Are Rangefinders Allowed on PGA Tour?
The PGA Tour has long been a governing body that sets the standards for professional golf, including the equipment that players are allowed to use during tournaments. In recent years, the debate about whether rangefinders should be allowed on the PGA Tour has been a topic of great discussion among players, equipment manufacturers, and fans alike.
The Short Answer: Yes, Rangefinders Are Allowed
To start, the direct answer to the question is yes, rangefinders are allowed on the PGA Tour. In fact, the tour has a Specifically Allowed List that details the equipment that players are permitted to use during tournament play. As of 2020, rangefinders are explicitly listed on this list, making it clear that players are free to use them during tournaments.
A Brief History of Rangefinder Controversy
Rangefinders have become increasingly popular in professional golf over the past decade, with many top players switching from traditional Bushnell devices to newer, more precise models. However, some critics argue that the increased accuracy of these devices is giving players an unfair advantage, allowing them to precise distances to incredible accuracy. This has led to discussions about whether rangefinders should be banned or, at the very least, restricted.
Arguments for and Against Rangefinder Use
Here are some key points to consider:
Arguments For:
- Improved Accuracy: Rangefinders provide a level of precision that traditional measuring methods can’t match, allowing players to more accurately calculate yardages.
- Safety: By using a rangefinder, players can avoid having to venture out onto the course to find a hole or yardage marker, reducing the risk of accidents and improving course safety.
- Mental Game: The data provided by rangefinders can help players develop a more precise mental approach, allowing them to make better decisions and ultimately improve their game.
Arguments Against:
- Cheating: Critics argue that rangefinders give players an unfair advantage, as they allow for the instant calculation of precise distances that would otherwise require manual measurements.
- Course Setup: Rangefinders can provide information about hazards, slope, and pin positions that can potentially benefit players in their decision-making.
- Traditional Etiquette: Some argue that rangefinders undermine the traditional etiquette of the game, as they remove the need for players to have a working knowledge of distances and angles.
A Look at the Data: Does It Make a Difference?
Several studies have attempted to quantify the impact of rangefinders on professional golfers. One notable study from the University of Oxford and the Royal Bank of Canada found that, on average, golfers using rangefinders outperformed those without them by a margin of 0.5-1.2 strokes per round. While this difference may not seem huge, it’s worth noting that these are professional players, and even small edges can have significant impacts over the course of a season.
Rangefinder Usage by Top Pros
It’s no surprise that many top pros rely on rangefinders in their golf bags. Some notable examples include:
Player | Rangefinder Model | Favorite Rangefinder Feature |
---|---|---|
Brooks Koepka | Bushnell Phantom | Advanced Target Acquiring (ATA) feature |
Justin Thomas | Leupold GX-5 | Range accuracy of up to 1 yard |
Dustin Johnson | Vortex Optics Ranger 1800 | Ability to measure slope and inclination |
Jon Rahm | Garmin Approach S62 | Advanced golf tracking features, including club head speed |
The Future of Rangefinder Use on the PGA Tour
With rangefinders now officially allowed on the PGA Tour, it’s likely that usage will continue to increase as players look to gain an edge over their competitors. However, the tour’s governing bodies may need to continue monitoring usage to ensure that these devices don’t become too advanced or influence the game too greatly. The United States Golf Association (USGA) and the R&A may need to adjust rules surrounding rangefinder usage as technology continues to evolve, potentially implementing new guidelines to maintain a level playing field.
In conclusion, the answer to the question is clear: rangefinders are allowed on the PGA Tour. Whether or not this will ultimately impact the outcome of the game remains to be seen, but it’s evident that rangefinders will continue to play a key role in the world of professional golf.