By Michael Cooney
I’VE gone through my fair share of electronic gadgets from losing iPhones, wallets and, of course, like most golfers a GPS or rangefinder.
But let me assure readers that the new Stinger Rangefinder is the answer to all your rangefinder needs. Finally, a rangefinder you can charge with a USB cable.
This month we review two products from the Australian Golf Equipment range – the Stinger RF-1 Rangefinder with slope and the PowerBug NX Lithium Buggy.
So many golfers are turning to electric buggies and I’ve noticed more and more rangefinders are going to single battery-operated devices which is horrible if you’re someone like me who forgets to buy a battery or who doesn’t carry a spare.
Speaking of buggies, let’s quickly mention the best folding and lightest weight electric buggy – the PowerBug NX & NX-DHC But back to the rangefinder. Let’s start with the RF-1 rangefinder with slope.
As mentioned earlier, a rangefinder that can be charged with a USB cable is back on the market. It’s a massive win for the consumer in my opinion and let me assure you from experience there’s nothing worse than getting to an important shot in your round with your rangefinder not working because the battery is dead.
Now to the functions of the rangefinder. It has two buttons on top. You use one to turn it on and off and the other turns on and off the slope readings on the unit. Another brilliant feature is the slim ergonomic design which felt great because I felt like I could zero in on the flags and any other obstacles I needed without it feeling uncomfortable.
Something else which I really enjoyed about using the rangefinder was a couple of times I forgot to zip the rangefinder and adjust the elastic strap to secure the rangefinder in place but both times the rangefinder was still sitting perfectly in its case.
Now let’s look at some other features that the brilliant Stinger RF-1 rangefinder possesses. Its adjustable lens focus is great if you’re someone like me whose eyesight isn’t great and the 6.5x magnification makes it so simple to pick up the targets needed. The slope reading is clear and precise along with the flag lock pulse vibration when you hit the target.
Now for its best feature that can never be lost in all the pros and cons when looking at purchasing a new rangefinder – the price. I almost fell over whilst playing because this rangefinder stacks up to the best in market however the Stinger RF-1 retails for $399. That’s right, $399. I couldn’t believe it.
A product with all the bells and whistles yet the price point is consumer-friendly and the Stinger RF-1 rangefinder with slope absolutely needs to be high on the priority list this year.
Now to the best entry point electric buggy in golf – the PowerBug NX Lithium Buggy.
PowerBug has knocked it out of the park with this buggy. From first impressions I was blown away. The first thing I noticed was how light the buggy was and how it was able to be folded up and down with the battery still on the buggy making it easier to get in and out of the car.
Now let’s explore more of the fantastic features.
The new 28v high torque battery and drivetrain system handles have been designed for the most demanding courses and conditions with ease. The battery is guaranteed to last 27 holes on one single charge which is great to know but even better the lightweight hard-cased battery slots simplistically into the battery tray without any external connector cables to plug in.
This makes the process of getting the buggy from the car to the first tee seamless.
Speaking of seamless, let’s talk about the
fact that folding the PowerBug NX could not be any easier. A simple action mechanism folds and unfolds the NX in just seconds and the framework is tough and sturdy.
The heavyduty materials ensure the frame does not wear out over time and stays rigid through many years of use.
Now for the final feature that really allowed for an easy stroll around the course was the handle assembly and all-weather wheels.
The handle design features handlebar style grips and amp; USB charging port. The handle screen display is adjustable to help visibility in all lighting conditions which again for anyone like myself who’s eyesight isn’t 100% helps immensely and then the adjustable speed settings from 1-9 as well as a battery level indicator
And for the first time ever we have a buggy with half (½) speed settings
meaning a massive total of 17 different speed settings. It really makes for a more enjoyable walk without having to alter your walking speed. The buggy just makes for a better experience on the course and all for the incredible starting price from only $999.
If you want to enjoy your golf more or demand high-performing products, then don’t look any further than PowerBug NX or NX- DHC and the Stinger Golf Rangefinder.
For more info – powerbug.com.au & stingergolf.com.au
Michael Cooney is a teaching professional at the PGA Centre for Learning and Performance at the Sandhurst Golf Club in Melbourne and is always on the hunt for the latest and greatest in golf products.
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