Category: Rangefinders

The Nikon brand name is not one that is necessarily associated with golf so much as it is with optics in general. However, that has started to change, as Nikon has paid more and more attention to its golf-specific lineup. The Coolshot 20 is a great example of the importance that this famous brand is paying to the sport of golf. With plenty of features aimed to impress the average golfer, you will likely find the Coolshot 20 to be a strong contender for your business.

There are a number of reasons you should consider this laser rangefinder when picking out a distance measuring device for your bag. Those reasons will be highlighted below, and they are all in addition to the reputation that Nikon carries as a brand. When making any kind of purchase, you always want to know that the company in question is going to stand behind its products – and you can expect nothing less from Nikon. With a two-year warranty on the Coolshot 20, you can rest assured that you will get your money’s worth if you go in this direction.

Features

• Extremely compact design – 40x109x71mm
• Only weighs 127g
• Target priority settings
• 8-second continuous scanning

 

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• Weatherproof, can be used in any conditions
• Can fit into your pocket
• Can determine range for any object in site (within range limits)
• Can be operated with one hand
• Includes a protective case

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• Optics not as impressive as more expensive models
• Sometimes struggles to produce readings in extreme light conditions
• Need a steady hand for accurate readings over 200 yards
• Battery chamber cap falls off from time to time

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Checkout our golf rangefinder buying guide here

 

Everything You Need

The demands of a golfer when it comes to a distance measuring device are really quite simple. First and foremost, it needs to measure distances accurately time after time. Second, it needs to be able to measure with a large enough range to handle all of the shots that you are going to face out on the course. Third, it needs to be durable enough to stand up to the inevitable abuse that it will take during your rounds of golf. You aren’t going to be hitting your rangefinder with your seven iron, of course, but it is still likely to get bumped, dropped, and banged from time to time.

Fortunately, the Coolshot 20 does a great job of checking off all of these boxes. It possesses a range that goes from 6 yards all the way out to 550, so you should be able to get the yardage you need for any shot that comes up during a round (if you are more than 550 yards out, you should probably just swing away). It is built with quality construction to help it stand the test of time as it comes in and out of your bag, and it comes with a nylon case that can be attached to your golf bag if you so choose.

It’s Tiny!

One of the biggest advantages to choosing this rangefinder is the compact design of the unit overall. Weighing in at only 4.4 ounces, you will be impressed with how little space this device takes up in your bag or in your cart. Also, thanks to its small design, it will be easy to fit the rangefinder in just one hand, meaning you can pick it up and laser the distance to your target in just a moment. Since you will be frequently holding on to a club in one hand, it is a nice advantage to be able to take your measurement with only your free hand and the push of one button.

Ready for the Elements

Do you play all of your golf under bright sunshine? Didn’t think so. The reality of playing golf is that sometimes you are going to have to play in less-than-ideal conditions. When that is the case, the Nikon Coolshot 20 will be ready for the challenge. This device is rainproof, meaning you can grab it from your bag even as the sky is watering the golf course. It would be great to play only dry-weather golf, but that simply isn’t reality. By choosing a model such as this that can be used in the rain without a problem, you can keep your game on track even when you have to deal with a quick shower.

In addition to the ability to use this device in the rain, you can also rely on it when extreme temperatures take place on the course. The unit is rated for reliable use from 14F all the way up to 122F, so the temperature should not be a concern with regard to your laser rangefinder. Of course, the decision to actually play golf when the temperatures are near either end of that range would likely need to be questioned, but it won’t be your rangefinder that is the problem at that point.

Continuous Scanning is Helpful

Pretty much every rangefinder allows you to press a button in order to have the distance displayed through the viewfinder. However, the Nikon Coolshot 20 goes a little bit farther – it allows for 8 seconds of scanning during which the distance that you are measuring will be displayed continuously in the viewfinder. So, you can scan the terrain in front of you with your finger down on the button to find a variety of different yardages all at once. This feature is a tremendous advantage, especially if you are playing a course for the first time.

One great example of the usefulness of this feature is when you are trying to determine the overall shape of the green complex you are facing. Is the bunker in front of the green right up next to the putting surface, or is there some rough in between the two? By scanning from the flag down to the bunker back and forth, you can gain a good understanding of how the overall green complex is going to look when you arrive. You can never have enough information in terms of planning your golf shots, and you will find that the scanning mode on this device helps you get a ton of valuable info.

In summary, it is hard to find much to complain about with regard to the Nikon Coolshot 20. It is offered at a price that is comparable to other quality rangefinders on the market, it is compact in design and stands up to the elements, and it comes from a respected brand. If you are seeking out a good overall rangefinder which will deliver accurate yardage time after time, the Coolshot 20 is a worthy pick.

