Bushnell Pro XE Laser Rangefinder Review
Technical Editor Joel Tadman puts the Pro XE rangefinder through its paces out on the course
Factor in the impressive range and waterproof protection along with the extra level of compensations, and you’re getting a lot of tech for your money.
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Crystal clear display
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Rapid detection of the flag
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Useful compensating features produce most accurate distances regardless of slope, temperature and altitude
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Fully waterproof
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Many of the new unique features that justify the higher price aren't legal for competition use
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Bushnell Pro XE Laser Rangefinder Review
The Pro XE, one of the best Bushnell rangefinders out there, boasts the 'Slope with Elements’ feature that also factors in temperature and altitude as well as changes in elevation. The ‘Jolt’ feature, which offers a vibrating burst when the flag has been detected from the background, now features a flashing red ring for even greater reassurance. There's also a ‘Bite’ magnetic mount is designed to allow the Pro XE to be secured to a buggy frame without the need for the carry case with its seven pounds of pulling force. Finally, the Pro XE has a 500+ yard range and an enhanced ultra-bright backlight display.
Factoring in temperature is useful for early mornings when you’re less likely to be playing official competitions. Allowing for altitude and slope helps on hilly, elevated courses. It also makes it a natural choice for tour level caddies, looking for the most accurate distances possible by factoring all the different variables that affect how far the ball carries. It's what somewhat separates it from the best golf rangefinders, bringing a new level of accuracy to the golf course.
Rangefinders don’t come much easier than the Pro XE. Simply point and shoot and the flag is almost immediately picked out from the background and the distance appears in the display. The extra weight helps keep it steady in the wind. To disable the features not legal for tournament play, you just slide the button on the side of the device.
Ideal for golfers who want fast distances to specific points, the Pro XE ticks all the requisite boxes. Taking into account new factors that influence the distance the ball will travel should give you a greater chance of hitting your iron shots closer. However, these features aren’t legal for competition use, so if you play a lot of medals and Stablefords they may often go unused.
That said, they’re easy to disable and you can still benefit from how quickly the distance is displayed and the excellent clarity through the viewfinder. The magnetic ‘Bite’ feature won’t stick to most trolley frames but in a buggy it provides a faff-free solution. Those who carry will enjoy using the premium case that is included. It's also fully waterproof, so you haven't got to worry about getting caught in a passing shower.
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Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.
One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.
Joel's current What's In The Bag?
Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9°
Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15°
Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18°
Irons: Ping i230 4-UW
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind
Putter: Evnroll ER2V
Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x
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