Can you use any rangefinder for golf?
Mia Kelly
Published Jan 11, 2026
The answer is, yes, you can use a single laser rangefinder for both golf and hunting, if you are careful to choose a laser rangefinder that has the appropriate features and menu options for both golf and hunting. Not all laser rangefinders offer this versatility, however, so you need to read the specs, carefully.
Can you use the same range finder for golf and hunting?
Yes! A couple of good golf rangefinders for hunting in terms of maximum yardage would be the Laser Link XL 1000 that can range out to 1,000 yards and any of the Bushnell golf rangefinders.
Are all golf rangefinders the same?
Different models will boast 1,000-yard-plus maximum ranges, but the most important figure to consider is the maximum range at which they'll lock on to a flag or other specific golf feature. As with all electronics, you should read and compare the specs to make sure you're paying for what you want and need in a device.
Can you use a range finder in the PGA?
Week to week on the PGA Tour, players are not allowed to use laser rangefinders during tournament rounds, but they are able to use them to scout the course during practice rounds.
Is a range finder worth it for golf?
Laser Rangefinders are definitely worth the money if you are looking to improve you game. There are budget options for under $100 that will give you a reliable and accurate reading of distance and if you play regularly, you will get value for money from the rangefinder.
30 related questions foundAre rangefinders illegal in golf?
Are Rangefinders Legal in Golf? So, Yes you can use rangefinder devices for competition play. Devices like laser rangefinders, golf GPS watches, golf GPS devices, even smartphone apps.
How much should I spend on a golf rangefinder?
Golfers used to spend upwards of $500 – $600 for a laser rangefinder. However, that is no longer the case. There are plenty of models in the $150 – $250 range that will perform very well for you on the golf course.
How do PGA players know yardage?
The yardage book are ubiquitous on the PGA Tour. Players and caddies carry them in their pockets and consult them before each shot. They show yardages to various targets on each hole, different points of elevation, and a close-up of the green that shows detailed contours and yardages.
Are caddies allowed to use rangefinders?
Players or caddies may use rangefinders on the course during practice to help create or modify a yardage book that they may consult during the actual tournament.
Can you use binoculars in golf?
— Binoculars are a common sight at PGA Tour events; fans often use 'em to check out the action from long distance. Rarer is seeing them in the hands of a player. Still, binoculars were exactly what Rickie Fowler needed on the 6th hole Friday when his ball got stuck in a tree.
How do I choose a rangefinder for golf?
What to Look for When Buying a Golf Rangefinder? For Beginners and Professional
- 1.1) Accuracy.
- 1.2) Slope Reading.
- 1.3) The Display Screen.
- 1.4) Level of Magnification.
- 1.5) Battery Life.
- 1.6) Stabilization / Scan mode.
- 1.7) Size and weight.
- 1.8) Maximum and Minimum Range.
Is slope on a rangefinder worth it?
If you are using your rangefinder during practice rounds, then a slope feature comes in very handy. The more sophisticated devices factor in the uphill or downhill trajectory of a shot and then factor in the slope for an accurate yardage reading.
Can I use my vortex rangefinder for golf?
The Vortex Optics Ranger 1000 Rangefinder is a good model for golfers, hunters, and bowhunters. It has good range and is simple and easy enough to be used by almost anyone.
Do I need a rangefinder for hunting?
To emphasize how important it is to carry a rangefinder while hunting, we can hunt for a short time without food, or water or even without proper clothing, but if you hope to get a shot at distances greater than 200 yards with a rifle or greater than 25 yards with a bow, you shouldn't shoot without a good estimate of ...
What does a range finder do for hunting?
At the press of a button, rangefinders bounce a laser beam off your target. An internal clock measures the time it takes for the beam to reach the target and back and calculates the distance to within +/- 1 yard or less. The range is then displayed in yards/meters on an internal LCD display in less than a second.
Do pro golfers use rangefinders?
While professional golfers still cannot use rangefinders in most competitions, they do use them during practice. For best performance during competition, training should closely relate so the athletes get the best transfer from training.
When did the PGA allow range finders?
Golf's governing bodies made them legal back in 2014, which meant those who wanted to adhere to the letter of the law could use range finders, post scores for handicaps and play with them in various amateur events.
Is a yardage book worth it?
But if you're someone who can break 90 and wants to lower your handicap, then yes a yardage book is so worth it. A yardage book might help you have 3-5 (or more) strokes as you can have a better strategy on each shot and keep the momentum going.
How far should a 70 year old man hit a golf ball?
A 70-year-old man should be hitting a driver anywhere from 180 to 190 yards. This number has grown a bit in the last few years with the introduction of improved driver and shaft technology. At 70 years old, some golfers are having no trouble getting the ball to fly 200 yards or more.
Are rangefinders good for beginners?
In general, we've found rangefinders are great for street photography, given that they're quiet, compact, and sharp. But they front a steeper learning curve if you're a beginner. SLR's, on the other hand, are often slightly larger and louder, but much more versatile and easy to learn.
How much zoom does rangefinder add?
Rangefinder actually increases the zoom distance of a weapon. By 5% for shotguns. By 20% for all other guns. This increases the weapon's effective range as damage drop-off is directly tied to zoom distance.
Are golf GPS Legal?
The short answer is YES, GPS devices and rangefinders are legal for tournament play. This means that even professionals should invest in the highest-rated golf GPS to take their game to the next level. In the past, electronics were not allowed in the golf course.
Do pro golfers putt with a different ball?
Unless the one-ball Local Rule is in effect, the substituted ball could be any brand. On the putting green however, when you mark and lift your ball, you must replace that same ball to finish out the hole.