With more and more digital devices available to golfers to improve their game, many golfers are asking: Can I use a golf rangefinder in competition?
We asked the Editor of The Social Golfer in the UK to clarify the issue and explain when you can and can’t use your rangefinder in events.
History of Rangefinders
It was only in the last decade that golf rangefinders have become commonplace in the average club golfer’s bag.
However, the first rangefinder, a ‘telemeter,’ was actually invented by none other than James Watt* in 1769 and put to use in 1771 for surveying canals.
Watt called his instrument a micrometer, a term now used with a different meaning in engineering (the micrometer screw gauge).
I’m sure he had no idea that 250 years later, his invention would be used by those who like to create ‘electricity’ on the fairways of the world.
Are Golf Rangefinders Allowed in Tournament Play?
As with many things, it depends!
Mostly on whether you are playing golf at your local club or municipal golf course, or if you are a professional golfer.
In general, most amateur tournaments allow the use of rangefinders, but professional tournaments have stricter rules.
Are Golf Rangefinders Allowed in Professional Tournaments?
In professional golf, the use of rangefinders (devices that measure distance to a target) is subject to specific regulations.
Historically, they were not allowed during competition to preserve the skill and challenge of course management.
The USGA and R&A, the governing bodies of golf, have allowed the use of rangefinders in amateur events since 2006.
However, in 2021, the PGA of America permitted the use of distance-measuring devices, including rangefinders, in its major championships, such as the PGA Championship.
The PGA also announced that this policy would apply to all tournaments run by the governing body, including the Women’s PGA Championship and Senior PGA Championship.
These devices are limited to measuring distance only - features like slope calculation, wind speed, or elevation adjustments must be disabled during competitive play, as they can give players an unfair advantage.
No other major golf event allows the use of rangefinders during their event, except on practice days.
Are Golf Rangefinders Allowed in Amateur Golf Events?
Now, this is where things get slightly more complicated.
We must distinguish between ‘Social Golf’ and ‘Club Golf.’
You can, of course, use a golf rangefinder, such as those featured in the Gogogo sport range, when playing with friends and golf buddies.
However, don’t assume you can use this in amateur golf events, as the use of rangefinders is typically governed by local rules set by the tournament organizers or the governing body overseeing the event (e.g., the county or state golf union).
Like the professional game, the USGA and R&A generally allow the use of DMDs (distance-measuring devices), as long as they are used only for measuring distances.
As stated above, if the device includes features like slope, wind, or elevation adjustments, those functions must be disabled during play.
Organizers may choose to prohibit rangefinders altogether, so it's essential for players to check the specific rules for each event before using one.
Each tournament or golf body may have its own rules, so it’s important for players to verify regulations before use.
