One of the most critical elements for the big game hunter is knowing the exact distance he from his target. Humans are notoriously poor at judging distances and are routinely out by 30% or more. For the rifle hunter, at ranges of 250 yards and greater, this can mean the difference between hitting and missing game. And, for the muzzleloader hunter and archer, even minor miscalculations can spell disastrous results.

I’ve been a big fan of laser range finder since they first hit the market and was the first hunter in my group to own one. While the original models did the job, they were bulky and often took what seemed like forever to read the distance from a target. But, like all electronic innovations, it didn’t take long for manufacturers to make them smaller, more efficient and, best of all, cheaper.

I’ve been using a Bushnell Yardage Pro 600 Compact for a couple years now and would be lost without this little marvel of technology. The Yardage Pro 600 reads distances to 600 yards with an accuracy of plus or minus one yard, no matter what distance you are utilizing it at. It comes in four-power magnification and can be operated in a number of modes depending on the situation and conditions. I really like the neoprene case that comes with it. It was obviously designed by a hunter and should serve as a model for all other manufacturers. But, best of all, the 600 weighs in at only 10.4 ounces and is a delight to carry around your neck. I’d highly recommend one of these units to all hunters.

The Yardage Pro is also available in 500, 800, and 1000 yard models, as well as a unit that attaches directly to a bow and measures distances up to 75 yards. The Yardage Pro is also a great idea for the golfer in the family. In 1999, 500 touring golf professionals used Bushnell laser range finders.

For more information, contact: Bushnell Sport Optics, In Canada, 25A Pearce Street, Unit #1, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 2M9, 905-771-2980, In United States, 9200 Cody, Overland Park, Kansas, 66214-1734, 913-752-3400, http://www.bushnell.com