Mil-Dot / MOA Range Estimator
Estimate range to a target of known size using its subtension in mils or MOA.
How this works
A reticle's mil or MOA markings measure an angle, and a known-size object subtends a smaller angle the farther away it is. By reading how many mils or MOA a target of known size spans in your reticle, you can solve backward for the actual range — the same principle mariners and artillery spotters have used for over a century.
Where this method breaks down
The two things that can throw this off are an inaccurate size estimate for the actual animal or object in front of you, and reading the reticle subtension imprecisely under field conditions (a moving or partially obscured target is hard to measure exactly). Used as a sanity check alongside a laser rangefinder, though, it's a reliable and battery-free backup skill.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is this compared to a laser rangefinder?
It's a solid backup or sanity check, but it's only as accurate as your estimate of the target's actual size and how precisely you can read the reticle subtension in the field — a laser rangefinder is more precise when one is available.
What if I don't know the exact size of the animal?
Use a commonly published average for that species and sex (many hunting references list typical chest depth or body length), understanding that individual animals vary and the estimate will carry that same uncertainty.
Does this work the same for mil and MOA reticles?
Yes — just select the correct unit for your reticle. The underlying idea (a known size subtending a measured angle at some distance) is identical either way, only the conversion constant changes.
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