 

Check out my guide on the best golf rangefinders before purchasing a rangefinder.

When searching for golf equipment, it is easy to focus only on products that are marketed toward golfers. This makes sense, of course – if you are going to buy something for your golf game, you are probably going to look where golf equipment is sold. However, if you only take that approach, you just might miss out on finding a great product that will work perfectly for your needs. Such is the case with the Nikon 8397 ACULON Laser Rangefinder.

Technically speaking, this is not a golf product specifically. Nikon doesn’t market it as a golf rangefinder so much as an overall laser rangefinder that is great for measuring distance. However, when you start to get into the specs of the product – which we will do below – you will see that it does basically everything you need it to do out on the course. Given its ability to handle the tasks asked of a golf rangefinder, and its modest price point, this is a unit that is worth consideration to be sure.

Features

• Very compact design – 91x38x73mm
• Weighs 158g
• ACULON range finding systems
• Multilayer optic coating

 

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• Accurate
• Portable
• One hand usage
• 6x magnification
• 20mm lens
• Nikon optics
• Offers readings in yards or meters
• Includes carry case

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• Requires a steady hand
• Fragile

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Check out our Golf Rangefinder Buying Guide here

 

The Nikon Name

Before even getting into the specs of this particular rangefinder, it is worth pointing out just how much respect the Nikon brand name should garner when thinking about buying a distance measuring device. This is a brand name that has operated in the world of cameras and other optical devices for many years, and it is associated with quality and reliability. While there are other trusted brand name in the golf rangefinder business as well – Bushnell, specifically – there is a lot to be said for purchasing a product that has been made by a brand as well-respected at Nikon.

Great Specs for Golf

As mentioned above, this isn’t a rangefinder that was necessarily designed with golf in mind. That being said, it does have specs that fit in nicely with a golfer’s needs. To start, it is a compact unit that will not get in your way out on the course. Measuring less than 4’’ long, the rangefinder can easily be operated with one hand, and it can be put away quickly when you are done taking your measurement. A big, bulky item would not be a good fit for a golfer, but that is not a problem in this case. Also, measurements are taken with just the push of one button, again making this unit easy to use with a single hand.

In terms of range, this laser has all that you need for golf purposes. It will measure distances as short as just six yards, yet it can go all the way back to a full 550 yards as well. Your yardages will be displayed through the viewfinder in one yard increments, so you will always have an accurate number to work from when you are getting ready to play your shots. Not only will you have an accurate yardage, but you will also get that yardage quickly. The technology Nikon uses in this rangefinder is great at delivering distances in just a fraction of second, meaning you don’t have to worry about holding up the group behind you while trying to determine a number.

Finally, this unit has 6x magnification, meaning you will get a great look at the target while scoping out your distance. This is one of the underrated features of using a rangefinder – having a chance to see what the green looks like in greater detail before hitting your shot. Looking through a high-quality viewfinder such as the one included here will give you the chance to notice things about the green and surrounding area that you might not have seen with the naked eye.

One Specific Drawback

So far, so good when it comes to the Nikon 8397 ACULON Laser Rangefinder. It is certainly a quality product from a respected brand, and it also has almost all of the specs that you would be looking for in a golf rangefinder. There are a couple of things that are lacking – and one of those things, in particular, may cause you to think twice.

Many of the modern laser rangefinders available today which are marketed toward golfers have a feature which will work to pick out the pin from the surrounding environment. Those rangefinders work by selecting the closest yardage from those available, assuming that other readings are coming from items behind the green. On the Nikon, however, such technology is not used. In fact, this unit employs the opposite technology, allowing you to read the farthest point within the view of the device, which is helpful for things like hunting but not so much for golf.

Without the technology to seek out the pin specifically, you may have a hard time always getting an accurate yardage to the hole itself. Also, there is no adjustment for slope included with this rangefinder. That omission will likely not be as big of a factor for most players, as the use of slope functions is generally banned in golf competitions anyway. However, it is something to keep in mind, as you will have to look elsewhere if that is a function you were hoping to have in your next rangefinder.

Buying Advice

There is no doubt that this rangefinder can be used effectively for golf. Plenty of previous buyers already use theirs for golf with great results, so you can rest assured that it will work for that application. Is it the perfect, purpose-built rangefinder to take with you out onto the course? No – the lack of the features mentioned above mean it will always come a little short of some of the other models that are meant to land in golf bags.

However, when you factor the price into this equation, you are left with a very interesting dilemma. The Nikon 8397 ACULON Laser Rangefinder is a quality distance measuring tool, and it sells for well less than many of the golf-specific rangefinders that you will see. If getting a good deal is high on your list, and you are willing to do without a couple of golf features, you will likely be very happy with the Nikon.

