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Bushnell has been producing optics for decades, and I will be the first to admit that they haven’t always been the best quality. But they are about the best you can get in a budget price range. In the specific case of this rangefinder, it is a budget option, but it is actually very impressive when it comes to features!
Starting with the glass, since that is what most people will first notice. Bushnell has worked hard to improve its optics since they are lacking in that department compared to manufacturers like Vortex.
For the Engage laser rangefinder, Bushnell has equipped it with a 2x 50% larger objective lens to create a clearer image than some of its previous models. The lenses are also multi-coated that provide clear and vivid targets.
The laser is standard for rangefinders. It’s the same power output as any of the more expensive commercially available brands; however, it does some impressive things with that laser.
It can range up to 1,300 yards for reflective targets, 800 yards for trees, and 600 yards for deer. It is equipped with the Bushnell ARC technology that will accurately range your target based on the angle of the terrain.
No more second-guessing your shot when you are higher or lower than your target. The Bushnell Engage will calculate this exact distance for reflective and non-reflective targets.
The features don’t stop there, though.
It also has a simplified bullet drop compensator to help you get your shots off quickly when time is important. Whether using a bow or rifle, it can give you the data you need to get you right on target.
No matter your weapon of choice, this is a good rangefinder to augment your skills to give you that edge that we all sometimes need. With a push of a button, you eliminate human error in your shot and are ready to go. It’s as simple as that!
What does it do?
Let’s kick off with the high point of this rangefinder, the ARC module that we touched on above. Let’s say you’re bowhunting from a tree stand. You need to account for the angle you are taking your shot to get the true horizontal distance.
Setting the rangefinder to bow mode will give you the true distance to the target based on your elevation and angle. This takes away any guesswork you would make when using a rangefinder that lacks this feature which would likely result in an inaccurate or missed shot.
Another great feature is the various scanning capabilities that this rangefinder has. You can choose from three scanning modes: Basic mode, Brush mode, and Bullseye mode.
Basic mode is exactly what it describes. It’s a basic scanning feature that will range multiple targets as you scan your surroundings.
Brush mode will automatically update the display with the range to the farthest target when you scan in areas with brush or other closer targets.
Bullseye mode will automatically update the range on the display each time a closer target is ranged. This is a great feature to have on a rangefinder because it tells you where the closest target is so that you can take the nearest shot.
For standard features, the whole unit is waterproof, which is very handy and has more or less standard 6x magnification.
As mentioned, it is fully waterproof but lacks the rubber armor of some of the higher-end models. It doesn’t need the armor to hunt in any environment, though. It’s just to keep from damaging it by banging it around in your tree stand.
It does come with a case that helps with protecting it during transport, as well as a convenient lanyard that will prevent you from accidentally dropping the rangefinder while on your hunt.
While this is a rangefinder loaded with features, it isn’t the be-all-end-all, but still packs a lot into its 12-ounce size.
What doesn’t it do?
I prefer a rangefinder set up for either rifle or bow. You tend to get more for your money if you specialize.
Bushnell does offer models set up that way, but if you hunt both seasons and want the most rangefinder for your money, a hybrid unit like this one is really a better buy. If you hunt just one season or the other, go with a specialized unit. You will be happy you did.
Out past 600 yards, you aren’t going to be able to get a good range reading on a deer anyway. However, if you shoot long-range matches, you may want more and should probably consider a better rangefinder.
It also doesn’t have ballistic information that some higher-end rangefinders do, so keep this in mind if you’re looking for a rangefinder that will also give you ballistic readings.
For archery hunters, this is a solid all-around unit.
Final Thoughts
If you are on a tight budget and want to get the most for your money, the Bushnell Engage series are good, solid units that will work and do what you need a rangefinder to do.
They are right between the simplest units and a full feature unit. It’s a comfortable area to be, especially at the price you can get them for right now.
If you want more in terms of calculations and exacting long-range accuracy, there are far better units, but you will pay a much higher price to get them.
