Laser rangefinders have become common sights on the golf course. They allow golfers to accurately measure the distance they stand from the pin or any other target.
This is important; The yardage markers at many courses are notoriously inaccurate. And golfers can better tailor their shots if they know exactly how far their ball has to travel to hit the green or find the hole.
The problem is that there are several laser rangefinders currently on the market. They come in a wide variety of sizes and price ranges. Some are known for their accuracy, while others are well-regarded for their compact size and portability.
Here are some questions golfers should ask themselves before choosing a laser rangefinder.
Pricier Laser Rangefinders Cost More for a Reason
Generally, the more expensive a laser rangefinder is, the more accurate it is at farther distances. The priciest rangefinders on the market can accurately measure the distance from a hole that stands as far as 1,600 yards away.
Less expensive models, though, can only accurately measure yardage distances of up to 700 or 800 yards.
More expensive models also tend to be easier to use on the course. Golfers need only point at a hole, tree, sand trap or other target to lock it into the rangefinder's sights. Cheaper models require a steadier hand.
Compact Rangefinders Lose a Bit of Power
Many golfers want a laser rangefinder that is easy to tote around the course. Fortunately, manufacturers offer several models that weigh less than eight ounces. These rangefinders are easy for golfers to tuck into their pockets as they walk the course.
Of course, there is a drawback: The smallest of the rangefinders may be easier to carry, but they can't measure distances as far as do their larger peers.
Golfers, then, have to decide what is more important to them: portability or accuracy.
Magnification Levels are Important Rangefinder Features, Too
Laser rangefinders can help golfers survey holes before they take their swings. That's because they have magnification features that allow golfers to easily find difficult-to-spot traps or hazards.
More expensive laser rangefinders generally magnify objects as much as seven times. Less expensive ones may only magnify objects by three times their size.
Again, this presents golfers with a choice: They can either spend more for a more powerful laser rangefinder or save some dollars but lose out on some features.
The good news is that there is a laser rangefinder on the market for any golfer, from novices to pro-level duffers. Golfers must simply do their research, consider their needs carefully and then take a hard look at their budgets to find the right one for them.
Dan Rafter - I'm a freelance writer with more than 15 years experience covering the residential and commercial real estate industries. Of course, this ...
