Finding a lower priced golf range finder that’s easy to use, accurate, and equipped with slope technology isn’t easy, but Precision Pro managed to surprise us with their latest model, the NX7.
The NX7 features a lightweight, ergonomic design that’s very similar to higher priced models such as the Bushnell Tour V4 laser range finder, which is currently Bushnell’s top-selling model. But despite their similarities, the NX7 tends to shine for its own reasons. It features a durable construction for its size and feels good in your hand, thanks to the ergonomic design. Overall, considering the price, you’ll be surprised by the range finder’s level of quality.
Our Verdict: The NX7 has a design that’s similar to that of Bushnell’s leading range finders. It also comes loaded with many of the same features but it’s available for nearly half the price. Additionally, it comes with two modes, is tournament legal, and comes equipped with top of the line optics, which make it much easier to clearly see your intended target. The flag lock mode will alert you once you’ve successfully locked onto a flag, with the help of Precision Pro’s Target Acquisition Technology. While it lacks the type of distance capabilities that some golfers are looking for, as an entry-level range finder, you really can’t beat the price, durable design, and reliability.
Continue reading to find out why this model earned a spot on our top six golf range finders list, how it performs on the green, and what other similarities it shares with higher priced models.
Overview and Features
Precision Pro isn’t as well-known as Bushnell and other major brands, but it is making a name for itself as a smaller company that produces range finders that can compete with the big boys.
This smaller than average range finder features only a couple of buttons, which makes this range finder easier to use. The first button is the power button that doubles as the trigger, which you’ll use when you’re ranging. The other button allows you to switch modes from standard to slope.
Most beginners like the fact that the range finder comes with just the two modes. In reality, the more modes a range finder has, the more difficult they can be to use and the higher the cost.
Product Rating:
- Water resistant
- Tournament legal
- Slope feature
- Two-button design
- Reasonable price
- Very durable
The included slope mode will provide users with additional yardage. This model is able to determine how downhill or uphill the flag is, so it will adjust the readings based on elevation. As an example, if you’re one hundred yards from the flag, but you’re standing slightly downhill, the slope mode may provide a more accurate reading of ninety-six yards.
Other range finders will require you to hold down the button to get a reading, but once you hit the slope button on this model, it will quickly scan the area, searching for the flag.
Package Extras
With purchase, this package includes a battery, cleaning cloth, lanyard, user’s manual, and carrying case. The case should always be used when you’re storing or transporting this device in order to protect the optics.
Accuracy
In terms of accuracy, this range finder can provide a distance reading down to the tenth of a yard. While it’s impressive how accurate it is, it’s not exactly necessary for most players.
Lock Alert
Once the device locates the yardage it will vibrate. This will give you confidence that you’ve successfully locked onto your desired target. It’s also a feature that’s found on all Bushnell range finders. While these range finders do share some similarities, this model is available for nearly half the price, a huge bonus for any golfer on a budget.
Speed
This is one quick range finder. While it’s not as quick as some higher priced models, it still gets the job done and won’t leave you standing around waiting for a distance reading.
Optics
The 6x magnification makes it easy to shoot at flags, so you should have no trouble quickly locking onto a distant flag. Precision Pro also made this model very easy to focus, via the focus ring. The eyepiece versatility will also be a plus for glasses wearers.
Range
The manufacturer claims that this model has a range of four hundred yards, however, we found that three hundred and fifty yards were more accurate.
TAG
The Target Acquisition Technology will prevent the range finder from focusing on objects in the background when you’re trying to lock onto a flag. With some models, locking onto an object in the background, such as a large tree or shrubbery is all too easy and can quickly make the entire ranging process very frustrating. It can also lead to wayward shots that cause you to overshoot the green. You won’t have to worry about that with this model. However, this model is only as accurate as the user. If your hands are shaking as you range then locking onto the appropriate target can be difficult.
Yards and Meters
The NX7 allows you to switch from yards to meters. If you’re in the U.S. then you’ll probably want to stick with yards. When you’re abroad you can easily switch to meters with just the push of a button.
Water Resistant
Now, you can enjoy playing a round of golf using your range finder, even when it’s raining. Mist and light rainfall will not affect this model’s accuracy or damage any of the internal components. However, this model is not designed to withstand heavy rainfall and should never be fully submerged.
Performance
The range finder’s adaptive slope technology, which takes elevation changes into consideration, significantly improves its ranging accuracy. However, the shorter than average range capability may be a huge downside for the avid golfer. In reality, all you really need is a range finder that can handle ranging at around five hundred yards, so at three hundred and fifty to four hundred yards, this model falls a little short. But the fact that you can easily switch off the slope mode and have a tournament legal range finder should definitely be a plus in anyone’s book.
Pros
- Water resistant
- Tournament legal
- Slope feature
- Two-button design
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Lower than average ranging capabilities
Related Questions
Can a Golf Range Finder Improve Pace of Play?
Absolutely! If you want to improve your pace of play, then the right range finder can help you move swiftly along from one hole to the next, instead of struggling to correctly gauge a flag’s distance and taking shot after shot. Golf range finders can be a true asset out on the course, especially if you or another player struggle with wayward shots. To learn more about average golf times, click here to read our article on how long to play 18 holes of golf.
How Do I Choose a Golf Range Finder?
Finding the right golf range finder isn’t easy, especially since manufacturers have basically flooded the market with these wildly popular devices. If you’re struggling to choose a new range finder, consider what your goals are in terms of performance. Do you need a model with a longer range? Do you want to lower your score? Do you want to improve your swing? If you’re an experienced golfer, then it’s also important that you choose a model that’s equipped with the right features, such as slope compensation and a flag locking alert. Beginners should do well with entry-level models since they’re more affordable and feature the type of basic layout that makes them easy to use. If you’re not familiar with golf range finder technology and all the new features they have to offer then click here to read our golf range finder buyer’s guide. Our guide will give you an in-depth look at the latest in golf range finder technology, which will make it easier for you to find a model that suits your needs and one that will work with your budget.
How Do Laser Range Finders Work?
Laser golf range finder technology is actually fairly simple. An infrared laser from the range finder will hit a target and reflect back to the device. Inside the range finder, a computer chip will translate the amount of time it took the beam of light to make its way back to the device from the target. The results will pop up on the device’s display. And that’s it.
Conclusion and Rating
Product Rating:
The NX7 comes with all the features you need to help lower your score. It may not have the type of range the experienced golfer is looking for, but the beginner and intermediate golfer will appreciate everything this model has to offer. Not only is it cost effective, durable, easy to use, and accurate, it’s also built tough. If you’re on a tight budget and looking for an entry-level model that can provide a reliable performance, then this range finder will give you the most bang for your buck. We gave this model a rating of four and a half stars out of five.