 

Check out my guide on the best golf rangefinders before purchasing a rangefinder.

As you go through the process of shopping for a laser rangefinder to add to your collection of golf equipment, you are likely to notice one thing – these devices can get expensive! Like anything else, the market offers a variety of price points for rangefinders, from down around $100 on up to $400 or more. Obviously, your budget is a personal decision that you will have to make before you go ahead and buy a particular unit. However, if you are budget-minded and want to keep your cost to a minimum while still getting a quality piece of gear, the TecTecTec VPRO500 is one worth careful consideration.

 

Check out our list of the best golf rangefinders

 

Smart Savings

On one hand, it is always nice to save money, no matter what you are purchasing. On the other hand, you don’t want to spend money on something that isn’t going to meet your needs just because it is a bit cheaper than other products on the market. Fortunately, the VPRO500 doesn’t really ask you to make much of a sacrifice when compared to other rangefinders marketed to golfers. Sure, it might not quite have all of the bells and whistles of some of the top-line models, but that doesn’t mean it can’t get the job done. At the end of the day, the idea is to get an accurate yardage from your ball to the target, and the TecTecTec can do just that.

The Basic Functions

First and foremost, any laser rangefinder that you purchase needs to be able to measure distances accurately from the first hole on through the last. This model is able to measure up to 540 yards using a continuous scan mode along with Pinsensor technology. The measurement that you are provided will be accurate within one yard, meaning you can count on the number you are given when you go to pick a club.

Just like most of the other laser rangefinders available, the TecTecTec delivers the information you need directly through the viewfinder, so you will see your yardage immediately as you scan the targets in front of you. Frequently you will want to use the viewfinder to measure the distance to the flag, but you can also use it to measure distance to a tree, the face of a bunker, and much more.

Compact Design is a Plus

You don’t want to have to carry around much extra weight when making your way through a round of golf, and the VPRO500 keeps that in mind. With a total weight of just 185g, you won’t be adding anything noticeable to your bag. The unit is designed to be dust and water-resistant, and it can easily be used with a single hand. With just a little practice, you will be able to pick this unit up, measure your target quickly, and put it back down to proceed with your shot. It is important to keep up with pace of play when you are out on the course, and this unit will help you toward that goal.

A Complete Product

If you choose to add the TecTecTec VPRO500 to your golf bag, you will be happy to know that you will be getting a number of different pieces of gear along with the rangefinder itself. First, you get a carrying pouch which is great for protecting the device while you are out on the course. Nobody wants to see their rangefinder meet an untimely death due to an accident in the cart or on the bag, and the carrying pouch will help to prevent that from taking place. Also, TecTecTec includes a strap, a cleaning cloth, and a guide to help you get started. The battery that is needed for this rangefinder is included as well, so you will have absolutely everything you need to hit the links right away.

Money-Back Guarantee

It can be hard to decide on exactly the product you wish to purchase – especially when buying online where you can’t touch and feel the options in question. However, you don’t have to worry when choosing to buy the VPRO500, because it includes a 100% money-back guarantee. If you aren’t happy with your purchase for any reason, the unit can simply be returned for a full refund. With this protection in place, it is much easier to try out a model that comes from a brand which isn’t as well-recognized as some of the others on the market. There is a warranty provided with the rangefinder in addition to the money-back guarantee, so you will be covered on a number of fronts.

Choices, Choices, Choices

There are a lot of rangefinders on the market today – that much is clear. Whether you are going to go with the TecTecTec VPRO500 or another model is ultimately up to you. Are there models on the market today with more features than the VPRO500? Yes. For instance, this rangefinder does not include the ability to adjust yardages for slope, which is something that most of the higher-end models offer. Is that something you need, or even want? Again, that is something you will have to decide for yourself. You might find the slope adjustment function to be handy, or you might find it to be something you don’t even use. If you play in any tournaments, you probably won’t be able to use slope adjustment anyway.

What the TecTecTec offers is a solid, reliable rangefinder capable of giving you accurate yardages round after round. If that is all you want from a laser distance measuring device, the VPRO500 is certainly a contender. Considering the fact that it often costs less than half of some of the competing units on the market, it is easy to see a case for this being the model that you choose. Take your time to weigh the features and prices of various models available before making your final buying decision. Good luck with your shopping, and play well!

 

Check out my guide on the best golf rangefinders before purchasing a rangefinder.

