Gps/Rangefinder

[nosey003]

Playing with a couple of guys tonight.One had a point and press rangefinder and one had a gps hooked on his bag. really tempted to purchase one of these.Just wondered if anyone had any advice on witch option to go for.Because for me they both do the same job
Any advice appreciated
Andy

 

[Imurg]

A laser rangefinder can only "ping" what it can see.
If you have trees or mounds in the line of sight it just doesn't work.
It is good for getting accurate distance info and you can "ping" trees or bushes that are near your target to get e pretty decent idea.
You do need a steady hand and in low light. rain or fog they can be useless....

A GPS will give you distances to the front, middle and back of the green in it's simplist form - and you don't have to be able to see your target.
More sophisticated devices give you an overhead view of the hole, will give you distances to bunkers, ditches etc and they also enable you to measure distances hit....

Generally, but by no means exclusively, lower handicappers tend to go for the Laser and Higher handicappers tend to go GPS but it really is a case of try both and see which suits.
In a perfect World you'll have both!

 

[pbrown7582]

Depends on the type of course you play most. If you have blind, semi-blind shots then GPS wins hands down.
Also some basic gps will give front middle and back whereas more advanced you can drag the pin around the green to suit.

Rangefinder gives exact distance to the flag.

 

[lyden]

I would advise a GPS but I prefer a rangefinder because i know my distances and im fairly accurate but obviously you need a line of sight and sometimes it can be difficult to get that if your not on the fairway.

 

[Foxholer]

Either are useful - but for different reasons.

GPS is better for distances to hazards ot if pin is not in view.

Laser (Rangefinder) is better for distance to pin - which I think is the most important!

I have a mate that has both. I've certainly used both - but separately.

If you have a 'Smartphone' with GPS capability you can get cheap Apps to use IN BOUNCE GAMES ONLY. PHONE GPS CANNOT BE USED IN COMPETITIONS - even if your club has a Local Rule in place - as other capabilities on the phone make them non compliant. Same applies to Rangefinders with Slope capability.