Golf Rangefinders Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best rangefinder?
The best rangefinder for your golf game depends on your needs and how seriously you take the game. For an entry-level golfer who isn’t looking to invest too much in golf tech, then a laser rangefinder that is functional but not too sleek will do just the job. For this, the Shot Scope Pro L1 will suffice. Complete with target-lock vibration, slope compensation, and a distance range of 875 yards, it's a beginner golfer’s best friend.
For those looking to play a more precision-based, laser-focussed game, then the powerful Bushnell Pro XE rangefinder will suit these keen golfers to a tee. With advanced pinseeker technology, x7 magnification, and slope and elements compensation, this golf rangefinder is one of the most advanced on the market today.
How accurate are golf rangefinders?
Most golf GPS rangefinders are accurate to +/- 1 yard, just shy of 1m. When you’re a long distance from the flag or having to take a blind shot, the accuracy of your rangefinder can make all the difference. With most models accurate to 1 yard and with hyper-precise magnification, golf laser rangefinders are a highly sought after piece of kit in many amatuer and semi-pro golfers’ bags.
Are golf rangefinders worth it?
Definitely! Golf rangefinders will help you improve your game by providing unparalleled accuracy. Knowing the precise yardage to the flag and what lies in the way will help you choose the right club, the speed of your swing, and the trajectory at which to hit the ball. A good golf laser rangefinder can inform every distance shot on the golf course until you get to those crucial last plays before the flag. They’re great for golfers wanting to build their confidence and those who are already fairly competent players.
How to use a golf rangefinder scope
First, activate your rangefinder. Hold the monocular to your dominant eye and close the other, so you’re looking through it like a telescope. The view on the rangefinder will show the distance in yardage to the flag and calculate the uphill or downhill slopes, if your device has those capabilities. This will help inform you which golf club to choose, which shot to play, and even how to get out of the blind spot you might be in.
Are laser rangefinders legal in golf?
Rangefinders are similar to golf GPS watches in that they used to be very strictly prohibited from the green, especially during tournaments and competitions. In recent years, however, they have been allowed yet closely monitored in golf competitions, making them game-legal. However, there are some stipulations to their usage.
As of recent years, you can use your rangefinder (or distance-measuring devices - DMDs for short) to measure the distance to the hole or another location from your own playing position. Because the rangefinder is a distance measuring tool and not necessarily a ‘smart’ golf tool that gives prompts, unlike certain models of golf GPS watches, it is allowed in most competitions. However, this is subject to individual tournament rules and can differ from organiser to organiser, club to club, so always double check with your specified tournament rules before competing with yours.