Home » Rangefinders » Vortex Optics Ranger 1800 - Top Quality & Very Popular Rangefinder (RRF-181)

Vortex Optics Ranger 1800 - Top Quality & Very Popular Rangefinder (RRF-181)


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Vortex Ranger 1800 Rangefinder
Image Credit - Vortex Optics

Yard Range: 9-1800 yards
Magnification: 6X22 mm objective lens
Display Type: LED/Red
Dimensions: 3.9" x 3"
Waterproof/Fog-proof: Yes
Angle Compensation: Yes
Measuring System: Yards/Meters
Measuring Distance: Line of sight/Slope

Use: Bow Hunting, Rifle Hunting, Target Shooting

Vortex Ranger 1800 Rangefinder Review

If you know anything about the Ranger rangefinders, then you know the new to 2018 Ranger 1800 is going to be just as good. In fact, it's even better since it's been upgraded with a faster laser that can acquire readings in less than a second.

This happens to be the only difference between the newer Vortex Ranger 1300 and 1800 Rangers versus the 1000 and 1500 predecessors, and this is straight from the horse's mouth. The previous models were out-of-this-world popular, so Vortex maintained the same optical specs on the new ones. How do you improve upon something that's already perfect? You can't. That's the idea anyway, so Vortex made the adjustments where they could - with laser quality.

View of labels on Ranger 1800
Image Credit - Vortex Optics

The 1800 unit can range out to a maximum of 1,800 yards with 900 yards to deer. This is over a full mile of ranging distance on highly reflective targets - it's one heck of a high-powered and high-performing rangefinder in its class!

With 900 yards to deer-sized objects, extreme long range hunters will appreciate the extra yardage to truly take advantage of those long shots.

If you are after something with a bit more ranging distance you will love the Vortex Razor HD 4000 rangefinder.

The rangefinder itself is fully weatherproof, has a fully rubber-armored body, and is designed to withstand accidental abuse in the harshest terrain. You're also getting the removable utility clip, an adjustable diopter, and tripod adaptability in the mix.

The screen is a highly-intuitive one with its LED/red display with three brightness settings. If it's dark out, you can adjust the intensity to the dim setting ensuring you don't destroy your vision while out in the hunt during game movement.

As a brand new rangefinder to the market, it's going to take some time to heap up the raving reviews. But, if the 1800's predecessors are any indication of success, you know the new rangefinder "is sure to be a hit — and ensure hits."

Pros:

  • Price
  • Extreme long ranging distance
  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • Fully weatherproof
  • LED display

Cons:

  • Almost identical to Ranger 1500

Vortex Ranger 1800 Q&A:

Does the Ranger 1800 have angle compensation?

You bet it does. The older models had them and the new ones do too. The HCD (Horizontal Component Distance) Mode allows for compensated distances when you or your target is on an incline or decline.

With true horizontal distances at your disposal, you can adjust for bullet or bow drop to accurately make your shot.

Does the Rangefinder show the Degrees of the Angle?

In HCD mode, the rangefinder will automatically take angles into consideration to calculate the true horizontal distance.

In LOS (Line of Sight) mode, you'll be given the actual line of sight range with no correction for slope. However, on the display below the yardage reading will be an additional number. This number will be the slope degree that you can use on your independent chart or ballistic app to calculate bullet drop for distances beyond 500 yards and slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Is this rangefinder for Shooting and Bow Hunting?

Side view of Vortex Ranger 1800
Image Credit - Vortex Optics

Yes! This rangefinder is perfectly suitable for both rifle shooting and bow hunting.

With HCD mode, you can effectively get the right distance on a slope for all archery hunting needs. For rifle shooting with HCD mode, you'll have accurate readings up to 800 yards on a 14 degree or less slope. For slopes 15-30 degrees, you can expect accurate readings up to 400 yards.

Of course in LOS mode, you'll get accurate readings for both rifle shooting and bow hunting on level ground at any range.

What are the Preset Settings for the Vortex Rangefinder?

The rangefinder comes with default settings of HCD mode, yards, and medium brightness. This happens to be the preferred settings for most hunters. However, you can adjust these settings to suit your preferences or the current conditions by using the intuitive menu and mode selections.

How long does the Rangefinder stay in Scan Mode?

By depressing the Measure/Fire button, you'll activate the Scan Mode and this will confirmed with the blinking "S" symbol in the lower left corner of the display. By continuing to depress the Fire button while panning the area, you'll remain in Scan Mode. When you let go of the button, the rangefinder will return to your default setting.

Can the Rangefinder be attached to a Neck Strap?

Included in the purchase of the Vortex rangefinder is a neck lanyard. This lanyard is perfectly compatible with the Ranger 1800. The rangefinder itself has built-in loops specifically for attaching the lanyard for a secure way to carry your rangefinder with easy and instant access.

YouTube video

What type of Battery does the Rangefinder Use?

The Ranger line of rangefinders all require a CR2 battery that's included with the purchase. The battery compartment is found underneath the eyepiece of the rangefinder. The battery must be installed with the positive side facing outwards (towards you).

How long does the Battery last?

A single battery can be used for a minimum of at least 2,000 actuations. Battery life depends on how often you use the unit and amount of power required for specific modes such as Scan, highest display intensity, etc.

Can the Utility Clip be completely Removed?

The included utility clip can be completely removed. It's also compatible for attachment on either side of the rangefinder.

Noteworthy Features:

  • Over a full mile of extreme long ranging distance
  • Angle compensation and Scan modes
  • LED display for easy readability in any light condition
  • Includes extra accessories with purchase
  • VIP Unconditional Lifetime Warranty

Our Verdict on the Ranger 1800

The aim of it is, the Vortex Ranger 1800 rangefinder is a simple unit with high-performance quality. That's the concept behind the Ranger line - provide high quality in a user-friendly package. With the skyrocket success of the Ranger 1000 and Ranger 1500, the 1800 model is sure to please the extreme long range hunting crowd.

View of Clip on Ranger 1800
Image Credit - Vortex Optics

However, 1,800 yards is definitely extreme for many hunters. If you don't need all that yardage range, and you'd rather slash the cost even by a little bit, then opt for the Ranger 1000 or the Ranger 1500. You've still got long distances to deer of up to 500 and 750 yards, and you're still getting all the features that the 1800 sports. It's a win-win purchase either way.

If you're on the extreme end of the scales, then you want more power and more yardage. The extreme alternative would be the Sig Sauer Kilo 3000BDX. With angle compensation, 10X magnification, and 5,000 yards of ranging distance, this thing is practically overkill for your needs. But, why not have it all when you can?

Many consumers don't like change, and they especially don't like change when it comes to a product that they already love. Vortex caters to their loyal consumer base by only modifying the laser quality in the new model. Everything that you loved about the Ranger line by Vortex is still there to enjoy. But, now you can range faster than ever before with the new Ranger 1800!

Further Reading

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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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