Bushnell Laser Rangefinders

Reviewed by: MJFGolf ,  Shoots in the 70s

Model Reviewed:
Bushnell Medalist Rangefinder

Summary:
Ok, about two years ago I wrote a review on a less expensive model the Sport 450 that I had received as a gift. Well, I broke down and bought the Medalist version awhile ago, that has the pinseeker technology added. I'm quite happy with this one and would highly recommend it. It's priced in between the Tournament Pinseeker 1500 and the lowest Bushnell Sport models. I think it's more accurate and powerful. Also, with the Pinseeker technology, you instantly know the yardages to the target possibly picked up in back and the pin in front/shorter target. Our pins have these small reflector markers built into them to bounce laser reflectors but you don't even have to have them to work well with this model. I go to other courses and as long as I can hold my hands steady enough to frame the flag in the target circle, it shoots the distance easily. Also uses regular 9v battery instead of 3volt that higher models use.

Only complaint I have is that the battery cover is very flimsy and cracks easily. It still works but is easily dislodged. Seems to be a manufacturiing defect. However, it does not affect the performance of the rangefinder whatsoever!

Similar Products Used:
Bushnell Sport 450; Pinseeker 1500 (both Tournament and Slope editions)

Reviewed by: AdrianMol ,  Shoots in the 80s

Model Reviewed:
Yardage Pro 1000

Summary:
The Yardage Pro 1000 has been discontinued and there are some good offers around. This Laser is heavier than the latest versions, it has 6x magnification and the high end scanning options like scan, reflective, rain and zip.

Like binoculars you need to use two hands to hold the YP1000 steady and in this regard the extra weight is a bonus.

I am delighted with the Yardage Pro 1000. I have played my home course for 20 years. I was able to survey the course in double quick time and found my own yardage markers (We only have 150 yard markers). I was amazed to find how bad I have been at calculating distances on some holes, especially 100 yards out. A great product, measurement is instantaneous and very accurate. I tend to focus on a tree or bush near a Tee or Pin and pace the difference. Focusing on a flag from 200 yeards is very hard unless you lean on something solid. Also good to use down the range.

I'd recommend buying one as long as your ego can cope with finding that the bunker you carry 250 years out is actually a 220 yard carry!

Customer Service:
Never had to use customer service.

Similar Products Used:
GPS systems which are too inflexible.

Reviewed by: MJFGolf ,  Shoots in the 70s

Model Reviewed:
Bushnell Sport 450

Summary:
This is their lower, less expensive model. I was going to buy the Pinseeker 1500 when they became legal to use this year, but got this one as a gift at Christmas because I mentioned it. Can't look a gift horse in the mouth. Our course has small circular reflectors built into our flagsticks, because they sell/market a laser rangerfinder that only gives distances to the pins; not too other objects. This Bushnell model works GREAT when you have these reflectors on the pins. But it's also very useful for range practice; distances to hazards; carries over bunkers; distances to trees, etc.

I have same thoughts about getting background items over longer distances that others have mentioned; it's a problem. However, for the price, it's a great tool. Very accurate (our sprinkler heads were marked with distances by laser and they match or are no more than one yard different than what I get with this Bushnell); it saves a lot of time from finding a yardage marker.

Have also used the Pinseeker 1500 that others have bought based upon using mine while playing. It's a more accurate model and can pick up flagsticks at greater distances. Mine is good to 200 yards; more with the reflectors. Without reflectors you need to focus the target square on the bottom of the pin to get an accurate reading or upon a flag that is blowing in the wind. It's very difficult to pick up the flagstick itself. Picking up golfers on the green by the pin is a breeze!

Recommend getting one of their rangefinders tremendously. Even if you know the yardage at your course, most greens allow 2-3 different clubs distance pin placements. Wouldn't you like to know exact, not just approximate distance? Also, I play more than one course in area; they are not marked as well as my home course. This is a great tool for those other courses.

Customer Service:
N/A havn't have to avail myself of their service

Similar Products Used:
Pinseeker 1500 with slope

Reviewed by: mdk6392 ,  Shoots in the 70s

Model Reviewed:
Pinseeker 1500 Tournament

Summary:
I bought a 600 model from Bushnell factory outlet - had some problems with it so I took it back to the shop. The model was no longer in production and they couldn't fix it so they upgraded me to the Pinseeker which retailed for $150 more than I had originally paid. I've since used this model and think its great. Practicing at the range is more productive, you know the exact distance that you are hitting your shots which makes it so much easier at the course. It'll also make you play smarter when you can see the yardage to the lake is 250 yards, you can pick a club to hit 230 yards instead of guessing on how hard to hit a driver. It is a little difficult to zero in on the pin from 250 plus but with the pinseeker mode it'll automatically pick the closet object. Buy it now and thank me later!!!

Customer Service:
Great, upgraded me for free!

Similar Products Used:
None

Reviewed by: golfer bob ,  Shoots in the 80s

Model Reviewed:
Yardage Pro sport 450

Summary:
Purchased the BushnellYardage Pro sport 450 @ Dicks Sporting goods in January 2006 for $124.00, it was on sale for $149.00 and I had a $25.00 off coupon. It was the last one they had in stock, they are getting more popular. I have used it 4 times since I purchased it. From 200 yards in it is excellent, you must have a steady hand, and aim at the bottom of the flag stick, so you do not pick up any backround. Do not even think about using this in the woods. It speeds up play on the par threes, shoot the flag, and dial in your club. Considering the price I paid I consider it a great tool, it has sped up the play of our foursome by about 15-30 minutes a round. I like the small size and that it fits well in the side pocket of my golf bag. It really beats wandering around looking for yardage markers and then pacing off the yardage.

Customer Service:
Have not used it

Similar Products Used:
Tested the Nikon range finder, very nice but sells for over $200.