What is the usual range of a handheld radar device?

Handheld radar devices typically have an effective range that can vary depending on several factors, including the device's design and the environment in which it is used. The usual operational range for most handheld radar devices is generally around 1,000 feet to 1,500 feet. This range allows law enforcement officers to capture the speed of vehicles from a safe distance, facilitating optimal use of the device during traffic enforcement.

The choice of 1,500 feet aligns with the capabilities of many modern radar guns that are designed for accuracy and effectiveness at distances relevant to law enforcement needs. While these devices can often measure speeds accurately at short distances, their ability to maintain precision at longer ranges can diminish, which is why practical applications often see most readings conducted within that range.