Non-Tournament Golf Rangefinders Compared

Non Tournament Rangefinder Comparison

Bushnell Pro X7

- 7x power for long range precision

- Large flat design for improved stability

- Pinseeker with Jolt for positive flag targeting

- Reads flag out to 550 yards

- Online Average - $499

Looking at the large size, and maximum range capabilities of the Bushnell Pro X7 Slope one might be tempted to think this is overkill, when was the last time you were 550 yards from the pin on your second shot? However, those ratings are determined under ideal conditions such as favorable lighting and a steady rest; which isn't always the case when on the course. Additionally this units flat horizontal design, as opposed to the other two models vertical design, allow for a more stable two hand binocular style grip that aids in keeping the 7x magnification steady when ranging the flag. The Pro X7 Slope also features Bushnell's Pinseeker with Jolt technology; Pinseeker ensures the unit displays the nearest of two objects,i.e. the flag and not something in the background, and then the Jolt faeture vibrates the rangefinder to let the operator know the pin was successfully ranged. 

Bushnell Tour V3 Slope

- Compact vertical design

- Weighs 6.6oz

- Pinseeker with Jolt for improve flag targeting

- 2 Year Warranty

- Online Average - $369

The Bushnell Tour V3 Slope is a compact and lightweight golf rangefinder and is easy to carry with its included case. It of course has the Slope angle compensated reading as the name implies, and also is equipped with the Pinseeker and Jolt technology which help the unit correctly target the pin and notify the user by vibrating once the flag has be targeted. The unit can measure in either yards or meters and comes with a two year warranty on material and workmanship. This will be a good rangefinder for those looking for a belt carry golf rangefinder who want the extra benefit of more precise yardage reading than the standard Tour V3 model.

Nikon Coolshot 40i

- Compact Design

- 6x power for more precise targeting

- Incline/Decline for True Horizontal Distance

- First Target Priority for Pin targeting

- Online Average - $299

The Nikon Coolshot 40i is a new addition to the non tournament rangefinder category and gives golfers and additional option in this small field of rangefinders. While the above mentioned Tour V3 Slope would probably be a good choice for most because of the Jolt feature and steady image picture provided by 5x magnification; those with steady hands may prefer the added magnification of the Coolshot 40i, giving them a little more aiming precision when targeting the flagstick on longer shots. Also, the Coolshot 40i sells at about a $70 dollar discount to the Bushnell which will appeal to those who primarily just want a rangefinder capable of giving horizontal distance; Nikon calls this feature on their rangefinders ID for Incline/Decline.   

Bottom Line

Currently, the field of non tournament golf rangefinders is pretty small as companies have started to build rangefinders with these non approved features that can be deactivated by switching faceplates such as on the Leupold GX-4i² and the new Bushnell Tour X; so if you are looking for one rangefinder that can do it all I would recommend taking a look at one of those two units. However, if you are primarily interested in improving your game and don't play tournaments one of these non tournament rangefinders might be the right choice for you.