When you’re out on the golf course, a rangefinder can be an invaluable tool to help you accurately measure distances to various targets, such as the flagstick or hazards. But where should you put your rangefinder on your golf bag for easy access and convenience? In this guide, we’ll explore the options and provide some recommendations.
1. Front Pocket:
One of the most common and convenient places to keep your rangefinder is in the front pocket of your golf bag. Here’s why:
Pros:
- Easy access: Placing the rangefinder in the front pocket allows you to quickly retrieve it when you need to measure distances.
- Protection: The pocket provides some protection from the elements, helping to keep your rangefinder safe from rain or sunlight.
- No interference: It won’t interfere with your clubs or other golf accessories inside the bag.
Cons:
- Potential for clutter: Depending on the size of your front pocket and the number of other items you store there, it can become cluttered and make it harder to find your rangefinder.
2. Side Pocket:
Another option is to keep your rangefinder in one of the side pockets of your golf bag:
Pros:
- Easy access: Side pockets are generally easy to access, similar to front pockets.
- Organization: It can help you keep your bag more organized, separating your rangefinder from other items.
Cons:
- Potential for interference: If not properly organized, your rangefinder might get entangled with other items in the side pocket, making it less accessible.
- Exposure: Some side pockets may not provide as much protection from the elements as front pockets.
3. Dedicated Rangefinder Pouch:
Many modern golf bags come with a dedicated rangefinder pouch. These specialized pockets are designed to hold rangefinders securely:
Pros:
- Designed for the purpose: Rangefinder pouches are designed to snugly fit your device and protect it from potential damage.
- Easy access: You won’t have to search through other pockets to find your rangefinder.
- Organization: It keeps your rangefinder separate from other items in your bag.
Cons:
- Bag-specific: If your bag doesn’t have a dedicated rangefinder pouch, you won’t be able to utilize this option.
- Limited space: Some dedicated pouches may be too small for larger rangefinder models.
4. Clip Attachment:
Another creative solution is to use a clip attachment on the outside of your bag:
Pros:
- Accessibility: It allows for quick and easy access to your rangefinder.
- No interior clutter: It won’t take up space inside your bag.
Cons:
- Exposure: While it’s convenient, your rangefinder will be exposed to the elements and potential damage.
- Security: There’s a risk of theft or misplacement when it’s attached externally.
5. Carry It Personally:
Some golfers prefer to carry their rangefinders personally, either in a pocket or attached to their belt or golf attire. This method provides the utmost accessibility and protection:
Pros:
- Immediate access: You can quickly measure distances without opening your bag.
- Maximum protection: Keeps your rangefinder safe from potential damage or exposure to the elements.
Cons:
- Can be distracting: Carrying it personally might disrupt your swing or concentration.
- Risk of misplacement: It’s easier to forget or misplace your rangefinder if it’s not in your bag.
6. Rangefinder Lanyard or Retractable Clip:
If you’re worried about misplacing your rangefinder, consider using a lanyard or retractable clip. This way, you can wear it around your neck or attach it to your golf bag:
Pros:
- Never lose it: It’s much harder to misplace your rangefinder when it’s physically attached to you.
- Quick access: Easily accessible whenever you need it.
- Minimal interference: It doesn’t clutter your bag or disrupt your swing.
Cons:
- Can be distracting: Having it around your neck might take some getting used to and could potentially distract you during your swing.
- May not fit all models: Ensure your rangefinder has a compatible attachment point for a lanyard or clip.
7. Rangefinder Holder on Golf Cart:
If you ride a golf cart during your rounds, you can utilize a rangefinder holder designed specifically for carts:
Pros:
- Secure placement: The holder keeps your rangefinder in a fixed position, reducing the risk of it falling or getting damaged.
- Accessibility: You can easily reach for it while on the cart.
- Protection from elements: It’s sheltered from rain, wind, and direct sunlight.
Cons:
- Limited to cart users: This option is primarily for golfers who use carts; walking golfers won’t benefit from it.
- Cart availability: Not all golf carts may come equipped with rangefinder holders.
8. Hybrid Approach:
Some golfers prefer a hybrid approach, combining one of the above methods with a backup solution. For example, they might keep their rangefinder in a dedicated pouch on the bag but also have a lanyard or clip for quick access when needed.
Pros:
- Best of both worlds: You can enjoy the organization and protection of a pouch while having easy access via the lanyard or clip.
- Backup: If one method fails or isn’t suitable in certain situations, you have an alternative.
Cons:
- Potentially bulkier: Using multiple methods can add some bulk to your golfing gear.
Rangefinder Placement Options
| Option | Description | Pros | Cons | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | On the side pocket | Easy access, visibility | Risk of damage, may interfere with club access | Golfers with cart bags |
| 2 | In a rangefinder pouch | Protection from elements, secure | May require extra purchase, limited pocket space | All golfers |
| 3 | On a rangefinder clip | Quick access, doesn’t take up pocket space | Exposed to elements, potential for loss | Golfers with stand bags |
| 4 | Inside valuables pocket | Protection, security | Slower access, may scratch other items | Golfers who carry their bags |
| 5 | Attached to a cart | Easy access while riding | Limited to cart use, potential for loss | Golfers who mainly use golf carts |
Pros and Cons of Side Pocket Placement
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Easy to reach during the round | May interfere with club access |
| Visibility | Clearly visible for quick access | Prone to damage if not protected |
| Interference | Doesn’t take up valuable pocket space | Risk of accidentally hitting or dropping the rangefinder |
| Protection | Limited protection from the elements | Not as secure as other placement options |
Pros and Cons of Rangefinder Pouch Placement
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Offers excellent protection from elements | May require an additional purchase |
| Security | Provides a secure place for the rangefinder | Takes up valuable pocket space |
| Accessibility | Keeps rangefinder within reach | Limited to bags with a pouch |
Pros and Cons of Rangefinder Clip Placement
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Quick and easy access | Exposed to the elements |
| Space-saving | Doesn’t take up pocket space | Risk of losing the rangefinder |
| Interference | Doesn’t interfere with club access | May accidentally detach or get knocked off |
Pros and Cons of Valuables Pocket Placement
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Offers good protection for the rangefinder | Slower access during play |
| Security | Rangefinder is secure inside the pocket | May scratch other items in the pocket |
| Accessibility | Still within reach, especially during breaks | Limited to bags with a valuables pocket |
In conclusion, the choice of where to put your rangefinder on your golf bag ultimately depends on your personal preferences, the type of rangefinder you have, and the golfing conditions you typically encounter. Whichever method you choose, the key is to ensure that your rangefinder remains easily accessible and protected from the elements, ensuring that it serves its purpose effectively during your rounds of golf. Experiment with different options to find what works best for your game and playing style.