If you are shopping for a golf rangefinder and you value having a quality brand name on everything you purchase, Bushnell is likely the direction you are going to go with your choice. Sure, there are some other quality brand names in this business – Nikon, Callaway, and GolfBuddy are a few – but it is likely Bushnell that stands above the pack in terms of name recognition. When you see other golfers using laser rangefinders to measure distances at your local course, most of them are probably putting a Bushnell product to use.

See our full guide on buying a rangefinder here

The plus side of buying a Bushnell is the fact that you have their reputation and brand behind the product. They are known for making durable, accurate distance measuring devices, so you should be able to buy with confidence. However, they also have some of the most-expensive options in this market, meaning your budget may take a hit if you decide to go this route. However, if you opt for the Tour V3 Rangefinder, you can pick up a unit with the Bushnell name without doing too much damage to your bank account. Often available for under $200, the Tour V3 has all of the features you need with a price you can appreciate.

Fire at the Flag

While one of the benefits of using a laser rangefinder is the ability to measure distances to all sorts of items around the course, the main purpose of this kind of unit is to determine the distance to the flag. After all, you want to place your ball right next to the hole as often as possible, so why not fire right at it? Thanks to the Pin Seeker Technology that is used in this Bushnell rangefinder, you will be able to pick out the flag quickly and easily.

If you have used lesser rangefinders in the past, you may have noticed that it can be difficult to figure out when you are getting the flag and when you are measuring items behind the green. With the Bushnell, however, that worry is taken away because the rangefinder scans the field that you are viewing and picks out the distance that registers the pin itself. To let you know that you have picked out the right target, a slight vibration will run through the unit (called Jolt Vibration).

What does all of this mean? In the end, you have a device that can help you measure the distance to the flag in just a matter of seconds. Once you learn how to use the Bushnell Tour V3, and you gain just a bit of experience with it, you will find that measuring the distance to the flag couldn’t be easier. Your pace of play will likely improve as a result of owning and using this product, and you shouldn’t be surprised if many of your friends want to buy one after trying yours.

Impressive Range

No matter how far you are capable of hitting the golf ball, the Tour V3 is going to be able to get you a distance you can trust. The device is impressively able to measure up to 1,000 yards away, and it will pick up the pin from as far as 300 yards back in the fairway or on the tee. The viewfinder features 5x magnification, meaning it will be relatively easy to see the landscape up around the green when you are getting your measurement. Even big hitters who like to attack the hole from well back should have no problem at all getting the information they need to plan a successful shot.

Lack of Slope – A Good Thing?

As you may know, some rangefinders on the market today include a function that enables them to adjust your yardage based on the slope you are facing. In other words, yards will be subtracted when you are playing downhill, and they will be added when you are playing uphill. This is a handy function to have, especially if you tend to play hilly courses, as these adjustments can be hard to make accurately on your own.

However, if you play golf in tournaments, you may want to choose a rangefinder without this function. While some tournaments do allow the use of distance measuring devices, they typically do not allow the use of rangefinders with a slope function. So, if you opt for a model that adjusts for slope automatically, you may not be able to use that device legally in a competition. However, if you go with the Tour V3, you will have no such concerns. This model does not have the slope function, and will be legal in tournaments where distance measuring devices have been allowed.

A Strong Contender

Anyway you look at it, this rangefinder needs to be at least on your list of finalists before you pick out a distance measuring device to add to your gear. It checks nearly all of the boxes you could have in mind for your purchase – it falls into a reasonable price range for most buyers, it comes from a high-quality brand, it can measure up to 1,000 yards, it has technology to pick out the pin specifically, and it can be used with just a single hand. Unless you are insistent on having slope adjustment technology in your rangefinder, it is hard to imagine having a need that isn’t going to be met by this product.

Obviously, before you buy you should at least browse through a number of other models to see if there may be one available that does a better job of meeting your requirements (or does so for a lower price). Thanks to the name recognition that Bushnell has built over the years, and the great reviews that have been given to this product in its time on the market, there are sure to be plenty of golfers who will decide that this is the best available option when it comes to a reliable distance measuring device.

 

Check out my guide on the best golf rangefinders before purchasing a rangefinder.

Voice Caddie VC300

The VC300 from Voice Caddie is a unique product in the GPS rangefinder market. As you know, most rangefinders include a visual display which informs you as to the distance between yourself and the target. There are plenty of handheld models on the market, as well as those that you can wear on your wrist or mount on your cart. However, the Voice Caddie VC300 goes in a completely different direction. Instead of showing you the distance, this device tells you the distance – out loud. Is this a good thing? Well, that depends.

