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4 Best Ways to Carry a Rangefinder While Hunting
When you’re out in the field, spotting your target and gauging the distance accurately can make or break your hunting trip. That’s where a rangefinder comes in. Owning one isn’t enough. You need to carry it properly.
A poorly carried rangefinder can be uncomfortable, hard to access, and even risk damage. So, what’s the best way to carry a rangefinder while hunting?
In this blog, we’ll break down the top four ways to carry your rangefinder, including the TUXAPO binocular harness to carry your rangefinder. Let’s dive in!
Why Properly Carrying Your Rangefinder Matters?
Before we get into the methods, let’s talk about why it’s important.
First of all, your rangefinder is delicate, precision equipment. Dropping it or exposing it to the elements can cause costly damage.
Additionally, having your rangefinder easily accessible means you can take quick measurements without fumbling in your pack, especially when a deer or turkey is in range.
Properly carrying your rangefinder also reduces fatigue. If it’s hanging awkwardly or bouncing around your chest or hip, it can become annoying over a long day of hunting.
Popular Ways to Carry a Rangefinder While Hunting
There are several options available, each with its pros and cons. Let’s take a look at the most effective ones.
1. Neck Strap
The classic neck strap is still a favorite for many of us. It keeps our rangefinder close at hand, easy to bring up to your eye. It’s ideal when you’re not using binoculars at the same time, or when your binoculars aren’t hanging on your chest, because wearing both around your neck can create tangling and chest clutter that slows your reaction time.
The neck strap works best for stationary hunting scenarios like tree stand hunting, ground blind setups, or spot-and-stalk situations where you’re frequently glassing and ranging targets.
Pros:
- Quick access
- Lightweight and simple
Cons:
- Can bounce during long hikes
- Puts weight on your neck
- Can snag on branches
Best use cases:
- Deer stand hunting: minimal movement, quick ranging needed
- Open terrain hunting: frequent distance checks to landmarks
- Solo equipment setup: when binoculars stay in your pack or vehicle
- Short-range hunting: where you rely primarily on the rangefinder for target acquisition
Avoid when:
Hiking long distances (bouncing becomes annoying), bow hunting in thick brush (snags on vegetation), or when actively using binoculars (dual neck straps cause interference and fatigue). For multi-equipment scenarios, consider chest harnesses or belt pouches that separate your optics for faster, tangle-free access.
2. TUXAPO Chest Pack Binocular Harness
Source: TUXAPO hunting binocular harness chest pack with a rangefinder pouch
A chest-pack style binocular harness is one of the most effective ways to carry your rangefinder, especially when you’re also using binoculars. This setup keeps both optics securely positioned on your chest, allowing fast, hands-free access without interference or excess movement.
TUXAPO’s binocular harness chest pack with a rangefinder pouch can carry your binoculars and rangefinder at the same time. It offers quick, easy access and features a built-in rain cover to protect your gear from moisture, rain, and dust. With padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel, this TUXAPO binocular harness chest pack distributes weight evenly, reducing fatigue during long hunts. Plus, it’s fully adjustable, keeping everything stable while hiking, stalking, or drawing a bow.
Pros:
- Keeps hands free
- Reduces bouncing
- Easy to access quickly
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than a neck strap
Best use cases:
- Active stalking or hiking where bouncing is an issue
- Bow hunting or thick brush hunting
- Multi-optics setups: binoculars + rangefinder simultaneously
Avoid when:
- You want an ultra-light setup for short, stationary hunts
Carry a Rangefinder to TUXAPO Bino Harness Chest Pack:
3. Belt or Hip Carry
Some hunters prefer carrying their rangefinder on their utility belt or in a belt pouch attached to the hip. This is especially common in thick brush or rugged terrain. This setup works especially well in thick brush or rugged terrain, keeping your rangefinder secure while reducing strain on your neck and chest.
Source: TUXAPO MOLLE Utility Belts
Pros:
- Keeps the rangefinder out of the way when climbing or crawling
- Reduces neck and chest strain
Cons:
- Slightly slower to access than a neck strap or chest harness
Best use cases:
- Hunting in thick brush or dense vegetation
- Long hikes where minimizing neck/chest load is important
- Multi-tool setups: when carrying other gear on your belt
Avoid when:
- Quick, frequent ranging is required
- You want hands-free and ultra-fast access while spotting
4. Backpack Storage
Source: TUXAPO hunting backpacks
If you’re carrying a full pack, storing your rangefinder in a dedicated pocket keeps it protected and frees your hands. This method works well for long treks or when you need to protect your optics from the elements, though it’s less accessible for quick range checks.
Pros:
- Maximum protection from drops, dust, and weather
- Keeps hands free
- Safe during long hikes or rugged terrain
Cons:
- Slower access
- Not ideal for moments when you need a quick measurement
Best use cases:
- Long backpack hunts where protection is a priority
- Carrying multiple gear items and needing hands-free movement
- Hunting in wet or muddy conditions
Avoid when:
- Frequent, fast ranging is required
- Spot-and-stalk or tree stand hunting, where quick access is critical
Tips:
- Combine backpack carry with a small neck lanyard for emergency access
- Keep the rangefinder in a padded compartment to prevent bumps
Accessories to Improve Carrying Comfort and Safety
A good carrying method can be enhanced with accessories. Here are some must-haves:
- Padded Straps: Whether on your neck, chest, or shoulder, padding reduces strain and prevents chafing on long hunts.
- Lanyards and Retractable Cords: A retractable lanyard lets your rangefinder hang comfortably but retracts quickly to your eye when needed. This is particularly helpful for bow hunters who need hands-free movement.
- Waterproof Covers: Rain or dew can damage electronics. Waterproof covers or silicone skins protect your rangefinder without adding bulk. Explore the TUXAPO binocular harness case with a waterproof rain cover.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose a neck strap, harness, belt pouch, or backpack storage, the key is to ensure it’s accessible, protected, and comfortable for long hours in the field.
Experiment with different methods until you find the setup that works best for your hunting style. Keeping your rangefinder ready and easily accessible can mean the difference between a missed opportunity and a successful hunt.
So next time you’re gearing up, think about how you’ll carry your rangefinder. The right method keeps your hands free, your equipment safe, and your focus on what really matters: the hunt.
Explore TUXAPO Binocular Harness Chest Pack Case with a Rangefinder Pouch Today!
