The three new rangefinders feature technology aimed at offering a calm and steady view of the course using Nikon's high-end optics.

Nikon Launches Three New Rangefinders

Nikon has announced the launch of three new rangefinders that feature new, innovative technology that provides a calm and steady view of the course designed for golfers to take their game to the next level.

The three new laser rangefinders: the Coolshot Pro II Stabilized (RRP £499); the Coolshot Lite Stabalized (RRP £429) and the Coolshot 50i (RRP £359) use Nikon's high-end optics to provide golfers with a steady and accurate view of the course in front of them.

The Coolshot Pro II Stabilized is Nikon's most advanced rangefinder to date and can measure up to 500 yards while steadying your view and the laser, counteracting hand shake and environmental factors such as wind to ensure you get a clear and accurate view of the course.

Review: Nikon Coolshot Pro Shot II Stabilized 

Its Dual Locked On Echo technology notifies you that the distance to the flagstick has been measured and helps you target the pin accurately, giving you a visual and audible cue when locked on.

Related: Best Golf Laser Rangefinders

The Coolshot Pro II Stabilized is lightweight and waterproof and also employs four distance measurements which includes slope  - ideal for gaining accurate yardages for uphill and downhill shots - which can be easily turned on and off to comply with tournament regulations.

The Coolshot Lite Stabilized, which can also measure up to 500 yards, is 10g lighter than the Pro II and feature two distance measurements - slope and actual distance - while also using stabilizing technology which reduces vibration caused by slight hand movements by 80% - ensuring a clear and accurate view of the terrain.

Finally, the Coolshot 50i, which can measure up to 400 yards, is Nikon's first rangefinder with a built-in mounting magnet, allowing it to easily secure itself to a golf bag or golf cart.

Its Dual Locked On Quake function informs you that the distance to the flagstick has been measured with a visual cue and a brief vibration.

Much like the Coolshot Lite, the 50i features two measurement modes - slope adjusted and actual distance - whilst also being rainproof.

All three new Nikon rangefinders will be available from retailers from August 17.

In this Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized laser rangefinder review, Joel Tadman puts it in play during a round of golf to see if the features justify the premium price in practice

Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized Laser Rangefinder Review

Undoubtedly one of the most expensive laser rangefinders you can buy, the Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized has a host of unique features that claim to make using a laser a much more seamless experience.

The stabilisation feature is said to remove up to 80 per cent of unwanted vibration to make the flag easier to pick out. In reality, the scope wants to hover or move around less when looking through the viewfinder. Initially, this process is unusual but with practice it becomes second nature and certainly saves a second or two. The flag distance is displayed with lightning speed, giving you more time to think about the club required for the upcoming shot.

Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized Laser

We can see why this feature might be ideal for older golfers with perhaps more unsteady hands. The addition of this feature means the laser makes a rattling sound, which is unusual but not really off putting.

This is one of very few lasers on the market that claim to be fully waterproof and while we didn’t test this theory out, it will certainly provide piece of mind that your device won’t get damaged during a downpour.

RELATED: Best Laser Rangefinders 2020

As you would expect for a laser at this price point, it has Slope mode and supposedly features a flashing green LED light at the front of the unit that signifies when it is legal for tournament play but despite trying both on and off modes we couldn’t get it to flash.

You have to hold it quite far from your face to get a clear view through the eyepiece but once you find the optimum distance, you’re rewarded with a crystal-clear view in the display that automatically adapts to the light levels around you. The OLED red display is also easy to see and even when testing in late evening light, we could pick out the flag and other objects with no problem.

The tacky rubber sections on the top and bottom make it easy to hold it steady and its easy to switch between the different modes once you’ve read through the detailed instruction manual first.

Golf Monthly's Nikon Coolshot 80 VR laser rangefinder review, two new devices that boast a new Vibration Reduction feature for easier zapping

Nikon Coolshot 80 VR laser rangefinder review

You may not think there are many more advances in laser rangefinder technology that can be achieved given the one simple job these devices are tasked with out on the course.

