For years, Bushnell has been a brand you can trust when it comes to the best golf range finders that offer the type of accurate distance measuring performance that you can really rely on. Their latest model, the Tour V4 is an improvement over their best-selling V3. Just like the V3, the V4 is also feature-packed, equipped with the type of specs and features that will meet the golfer’s needs and help to lower their score and improve their game.
Our Verdict: Bushnell’s Tour V4 features many improvements over the past V3 model, including an easy to adjust eyepiece, and a lightweight, compact design. This device comes loaded with many of the manufacturer’s best features including Jolt Technology, which alerts the user the second they have successfully locked onto a target. Unlike other models in this price range, the V4 offers a longer than average range of five hundred yards up to one thousand yards and has the type of accuracy rating that makes this model appropriate for pro use.
As you can see, this model has a lot to offer golfers of all skill levels. The Jolt features is one of the range finder’s main selling points, but it also offers impressive clarity, ranging ability, and so much more. Keep on reading to learn more about this popular model and see how it stands up to the V3 in terms of accuracy and power.
Table of Contents
Overview and Features
Bushnell has managed to dominate the market with its edgy, sporty looking range finders that are normally loaded with the latest in range finding tech. We were happy to see that this didn’t change with the introduction of the V4, which is supposed to be a new and improved version of the V3. It comes loaded with all of the bells and whistles the seasoned golfer could want, and then some.
The V4’s design revolves around accuracy, speed, and size. Its compact build will be the first thing you notice when you remove it from its box. The manufacturer claims this model is thirty percent smaller than the V3. Since it’s much smaller it can easily fit in your pants pocket and feels good in your hand. Not only is this model more compact, but it’s also significantly lighter than other range finders in this price bracket. Weighing in at under six ounces, carrying this model around from hole to hole will be a breeze.
Product Rating:
- Compact, lightweight design
- Jolt technology
- Five hundred to one thousand yard range
- Easy to use eye focus ring for faster adjustments
- Good price to value ratio
- Durable construction
Design
The ergonomic design will make the device comfortable and easier to use. Its small shape allows it to fit perfectly in your hand. Along the bottom, you’ll find a small notch that’s the perfect spot to rest your thumb. Like other models produced by Bushnell, the bottom and top of the range finder are textured to improve grip. There’s also a button located on top of the device that controls all of its functions from switching from mode to mode to firing the laser for a distance reading.
The range finder’s housing is composed of thick plastic, complete with a protective silicone cover. The clip on the back of the device makes it easy for the user to clip and unclip the device from their waistband, providing users with fast and easy access.
Battery Power
There’s no doubt that this range finder has a lot going for it in terms of features, accuracy, and overall functionality, so we were a little disappointed to learn that the range finder uses CR2 three-volt batteries instead of lithium ion, which provides a longer runtime per charge.
Jolt
Jolt Technology is probably the most popular and unique feature this model offers. With other models, it can be tricky knowing when you’ve locked onto a target. Jolt takes all of the guesswork out of wondering whether or not you’ve successfully locked onto a target. Jolt will cause the range finder to vibrate once you’ve locked onto a flag, which means you’ll know you’re getting the correct target and accurate yardage.
Optics
Aside from measuring the distance from one flag to the next, this model also serves another important function, providing the golfer with a clearer view of their target. This model is equipped with 5x magnification, so you’ll enjoy a much closer view of your target. The manufacturer has also improved the range finder’s focus mechanism in order to help maintain a crystal clear viewing experience. With other models, you have to use one hand to rotate the eyepiece and adjust the focus, but with the V4, you can use the single slide focus ring located directly above the eyepiece. Like the focus on a pair of binoculars, you can use your index to make adjustments. This makes the entire process faster and easier.
Range
This model offers a range of five hundred to one thousand yards. The scan mode can scan areas within four hundred yards to the flag.
Accuracy
Accuracy comes in at minus one yard.
Water Resistance
This range finder can be used in misty or light rain conditions, but it cannot handle use during serious inclement weather.
Slope
Like other models produced by Bushnell, this model features a slope mode, which will take changes in elevation into consideration before providing users with a distance reading. Users can also choose to activate or deactivate this mode, which is a huge plus if you’re looking for a range finder that’s considered tournament legal. As long as you have the slope mode shut off, this model is a great option for competitions.
Carrying Case
Despite the fact that this model is built tough, Bushnell still included a free hard carrying case. Whenever your range finder is not in use we recommend storing it in the case in order to prevent serious damage during transport or when stored. This is a nice extra accessory and one that can significantly lengthen the lifespan of your range finder when used appropriately.
Performance
The range finder’s new look is all pro. A sporty range finder with impressive accuracy, this model combines all the best features from Bushnell into a lightweight compact model that’s durable and easy to use. For some, scrolling through the menu and adjusting the settings or switching modes can feel like a time-consuming process. Beginners may also struggle to use this model if they’re not familiar with range finders and don’t know how to adjust the settings in order to improve the range finder’s performance. Because of this, we recommend reading the user’s manual from cover to cover before you take your new range finder out on the course.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight design
- Jolt technology
- Five hundred to one thousand yard range
- Easy to use eye focus ring for faster adjustments
- Good price to value ratio
Cons
- Uses three-volt CR2 batteries
- 5x magnification
Related Questions
Is This Range Finder Beginner-Friendly?
Yes and no. Some users have argued that because it features a single button it can be difficult for beginners to adjust the range finder’s settings. If you’re looking for a more beginner-friendly range finder, we recommend the Callaway 300 Pro Golf Laser Rangefinder with Slope Measurement, which features controls that are more intuitive and easy to adjust for beginners.
Will This Range Finder Help Lower My Score?
Using a range finder can definitely have a major impact on your performance, but if you’re using the wrong stance, have a weak swing, or don’t focus on other basics such as proper body mechanics, then you’re not going to see any major improvements. To learn more about how to get back to the basics and become a better player, read our article on golf posture exercises.
Is the V4 Waterproof?
No. There’s a big difference between water resistance and waterproof. A waterproof device can handle light and heavy rainfall and can even be submerged without damaging any of the internal components. This model is not waterproof. It features a water-resistant design that allows for use in light rainfall, but it should never be used during a downpour and cannot be safely submerged in water. To learn more about how range finders work and waterproof design options, click here to read our golf range finders buyer’s guide.
Conclusion and Rating
Product Rating:
Finding the perfect range finder, one that includes both basic and extra features that are designed to improve the user’s ranging experience isn’t always easy, especially if you’re on a budget and can’t afford to spend hundreds of dollars on higher priced models. Fortunately, Bushnell has paid attention to what their customer base wants and needs and that’s a highly accurate range finder that’s built to last and priced affordably.
The Bushnell Tour V4 is lighter, faster, and smaller than its predecessor. It’s highly adjustable and features a slope compensation mode that provides you with the most accurate distance readings. This model basically comes with all the best features Bushnell has offered in past models, all in one compact range finder that’s easy to use and incredibly accurate. We gave this model a rating of four and a half stars out of five.
