A friend and i got into a discussion about how we use our range finders. He actually tries to get an exact range to the deer before he shoots. Once I get settled in my tree, I pick out prominent features, stumps down trees, streams etc in my shoot-able directions and range them. I'm then able to establish an accurate 30 yard reference from my tree. You instantly know your range the second you see the deer. If it's just past my marker I shoot my 40 just under my 20. If it's over twice the distance I let em walk. I don't see how you ever have time to lase the deer, draw you bow, and get off a shot. I've walked off distances to things before I climbed before I had a range finder, and that works as well. Just a way to accurately range if you wanted to try it.

I use mine the same.
On loc-ons or places I hunt often I would place engineer flags as yardage markers and spray with Pack-Rat Spray.

I've always done the same. But last year, I started leaving it hanging around my neck. If I get the opportunity to take an actual reading I will.

I've never ranged a deer. I do what you do. Its worked for me. Plus when I do see a deer I can't function good enough to thank about using my range finder.

I range features as well, not deer. The less movement when deer are there the better.

I thought you had a high dollar range finder!

I do that as well, but I try to get an actual range if at all possible. I get nervous that I'll get my marks mixed up.

Hey, it works don't it? Deer don't care it was free!

I will reference points for that unexpected shot, but if I have time, I will range the deer.