Check out our guide on the best golf rangefinders

 

The Basics

Before we get into the pros and cons of this type of device, we first need to outline exactly how this product works. You may be familiar with traditional rangefinder units – you have probably used one or two previously – but the Voice Caddie is taking things into a whole new territory. Most golfers haven’t even seen one of these units, let alone tried one for themselves. To use the VC300 out on the course, you follow the simple steps below –

1. Before the round begins, you will need to turn on the device and attach it to the bill of your visor or hat. It will take a few minutes for the device to recognize the course you are playing, so you will want to switch it on while you are warming up.
2. Once your round begins, operation couldn’t be easier – anytime you would like to request a yardage, you simply swipe your finger across the surface of the unit and it will read you three numbers. The first number is the distance to the front of the green, the second is the middle, and the third is the back.
3. With your yardages provided, you can go ahead and hit your shot. After the round is completed, you will want to recharge the unit so it is ready for your next round.

There are a total of eight languages available on the VC300 – English, Spanish, German, Italian, French, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Swedish. Also, the volume can be set to one of seven levels so you can set it to a point that allows you to hear the yardage without bothering others in your group.

The Positives

Right off the bat, the main positive of this GPS rangefinder is obvious – it is extremely easy to use. With just one swipe of your finger, you will have the yardages you need and you can be on your way. You don’t have to fumble for a handheld unit being stored in your bag or cart, and you don’t have to wear anything on your wrist. The unit is mostly ‘out of sight, out of mind’, until you need it to do its job.

Also, those with vision issues will appreciate the fact that they don’t have to read a screen under bright sunlight. Some golfers find it difficult to read the display on a traditional GPS, which can slow them down during play. That isn’t an issue that is faced with the VC300 from Voice Caddie. As long as you can hear the yardage that is being announced, you will be good to go.

One other positive that needs to be mentioned is the price. The VC300 can often be had for less than $100, which is a significant savings over many of the other products on the market today. If you have been wanting to add some technology to your game without having to break the bank at the same time, the Voice Caddie is a product that deserves your attention.

The Negatives

Of course, there are some negatives that come along with any product, and that is true in this case as well. First and foremost, the VC300 offers up a very limited amount of information. The only data you will be receiving with regard to course measurements is the yardage to the front, middle, and back of the green. While those are important pieces of information, you may need other numbers in order to plan your shots properly. For example, if you need to know how far you have to clear a bunker or a water hazard, you will be out of luck. That is a significant drawback of this product.

The other negative that needs to be highlighted is one that you are probably already thinking – the noise that comes along with this unit. Golf is a quiet game, and when you do make noise, you have to make sure you do so at the right time. Making noise while someone else hits a shot is a major no-no in golf. While you won’t swipe your finger on the VC300 while another golfer is playing, there is always the chance that it could make a noise unexpectedly at just the wrong time. This is why most people switch off their cell phones while on the course – you don’t want to be the person that interrupts the silence.

In addition to the threat of making noise at the wrong time, there is also the foreign concept of having ‘manufactured noise’ during your round. Many people play golf in part to enjoy the beauty and peaceful setting of the golf course – and that setting might be disturbed by having an automated voice reading off numbers. This point is more a matter of personal preference than a true pro or con, but it is something to think about.

The Verdict

In the end, it is hard to see the positives of this product outweighing the drawbacks that it presents. Sure, there is the convenience of the easy-to-use system, but you are only going to get limited information through that interface. The lack of more in-depth data is really the undoing of this unit. Unless you are a casual golfer who is not too concerned with planning your way around specific hazards and obstacles, you will likely want to opt for a unit capable of providing more information. The VC300 by Voice Caddie gets high marks for ingenuity and creativity, but overall there are better rangefinders on the market.

Check out my guide on the best golf rangefinders before purchasing a rangefinder.

 

Bushnell Pro X7 Jolt Slope Rangefinder

From the very early days of rangefinders on the golf course, Bushnell has established itself as one of the leaders in the industry. While their technology and the various models that they offer have come a long way from that starting point, Bushnell remains at the top of the market today. If you are looking for a high-quality rangefinder with all of the bells and whistles you need to play your best, it is going to be hard to do better than the Bushnell Pro X7 Jolt Slope Rangefinder.

Check out our guide on the best golf rangefinders

 

The Simplicity of a Laser

Before getting into the details of what this unit is capable of accomplishing, we should first point out just how beautifully simple the concept of a laser rangefinder really is. There are no satellites that need to get involved in this operation, as it is just a quick measurement between the unit itself and the target you have selected. That’s all. Once you know how to operate this laser unit properly, it should take only a quick moment for you to measure an accurate distance to any target that you select around the course.

