Laser rangefinders have evolved over the past 20 years, becoming high-tech equipment relied upon by professional golfers as they prepare for tournaments and weekend players looking to improve their games. Optics have been enhanced, image clarity has improved and the introduction of “playing distances” that factor in hills all have made today’s lasers trusted gear.
Now, with the release of the R1, Precision Pro is trying to push forward the next evolutionary step in lasers.
The Precision Pro R1 (available now for $319.99) connects to a smartphone using Bluetooth and the free Precision Pro mobile app. After the two devices are linked, the MYSLOPE feature in the R1 utilizes the GPS in the phone and the proprietary Precision Pro algorithm to deliver a higher level of accuracy. It can do this because MYSLOPE combines the laser-measured distance to the hole with uphill and downhill angles and environmental factors such as temperature, altitude and humidity. The system considers all these variables to display not only the actual yardage to the hole but, according to Precision Pro, a more accurate “plays like” yardage.
The R1 also uses your smartphone’s GPS to display the distance to the front, middle and back of the green on the hole you are playing, and its Wind Assist feature can let you know how a breeze might affect your shot.
Players can add their own ball flight data into the Precision Pro app, such as how far they typically hit each club, ball speed, launch angle and spin rate. The R1 then can make club suggestions within the MYSLOPE feature.
If you are playing in a tournament, the MYSLOPE functions easily can be turned off by sliding a switch on the side of the unit, transforming the R1 into a USGA-conforming distance-measuring device.
To ensure you are hitting your target with the laser instead of a tree or object in the background, the R1 pulses in your hand when it acquires the flag. It also comes standard with a strong magnet on one side that lets you attach it securely to your cart.
The unit even has a feature called Find My Precision Pro that notifies you if the rangefinder gets too far from your mobile phone. It also reminds you to secure the R1 after your round is complete.