Range Finder vs. GPS
Nowadays errrbody seems to have some type of device to assist with distance marking on the golf course. Today,
we are going to settle the argument as to which is best for you.
GPS (Global Positioning System)
Major manufacturers include: IGolf , SkyCaddie, Sureshot, Golf Guru, Golf Buddy, Golflogix. It works by simply
downloading the course information then simply looking at the device during your round.
Pros
- Simply to use.
- Gives a view of the entire hole.
- Especially useful on courses you've never played.
- Provides distance to front, center, and back of green.
- Gives yardages to various hazards.
- Apps available for smartphones that are much cheaper than previously mentioned manufacturers.
Cons
- Course must be downloaded onto your device.
- Not useful at a driving range.
- Distance readings are often in accurate, by as much as 20 yards.
- Some don't provide distance to pin, only to front-center-back.
- Some manufacturers carry a yearly fee.
Range Finders
Major manufacturers include: Nikon, Bushnell, Leupold, Newcon, Swarovski, Opti-logic, Osprey, Simmons. It works
by looking through the binoculars then aiming at your target, to get the distance.
Pros
- Gives a dead-on accurate reading, providing you hit the appropriate target.
- Provides accurate distance at the driving range.
- You select the yardage you want to (sandtraps trees, water hazards, etc.)
- Minimal maintenance required.
Cons
- Shaky hands will never get an accurate reading.
- Learning curve required to use properly.
- Minimal assistance on blind shots.
And the Winner is........
The smart money is on the range-finder. Being able to assist you on the range when distances are never accurate
is a huge bonus. In addition, for spot-on accuracy on the course when GPS systems are often not is another huge
advantage. But, if you are going to purchase a range-finder, get a good one. I've tested several and find the
Nikon LR1200 to be best.
Mulligan Golf Marketing
A friend started this organization which offers a golf discount book valued at over $700, for only $30. And I quote
"Please check out my new golf marketing group at mulligangolfmarketing.com. :We promote the game of golf
through a variety of resources... we are a company created by golfers for golfers."
Father's Day Golf Outing
Time: 8AM (Check-in) -- First Tee Time 8:45AM
Location: Water's Edge Golf Course, (11605 South Harlem Avenue, Worth, IL 60482; (708) 671-1032)
Cost: $59 (Greens Fee: PAID to the Course)- 18 Holes Golf w/golf cart w/GPS,
Optional - ($15 Appetizers on the Pavilion After Golf)
Optional - ($10 Skins Pot will be available).
Event Sponsors (Johnny Washington, Art Curry, Javarra Perrilliat, Emmit Horne, Craig Stevens)
If you would like to participate contact Johnny at jrwashington@hotmail.com
Get A Handicap
For the life of me, I can't understand how so many golfers play without keeping a handicap. It's as simple as
paying ten bucks a year and entering your scores on the website. There are several advantages to doing this. I
like the fact that I can look back at all my scores over a four year period. To view my handicap information and/or
join or handicap club, click here. If joining our club, our name is Chitownhack and our password is lovegolf. (FREE
for 30 days, so try it out!!!!)
Golf Tip of the Month
When I chip and putt, I use a strategy similar to that of bowling. Instead of aiming at the hole, I aim at an
intermediate target just as a bowler aims at the small arrows in the bowling lane. For me, its usually a blade of
different colored grass or divot. This allows me to concentrate less on the line of the putt and more on the
distance, which ultimately is more important anyway. Good luck and I hope this helps. Peace Out, Chuck Dogg.