This particular model from Bushnell is impressively powerful, as it is capable of measuring distances up to a mile away. Of course, that really isn’t going to be necessary on the course, as you are going to be dealing more so with numbers in the range of 50 – 250 yards. Between 5 – 125 yards, the Pro X7 Jolt will give you a measurement down to the half yard for added precision, and the unit is capable of picking up the flag itself from more than 550 yards away.

Feeling the Jolt

If you have used previous laser rangefinder models – whether from Bushnell or another company – you know that one of the main drawbacks is the uncertainty about what you are actually measuring. Is the number you are seeing actually the distance to the flag, or are you hitting something behind the green with the laser instead? You have to be confident in order to play good golf, and you won’t feel particularly confident over the ball if you aren’t even sure that you have the right club in hand.

To eliminate that uncertainty, Bushnell has introduced something it calls Jolt Technology. The idea is quite simple – when the rangefinder does lock on to the flag, you will feel a slight vibration in the unit to tell you that you are getting the correct measurement. This might seem like a basic thing, but it is actually a big step forward in this market. Instead of measuring two or three times to confirm your number, you can just measure once, feel the Jolt, and move on with your shot.

Get a Good Look

Another common complaint with previous generations of rangefinders was the difficulty that was often experienced when trying to see through the viewfinder. You want to be able to get a good look at the target, but that could be a challenge with some older models. If that has been a problem for you previously, it will be worth your time to check out the Bushnell Pro X7. This model has Vivid Display Technology, meaning the brightness and resolution have both been improved. You should have no trouble at all getting a clean look at your target when using this device.

Slope Calculations

In addition to measuring basic distance, this model also has the ability to adjust your distance automatically based on slope changes. So, if the shot you are measuring is going to be played uphill or downhill, the Bushnell Pro X7 will make the necessary adjustments to the number and provide you with a distance that will help you hit the target successfully. For instance, a downhill shot that is actually 150 total yards may be displayed as 140 due to the amount of decline that you are facing.

Waterproof Design

Unless you play golf in a perfect world – which is doubtful – you are going to have to deal with a bit of bad weather out there on the course from time to time. If you are a serious player, you certainly aren’t going to let a bit of rain keep you away from the course. With that in mind, it is nice to know that the Bushnell Pro X7 is designed to be fully waterproof. Even if the rain is coming down, you can still take this unit from your bag to get the quick measurement that you need. And, of course, since it can provide you with a reading so quickly, you can get on with your shot before getting too wet!

Pros and Cons

As you can probably tell from the nature of this review so far, this Bushnell product is among the best on the market. In fact, there is a case to be made that this is, in fact, the best laser rangefinder you can buy today. The Jolt technology makes it easy to be sure that you have the right yardage, the high-quality image in the viewfinder allows you to see the target clearly, and the measurements even go down to the half yard from inside of 125. Any way you look at it, this is a unit that is high on performance.

So, what possible ‘cons’ could there be for a product such as this? Well, there are two. First is the price. You will often need to pay nearly $400 for this model, which is steep any way you look at it. Even the most serious of golfers will admit that this is a lofty price to pay for a distance measuring device. Also, since this unit includes slope adjustments, it may not be allowed in tournaments that you play in. If this is a potential concern for you, be sure to look into this topic further with your local club or organization before making your purchase.

In all, you will be hard-pressed to do better than the Bushnell Pro X7 Jolt Slope Rangefinder. This is a high-end product with the performance to match. Unless the price or the addition of the slope feature are a deal breaker for you, the Pro X7 should remain near the top of your shopping list.

Check out my guide on the best golf rangefinders before purchasing a rangefinder.

There are plenty of distance measuring devices available in the world of golf today, and many of them are brought to market by the GolfBuddy brand. While there are plenty of options to pick from just within the GolfBuddy lineup alone, you might not be able to find a more versatile product than the Voice 2. This is a GPS rangefinder which is able to deliver the necessary information to you in two different ways – visually, and by ‘voice’.

Whether you choose to read your distances to listen to them, the end result in the same – you will have the number you need in a timely manner, so you can move on with the rest of the preparations necessary to hit your shot.

Check out our guide on the best golf rangefinders

 

Choosing the GPS Path

There are a number of great features to cover with regard to this product, and those will be highlighted below. Before you even think about those features, you have to decide whether you are going to opt for a GPS unit (such as this), or a laser rangefinder. Each has its own set of pros and cons, so you would be wise to think about that topic before going too much further.

GPS units are great because they are generally hands-off in their use, where you will have to hold a laser each time you want to measure a target. Of course, with the laser in your hands, there are no satellites involved, and you can pick absolutely any target for measurement. There is no right or wrong here – it is simply a matter of personal preference. If you do pick the GPS route, the Voice 2 from GolfBuddy is a unit that has a lot of advantages on its side.