Bushnell’s JOLT technology proved there was room for innovation in this category and now, Nikon has shown its hand when it comes to producing ground-breaking technology that golfers will benefit from.

On the new Nikon Coolshot 80 and Coolshot 80i laser rangefinders, which replace the Coolshot 40 models, there is something called a Vibration Reduction system keeps your intended the target in the viewfinder.

Nikon say this makes it more stable for easier aiming and measuring and it’s hard to argue. It’s a strange sensation at first that plays with your head and while it takes a few goes to get used to, once you’ve got the hang of it there’s no doubt it genuinely helps speed up the process of locking on to a flag from the background.

Rather than receiving a vibrating burst like on Bushnell devices, with the Nikon you see a ‘Locked On’ sign in the viewfinder for reassurance the flag has been found.

The first target priority mode speeds this process along even further, as does the shape of the unit fitting nicely in your hand. The tacky material also help you maintain a secure grip on the device but does seem to gather dirt on the standard white unit should you choose not to keep it stored in the accompanying carry case.

The display is simple, easy to see and ably assisted by the focus toggle underneath the eyepiece. The distances are displayed quickly, accurately and to the nearest half a yard, which has always seemed pointless to me (what difference does half a yard make to your club selection?) but if the technology is there, it may as well be utilized.

Nikon has announced the launch of the new Nikon Coolshot 80 VR laser rangefinders, which employ a vibration reduction function to keep the viewfinder stable for easier aiming and measuring

Nikon has announced the launch of the new Nikon Coolshot 80 VR laser rangefinders, which employ a vibration reduction function to keep the target in the viewfinder more stable for easier aiming and measuring.

It's a function Nikon claims improves the ease of measuring distances and reduces errors, such as the laser missing the target, or measuring to the wrong one.

The Vibration Reduction system features on both new models; the Nikon Coolshot 80 VR and the Nikon Coolshot 80i VR.

Both models also employ the 'First Target' mode, helping you to measure the distance to the flag on a green when there are trees in the background.

New 'Locked On' technology means a sign appears in the viewfinder to confirm the distance on screen is that of the pin, removing any doubt that you might have accidentally measured something behind the green.

Related: Best Laser Rangefiners 2016

The Nikon Coolshot 80 VR model measures actual distances for competition use. The Nikon Coolshot 80i VR then incorporates 'ID' technology, which reveals slope adjusted yardages for use during practice rounds.

Both lasers display the measurement in approximately 0.5 seconds, with the compact designs ensuring portability and a comfortable grip. Their waterproof and fog-proof structure also include a rainproof battery chamber for ultimate protection in the worst weather.

The new models replace the Nikon 40 and Nikon 40i laser rangefinder models, which were launched in 2015.

Nikon Coolshot 80 VR Details

The Nikon Coolshot 80 VR will retail at £379.99, while the Nikon Coolshot 80i VR will cost £419.99.

Golf Monthly's Nikon Coolshot 40i review, a laser rangefinder that provides slope adjusted distances, ideal if you tend to play on hilly golf courses

Key technology The Coolshot 40i incorporates Nikon’s ‘Angle Compensation technology’, which calculates and displays the slope-adjusted distance, which Nikon says makes it ideal for hilly courses. The fact it calculates ‘slope’ means it is not legal for use in competition, so you are best using it for practice and social rounds only.

GM Review A compact, lightweight nifty piece of kit that fits perfectly in the hand. The pointer features additional diagonal sight lines when laser is employed and while there’s no indicator of when the nearest target has been found, it’s not difficult to work out which is the flag and which is the object behind it.

Ideal for practice rounds and finding out exactly what difference the slopes on your home course make to the yardages. The scan feature is especially useful off the tee when switching from hazard to fairway beyond. Battery indicator is a welcome addition so you know when it needs replacing and you don’t get left disorientated on an important shot.

