MEMBER REVIEWS: Vortex Optics Golf Rangefinders | See What Members Are Saying

[weems]

50 minutes ago, SwingBlues said:

 

 

Those View Finder shots are hard to shoot for the review, thank goodness Digital pictures are free otherwise back in the day, the rolls of film would be KILLING US 🤣

 

Looks like you have red flaring on your Anarch as well. Did you notice anything with the slope reading?

 

My unit seems to show a -02* as level, based on what I am seeing. I'll see what @Vortex_Golf has to say 

 

 

 

 

You're not joking haha, took me a good 5-6 times each try to get a good shot.

 

I had no issues with my slope readings.  They were generally within 2-3 yards of my other two and seemed to be fairly accurate.

[CanFred]

1 hour ago, Vortex_Golf said:

While we don't have that integrated feature right now, we did just drop our new Airtag holder! Thanks, as always, for all of the fantastic feedback - we read every comment!

 

https://vortexgolf.com/vortex-airtag-holder.html

This is awesome to hear - love that yall are a part of this review @Vortex_Golf!

[weems]

1 hour ago, Vortex_Golf said:

While we don't have that integrated feature right now, we did just drop our new Airtag holder! Thanks, as always, for all of the fantastic feedback - we read every comment!

 

https://vortexgolf.com/vortex-airtag-holder.html

And to my surprise, Vortex actually sent me one and I got it today completely unexpected.  This is a great touch and I would consider an absolute must, especially rangefinders with magnets as I am notorious for leaving them stuck to a cart.

 

Thanks @Vortex_Golf!!

[tj7644]

16 minutes ago, weems said:

And to my surprise, Vortex actually sent me one and I got it today completely unexpected.  This is a great touch and I would consider an absolute must, especially rangefinders with magnets as I am notorious for leaving them stuck to a cart.

 

Thanks @Vortex_Golf!!

Surprise......I just got an airtag holder as well today.  Thank you @Vortex_Golf

[DE-ILLINI]

Like @NCLancer my Vortex Blade Slope rangefinder arrived on Saturday.  Everything was securely package and arrived safely.  I selected the Blade Slope model to review because I have become very accustomed to the slope function on my current range finder the Precision Pro L2.  I picked the Precision Pro range finder because my previous range finder was stolen, and I was looking for something inexpensive.  Last week prior to the range finder arriving, I had the opportunity to meet with the @Vortex_Golf team and about the features of the range finder.  They were very knowledgeable about the product and gave me some tips.

 

 

As mentioned previously I currently use a Precision Pro L2.  The Vortex Blade Slope is a little smaller in size but has a more rugged feel to it.  Interestingly, it actually weighs less than my Precision Pro.  I thought initial it would be heavier because of its tough build, back after handling and weighing them it is actually lighter.  Personally, I do not mind the smaller size as it fits into my hands nicely.  I had no issues navigating the settings menu to adjust the target graphics, toggle from yards to meters, and switch on/off the slope mode.  One interesting feature I found on the Blade Slope are the LED lights which illuminate when in slope mode.   Some may not like this, but it seems like a good way to silence people who may question whether of not your range finder is in slope mode.

 

 

Since the range finder arrived on Saturday, I was able to take it out and use it on Sunday for a match I played in.  This was an inter-club match, so I had to turn off the slope feature.  This was no issue.  The weather was misty with on and off rain.  The range finder performed great.  Relative to the Precision Pro, the optics are much clearer, and I felt the Vortex locked on to the pins better.  I used it all round with no issues.  The only thing that will take some time getting used to is the location of the magnet, it is on the opposite side of my Precision Pro, so I spent the whole round trying to stick the wrong side of the range finder on the cart.

 

This week the weather looks lousy here, but I plan on taking it back to the course and making a number of comparison tests with my Precision Pro.  I also want to try it in slope mode.  This range finder also has a scan feature that looks to be interesting.  Weather permitting, I should be able to try all this out later in the week.  I have other plans this weekend so no playing golf, but my usual playing partners and I will put this through its paces the following weekend when I get out again!

 

 

 

Edited May 5 by DE-ILLINI
Typo

[tj7644]

Another surprise....In the box was a code for a free Vortex hat.   LOVE that.   You gotta love the little additions to this testing opportunity.   

[SwingBlues]

2 hours ago, Vortex_Golf said:

While we don't have that integrated feature right now, we did just drop our new Airtag holder! Thanks, as always, for all of the fantastic feedback - we read every comment!

 

https://vortexgolf.com/vortex-airtag-holder.html

 

Thanks, that would be next to perfect 👍 I'll let Dan know 😁

[SwingBlues]

For those with the Anarch playing a Tournament under USGA/RA rules...

 

 

🤦‍♂️

 

Turn off that Slope or you'll be seeing more than GREEN 😂

 

I dunno, as I posted in above, still not a fan of the GREEN light, I think that can be improved in future lasers. 

 

I don't see the other OEMs like Bushnell turning on lights - but I ALSO GUESS, thats why Riley had inadvertently cost himself 2 strokes as well

 

Hmmmh

 

 

 

[CircleC29]

I had the Blade Slope out over the weekend and it continued to perform great! 

