Bushnell Yardage Pro Review and Field Tests
The unit debuted at the PGA Show in Orlando and The Hackers Paradise got a first look at it there. Here are some of the features we learned about at the show.
* LCD screen with backlight
* Easy to Use Interface, Distance at a Glance
* Distance to Center, Front, & Back
* Store up to 10 courses
* Bag/Belt clip
* Auto Shut off/ Sleep Mode After 30 Minutes
* Rechargeable Li-Ion battery
* Battery Life up to 15 hours
* USB PC interface for downloads
Durability is where the Yardage Pro really shined. With a rubberized exterior and a completely weather resistant unit, this GPS unit is ready for the outside elements. Something a few others units that we have tested seem to lack.
The unit will only hold ten courses, but you can download a much larger number of courses to your computer for the subscription. The purchase price of the Yardage Pro is 0. This is a little higher than some other competitors base models, but low enough that it is still a very affordable price for incredible technology. The Neo, which is the little brother of the Yardage Pro, is only 0. It has fewer features, but is very similar to the Yardage Pro and is definitely worth considering if you need a more affordable alternative. If you find yourself spending large amounts of money on things like drivers, wedges, golf balls, or training aides, I suggest that you instead invest in a GPS unit like the Yardage Pro or Neo that is guaranteed to make you a better player right away. Knowing exact yardages speeds up play and makes you better no matter what level of player you are.
To address the unit’s sole serious flaw up front, it is this: “PermaFocus.” That translates to bad old fashioned “fixed focus” when you remove the fancy label. Meaning that there is no provision to focus the 6 power monocular to your eye for a sharp image.
There are three modes of operation: “standard,” “scan,” and “>150″ (greater than 150 yards).
The Legend 800 is completely waterproof. It even floats, so it would be an excellent rangefinder for marine applications.
The Sport 450 is compact and light weight. It is easy to carry and the battery life of the 9 volt battery that powers it is excellent. I have been using mine for over a year without having to change the battery yet. I have noticed that as the battery gets lower the effective range does begin to shorten. TheSport 450 is easy to use and can be operated in either a horizontal or verticle orientation. I have tried both orientations and got the same readings each time. the one button to activate the laser on the top (if held horizontal) of theSport 450 is large enough to be easy to find quickly without having to look away from your target to find the trigger. The 4X20 optics gives enough magnification to easily locate your target and still give alarge enough field of view to quickly pick up targets even at close range.
Check out more optical range finders advice at opticalrangefindes.com. You can also read some great guides on the Bushnell Pinseeker 1500 there as well.