Measuring steep slopes takes a certain amount of adding and subtracting, would rather the slope-adjusted distance was displayed. Reading longer distances to the nearest half a yard seems unnecessary but on the whole it was a joy to use.

Golf Monthly's Nikon Coolshot 40 review, a sleek laser rangefinder with multiple functions that help get accurate distances to the flag quickly

Key technology The Coolshot 40, with a maximum range of 650 yards, is legal for use in competitions when an appropriate Local Rule is in place. It has a higher quality finder than previous models, which Nikon says will produce bright, clear images. The First Target Priority Mode picks out a flag on a green from the trees behind it. New Hyper Read technology delivers a very quick yardage display (approximately 0.5 seconds).

GM Review The Coolshot 40 is compact, looks smart and up-to-date and feels solid and well built. The fact that the closest distance will always be displayed during the automatic eight-second scan means you’ve got no issue with picking out the wrong target, as long as you don’t accidentally catch the lip of a bunker.

It fits perfectly in your hand, and has everything you need to receive quick, accurate distances during a competitive round. The built-in battery meter is a welcome addition.

The Coolshot 40 is a worthy rival to the Bushnell Tour V3, and is perfectly suited to both practice and competitive rounds. If you’re looking for a less expensive alternative, the Nikon Coolshot 20 is a superb option for just £179.99.

The Golf Monthly team brings you its Nikon Coolshot 20 review, revealing all you need to know about this golf laser rangefinder

Key technology: Nikon Coolshot 20 review

The new laser device from Nikon is smaller and lighter than the previous version, the Nikon Coolshot. It offers 6x magnification through a monocular that has a multilayer coating to provide bright and clear images. It has a measurement range of up to 550 yards. The First Target Priority mode means that it will provide the distance to the object closest to the golfer, so that objects behind the flag don’t interfere.

The Golf Monthly test team brings you its Nikon Coolshot review, revealing all you need to know about this golf laser rangefinder

Key technology: Nikon Coolshot review

First Target Priority mode means that the yardage displayed is the closest object to the golfer (usually the flag stick). This is achieved thanks to the laser scanning the area within the viewfinder when the button is pressed. Distances are displayed in 0.5 yard increments up to 100 yards, then every one yard above 100 yards. The device offers 6 x magnification and will pick targets up to 550 yards away.

Two new models bolster Nikon's impressive selection of laser rangefinders

After the launch of the Coolshot 20 laser rangefinder in December, Nikon has released details of two new models – the Coolshot 40 and Coolshot 40i, with a maximum range of 650 yards.

Claudia Paul, head of the UK Sports Optics said, ‘We’re delighted to be able to offer golfers two new laser rangefinders and we are confident that customers are going to enjoy our new Hyper Read technology, which makes it even quicker to get the right number every time’.

The Coolshot 40 is legal for use in competition (local rules permitting). The Coolshot 40i incorporates their ‘Angle Compensation technology’, which calculates and displays the slope-adjusted distance, which Nikon says makes it ideal for hilly courses. However, range finders that calculate ‘slope’ are not legal for use in competition, so are best used for practice only.

Both versions have a high quality finder which Nikon says produces bright, clear images. The ‘First Target Priority Mode’, as seen on other Nikon golf rangefinders, is useful for measuring the distance to a flagstick on a green with trees behind as it picks up the flag first.

Nikon is proud of its Hyper Read technology that results in very quick yardage display (approximately 0.5 seconds). Whether you’re fifty or 400 yards from the target, these range finders should have no problem in quickly displaying an accurate yardage.

Nikon is the official laser rangefinder partner to the European Tour Caddies Association and at the 2013 BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth was the most used rangefinder brand amongst players and caddies combined.

‘This gives us a huge amount of satisfaction and proves our products are unparalleled at the highest level’, said Tin Hunnable, Commercial Manager at Nikon UK Sport Optics.

