The Callaway 300 golf range finder is a lower-priced model that was put to the test and came out with flying colors. It comes with some great features, including slope technology. However, this is a feature that’s more commonly found in higher priced models, not models under two hundred dollars. Callaway pleasantly surprised us with this feature and others, including Pin Acquisition technology, decent range capabilities, and a durable case that’s designed to protect the range finder from damage if you accidentally drop it. Basically, the manufacturer somehow made it possible to have a range finder at a price that’s more than reasonable, with some top features you won’t commonly find on other models in this price range. Aside from its feature-heavy design, this model is also a great choice for beginners who aren’t familiar with golf range finder technology. The simple design and intuitive user’s menu makes changing a setting or turning on or shutting off a mode fast and easy.
Our Verdict: Despite the fact that the range finder’s accuracy and ranging abilities can be compromised on windy days, we felt that this model still has a lot to offer golfers on a tight budget. Unlike competing range finders, this model comes loaded with pin seeking technology, a slope feature, a durable waterproof, fog-proof, lightweight design that makes a true asset on the course. Not to mention, it’s available for a price that will work for most budgets. Overall, we would recommend this range finder to the beginner in need of a reliable model that can help to improve their golf game.
Keep on reading to learn how this model scored out on the course and what performance issues you should be aware of before you buy.
Overview and Features
This manufacturer isn’t normally known for their laser golf range finders. Instead, they specialize in GPS models. However, their latest attempt at producing a highly accurate laser model is nothing short of impressive, although we did discover that there are some bugs that need to be worked out. For the price, this model offers impressive features and better than average functionality when you’re out on the course.
Product Rating:
- Lightweight design
- Durable housing
- Slope mode
- Pin seeking mode
- Low price
- Range capabilities up to one thousand yards
- Fog-proof and waterproof
Pin Acquisition Technology
Callaway’s Pin Acquisition Technology allows users to lock onto a flag from up to three hundred yards away. It’s considered very accurate and works well even in cluttered environments.
Birdie
Another popular feature is called the Birdie, which works by emitting a chirp to confirm that the user has locked onto a target successfully.
Slope Technology
Callaway’s slope technology works in the same manner as other slope features that you’ll find on leading models. When in this mode, the range finder will automatically take into account declines and inclines and calculate a more accurate total distance. If you’d like to use this range finder in a tournament, you can switch the slope feature off, instantly making your range finder tournament legal.
Accuracy
The manufacturer claims this range finder is highly accurate, with an accuracy rating of one yard.
Range
This model has range capabilities of five yards up to one thousand yards. You can use the scan mode to scan the entire landscape and receive instant distance readings for multiple targets such as a group of players, trees, hazards, and more.
Fog and Waterproof
The sealed eyepiece prevents inclement weather from affecting your visibility. The range finder is both fog-proof and waterproof, so you can safely use this model on foggy or rainy days without the elements affecting the range finder’s performance.
Battery
This model runs on a CR2 three-volt lithium-ion battery.
Magnification
The range finder offers 6x magnification for easier scanning and pin targeting.
Display
The large LCD display is easy to read in both bright and low lighting conditions. The display will show the distance readings in either meters or yards. It will also display the Pin Acquisition Technology reading, slope information, and zero-in aiming technology.
Performance
Hands down, this is one of the most feature-packed models of range finders that you’ll come across in this price range. It works well when it comes to measuring long distances and can read data up to one thousand yards. It also comes with slope technology that can easily be shut off if you’re playing in a tournament. The durable, waterproof design means it’s safe to use in any type of weather and will come in handy for the golfer who doesn’t mind playing on rainy days, or early in the morning when fog is at its thickest.
The range finder’s ability to scan multiple targets is perfect for the golfer in training. In terms of design, this model is solidly built and comes equipped with a rubber coating that works to improve the user’s grip.
On the course, we found that it can easily pick up mid-range and short-range flags, however, flags that are around more than two hundred yards away can require the user to fire at the target a couple of times in order to get an accurate reading. On windy days the process can take even longer. This issue can be very frustrating for some users.
Despite its flaws, the slope technology and pin seeking feature combined with its lightweight design and durable construction make this range finder a must-have for the golfer on a tight budget.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Durable housing
- Slope mode
- Pin seeking mode
- Low price
- Range capabilities up to one thousand yards
- Fog-proof and waterproof
Cons
- A noticeable dip in performance on windy days
Related Questions
Is there a Golf Range Finder in this Price Range that Offers a More Reliable Performance in Windy Conditions?
Yes. If you’re looking for an affordable range finder that comes with similar features and is available at a comparable price then you’ll love the Bozily Golf Rangefinder. While it doesn’t offer the same type of quality when it comes to this range finder’s housing, it does provide a more solid performance in high winds and also includes a simple design that makes it very beginner-friendly.
Is There a Specific Time of Year Golf Clubs Are More Affordable?
Of course! During the off-season, it’s very common to see golf clubs go way down in price. If you want to use the best clubs for the upcoming season then keep your eye on your favorite golf pro shop in order to get the best deals on popular clubs. To learn more click here to read our article on the best time to buy golf clubs.
Which Type of Range Finder is Better, Laser or GPS?
The answer to this question is debatable and often boils down to personal preference. Some golfers swear by GPS models while others claim that laser models offer the best features and are much easier to use. However, one thing is for sure, weather such as rain or high wind conditions will not interfere with the GPS range finder’s performance like it can with a laser range finder. If you decide to buy the best golf range finder and you want a GPS model, then you need to be prepared to pay a monthly subscription fee since these range finders rely on a satellite signal. Additionally, while a GPS model may be more reliable, some models may not have a specific golf course in their database, which can make the range finder totally useless. This is often a common problem a golfer will run into when playing on a golf course in a different country. If you have plans to travel, make sure you inquire whether or not the range finder you’re interested in is compatible with international golf courses. Laser models are not only more affordable, but they’re said to be faster, more versatile, and generally more reliable. However, as we mentioned, they’re not without their limitations.
Conclusion and Rating
Product Rating:
The Callaway 300 golf range finder is built tough, reasonably priced, and loaded with some great features that help to improve this model’s ease of use and value. The pin seeking feature can be used to ensure you lock onto a target the first time around, while the birdie alert lets you know when you’ve successfully locked onto a target. The slope feature also works to improve the range finder’s distance measuring accuracy and can be switched off with the push of a button if you want to use this model for an upcoming tournament. Yet, we did notice that the range finder’s accuracy readings took a hit in windy conditions when it was difficult to lock onto a flag. But for the price, we felt that this issue wasn’t exactly a deal breaker. If you’re on a tight budget and you’re looking for an affordable range finder that comes with all the bells and whistles that many higher priced models do, then you can’t go wrong with the 300. We gave this model a rating of four and a half stars out of five.
