The GPS/range finder invention has been one of golf’s finest since the dawning of technology – Finally, no more walking to sprinkler heads or, well, just guessing.
A number of big-name brands like Garmin, Bushnell, and Nikon have been complemented by upstarts in the space like Golf Buddy, Izzo, and Shot Scope.
As Canadians, our golf season may be shorter than our southern neighbours, but we always try to make it as memorable as possible. Why waste time trying to look for yardages when you can carry around a device to that for you?
While the basic premise of a GPS or rangefinder hasn’t changed much – they are just distancing-measuring devices, after all – what has happened recently is the increase of data available to help you shoot lower scores.
GlobalGolf has a ton of great GPS units and rangefinders available, so if you’re looking to end your 2020 season by playing better golf, here are some great options.
Bushnell Tour V5
Bushnell has become the authoritative name in GPS rangefinders, and the Bushnell Tour V5 has once again raised the bar. Weighing just eight ounces, the Bushnell Tour V5 comes with six-times magnification allowing users to reach targets more than 400 yards away. The Bushnell Tour V5 also boasts clearer and brighter optics, and JOLT Technology – providing users with short, vibrating bursts to reinforce that the target has been isolated. On top of all that, the Bushnell Tour V5 also has BITE magnetic cart mount plus a newly designed carrying case.
Garmin Approach S10 Watch
A super minimalist unit, the Garmin Approach S10 GPS watch gives its users distances to the front, middle, and back of the green – not to mention showing hazards, doglegs, and lay-up distances. The watch has a battery that will last up to 12 hours (good enough for 36!) and is pre-loaded with 41,000 courses worldwide. You can also track your score right on the watch.
Bushnell Phantom
The Bushnell Phantom is basic enough, but a perfect entry-level unit. It comes with a clip-holder to attach to a bag or belt, but even in the small package the Bushnell Phantom also has BITE magnetic technology. The Bushnell Phantom has distances to the front, back, and centre of the green along with four hazard distances as well. It’s pre-loaded with 36,000 courses and the battery lasts all day.
Callaway Micro Laser Rangefinder
The Callaway Micro Laser Rangefinder is a combination of both a GPS system and the precision of a laser all in one device. It features Pin Acquisition Technology to lock in the pin from 300 yards away, with the accuracy of plus or minus just one yard. The Callaway Micro Laser Rangefinder also has six times magnification with a range from five to an impressive 1,000 yards. There’s 30,000 courses preloaded on the Callaway Micro Laser Rangefinder GPS, with accurate distances to the front, back, and centre of the green – plus layup and carry distances to hazards and doglegs. Its an impressive hybrid package.
Written and intended to the GlobalGolf.ca audience by Adam Stanley