The Coolshot and Coolshot 40i will be priced at £269.99 and £299.99 (RRP) respectively.

The Golf Monthly test team brings you its Nikon Coolshot A/S review, revealing all you need to know about this golf laser rangefinder

Key technology: Nikon Coolshot A/S review

As well as providing the actual yardage, the Coolshot A/S takes into account the slope of the hole and offers yardages accordingly. It offers two measurement modes, which are First Target and Distance. The First Target mode gives the distance to the nearest object to you, which the majority of the time is the flag. The bright LED illuminated display means that the flag is visible in both bright and dull conditions.

Nikon has announced the launch of its new lightweight Coolshot 20 laser rangefinder

Nikon has announced the launch of its new lightweight Coolshot 20 laser rangefinder.

The new model weighs in at just 125 grams - the lightest in its class - and comes without a battery.

The Coolshot 20 gives accurate yardages up to 650 yards - providing accurate data on any hole, whatever the course.

With just a single click of a button, you can measure exact distances to greens, flags, selected targets and other obstacles.

An intriguing addition is the introduction of First Target Priority mode, which displays the distance of the closest subject.

As such, you don't need to worry about the Coolshot 20 taking a reading from woods behind a green, for example.

It comes with 6x magnification for clear vision and the eight-second continuous measurement can even cope with slight hand movement.

Ian Poulter, a Nikon ambassador, said:

"I've always made sure that everything I do in my preparations for any golf tournament is of the highest standard, and that mentality goes into the products I use.

"When Ryder Cup points and Major Championships are on the line, I need to be able to trust the numbers my laser gives me when I'm making preparations for tournaments.

"There's no doubt in my mind that Nikon produces the most accurate Distance Measuring Device available today."

The Nikon Coolshot 20 is available to buy through golf shops and on nikongolf.co.uk, and comes with an RRP of £189.99.

As a relative newcomer to golf, the distance measuring device (DMD) has developed at a rapid pace. The information has become more accurate, devices are easier to use and the good news is, they're also becoming more affordable. With this in mind, we tested 12 models that have been launched since our 2011 test. Not only have top-end models improved the quality of maps and the amount of information on offer, but there has also been an influx of stripped-back versions that are easy to use and provide basic information.

The major laser brands have also refined their products to make them easier to use. All this means there are more options out there than ever before, with products designed to meet the needs of different golfers. In this test, we aim to help refine your search and identify the best products on the market.

Venue:

The Golf Monthly staff conducted the test at the beautiful Liphook Golf Club in Hampshire, number 79 in the Golf Monthly Top 100 list. It was a course that the vast majority of testers had never played before and features a number of blind shots, as well as holes that require a club other than driver from the tee. The course offered the perfect opportunity to test each device to its fullest.

Test criteria:

To begin with, the test team went through the set-up process for every device to compare how easy it was to get the unit ready for play. Each member of the team then tried out two units on the course. The test team's handicaps varied from five to 24, and ranged from long-time DMD users to those who had never used one before. This helped us to test the suitability of a unit for different golfers. After the round, the team compared the features and benefits of each model and awarded points for the following:

Value: The initial price and download costs comparative to the quality of the unit.

Set-up: How easy the unit is to set up initially and download courses on to.

Ease of use: How easy it is to read yardages, as well as use any other additional features.

Information: The quality and quantity of information provided on the unit.

Ergonomics: How the unit feels in the hand, the button design and the bag clip.

Accuracy: How the yardage readings compare with other units, yardage markers and course guides.

Performance: An overall rating including how robust the unit is, the battery life, the clarity of the screen and how the unit attached to a golf bag.

This laser range finder can measure distances of up to 1000 yards. A five second continuous measurement function allows you to scan across the horizon for the flag or for hazards. The Nikon 1000A S GPS can also display slope-adjusted distances when on hilly terrain.

 W: nikongolfrangefinders.com