Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
The Maztech X4-LRF is the newest entry in the weapon-mounted laser rangefinder (WMLRF) space, and it does a lot more than just ranging targets. With a built-in Applied Ballistics solver, integrated weather station, and both visible and IR aiming lasers, this system isn’t just a tool for measuring distance; it’s a complete real-time ballistic solution in a rugged package. Commercially available in two variants, the X4-LRF-2K and the X4-LRF-15K, Maztech has made something that works equally well for hunters, competition shooters, and military applications.
I tested the 15K model, which runs a military-grade 1534nm laser that is undetectable to night vision devices. Civilian shooters may not care about that detail, but the 1534nm wavelength also means longer reach and more reliable ranging at extreme distances.
Table of contents
X4-LRF Performance in the Field
Performance is where the X4-LRF-15K blew me away. Ranging results were displayed nearly instantaneously. Even at distances where most other rangefinders start to struggle. On grass hillsides and treelines, I consistently got results on every attempt out to around 7,300 yards. Past this, ranging pastures were hit or miss, but I did get some 8,000 and 9,000-yard readings after multiple attempts. However, I was still able to range a barn all the way out at 10,720 yards. While I didn’t have the landscape to range anything past this, I have seen other people with the same system range barns and grain bins out to 15,000 yards. Well beyond what I can actually shoot, and the distance my bullets could ever even fly. Either way, I consider this proof of how capable the unit is.
Every time I ranged a target, the X4-LRF displayed my range nearly instantly. Even when ranging past 10,000 yards, this LRF only took like a second to give my reading. A single CR123A battery powers this system and is advertised to last for up to 10,000 range events. However, running the IR laser will cut that short if it is utilized often.
Integrated Lasers
Where most handheld range finders stop at ranging, the X4-LRF adds in both visible and IR aiming lasers. The IR laser is a standout feature. I was able to see it clearly out to 1,008 yards, which is impressive on its own, and even more so considering many standalone IR lasers cost over $1,000. With the X4-LRF, you’re essentially getting that functionality bundled with a ballistic computer and rangefinder in one unit.
The visible red laser is mainly for zeroing the unit to your optic. It’s not bright in daylight, but it is faintly visible at night out to around 300 yards. One limitation is that there’s no onboard IR illuminator, though Maztech has said an accessory version is planned. For now, pairing it with a rifle-mounted IR illuminator makes for a fully capable night vision setup.
Ballistic Solver and Usability
The Applied Ballistics integration sets the X4-LRF apart from a simple rangefinder. After entering my rifle and ammo data, the system was giving me nearly instant holdover information with every range. On my Seekins .308 mounted with a Vortex diving board, I started with closer shots: 278, 513, and 702 yards. All of which I was able to get first-round hits shooting a C-zone steel silhouette target. Then I pushed back to 991 and 1,381 yards, again getting hits while shooting from a tripod. Once tried and true, this system makes easy work of engaging targets quickly from an unknown distance. The only thing that this system can’t do is measure the wind speed. For those who want to see me use this to shoot out to 1381 yards, I posted a video to my Instagram page below:
The Maztech X4-LRF packs a suite of onboard environmental and motion sensors that feed directly into its Applied Ballistics engine. Temperature, barometric pressure, and humidity are all measured in real time, giving the solver accurate atmospheric data without the need for a separate Kestrel or weather meter.
It also includes an internal inclinometer and cant (level) sensor, so the system can automatically correct for shooting at steep angles or when the rifle isn’t perfectly level. Having this information constantly updated inside the unit eliminates another layer of manual input and speeds up the shot process, especially when ranging and engaging multiple targets at different distances.
Control Layout
The menu system is intuitive after a little time with it. Also, the back dial feels very similar to a DBAL laser. Although the two-letter codes for choosing laser settings may be confusing, unlike a DBAL or PEQ, the display will read off what is selected as the knob is turned around. This just offers options to either turn the device off or toggle between visible, IR, or no lasers.
Zeroing is easy, requiring only a small flathead screwdriver. Also, the rubberized buttons are sub-flush to prevent accidental activation. The top and left forward adjustments are used to zero the LRF, while the L button is used to activate the laser, the R button is used to range a target, and the M button is the menu button.
Day and Night Use
One of the biggest advantages of a WMLRF is its usefulness with thermal optics after dark. A handheld rangefinder won’t help when you can’t see your target, but with the X4-LRF mounted on the rifle, you’re ranging exactly what your scope or thermal is pointed at. This makes after-dark shooting far more precise, and the built-in IR laser adds another layer of utility.
Ruggedness and Reliability
Maztech built the X4-LRF to MIL-STD-810 specs, and it feels every bit as tough as advertised. The housing is solid aircraft-grade 7075-T6 aluminum, and the controls feel well-protected. I mounted mine to a rifle that spent time bouncing around in the toolbox of a side-by-side over rough mountain trails. Despite the abuse, it held zero. The only thing I noticed afterward was a little play between the rear grey portion and the front tan section that attaches to the rail, but functionally, it never skipped a beat.
This is also more of a cosmetic thing, as the rear houses electronic components where the lasers are contained in the solid machined block of aluminum mounted directly to the rail. Maztech mentioned that this is not normal, but with their 3-year warranty, anyone would be able to ship it back to get tightened back up free of charge. I definitely attribute this to the rifle being thrown in a toolbox, then driven down miles of rough terrain.
Pairing with the X4-FCS
For shooters who also invest in Maztech’s X4-FCS (Fire Control System), pairing it with the X4-LRF takes things to the next level. The two devices can communicate, allowing the FCS to display immediate holdover information and aiming points directly in your optic. For hunting or competition, this will cut down time from ranging to sending a shot. Also allowing for quicker mid to long-range engagements with less required training.
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Final Thoughts on the X4-LRF
The Maztech X4-LRF is more than just a rangefinder. It’s a complete shooting solution. The ability to range well past 10,000 yards, integrate with Applied Ballistics, and project an IR aiming laser all in one compact package is impressive. For hunters and competition shooters, it brings confidence and efficiency. For military users, the undetectable 1534nm laser and rugged construction make it mission-ready.
Even at nearly $5,000 for the 15K model, the X4-LRF is competitively priced compared to other WMLRFs that cost double or even triple while not being as feature-rich. The 2K version provides a more affordable option. It has an MSRP of $2,195 while still packing in the same functionality for shooters who don’t need extreme range.
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Mitchell Graf is a dedicated hunter, competitive shooter, and firearms enthusiast. As a former instructor and president of Oklahoma State’s Practical Shooting Team, he has a strong foundation in marksmanship and competition shooting. These days, he spends as much time as possible chasing pigs and coyotes with night vision and thermal optics.
When he’s not in the field or on the range, Mitchell works as a full-time Mechanical Engineer in the Aerospace and Defense industry and manages a part-time farming operation. Whether he’s behind a rifle, designing parts, or working the land, his drive for precision and performance remains the same.
Experience:
– Mechanical Engineer – Full-time professional in the Aerospace/Defense industry.
– Competitive Shooter & Instructor – Former President and Instructor of Oklahoma State’s Practical Shooting Team.
– Night Vision & Thermal Hunter – Passionate about night time predator and hog hunting.
– Part-Time Farmer – Working to provide for my family, and raise food for this great nation.
Seems like a game changer.