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Hole 1
Rangefinders
A laser rangefinder measures the line-of-sight distance to whatever you aim at. Compare them on maximum range, magnification, how they confirm a lock on the flag and whether slope can be switched off.
- Typical range
- 400 to 1,000 yd
- Magnification
- Usually 6x or 7x
The maximum range in a listing is usually measured to a reflective target; the range to a flagstick is shorter. For most golfers, anything that reads the flag reliably at 250 to 300 yards is plenty.
Magnification of 6x or 7x is usual. More helps pick out the flag but makes a shaky hand more obvious. Look for flag lock with a vibration or a visual signal that confirms the pin was found rather than the trees behind it.
A slope switch with a visible indicator matters if you play competitions: the slope function must be off. The rangefinder maths tool shows the pure geometry behind slope readings.
Common mistakes
- Buying for the headline range instead of the range to a flag.
- Choosing a slope model without an external switch or indicator for competition play.
Guides on this topic
- Rangefinder features explained: pin seek, jolt, magnetsMagnification, flag lock modes, vibration feedback, magnetic mounts, OLED displays, slope switches and batteries on golf lasers explained in plain English.Guide
- Laser rangefinder vs GPS hybrid rangefinderPure laser rangefinders against hybrids with built-in GPS green distances: blind shots, weight, battery, display and rules, with listing facts.Comparison
- How to use a golf rangefinderHow to hold a golf laser steady, scan for the flag, read the lock confirmation and slope figures, and get reliable numbers on misty or dull UK days.How-to
- How to hold a golf rangefinder steady (shaky hands)Hold a golf rangefinder steady: two hand grip, bracing, breathing and scan technique, using pin lock vibration, plus tips for golfers who wear glasses.How-to
- How to clean a golf rangefinder lens and bodyA safe routine for cleaning a golf rangefinder: blow off grit, brush, wipe the lenses with the right cloth, dry after rain and store it so readings stay sharp.How-to
- How to change a golf rangefinder from metres to yardsSwitch a golf rangefinder between metres and yards: the usual button hold and menu methods, how to tell which unit is showing and what to do if it will not change.How-to
- How do golf rangefinders work?How golf laser rangefinders measure distance with time of flight, why first target priority picks out the flag, how slope works and why readings can miss.Guide
- Golf rangefinder vs hunting rangefinderGolf and hunting rangefinders both use a laser, but target priority, range and display differ. See when one can do the other job and when it cannot.Comparison
- Golf rangefinder and speaker combos explainedRangefinder and Bluetooth speaker bundles, lasers with a built-in speaker and GPS speakers explained: what each does, how they mount and the etiquette.Guide
- Bushnell rangefinder not working: fixesBushnell laser will not turn on, lock the flag or show a clear display? Battery, eyepiece, lens, mode and reset checks in order, and when to call Bushnell.Fix
- Which battery does a Bushnell rangefinder use?CR2 lithium cells against built-in rechargeable batteries on Bushnell golf lasers, how to change or charge them, and the signs a battery is running low.Guide
- Are golf rangefinders worth it?What an exact laser distance changes for club choice, which golfers gain the most from a rangefinder, and the features that matter at each level.Guide
Buying guides on this topic
- Best golf rangefinders under £250Mid-price laser rangefinders from Shot Scope, Nikon, Bushnell and Voice Caddie compared on range, magnification, slope, flag lock and weight.Buying guide
- Best golf rangefinders with slopeSlope rangefinders compared on how slope is turned off for competition, range to the flag, magnification, flag lock feedback and stated weight.Buying guide
- Best golf rangefindersLaser golf rangefinders from Bushnell, Nikon, Shot Scope, Voice Caddie and Mileseey compared on range, magnification, slope mode, flag lock and weight.Buying guide
- Bushnell golf rangefinders comparedBushnell's A1-Slope, Tour V6 Shift and Tour V7 Shift lasers and the Phantom 3 Slope GPS lined up by slope control, display, battery, size and mount.Buying guide