Technology is a part of our everyday lives and aims to help make everything we do more efficient. The same goes for the sport of golf – we’ve seen countless number of apps such as Golfshot and Hole19 and devices such as GAME GOLF (also an app) and Arccos. These items are great, but our favourite piece of technology in golf is a laser rangefinder. Recently, we had the opportunity to test the Nikon Coolshot 40i rangefinder and compare it to our usual rangefinder, the Bushnell Tour Z6.
The Nikon Coolshot 40i is considered one of the most powerful golf laser rangefinders in the market today. It is easy to operate, compact, ergonomic, lightweight, rainproof and measures up to 590 metres/650 yards. The Coolshot 40i model is equipped with Nikon’s ID (Include/Decline) technology, which adjusts distances based on uphill or downhill slopes. Slope adjustment is typically not allowed in tournaments, so Nikon also has a Coolshot 40 model, which has the same specifications as the 40i, except without the slope adjustment.
We love that the Nikon Coolshot 40i is so lightweight, compact and easy to use. Out of the box, just put the battery in, set it to golf mode and point and shoot! The Coolshot 40i provides golfers with quick, but accurate measurements (±0.75m/yd) so they know exactly what shot they need to hit to maximize their scoring chances. Measurements are provided by the quick and stable HYPER READ function and shows up in approximately 0.5 seconds. The Target Priority Switch System (First Target Priority mode and Distant Target Priority mode) also helps golfers more easily capture the flag when measuring distance.
The Coolshot 40i also features a Continuous Measurement function which minimizes hand shakiness – just press the button longer and golfers will receive a continuous measurement of the target. We often play golf courses with extreme elevation changes and have really noticed the difference while using a rangefinder with slope adjustment. Knowing the exact distances will definitely help save you strokes – it has for us!
Although the optics are extremely clear, having the reading system in black font can make it difficult to read at times. Perhaps we’re just use to having bright red fonts on our Bushnell, but it wasn’t something that affected the performance of the Coolshot 40i. Furthermore, the case that is provided with the Coolshot 40i seems a bit thinner compared to our Bushnell – having a magnetic closing button on our Bushnell rather than a normal button closer on the Coolshot 40i case was a lot more convenient and functional as well.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a new laser rangefinder, you should definitely consider the Nikon Coolshot series. With all the features built into the Coolshot rangefinders, you will be receiving one of the most efficient tools in the market. The Nikon Coolshot 40 retails for $249.95 and the Coolshot 40i retails for $299.99. Both products are competitively priced to other rangefinders on the market with comparable features.
Source: Nikon
