Leupold GX-4i Laser Rangefinder Review
The Leupold GX-4i digital rangefinder is an upgraded model to previous devices in the series. It features Prism Lock, pin targeting technology and a 1-touch scanning mode for scanning across targets with updated distance readings. The GX-4i also has the ability to provide distances based on slope in addition to adjusting to temperature and altitude.
It can provide recommendations for the appropriate club based on such characteristics. Because of these helpful features the device is not approved by the USGA for use in tournaments. The 8-ounce GX-4i offers 6x magnification with a crisp OLED display.
Rangefinder | Magnif. | Max range(yd) | Flag(yd) | Display | Tourn. Legal |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Leupold GX-4i Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews on Amazon.com | 6x | 800 | 450 | OLED | No |
Pros
- Club Selector: The Leupold GX-4i provides club recommendations based on angle, temperature and other factors.
- Reticule Variety: The GX-4i allows the user to choose from 3 different aiming reticules.
Cons
- Difficulty Scanning: Some users report inaccurate or fluctuating distances being given when attempting to scan an area.
- Small Viewfinder Reticule: The smaller viewfinder reticule makes it more difficult to keep the line of sight steady.
- Blinking Information: Distance readings are provided in a blinking fashion that may be bothersome or distracting.
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Ease of Use
The GX-4i is vertically oriented and easy to hold. The exterior is made of aluminum with rubber areas to facilitate gripping. The slope compensation is gained by adding the accompanying Smart Key faceplate. This yellow component can be switched with a chrome faceplate that removes the enhanced function, but the device cannot be used for tournaments in either case.
It features a bright red OLED display though it blinks rapidly as distances are updated and may become distracting. There are two buttons on the device, the top powers on and fires the laser while the other, on its left side, adjusts modes and settings.
Features
The unit’s PinHunter makes is simpler to acquire distancea to specific targets by eliminating readings from larger reflective objects nearby. The pin-locating mode stays on, even when the user is panning across an area, eliminating the need to switch back and forth between the two.
Fog Mode helps improve performance in foggy and rainy conditions by screening out false readings. Prism Lock facilitates the unit’s ability to acquire targets with reflective prisms, and it is always enabled when the device scans distances over 30 yards.
Once the flagstick has been detected, the unit emits a beeping sound, shows brackets around the cursor and freezes the display. True Golf Range displays the distance once adjusted for the slope from the user to the target.
Obtaining Readings
Distances are provided to one-tenth of a yard, though it can sometimes be more difficult with this unit to lock on to a flagstick. With PinHunter the device leaves very little room for error as it may easily pick up objects behind the target, usually if the background object is still within the target cursor. At up to 200 yards the device can pick out flagsticks, even performing well at higher distances with dark backgrounds.
Cost/Value
The Leupold GX-4i can be found in a wide price range, with some quoting as much as $700 and others selling for just over $400. It is usually one of the most expensive laser rangefinders available with slope compensation. It has a multitude of features with this price and can read accurately when performing well, but the device could be easier to use.
Leupold GX-4i Review – Final Thoughts
This Leupold GX-4i review will hopefully assist potential buyers narrowing down choices in laser rangefinders with slope compensation. The unit offer pin-locating, scanning, acquisition of reflective prisms and slope compensation. This device provides many features but also comes with a hefty price tag. >>> Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews on Amazon.com