A laser rangefinder gives precise distances to the flag, bunkers, trees and almost anything you can see. But many golfers get inconsistent readings, lock onto the trees behind the green or slow down play fiddling with settings. A few techniques make a rangefinder fast and reliable. Here's how to get the most from yours.
Getting a steady reading
- Use both hands and tuck your elbows into your body.
- Brace against a cart or your bag on windy days.
- Breathe out and hold steady as you press the button.
- Use a magnetic mount on a cart frame for quick access, if your device has one.
Locking onto the flag
Most rangefinders have a pin-seeking or first-target priority mode, which ignores more distant objects behind the flag.
- Hold the button and sweep slowly across the flag.
- Look for the confirmation: many units vibrate or show a symbol when locked.
- Check the reading makes sense; if it's 20 yards long, you've probably hit the trees behind.
Measuring more than the pin
The flag isn't the only useful distance:
- Front of the green: for carry over bunkers or water.
- Back of the green: to avoid going long.
- Bunkers and water: carry and lay-up distances. Read forced carries and island greens.
- Trees and doglegs off the tee. Read how to play doglegs.
- Lay-up targets on par 5s. Read how to play par 3s, 4s and 5s.
Slope mode
Slope mode adjusts the distance for uphill or downhill shots, giving a "plays like" number. It's useful in casual rounds and practice, and teaches you how elevation affects distance.
- Casual golf: use it freely.
- Competitions: slope must be switched off unless the committee allows it. Many devices have an indicator that shows when slope is disabled.
Read golf at altitude for another factor that affects distance.
Speeding up play
- Measure while others play, as long as you're not distracting them.
- Take one reading, not five.
- Share distances with partners.
- Combine with yardage markers for quick checks. Read yardage markers and course signs.
Read pace of play.
From distance to club choice
A precise distance is only useful if you know how far you hit each club. Factor in:
- Your real carry distances. Use our club distance chart.
- Wind and temperature. Read how to play golf in the wind.
- The lie: rough or a slope changes distance.
- The pin position: aim for the centre when the flag is tucked.
Read how to choose the right club for every shot.
Care and battery
- Keep the lenses clean with a soft cloth.
- Carry a spare battery; many use small batteries that are hard to find on the course.
- Store it in its case to protect it from knocks and rain.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my rangefinder show the trees behind the green?
You've missed the flag. Use pin-seeking mode and sweep slowly across the flagstick.
Can I use a rangefinder in competitions?
Yes, unless a local rule bans them, as long as slope and other prohibited features are off.
Laser or GPS?
A laser gives precise pin distances; GPS gives quick front, middle and back distances. Read rangefinder vs GPS golf.
The bottom line
A rangefinder is only as good as the way you use it. Hold it steady, lock onto the flag, measure hazards as well as the pin and switch off slope in competitions. Combine accurate distances with good knowledge of your own yardages, and your approach play will improve. For distance gadgets on your wrist, read golf GPS watches.