A rangefinder tells you the exact distance to a target, which removes much of the guesswork from club selection. The device is easy to use once you know a few tricks.
How it works
A laser rangefinder sends a beam to the target and measures how long it takes to come back. Most models are accurate to about a yard. GPS watches and apps are an alternative: they give distances to the front, middle and back of the green rather than to the flag.
Locking onto the flag
- Hold the rangefinder with both hands and tuck your elbows in to keep it steady.
- Put the crosshair on the flag and press the button.
- Use “pin seeker” or “first target” mode, which picks the closest object when trees sit behind the flag. Many models vibrate or beep when they lock on.
- Scan across the flag if you are not sure, and check that the reading makes sense.
Also measure hazards, the front edge of the green and layup spots.
Slope mode
Some rangefinders adjust the distance for elevation: an uphill shot plays longer, a downhill one shorter. It is useful for practice and casual rounds. Under the Rules of Golf, distance-measuring devices are allowed, but measuring elevation changes is not, unless a Local Rule says otherwise, so turn slope off in competition. The details are in USGA FAQ on distance-measuring devices.
Turn yardages into better choices
A number is only useful if you know how far you hit each club. Spend a range session or a launch monitor session noting your average carry distance with each club, not your best shot. Then:
- play to the middle of the green unless you have a short iron;
- add or subtract for wind, temperature and lie;
- measure the carry over hazards, not just the flag.
Combine the rangefinder with a stats app to see whether your approach play improves; see tracking your golf stats. Knowing exact distances is one of the steps toward breaking 80.
