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Burris Oracle Review: Angle Compensating & Rangefinding Bow Sight


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Burris Oracle Rangefinding Bow Sight
Image Credit - Burris

Product Model: Oracle
Type: Digital
Dexterity: Left/Right
Number of Pins: 52 LED lights
Pin Size:
Construction: Aluminum

Best Uses: Target shooting, 3-D Archery, Hunting

Update: Burris have discontinued the original Oracle and have released the new Oracle 2. With improvements made to the Auto-Brightness Detection, Manual Brightness Control and Set-Up, the Oracle 2 is everything that was good about the Oracle, made better! Get yours from Optics Planet or Amazon today.

Burris Oracle Rangefinding Bow Sight

"Go big or go home" is a well-known precept Burris takes seriously.  It's evident they came big with the release of the new Oracle bow sight.  Is the price worth swallowing?  Let's explore every feature in detail to see if the Oracle is the answer to problems shooters are looking for.

To start with, the Oracle is a rangefinding bow sight, but it's not just any 2-in-1 scope, it also accurately provides the exact aiming point on the vertical bar.  What does this mean for you?  It means no more gap shooting, holding over or under, or using the wrong pin to shoot.

Burris Oracle Bow Sight
Image Credit - Burris

You also have a point of reference with the lit-up, fixed 20-yard pin.  No guesswork means a higher rate of accuracy and success.

But, does the automatic aiming point calculate for shot angles?

Yes!  The built-in rangefinder has angle compensation so every time the pin lights up in the assumed position on the bar, it's already done the math to show the exact aiming drop point.

Does this technology sound familiar?  It should since Burris used their innovative ballistic software from their Eliminator rifle scope and put it into the Oracle bow sight.  It's genius!

Additionally, you can save up to two different draw weights or trajectory curves for different arrows.  You can even use the default dots that start in 10-yard increments from the 20-yard dot for that multi-pin effect.

The Oracle sight is feature-packed with micro adjustment knobs, adjustable 2nd and 3rd axis, 2" housing, and an optional rear sight.  The Burris sight has a lot going on, and yet the engineers seem to have executed all the components into a well-blended and highly-accurate bow sight.

Pros:

  • Angle compensating rangefinder
  • Left/right-hand compatible
  • Displays exact aiming point
  • Lightweight - 17 oz
  • Locking micro adjustment knobs

Cons:

  • Price

Burris Oracle Rangefinder Q&A

Is the Oracle Rangefinder Bow Sight Legal for Hunting?

Laws and regulations for bow sight specific features will vary between states.  In most USA states, the Oracle appears fully legal, but you will want to remove the detachable laser and install the laser cap on the front of the sight.  Be sure to check with your local laws and regulations.

You will also need to check the rules and regulations if you plan on using the Oracle as a competition Archery sight.

What is the Distance Range of the Oracle laser rangefinder?

The Oracle laser rangefinder can achieve target acquisition distances of 500 yards to reflective objects and 200 yards to non-reflective objects such as deer. This makes it a great bow sight for deer hunting.

What batteries does the Oracle Bow Sight use?

The Burris bow sight takes a CR123 battery that will last approximately 1000-2000 actuations.  Also, when you need to change your battery, your arrow profiles and settings will be saved so you don't have to reprogram the sight.

What happens if the Rangefinder can't acquire a distance?

If for some reason the rangefinder can't acquire a distance, the display will automatically default to Fixed Pins Mode (FPM).

What is Fixed Pins Mode on the Oracle?

FPM is a setting that displays lit-up dots in 10-yard increments starting with the 20-yard dot.  This mode will automatically kick in if the rangefinder tech is unable to acquire a distance.  You can also deliberately put the Oracle into this mode by attempting to range a target less than 5 yards away, by ranging the sky, or depressing the activation button for more than 3 seconds.

Is there an ON/OFF setting for Fixed Pins Mode?

There is not an option to turn off FPM.  Once FPM has been activated, the dots will remain lit for 90 seconds after which the display will attempt to provide the exact aiming point with your next range.

Can you add a Lens Kit to the Burris Oracle?

Unfortunately, you can't add a lens to the scope.  The Oracle was specifically designed to be glass free.  Without lenses and glass, you improve sight durability and eliminate sight picture issues associated with glass scopes such as fog, glare, and scratches.

What is the Burris Rear Sight?

The optional rear sight can replace your string peep sight.  By opting in to use the rear sight, you instantly improve sight picture brightness especially in low light conditions.  It also allows for improved accuracy and consistency.  The rear peep also encourages correct form by preventing torque at full draw.

What is the Maximum Shooting Distance of the Oracle Bow Sight?

The last dot that will light up will depend on your personal bow and arrow setup.  Most bows will be able to reach distances of 80-110 yards.  The Oracle will accommodate up to 184 inches of drop at 100 yards.  It's compatible with arrow speeds between 200-420 fps.

Noteworthy Features:

  • Built-in angle compensating laser rangefinder
  • Included removable laser for sight calibration
  • Backup default fixed pins display for unpredictable situations
  • Left-hand compatible with automatic orientation software
  • Automatic trajectory compensation for exact aiming points
YouTube video

Our Verdict on the Burris Oracle Rangefinding Bow Sight

Hunter with Burris Oracle Bow Sight on his Bow
Image Credit - Burris

Narrowing things down, the Oracle is one heck of a bow sight that comes fully-loaded with a bunch of features, and yet, it's not weighed down coming in at only 17 ounces!  It's a true win-win situation especially for hunters who need to minimize weight, eliminate carrying extra gear, and reduce any extra movement.

The zero-glass feature, optional rear sight, and uncluttered field of view take sight picture clarity to a whole new level.  The Oracle is buzz-worthy, best in its class and is proving to be well worth the price! If you where to gift this to the bowhunter in your life, you would become the gifting oracle without a doubt!

However, some people have issues seeing green LED lights and they might do better off with the red LEDs in the Garmin Xero A1 instead.  It's in and around the same price range as the Oracle, so it's just as pricey.

When you don't have the room to squeeze your already tight budget for either the Garmin or the Oracle, but you're set on the 2-in-1 rangefinding feature, all hope is not lost.  The IQ Define is another range finding sight with 5 fixed pins and is more affordable in comparison.

Yes, the Burris Oracle sight is pricey, but what would you be willing to pay for the exact aiming point with every shot and to not have to range with a separate optic?  No guesswork means increased precision which means a clean shot.  Less movement means increased stealth and covertness.

See yourself with an advanced, high-tech sight, and make an oracle out of yourself with the Oracle rangefinding bow sight!

Update: Burris have discontinued the original Oracle and have released the new Oracle 2. With improvements made to the Auto-Brightness Detection, Manual Brightness Control and Set-Up, the Oracle 2 is everything that was good about the Oracle, made better! Get yours from Optics Planet or Amazon today.

Further Reading

Photo of author

Simon Cuthbert - Founder

Simon is an avid outdoor enthusiast and the founder of Target Tamers. He is passionate about bringing you the most up to date, accurate & understandable information on sports optics of all kinds and for all applications. Simon has contributed to notable publications online and teaches beginners the technical side of optics through his extensive library of optics guides.

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