A laser rangefinder is a device that measures the distance between you and a certain object you are aiming at. It works using a laser beam that is shot from the device, and then it measures the time needed for the reflection to come back to the device. Both hunting rangefinders and golf rangefinders are popular and powerful devices; however, they are not the same.
These devices are not cheap, and it is easy to get them confused. You should know exactly what makes one different from the other if you don’t want to waste your money. Both devices use lasers, and both of them will give you extremely precise results.
The difference is in the other features that they provide. Therefore, you should know exactly what you need and what you are looking for. The rule is that the more features the device provides, the more it will cost you. Let’s take a look at the differences.
Main difference between Golf Rangefinder and Hunting Rangefinder
As mentioned, the main difference between a golf rangefinder and a hunting rangefinder is the features that they provide. So, let’s do a bit of comparison.
First, a golf rangefinder will give you more magnification compared to a hunting rangefinder. If that is the primary feature that you are looking for, then you should definitely aim for the golf rangefinder.
Additionally, a hunting rangefinder provides better software, while the golf rangefinder usually has a lot better glass. Also, you should know that hunting rangefinders usually come with a lanyard hole, while golf rangefinders mostly come with a carry case.
Another thing to be noted is that almost every hunting rangefinder is waterproof, which is pretty obvious.
On the other hand, a golf rangefinder provides a specific ruggedness so that it doesn’t get damaged when dropped on the golf course. While the hunting rangefinder has a bright LCD and provides ballistic compensation, the golf rangefinder is much more accurate when in target mode and has a much longer battery life. Note that, usually, golf range finders has a longer range than hunting range finders.
However, when it comes to the best, newest, and most expensive models, both types usually provide all of these features and are meant to be multi-purpose.
Significant features for hunting rangefinders
Some of the features might be more important for you than others. Let’s see what the most important features are when it comes to hunting rangefinders. First, it is very important to get an accurate distance.
Besides that, most of these hunting rangefinders have a fast response time and easy-to-touch buttons. Since you are on a hunt, you don’t want the animal to run away while you are trying to find it on the scope. Also, a lanyard strap can be pretty useful because you want your rangefinder to be close at hand. A decent battery and reasonable weather resistance are a must.
Significant features for golf rangefinders
When it comes to golf, high-accuracy is by far the most important feature that a rangefinder for golf can provide. On the other hand, a cheap quality glass can give you a headache. This device can be a one-time investment, so it is important to choose the best product for the money.
Basically, the most important features for a golf rangefinder are the long battery life, a nice, solid carry case, and a great magnification so that you can see the whole golf course with ease.
Choosing the right one for both purposes
On the other hand, some people still prefer buying one that can serve in both situations. If that is the case for you, there are a few things that you should consider. First, you should make sure that you don’t choose a model with a bright color or a color that stands out.
Also, be sure to choose the most accurate unit that you can find. This can be great for both a golf and hunting rangefinder. Additionally, don’t forget about choosing the best battery that you can, and also, remember to aim for high-quality optics.
Basically, these are the most important factors that you should have in mind if you decide to buy a device for both purposes.
On the other hand, you should know that the difference between these two devices is not as big as it seems. Ads and marketing campaigns lead us to believe that these are two different worlds. However, just having an optic to measure the distance is basically all that you will need.
Can I use a Golf Rangefinder for Hunting
Yes, absolutely. Golfing rangefinders are by default laser range finders that get the distance to distant objects. So it doesn’t matter if you are getting the distance to the nearest target during tournament play or a buck in the woods, it will give you accurate readings. So, most golf rangefinders can be used as hunting and golf rangefinders.
And by flip, most hunting rangefinders can be used to get distances on the golf course for your golf game. These hunting model optical range finder options can provide the distance on the golf club.
Golf and Hunting Rangefinders Final Thoughts
As you might have noticed, there is not an extreme difference between golf rangefinders vs hunting rangefinders, even though here are companies like Leupold that produce excellent units for both industries. The truth is, they ARE different, but you won’t have to think about it too much, unless you want to spend a large amount of money and are looking for the best of the best.
Don’t forget that the primary feature of a rangefinder is to measure the distance between you and the target, and all of the other features are just additions. Basically, you can’t go wrong no matter which one of these two devices you get, so you will need to consider your needs and budget.
- Should Tee Boxes Be Level? - January 23, 2024
- 3 Hybrid Distance - November 15, 2023
- Innovations in Golf Mobility: An In-depth Review of Top Golf Scooters - October 12, 2023