Small Size is a Plus

You already have a lot of equipment taking up space in and around your golf bag. Of course, there are the 14 clubs that you carry, in addition to some golf balls, gloves, tees, extra clothes, and more. The last thing you need to add to your set is a large distance measuring device, which is why the Voice 2 from GolfBuddy is attractive. This unit is one of the smallest distance measuring devices on the market, measuring less than two inches in any direction. It is more than capable of getting the job done in terms of distance measurement, but it isn’t going to take up too much space in the process.

Easily Obtain Your Distance

The whole point of using a distance measuring device is being able to determine the distance between your ball and the green – and the GolfBuddy Voice 2 makes it easy for you to get that info at a moment’s notice. First, there is a visual display much like any other GPS on the market. The display offers up three numbers – the yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green. With a quick glance, you can have all of the yardages you need to make a smart club selection.

However, the display is not the only way to get your yardage with the Voice 2. As the name would indicate, this model is also capable of reading you the yardage if you would like. With just the push of a button, this unit will announce the yardage that you are facing in an easy-to-understand voice. Many golfers, when using the device this way, will clip the GolfBuddy onto their hat in order to make it easy to access (and hear). Just reach up to the bill of your hat or visor, press the small button on the unit, and you will have your yardage. It’s just that simple.

Measure Shot Distances

Knowing how far you are going to hit the ball with any given club is one of the most important skills for a golfer to possess. Of course, it isn’t always easy to know how far you are going to hit your shots, especially if you don’t know how far you have hit previous shots. To learn more about your typical shot distances, you can use the shot measurement feature on the Voice 2. Simply mark where you hit from, and then again when your reach your ball, and you will be given a total distance measurement. Just doing this once or twice might not be very helpful, but using this feature over and over will start to give you a great idea of your distance capabilities.

Suit Your Personal Tastes

One of the best features of the Voice 2 is the variety of ways in which it can be managed during your rounds. Most distance measuring devices are meant to be used in just one or two ways, but that is not the case with this model. As mentioned above, you can choose to clip this unit onto the bill of your hat or visor if you are going to use the voice feature. Or, you can purchase a wristband in order to turn this GPS unit into a watch. Or, you can get a retractable clip which can be attached to the outside of your bag for easy access. You get the idea – there are plenty of ways to hang on to this little unit during your round, so it will always be available when you need it.

Is It Right for You?

To be sure, there is plenty to like about the GolfBuddy Voice 2. This is a distance measuring device that is small is size, affordable relative to the rest of the market, and inclusive of a number of attractive features. So what might stop you from picking this unit to add to your own game? The first potential drawback is the limited information that it offers. Since it will only give you the distance to the front, middle, and back of the green, you aren’t going to get as much info as you might from other products on the market. Also, if you want to use the visual readout, you might find the display to be a bit small for your needs.

Overall, this is a product that you should at least consider as you hunt for the right distance measuring device. Thanks to a price point that is often not much more than $100, your golf budget isn’t going to be destroyed by the purchase of this item. As long as you don’t need more detailed yardages beyond the front/middle/back system, and you don’t have trouble reading the small display, the Voice 2 from GolfBuddy could be a winner.

 

Check out my guide on the best golf rangefinders before purchasing a rangefinder.

What do you know about the best golf GPS watches?

One of the huge improvements in the world of golf over recent years is the variety of ways that you can find your distances. In the ‘old days’, there was really one option – you had to use the sprinkler heads located around the course, perhaps with the help of a yardage book, to track down your numbers. It was possible to get an accurate yardage, but you had to work for it. Commonly you would see golfers pacing back and forth and up and down the fairways in order to calculate exactly how far they needed to hit that ball. Thanks to technology, most of that pacing has stopped.

Golf-specific GPS devices has been around for more than a few years now, but the category of golf GPS watches is just starting to come into its own. These are devices that do most of the same things that are done by GPS units that you mount on your cart or carry in your bag (like laser rangefinders), but they can be strapped around your wrist instead. The added convenience of this design is obvious. Rather than having to hunt down your GPS each time you need to know the yardage, you can simply glance down at your arm just as if you were checking the time. In a matter of moments, you will know all of the relevant yardages for the shot, and you can pick a club and be on your way.

The only real drawback that some golfers may find with products in this category is the fact that you will need to play with a watch on your wrist. For many players, that is not a problem – but it will be uncomfortable for some. Before ordering a GPS watch of your own, be sure to think about whether or not you will be willing to play with a GPS watch on your arm all day long.

Below you will find a few of the best GPS watch options on the market today. Pick the one that has the best combination of features and price for your needs and you will enjoy accurate yardages for many rounds to come.

