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Will this golf laser rangefinder with GPS technology help golfers succeed, or will it leave your ball in a sand bunker or puddle of water? There are many rangefinders out there, and we’re here to see how the Garmin Approach Z80 hybrid rangefinder can make you a better golfer!
Garmin is one of the biggest names you think of when it comes to GPS technology. They can help you when you need to reach your destination, and this applies to the golf course as well. Combine this with their extensive knowledge and experience with laser rangefinders and the outcome is that they have created a device that can help golfers find the best way to reach the flag and help them avoid the hazards along the way.
Garmin Approach Z80 Hybrid GPS Rangefinder
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Specifications
Here are all the specs you need. First, the weight. It weighs 8 ounces, making it lightweight for anyone. Its battery is rechargeable and can last up to an impressive 15 hours. It has a USB interface, can resist water, and has tournament mode. Tournament mode can adjust the features so they conform with tournament play.
As for the laser rangefinder itself, it can measure up to 350 yards to the flag, and its accuracy is plus or minus 10 inches. Its magnification goes up to 6x and it can lock onto your flag with ease. It has slope correction as well.
And what’s a Garmin product without GPS technology? It has GPS with over 41,000 maps preloaded into it, with easy update possibilities for new or changed golf courses. The GPS can show the maps in 2D and can show the distance to possible hazards and to where the flag is.
Finally, it’s worth talking about the bundle itself. It comes with the rangefinder and a custom ball marker clip set. Also, you can get a cart mount for the magnetic golf rangefinder, which is a $20 value. It comes with a USB charging cable, which is to be expected, and a manual as well.
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Features
Perhaps the greatest feature of this hybrid rangefinder is its GPS capabilities. This is what makes the rangefinder pricier than most, and for good reason. It has over 41,000 courses from all around the world built in, and it’s always updating for free. The CourseView feature shows the maps in full color and displays everything in the most accurate manner as possible. You can view the par, get the distance, and more.
With any laser rangefinder, you also want the ability to lock onto the flag. This makes the process much easier. Your laser can lock onto the flag with up to 6 times the magnification.
The rangefinder can help you out with your slopes as well. We all know how challenging it is to reach the goal when you’re faced with an uphill or downhill shot. With the ability to adjust your yardages according to the slopes, it’s now easier than ever.
The GPS also has the ability to look at everything that’s in play. This means that it will draw an arc shape on the 2D view to give you a better idea.
Let’s talk about the waterproof capabilities for a second. When having tech on the course, many are worried about it raining or possibly dropping the technology into a puddle, ruining it for good. You don’t really need to worry that much when it comes to the Garmin Approach Z80: It has an IPX7 water rating.
This means that if it’s splashed on, rained on, or showered on, it shouldn’t take damage. However, don’t go swimming with it. We probably don’t need to tell you that though. For a drop in the water, it should survive fine.
Like any rangefinder, it’s small, yet durable. You don’t have to worry much if you accidentally drop it, and with its tight grip, you won’t have to worry about that anyway.
The battery life is quite powerful as well. With up to 15 hours, you should be able to use it for several rounds. With anything, the battery life can depend on screen brightness or how many features you have open, so keep an eye on your battery and what you have opened if you need to conserve power.
Most rangefinders, when you’re not using it, go into standby mode. This prevents the device from using any unneeded battery power. However, the Garmin used to have a lack of the standby mode but with the latest software updates, that problem has been fixed. That’s the great thing of firmware updates!
Finally, the laser. It’s one of the most accurate lasers out there. Some cheaper rangefinders have a laser that is not that good. It won’t lock on, it doesn’t go far, and it’s a bit wonky overall. With the Garmin Approach Z80, you don’t have to worry about that. The laser is strong, powerful, and can lock onto its target with relative ease. You don’t need to worry about it going out.
Pro
- Powerful GPS
- Intense, accurate laser
- Comes with over 40K preloaded maps all around the world
Cons
- Pricey
Final Verdict
Garmin Approach Z80 Hybrid GPS Rangefinder
Click Here for Reviews
<<== BUY the Garmin Hybrid NOW ==>>
The Garmin Approach Z80 is a great hybrid rangefinder in the world of golfing accessories. There’s a reason why Garmin is known for their GPS technologies, and why you should get one if you haven’t done so already. It can help newcomers and veterans alike improve their game and be better at what they do.
In addition, it’s tournament legal if you turn it on tournament mode. Just make sure you talk with the hosts of the tournament so you can make sure you’re in the clear.
It is recommended for the pros. If you’re just looking for a quality, less expensive laser rangefinder without the GPS, we do recommend the Nikon Coolshot or the Precision Pro Nexus.
Overall, we highly recommend the Garmin Approach Z80! Give it a try and get to golfing.