Period correct rangefinder

[tom in nc]

Anybody made their own rangefinder like the one shown here. I know they cam be bought fro about $20 but I think it would be neat to DIY. I probably would need to buy one to get the dimensions for the markings, or borrow a modern one from a buddy that hunts and have a 6ft tall helper (my grandson). The 6ft tall helper because I understand that the calibrations were/are based on a 6ft tall person.

 

[Codger Craig Wilcox]

I did see a brass one in the shape of an isosceles triangle, fitted as yours for a 6' figure. I'm sure they are available for sale someplace.

 

[northernThaiguy]

Where did you see that, Tom? That's pretty neat!

 

[.36Rooster]

You don't need to buy one to get the dimensions. Choose an object of the height you wish, say 30 inches for a deer at the shoulder. Measure out 10 yds, sight, and scribe a witness mark, then measure out 20 yds, sight, and scribe a witness mark,...and keep repeating out to about 125-150 yds or so. Take your brass blank home, and treat your witness marks with punches, dremels, or other methods of engraving, and you're done.

I believe the device in your illustration is designed to be used on an object 6 feet in height (a man or moose). I would make one from scratch using whatever height you wish.

 

[saculmot]

Where did you see that, Tom? That's pretty neat!

Pretty sure I've seen them on Amazon and a few other places.

 

[saculmot]

https://www.budk.com/Frankford-Arsenal-Range-Finder-Brass-Construction--48481

 

[Greg Y]

https://www.tdcmfg.com/product-page/range-finder

 

[Bullitdog]

I took these measurements in spring. Tinworm was working on a similar project. Please pardon my computer ineptness.

 

[Justin.P]

I took these measurements in spring. Tinworm was working on a similar project. Please pardon my computer ineptness.
View attachment 279392View attachment 279393View attachment 279394View attachment 279392View attachment 279393View attachment 279394

I saw a guy that had one made to work with the same principal, but carved out of wood.

Edited to add photo

Stadia range finder.
Made by FE

 

[Greg Y]

I built this range wedge to work with known ranges.

Triangles are neat.

 

[11th corps]

When I opened this thread I expected to see a pic of a yardstick.

 

[Justin.P]

When I opened this thread I expected to see a pic of a yardstick.

Or rods and chains for those long range guys out west.

 

[bpd303]

I have one just like it, that my G Grandfather as a Captain, carried with the 23 Ohio in the ACW. Also his fold-able map reader.

Edit: correct fordable to fold-able.

 

[tenngun]

I built this range wedge to work with known ranges.

Triangles are neat.View attachment 279427

Wedges!
Wedges!
We don’t need no stinking wedges!

 

[GREENSWLDE]

Or rods and chains for those long range guys out west.

What about the Poles & Perches ?? or they a bit too Obscure these days -- 1823 /1923.. XXX Upps should read 2023.. One Chain(an old Agrecultural measre using a "CHAIN") is 22 Yards as are the rest.. Have A GOOD NEW YEAR>O.D.

 

[Jim in Wisconsin]

Maybe everyone already knows this, but the distance it's held from the eye is critical. I think that's why there is a string or little chain on them, to put around your neck or hold with your teeth. The distance from your eye is the "calibration".

 

[Comfortably_Numb]

I use a nifty laser range finder. It has never let me down!

 

[Greg Y]

Wedges!
Wedges!
We don’t need no stinking wedges!

How about we put a 12" gong up anywhere from the muzzle to 500 yards.

I'm willing to bet money I'm on it before 99% of the people can even get close. My wedge is quite proven.

My friend has the same rifle set up differently. He asked about the wedge. He ranged a coffee can sized rock at 290 yards....and I smacked it first shot.

He now wants to build a wedge.

 

[Hatman/2nd line]

I saw a guy that had one made to work with the same principal, but carved out of wood.

Edited to add photo

Stadia range finder.
Made by FE

View attachment 279483

I give up, just how did these work?

 

[Rifleman1776]

Pretty sure I've seen them on Amazon and a few other places.

It has the TDC stamp. Meaning it is a Ted Cash product. Don't know if they still make them.