some display a notice inside the viewfinder.

Tips & Warnings

• Most hand-held rangefinders can also be set on tripods. Tripods will keep the device as still as possible for a more accurate reading.

• Check the specifications of your rangefinder model. Some may have a minimum distance-to-target, below which ranges cannot be calculated.

• The accuracy of the measurement can be affected by the type of surface targeted. Photo-reflective surfaces, such as street signs, are specially designed to bounce light so they can be seen at night, and thus make excellent rangefinder targets. Matte or dark-colored targets may reflect poorly and result in a less accurate measurement.

References

• LIORA Long Range Hand-Held Rangefinders: Product Specifications
• Opti-Logic: Laser Rangefinder Manual
• Opti-Logic: Tilt-Compensated Laser Rangefinder Manual