 

After having the unit for a little over a week I think it's safe to say that Vortex has some great rangefinders! The only issue I have with the Blade Slope (for me) is it's size. It's a little small for my large size hands and I find myself fumbling with it from time to time. I think the Anarch model might be a better fit as it is a little bigger 🤷‍♂️ But like I said this is a me issue, not a problem with the unit itself. Just something to consider if you have larger hands.

 

I do think this would be a great rangefinder for walkers with it's smaller size and lightweight. 

[ScottHutch2]

Alright folks...

 

My Vortex Blade Slope rangefinder finally arrived over the weekend. I was at my son's baseball game when I got the notification (did I think about leaving early to go and grab it? maybe), and was happy to see the long anticipated package outside my door when I returned home. As I read all of the wonderful reviews being submitted throughout the week, the anticipation to get this in my hands had been steadily building. I took the box and headed straight to the golf course. 

 

I want to begin this review by extending a special thanks to the team at @Vortex_Golf. Mickella, Sawyer, and their product team has been nothing short of an absolute delight to communicate with. I feel this is a very underrated aspect when it comes to anything that is customer facing these days. I was even offered a zoom call with the previous mentioned where I learned more about the rangefinder and the history of the Vortex company. After that call it was evident that the Vortex team not only had a product that they believed in with their new line of golf rangefinders, but they also really want to get things right for the customer. That means something these days folks! 

 

Now to the good stuff

 

i. Packaging and Unboxing

 

What were my first thoughts here? CUSTOMER SERVICE. As you can see below, the vortex team included a handwritten note with my package, a very nice and personal touch, along with some other items including a cleaning/wiping cloth, battery, clip, and instructions. The package also included a ball marker and free hat code, again, top notch service from this company. When it comes to the packaging, nothing earth shattering to detail here, which is kind of what you want when it comes to shipping. It got here, and it got here in one piece. The rangefinder came in a nice secure box, no frills and no hassles in opening. The battery insertion was simple and intuitive. Easy peasy!

 

 

 

 

Want to add here that the Vortex team also sent an airtag holder that fits onto the rangefinder unit. This is a very cool feature that gives me/the consumer peace of mind when it comes to misplacing or forgetting a rangefinder on a cart. This is a sign that Vortex golf thinks about solutions for its consumers biggest issues. Very cool!

 

 

 

ii. The Deeetails

 

Feel/design: Once I got the Blade Slope out of the box, my first thoughts: this thing feels NICE in the hands. I would say the best description would be that it feels rugged in a way, dense and compact with almost silicone like exterior for a no-slip gripping feel vs the more plastic feeling exterior of my previous rangefinders (Bushnell V6 & Precison Pro NX9 Slope models). The ergonomic design on this thing is top notch, and it LOOKS COOL.. another tip of the cap to the Vortex team. 

 

Additional notes:

• The Blade Slope is noticeably smaller/more compact than the previously mentioned rangefinders I have used in the past. I feel like I only need to operate this with one hand, while two hands operation is still possible if that is your preference. 
• While the unit FEELS dense, the actual weight (6.5oz) comes out less than both the Bushnell V6 (8.5oz) or the Precision Pro NX9 (10oz)
• This thing looks cool

Features: As mentioned, I attended a zoom call with the Vortex product team and have read through all of the posted reviews here, so I was aware of what features the Blade Slope has and what things to be on the lookout for. I will mention a few here. One of the most important features to me is the Slope feature. I play in a lot of club events (including competitive matches against other local clubs) and amateur events, some of these prohibit the use of the "slope" function. My previous way of dealing with this, was to have a rangefinder without the slope function (not great). The Blade Slope not only gives you the ability to cycle the slope feature on and off, but if also has green "indicator lights", letting others know when your slope function is activated or deactivated. This is HUGE for me. I can now use the slope function in competition when applicable or casual rounds, but it is also very clear when not using the function so that there are no questions on integrity. 

 

Additional notes:

• The settings/menu options are really easy to access and navigate. You simply hold the menu button down (long press) and you are cycled to options for toggling slope on/off, pin spotter mode on/off, changing the target icon, or moving from yards to meters. Very intuitive, very easy. 
• The Blade Slope does have a magnet for cart gripping. The magnet seems pretty standard, not super strong but not weak by any stretch. I did not have any issues with the unit falling off when riding in a cart, but it did shift around at times. I usually walk the course, so this is not much of an issue for me personally, but figured good to include. 
• Vortex claims its units are waterproof and shock proof. While I respect anyone who stands to test these claims, I am not a rain guy and will likely never have a problem in that sense. 

