In sports, having the right tools for the game is as good as the game itself. Golf players need various tools to play and manage the game and among them are good rangefinders.
If you are a golf player, you will discover that knowing the exact distance to the hole is important. Rangefinders have come of age and are now using laser technology to take almost accurate distance readings. One organization that has ventured into this area is Nikon with Nikon Coolshot 20 rangefinder.
Nikon Coolshot 20 GII review in-depth
Nikon Coolshot 20 Features
Nikon Coolshot 20 is definitely an improvement on its previous version, Nikon Coolshot. The new rangefinder is lighter and slimmer making it convenient to carry around. In other words, you can easily slip it into your pocket as you move between shots.
Another cool feature associated with this is its range. Apparently, its 6x magnification feature attains accuracy up to 500 meters. Very few people can hit further than that, and so many people will find it useful.
It has a timer to switch off the device after 8 seconds. This feature is important as it ensures maximum use without the need to recharge it. Furthermore, it has a battery charge meter on the screen to ensure you don’t get caught unawares as a result of low battery.
The First Target Priority system that the rangefinder uses makes it easy to pick out a target. It then displays its distance from where you are standing in clear numbers and the selected mode. You have the option to choose between yards and meters as a unit of measurement.
When it comes to durability, Coolshot 20 tops the list in its class of rangefinders. Essentially, the rangefinder is shockproof and rainproof. The lenses and optical chamber are well built to withstand constant accidental drops. What this means for you is that you may have this rangefinder for decades.
At its current price range, the Coolshot 20 is bargain based on its versatile optics. The rangefinder makes use of multicoated lenses, as well as, a roof prism system for clear and crisp images. This quality makes using it so much fun. The rangefinder has quick working autofocus mechanism which means that you get your measurements within a short time. All in all, Nikon lives up to its reputation with this rangefinder.
Pros
- Nikon Coolshot 20 rangefinder is very easy to use. New users will find it simple to understand its controls without having to read the lengthy documentation. All that a person needs to do is point it in the direction of the target and make the shot. Only one button is required to operate it.
- The First Target technology ensures you pick your target quickly without interference from other objects in the background. At times, it can be frustrating when trying to pick out the flag and the measurement because of other surrounding objects.
- The rangefinder comes with the option of adjusting the focus to suit the user’s sight capability. If you are shortsighted, then you can adjust your view accordingly. And the same happens for the long-sighted. You do not need your glasses to operate it.
- The CR-2 battery that the rangefinder uses can go for several months without the need to recharge. This is good especially for those that are away from home for some time.
- The rangefinder may not have some of the to-die-for features, but it definitely has all the necessary features to make that shot. Having one will not make you feel you are losing out on something.
- When it comes to weight and size, then Coolshot 20 gets a full score. At 0.27 pounds, the rangefinder may go undetected in your pocket for hours.
- Finally, not having the slope reading function is not all that bad. Under the USGA rules, lack of slope reading functionality automatically makes it armature tournament-eligible.
Cons
- The Nikon Coolshot 20 may be an improvement on its predecessor on most of the features, but its range is not. The laser powered rangefinder can accurately measure the distance up to about 100 yards. Beyond that, the accuracy diminishes. The Nikon Coolshot has a better range despite being an older version. Not only that, but there are also lower-priced rangefinders with a better accuracy beyond 100 yards.
- The rangefinder sometimes needs a little bit more time to pick out targets that are more than 200 yards out. In windy conditions, it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain stability, and you may be forced to work without it.
- While using, it is a no-brainer and is not good in poorly lit backgrounds. Sometimes, it may be hard to make out the battery and distance readings.
- Its light weight is a put off for some golfers. There are those that would prefer a heavier rangefinder for stability. On the other hand, this rangefinder does not have additional extras such as slope measurement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Is the Nikon Coolshot 20 rangefinder hard to use?
Not at all. The best thing about Coolshot 20 is that any level golfer can use it. It is quite easy to use.
Can you use it in competitions?
Yes. The fact is the rangefinder does not have slope measurement feature means that it is eligible in tournaments.
Is it expensive?
Not at all. At Amazon it is among the cheapest you can find!
The Verdict
While the Coolshot 20 may lack certain impressive features, its accuracy and price set it apart. Some rangefinders are coming with jaw-dropping features, but that does not mean Coolshot 20 is not worth its salt. No other rangefinder beats it in terms of weight and slimness in addition to accuracy. Therefore, if you are looking for a versatile rangefinder that easily slips into your pocket, then Coolshot 20 is the answer. Hope I was able to cover everything you wanted to know in this nikon coolshot 20 rangefinder review.