Hi everyone,
As a golf coach, I often get asked by my students, “How can I better understand elevation changes and how they affect my shots?” The answer is simple: use the slope feature on a Laser Rangefinder for Golf.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the slope feature effectively during practice sessions.
What Is the Slope Feature?
The slope feature on a golf rangefinder calculates the angle of elevation or descent and adjusts the distance reading accordingly. This gives you a “true” yardage value, taking into account the uphill or downhill slope.
For example:
- If you’re hitting uphill, the actual distance will play longer than the flat distance.
- If you’re hitting downhill, the ball will travel farther, making the shot play shorter.
Understanding these adjustments is crucial for mastering your approach shots.
Step-by-Step Guide to Practicing with the Slope Feature
Choose a Practice Location
Pick a course or practice area with elevation changes. This could be a driving range with target greens at different heights or a hole on the course with an uphill or downhill approach.Set Up Your Rangefinder
Using the GOGOGO GS24, turn on the slope function. If you’re practicing on a hilly course, this feature will give you adjusted yardages based on the elevation difference.Measure the Distance
- Aim the rangefinder at your target (e.g., the flagstick or a specific marker).
- The flagpole-locking vibration feature on the GS24 makes it easy to confirm you’ve locked onto the right target, even from a distance.
Compare Flat vs. Adjusted Yardage
- Note the flat yardage (standard distance) displayed.
- Then, check the slope-adjusted yardage. This is the number you’ll use to choose your club.
Practice Club Selection
- Use the adjusted yardage to decide which club to hit.
- Hit a few shots and observe how the ball reacts compared to the flat distance. This will help you build confidence in choosing the right club for different slopes.
Analyze Your Shots
- Pay attention to how the ball flies and lands.
- Use this data to refine your decision-making when facing similar slopes during a round.
For this, I highly recommend the GOGOGO GS24. It’s affordable, easy to use, and perfect for both beginners and seasoned players looking to refine their skills.
The GOGOGO GS24 stands out because it’s designed with golfers in mind. Here’s why I recommend it to my students:
- Slope Functionality: The slope switch is easy to use and can be turned off for tournament play.
- Accuracy: With a range of up to 650 yards and an accuracy of ±1 meter, it’s incredibly reliable.
- Affordability: At just $75, it’s one of the best value-for-money options on the market.
Ease of Use: The 6x magnification and bright display make it simple to lock onto your target, even for beginners
Pro Tips for Beginners
Practice with Purpose: Use the slope feature during practice rounds to understand how elevation affects your shots. Turn Off Slope for Tournaments: Remember, slope-adjusted yardages are not allowed in competitive play. The GS24 makes it easy to switch this feature off. Trust the Numbers: If the rangefinder says a shot plays 10 yards longer uphill, trust it. Over time, you’ll see how accurate it is.
Understanding elevation changes is one of the most valuable skills a golfer can develop. With tools like the GOGOGO GS24, it’s easier than ever to practice smarter and improve faster. So grab your rangefinder and start mastering those uphill and downhill shots today!
Happy golfing!