How To Use A Golf Rangefinder Like A Pro

In the world of Golf, players need to hit the ball accurately to score well. To make accurate shots, players need to be able to judge the distance between themselves and the hole they are trying to hit the ball into. This is where a golf rangefinder comes, which helps players measure the distance between themselves and the hole. If you know how to use a golf rangefinder, then it will help you to make more accurate shots and improve your overall game.

In this guideline, we will explain step by step how to use a golf rangefinder effectively. We will discuss the different types of golf rangefinders available, how to use them correctly, and how to interpret the readings they provide. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you will be able to make the most of your golf rangefinder and take your game to the next level.

Different types of golf rangefinder & how to use them

This device uses advanced laser or GPS technology to accurately measure distances on the golf course to targets such as flags, hazards, and bunkers with remarkable precision. Let’s deep dive into it.

Laser Rangefinder:

A laser rangefinder is a device that utilizes a laser beam in order to calculate the distance between itself and an object. It has become the go-to choice for many golfers seeking instant and precise distance measurements, similar principle used in golf simulator.

• When you aim the rangefinder at a target, you essentially pointing a laser beam at it.
• Then the rangefinder emits a laser beam towards the target. This beam reflects off the target and returns to the rangefinder.
• It measures the time it takes for the laser beam to travel to them target and back. Using the speed of light, the device calculates the distance based on the time of flight.
• The calculated distance is then displayed on the rangefinder’s screen.

To use a laser rangefinder effectively, simply aim the device at your target and press the button to emit a laser beam. The rangefinder then calculated the time it takes for the laser to bounce off the target and return, providing you with an accurate distance reading displayed on the device’s screen.

GPS Rangefinder:

On the other hand, GPS rangefinders rely on the satellite technology to map out the golf course and calculate distances. These devices offer a bird’s-eye view of the course and provide accurate yardages to key points.

• Golf courses are pre-mapped and stored in the rangefinder’s database. This includes key points such as hazards, greens, fairways, and bunkers.
• The GPS rangefinder determines the user’s position on the course through GP satellites, often with the help of multiple satellites to enhance accuracy.
• Once the rangefinder knows the user’s position and the location of targets on the course, it calculates the distances between the user and the selected targets.
• After the rangefinder has measured the distance, the result is displayed on the screen for the user to see, providing golfers with a visual representation of the course and accurate yardages to various points.

To use a GPS rangefinder, select the desired target on the device’s screen and it will provide you with the distance, helping you make informed club selection for your shots.

Optical Rangefinder:

Even though this is not a very popular choice it measures distance quite accurately but it is not as precise as laser rangefinder.

To use an optical rangefinder, you simply look through the sight and adjust the focus until the target is clear. You must use only one eye to concentrate on the target at a distance. The height of the pin is used by optical rangefinders to convert it into a distance reading.

How to aim a golf rangefinder?

With the help of laser beam, this rangefinder determines the distance to a target, such as the flagstick on the green or a bunker in the fairway. You simply point it at the target and press a button to use it.

However, it’s important to aim the rangefinder correctly to get an accurate reading. First, make sure the rangefinder is level and stable in your hand. Next, aim the device directly at the target and try to keep it steady.

To use a golf rangefinder effectively, it’s important to know how to aim it correctly. Check out the below key points-

1. Keep rangefinder steady:

One of the most important things to remember when using a golf rangefinder is to keep it steady. If the rangefinder moves while you’re aiming it, you won’t get an accurate reading. To hold the rangefinder steady, use both hands and keep your arms close to your body.

2. Aim at the target:

When you are using a golf rangefinder you need to keep it steady. If the rangefinder moves while you’re aiming it, you won’t get an accurate reading. To hold the rangefinder steady, use both hands and keep your arms close to your body.

3. Check your line of sight:

Before you aim the rangefinder, make sure your line of sight is clear. If there are trees, bushes, or other obstacles in the way, you may not be able to get an accurate reading. Move to a position where you have a clear line of sight to the target.

4. Account for slope:

If the ground between you and the target is hilly, you may need to adjust the distance reading to account for the slope. Some rangefinders have a slope adjustment feature that will do this automatically, but if your rangefinder doesn’t have this feature, you’ll need to make the adjustment manually.

5. Practice:

Like any skill, using a golf rangefinder takes practice. Spend some time on the driving range or practice green getting comfortable with the device and aiming it accurately. With practice, you’ll become more confident in your ability to use the rangefinder effectively on the golf course.

In summary, to aim a golf rangefinder, hold it steady, aim it directly at the target, check your line of sight, account for slope if necessary, and practice to improve your accuracy. By following these tips, you’ll be able to use your rangefinder effectively and make better decisions on the golf course.

How to hold a rangefinder steady?

If you’re having trouble with shaky arm while using a rangefinder or your arm got shaky due to playing don’t worry it happens to most of the players.  Let me tell you some tricks to hold a rangefinder steady and maintain accuracy.

• To keep things steady, try resting your elbow on your chest and holding the rangefinder with one hand. This technique can be a real life-saver, providing a stable anchor point and minimize arm shaking.
• If you have a buggy or golf cart you are riding with then got another handy tip. Use the frame of the buggy or golf cart to get some extra stability. If possible, fold down the windshield and rest your rangefinder on the bottom half of the windshield. This will create a solid base and let me know in the comments if it’s worked for you.
• Another thing you can do is to ask your fellow partner to you help you so that you can rest your rangefinder to their shoulder or any other flat surface

Hunting Rangefinder VS Golf Rangefinder

You might be wondering can you use a hunting rangefinder for golf? Even though both of look-alike, sometimes manufactured by the same company they serve different purposes.

As a golfer finding the flag or pin on an open course can be very challenging. To make things easier, golfers use “First Target Mode” which helps them locate the target with ease. However, hunting enthusiasts use “Distant Target Mode” if they are hunting from far distance.

Golfers generally need to know the distance to next hole which is usually under 400 yards. But if you’re a bow hunter or rifle hunter, you’ll need a rangefinder that can measure distances up to 1000 to 1500 yards.

Luckily, modern rangefinder come with the option to switch between first and distant target modes. But these extra features can be quite costly.

Are Rangefinder Legal?

Golf rangefinders are permitted for casual play and most tournaments. However, the PGA Tour, Korn Ferry Tour, and PGA Tour Champions do not allow the use of these devices. On the other hand, the LPGA Tour permits players’ caddies to use rangefinders on the course.

It’s important to note that the slope feature of these devices is not allowed during tournament play.

Final thoughts

When you’re out there playing golf, having a rangefinder can really boost your game. It’s not just about knowing the distance; it’s about feeling more confident, more precise, and playing better overall.

So, if you want to get the most out of your rangefinder, practice using it with a steady hand and proper technique. And remember, your rangefinder is more than just a gadget – it’s a helpful companion that can improve your golfing experience. So, let’s hit the course and make some memories, with the help of our trusty rangefinders!