There are many things you’ll need to think about when it comes to choosing the right rangefinder for your needs, like trying to decide between models with and without a slope measuring option. Unfortunately, golf slope is one of the least-understood elements in distance, and getting it right will make an immediate difference to both your scores and enjoyment on the course.

So, what is slope mode? Slope mode on a golf rangefinder is a fun and unique feature and should improve your golf game. When it comes to discussing rangefinders with and without slope, we’re talking about differences in elevation between yourself and your target, or between two points in general. Slope is a very important aspect that any golfer (professional or not) should consider. This is because, while you may calculate the distance between you and the flag in a straight line, you do not hit the ball in a straight line. The ball is hit at an arc and with a trajectory that affects how far it goes. Once the ball has hit the peak of the arc, it will fall, and depending on the slope that you’re faced with, this could significantly affect the distance of your shot. With the Astra Optix rangefinders, if you are in slope mode, your rangefinder will provide you the adjusted play as distance based on the angle of decline to the flag and you can easily switch in or out of slope mode with a single/double click of your mode button.

But, how does it work? Basically, the rangefinder shoots a laser out at a target. When the laser bounces off the target, the delay between its being sent out and returning gives the distances to the flagstick. This is something that you will see in most golf laser rangefinder devices. However, some do it a lot better than others. The device from there calculates the distance from a user to the target. If the slope function is activated, while calculations are being made by the device, it will also calculate and adjust slope difference. You will, therefore, receive two distance measurements. The first will be the actual linear straight-line distance to the target often the pin). The second is the distance plus an adjustment based on slope calculations. This can help in choosing the right club or judging how much club swing will be needed.

There are a number of features to look for if considering a golf distance measurement device with slope built in.

-          Adaptive Slope

-          Magnification

-          Dual Display Technology

-          Pin Seeking Technology/JOLT

Professional or not, many golfers know the importance of elements like distance and slope in golfing. It is difficult to perform to your best on the course without such knowledge. Today, golf laser rangefinder technology is available to automatically make such calculations. Playing golf is hard and knowing the exact distance you have to the flagstick or hazard can make the game a lot easier. Golf rangefinders give golfers of all abilities the information they need to choose the right golf club and golf shot at the right time.