Mastering Distance with a Golf Rangefinder

Essentially, a golf rangefinder is used to determine the distance to your target on the golf course.

Not everyone needs it, but for those who use it, it’s very useful. However, there are many types of rangefinders, most of which are for hunting, and their specifications differ slightly from golf rangefinders.

How to Use a Golf Rangefinder?

Not all golf range finder are the same, depending on the distance you need to measure. GPS rangefinders can measure long distances, while another type, known as a laser rangefinder, must have a reflective surface to accurately measure the target.

Usage depends on your type, where GPS rangefinders act as a map, using pin technology, and laser rangefinders point the device at the location you need to aim at, then let the rangefinder do the calculations. The latter is an optical rangefinder, where you need to determine the distance and use the optical rangefinder for conversion and calculation.

Advantages

• Golf rangefinders are portable and easy to use.
• They provide quick and accurate target definition.
• Some golf rangefinders can be worn without needing to be kept in the pocket every time.
• They help speed up the game, rather than traditional self-calculation.
• No need to use traditional methods to view yardage charts and instrument markings.
• With distance accuracy, you can choose which club to use to hit the right target.
• GPS rangefinders reduce blind spots.

Disadvantages

• If you want a high-end golf rangefinder, you need to spend more money.
• This will add to your expenses in addition to the cost of buying golf equipment.
• Sometimes, players become too dependent on golf rangefinders, and they can feel frustrated when they do not achieve results.
• Too many functions on some rangefinders can distract the player.
• Some people rely on them instead of honing their skills through practice and courses.

Types of Golf Rangefinders

• GPS Rangefinders – This type uses pin technology for central location, providing you with accurate distances. There’s no need to focus the device from Point A to B just for calculations, as it can easily find the target. GPS rangefinders can also see obstacles along the way.
• GPS rangefinders can connect to available satellites. Afterward, all you need to do is download golf course maps from the internet, turn on the GPS, and select the hole you want.
• Laser Rangefinders – Use beams to calculate the distance to the target. You must have well-trained eyes to aim the rangefinder at the desired location.

Weather and temperature conditions play an important role here, as sometimes there can be wind, and you might find it difficult to aim. Sometimes there might even be light rain while playing, which can also cause problems with your aiming and beam.

But using a laser rangefinder is not difficult. It will also provide you with accurate and quick estimates. Using a laser rangefinder is very simple because all you have to do is turn on the device, change the mode or adjust for tilt and clarity, and once the setup is complete and you can see it, just point at the target and then press the button. The rangefinder will immediately give you the calculation results.

Some laser rangefinders work best when there is a reflective surface, so the small reflective surface on top of every golf course flagpole will help you make more accurate calculations.

How to Choose a Golf Rangefinder

Most golfers do not use a golf rangefinder, especially during competitions. But for those who love and want to play golf in a simpler way, they invest in a golf rangefinder. Here we have four main important factors when buying a golf rangefinder, such as the materials used, price, cleaning, and durability.

Materials

Some golf rangefinders are made of high-quality materials, such as laser beams and other precision tools to manufacture the device. Most of them are tested in laboratories and installed by manufacturers.

Longevity

The materials used are first tested and extensively analyzed to ensure they can withstand the test of time. Companies that produce rangefinders operate high-tech equipment. Although the lifespan also depends on how you maintain the device.

Price

Golf rangefinders are affordable and easy to use for many golfers. There are some unique brands, with prices ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Cleaning

Like any product, they usually require cleaning and maintenance, such as gentle wiping when necessary, keeping dry, and avoiding direct sunlight.

Ultra-fine fiber cloth is preferred for cleaning the lens; do not use irritating chemicals when cleaning the lens of a golf rangefinder. Do not soak it in water or wipe the lens.