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Outdoor Life published its 2026 laser rangefinder test on Nov. 4, naming seven picks for hunting and shooting. The Garmin L60i received Editor’s Choice, while the Vortex Triumph HD 850 was named Great Buy; the report covers both advanced ballistic and mapping tools and simpler rangefinders.
Outdoor Life published its 2026 laser rangefinder test on Nov. 4, naming seven models for hunting and shooting, with the Garmin L60i as Editor’s Choice and the Vortex Triumph HD 850 as Great Buy. The report assesses devices that range from straightforward distance meters to units with mapping, navigation and ballistic calculation features.
The report’s full list also includes the Bushnell R5 Broadhead 2, Sig Sauer Kilo8K-ABS Gen II, Leupold RX-5000 TBR/W, Bushnell R5 2000 AB and Leica Rangemaster CRF Max. Outdoor Life presents the products as picks from its 2026 optics test, though the supplied report excerpt does not provide rankings or detailed test results for all seven models.
Outdoor Life describes the L60i as a combination of laser rangefinding, Garmin mapping and Applied Ballistics software. Its listed features include an augmented-reality display overlay, waypoint marking, distance measurement between points, compatibility with Garmin Explore and a tripod mount. The report says the unit weighs 13.6 ounces with its two AAA batteries and costs nearly $2,500.
The publication reports that Garmin rates the L60i for distances up to 7,500 yards in optimum conditions and 5,500 yards in full sunlight, and says testers obtained readings close to those figures. Those are manufacturer ratings and test observations, not a guarantee of performance in every setting. Outdoor Life also notes the unit’s one-year warranty, which it describes as shorter than category norms.
Rangefinders Add More Than Distance
The picks show how hunting rangefinders now vary not only in ranging performance but also in ballistic support, mapping and navigation. For hunters assessing equipment, a feature-rich model may offer help beyond measuring a target’s distance, while a simpler unit could better suit someone who does not need those functions. The report’s mix of advanced and point-and-shoot options recognizes that buyers have different needs.
The L60i’s price and size are relevant alongside its capabilities: Outdoor Life lists it at nearly $2,500 and says it is among the largest and heaviest monoculars tested. The Vortex’s Great Buy designation offers a contrasting value-oriented recommendation, but the provided material does not give its price or enough detail to compare its performance directly with the Garmin.
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Inside Outdoor Life’s 2026 Test
Outdoor Life says the test considered more than whether a device returns an accurate, consistent distance. The report describes a field that includes models with incline, temperature, elevation and ballistic calculations, as well as units focused on point-and-shoot ranging. It frames the 2026 group as including both high-value equipment and newer technology.
The article was written by Scott Einsmann and published in Outdoor Life’s gear and optics coverage. The publication also discloses that it may earn revenue from products available through its page and participate in affiliate programs. That disclosure is relevant when readers assess product recommendations; it does not establish that the test findings are inaccurate.
“This year’s field was among the most exciting we’ve seen with both high value and the latest technology.”
— Outdoor Life
What the Published Details Leave Open
The source material provided here does not include the complete test methodology, such as how many units were tested, the conditions used for each model or the criteria behind each award. It also does not give detailed specifications, prices or test outcomes for most of the seven picks, limiting direct comparisons based on the excerpt alone.
The L60i’s maximum ranging distances are presented as Garmin’s ratings, with Outdoor Life reporting that its own readings came close. Actual results can vary with target reflectivity, light and other conditions; the excerpt does not spell out every testing condition. The Garmin’s listed capabilities also do not establish how well each feature works for every user or use case.
Compare Models Against Your Needs
Readers considering a purchase can consult Outdoor Life’s full review for the individual assessments and specifications of all seven models, then compare price, weight, warranty and required features. The supplied report gives no information about upcoming product releases or scheduled follow-up testing, so no next test or update is confirmed.
Before choosing, buyers should distinguish manufacturer range claims from results under their own conditions and decide whether they need mapping or ballistic tools in addition to distance measurement. The recommendations are Outdoor Life’s test conclusions, not a universal ranking for every hunting or shooting situation.
Key Questions
Which rangefinder received Outdoor Life’s top award?
The Garmin L60i was named Editor’s Choice in Outdoor Life’s 2026 test.
Which model was named Great Buy?
Outdoor Life named the Vortex Triumph HD 850 Great Buy. The supplied report excerpt does not include its price or a detailed performance comparison.
What other rangefinders made the list?
The list also includes the Bushnell R5 Broadhead 2, Sig Sauer Kilo8K-ABS Gen II, Leupold RX-5000 TBR/W, Bushnell R5 2000 AB and Leica Rangemaster CRF Max.
What distinguishes the Garmin L60i?
Outdoor Life highlights its combination of rangefinding, mapping, an augmented-reality display and Applied Ballistics software. The report also notes its nearly $2,500 price, 13.6-ounce weight with batteries and one-year warranty.
Are the L60i’s stated maximum distances guaranteed?
No. The report attributes maximum distances of 7,500 yards in optimum conditions and 5,500 yards in full sunlight to Garmin’s ratings. Outdoor Life says its readings came close, but results may vary with conditions and targets.
Source: outdoorlife.com
