Bushnell Tour V5 Slim Laser Rangefinder Review

Our verdict on the Bushnell Tour V5 Slim laser rangefinder

Bushnell Tour V5 Slim Laser Rangefinder Review
Golf Monthly Verdict

With no slope mode, this laser is ideal for golfers that play in a lot of competitive rounds, something we’re doing more of with the new World Handicap System, so it's certainly one to consider if your laser rangefinder needs an upgrade and you want the best of the best in terms of optics and speed.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Distances are accurate and quick to appear

  • +

    Clarity in the display is exceptional

  • +

    Accurate and easy to use

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Limited improvements over the previous version

  • -

    No slope mode

  • -

    Red ring didn't always appear

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Bushnell Tour V5 Slim Laser Rangefinder Review

The Slim version of the Bushnell Tour V5 laser rangefinder doesn’t represent a huge leap forward in technology or features from what we saw with the original models, merely a smaller, more ergonomic shape that should be easier for more golfers to use.

This is the version without Slope functionality (there's also a Tour V5 Shift that adjusts for changes in elevation) and while it might seem like a lot of money for a point-and-shoot device - you’ll struggle to find a laser that picks out your target as quickly or easily as this new Tour V5 Slim.

bushnell-tour-v5-slim-laser-web

The smaller size was arguably a better fit in our hand than the previous version, helping us keep it steady and the clarity through the display is exceptional. The overall viewing experience makes it undoubtedly one of the best golf laser rangefinders you'll find at this price point. Objects over 300 yards away become crystal clear and the speed at which distances appear once you press the button is almost immediate. It’s easy to switch between yards and metres using the button on the side and the focus toggle on top of the eyepiece is really simple to adjust.

On most cases, the flashing red ring appeared around the scope along with the Jolt vibration when the flag was picked out from a busy background. There were occasions when this didn’t happen, but by switching between the flag and background you’re still able to get clarity on the correct distance.

We didn’t have much cause to use the magnetic Bite feature but if you play a lot of your golf in buggies you will certainly find it comes in handy by being more easily accessible through not having to use the case. Speaking of which, the premium carry case is eye-catching but also functional, with the elasticated strap ensuring you don’t have to secure it with the zip every time, which would be frustratingly time consuming.

Joel Tadman
Technical Editor

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