Garmin Approach S2 GPS Golf Watch

This is perhaps the most popular GPS watch in golf today, and there are plenty of reasons why that is the case. For one thing, it comes from Garmin, which is one of the leading names in the GPS world. Also, it comes preloaded with an incredible database of 30,000+ courses worldwide, meaning your favorite track is very likely to be included. It has a battery life of up to 8 hours when you are using it as a GPS, and it can last a full 3 weeks if you are just using it as an everyday watch.

In addition to the functionality of this watch, it is also a good looking piece of equipment that is offered in a variety of colors. Yes, it is a watch that is meant to provide you with yardages on the course, but it can easily be worn in your ‘everyday’ life as well. While on the course, it will offer you information such as yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as a digital scorecard. In all, this is a quality product with all the features you need and a great price as well. While there are more models to consider in the GPS watch game, you are going to need to take a close look at the Garmin Approach S2 right off the bat.

• $149.99
• Over 30,000 courses
• 8 hour GPS mode battery life
• Provides yardages to front, back and middle of the green, Layup and dogleg distances improve usability for the entire hole

If you are looking for a gps watch for golf that is reliable and well know, but will not break the bank, this may be a good option for you. This Garmin is extremely well known. It’s accuracy is very good. Furthermore, you can get yardages from anywhere on the course, not only the fairway or the tee box. This is a useful tool. For $149.99, this model does not have too many bells and whistles, but it is reliable and accurate.

 

 

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Bushnell NEO XS Golf GPS Rangefinder Watch

Another one of the leading names in the measurement business, Bushnell offers up this NEO XS Golf GPS Rangefinder Watch which provides the user with many of the same features seen on the Garmin model listed above. Specifically, this watch also has more than 30,000 courses available, it also offers distances to the front, middle, and back, and it can also function as a regular watch when away from the course. Impressively, this unit offers even more battery life, with a stated ability to get you through three rounds of golf on a single charge.

As is the case with many GPS models, this watch has yardages to the various hazards that you may find around the course. This information can come in handy for any golfer, as trying to decide whether you should lay up short or hit over a hazard is one of the toughest calls you will make throughout the day. By having an accurate source of information right on your wrist, however, you can make smart choices and keep your ball clear of the hazards a majority of the time. Offered in three different color combination options, it will be easy to pick out the Bushnell NEO XS Golf GPS Rangefinder that best fits your tastes.

• Approx. $150
• Loaded with 33,000+ courses
• Battery life for more than 3 rounds of golf without charge or 2 yr. battery life when used in watch mode
• Includes USB charging cable

Bushnell is a famous name in golf distance technology. This watch is only 8 ounces and easy to use. Not only are there many course available, but the USB cable connector is a major asset as more of us have USB adapters in our cars and homes. The watch is a little large and bulky, but still has very good accuracy and reliability.

 

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Callaway GPSy Golf GPS Watch

Again here we find a GPS watch that has been preloaded with the GPS data for more than 30,000 courses around the world. This stylish model offers up all of the information provided by the two previous products on our list, so you will always have an accurate yardage to work from when preparing to hit a shot. This one, like the Garmin, has a scorekeeping function available, and it allows you to keep some basic stats as well such as greens hit and putts per round. If you are interested in your fitness while on the course, the GPSy has an odometer as well to tell you just how much you have walked during the day.

One of the things that is potentially going to pull you toward the Callaway GPSy over some of the other models on the market is the sleek and stylish look that it offers. This is a sport product with a light and comfortable band that makes it easy to wear all day long. Two colors are offered – black and white – and the display is clear and easy to read.

• $170.42
• 30,000+ courses
• Automatically recognizes courses
• Automatically recognizes holes
• Able to score GIR’s, along with putts per round

This watch has it all. Not only can you get different yardages per different locations on the green, but the watch itself is stylish. It is a little heavier than most golf watches, but it comes with more technology. Being able to score your GIR’s and putts per round is a major perk. Finally it is quite nice to have the watch automatically take you from hole to hole. During a round (especially at a new course), it is easy to forget to watch the hole on your watch. If you are willing to wear a heavier watch and pay the price for this one, the GPSy is a hard model to beat.

 

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There are plenty of great golf GPS watches available today, but the three listed above are a strong place to start your search. Think about the features that you find important and then make sure any model you consider has all of those in place. Of course, price is always going to play a role in any purchasing decision, so keep your eye out for sales and make sure you are getting plenty of features and quality in return if you decide to buy a more expensive item. Have fun tracking down the right golf GPS watch for you, and good luck!

 

Check out my guide on the best golf rangefinders before purchasing a rangefinder.