 

 

 

 

 

iii. Performance

 

Optics: What's the first thing anyone does when they pick up a rangefinder? Of course they look into the viewfinder to see what the optics are like. As I unboxed and got the battery inserted, I picked up the rangefinder and started shooting random targets on the putting green and driving range. My first two thoughts - Man, the optics in the Blade Slope are CLEAR and this thing is comfy. I am not exaggerating when I say the optics are better than any rangefinder I have ever used. I am not sure if is the shooting/hunting background of the Vortex brand or what, but the optics give a real premium feeling. Now what do I mean when I say comfy? My biggest gripe with the Bushnell Tour V6 is that the unit is uncomfortable to hold up to my eye. I actually have to hold it a few inches away from my eye to use and properly see through the Bushnell unit. The Vortex Blade Slope was quite the opposite, I could quickly pick up, press to my eye, and capture my target. Sounds simple, but for me, a HUGE deal. 

 

In addition to that, the Pin Spotter mode is a real joy to use. The Blade Slope picks up targets extremely quickly, and the little jolt/vibration when you lock onto the pin is quite satisfying. 

 

Yardage Reading: I tested the Blade Slope against my previous Bushnell V6 unit and had some interesting findings. I noticed that the Bushnell would take a few extra clicks and give me different numbers during the process of locking onto a target. The Blade Slope was quite the opposite. Once it's locked on, you feel more comfortable that the reading is correct as it is not jumping to trees behind the pin or other random items other than the intended target. In terms of final yardage comparison, I found the true yardage numbers to be similar if not identical +/- a yard or so, but the Slope function was such a huge help and I could see how it will really take some guess work out of play. 

 

iv. Final Thoughts

 

You can tell that the Vortex team put a lot of design effort into this rangefinder. It is a straightforward, high performing, easy to use unit that gives you confidence in the performance and lives up to the expectations of consistency. I have had issues with rangefinders in the past, but I think I have found a brand I feel comfortable sticking with going forward. Not only is the rangefinder top notch, I will mention again that the customer service is matches. One thing that i discovered during my call with the Vortex team, and maybe the most important/impressive feature of this whole deal, is the LIFETIME WARRANTY. You read that right, I said LIFETIME. Not 2 years, your whole life, man. That is quite impressive to me. If you don't believe me, check out the webpage for more info https://vortexoptics.com/vip-warranty 

 

While I have been and will continue singing the praises for Vortex, I want to make sure I leave some meaningful feedback as I believe the team is actually interested in what the consumers have to say. So how do I think this could be improved?

• Color - While the color scheme is awesome and sleek looking, I am concerned that a lost rangefinder could get lost in and blend in with the grass due to its dark greenish/grey color scheme. I laid it down in some dry grass and walked about 10 yards away to test, the unit was not easily visible. Could present issues for some. 
• The location of the menu button could present issue for some. I use my rangefinder unit with one hand and because of this, my other fingers tend to rest on and accidentally hit the menu button. Now, this did not present any issue for me because the menu button requires a long press/hold to access, but I could envision some being unsure if they are pressing the right button when trying to wield quickly. 
• Only thing that could make this better in my mind is image stabilization, but guess what? they have that covered in a different model!

All in all I was very impressed with this unit. As someone who has not trialed a ton of rangefinders in his golf life, this is by far my favorite unit that I have used. Between the performance and the lifetime warranty, I may have found the last rangefinder I will ever need. 

 

Happy Huntin Boys and Girls

Edited May 6 by ScottHutch2

[DE-ILLINI]

I came home to a nice surprise yesterday and found an air tag holder for my range finder in the mail.  I think this is a nice idea.  I left my last range finder on a golf cart and did not notice until my next round of golf.  By then it was too late.  I will need to pick up some air tags and give this a try.

 

Thinking some more about my experience with the Vortex Blade Slope compared to my Precision Pro LS, the Vortex looks, feels, and performs like a higher quality range finder.  The unit feels well-built and durable.  I was most impressed with the optics and how quickly it locked on to the flags.  I also like the graphics.  It is very clear when the range finder is in pin seeking mode versus scan mode.  The vibration is nice and strong, so you know you locked on to the flag.   As others have mentioned, the location of the menu button is not ideal.  I inadvertently pressed it instead of measure, but after a few holes I did not have any more issues.  One note of the optics, there is a focusing ring on the eye piece.  I think most range finders have this, but I am surprised by the number of people who do not know how to focus their range finder.  The one on the Vortex has a nice resistance, so do not mistakenly adjust it.

 

I have been impressed at the images other reviewers have captured through the eye piece.  I am going to give this a try when I take it out later in the week.

[CircleC29]

Nice surprise in the mail! Thank you @Vortex_Golf

 

[agood3putt]

Got my AirTag holder and hat in the mail as well! Can’t say enough good things about @Vortex_Golf. I used the Anarch yesterday and even though my game was trash the rangefinder did not disappoint. We had 30-45 mph gusts here in Central Texas and the image stabilization worked like a charm 

[DE-ILLINI]

I had an extra air tag, so I set it up for the range finder.  I will leave it on for my next couple of rounds and report back whether I find it distracting.  I have already left one range finder on the cart (magnetic range finders are a blessing and curse) maybe this will prevent me doing it again.  I would not have thought of this, but it is a good idea.

[SwingBlues]

SwingBlues review of:

VORTEX GOLF - ANARCH Laser Range Finder 

Part 4 

For PART 1 of my review check it out here

For PART 2 of my review check it out here

For PART 3 of my review check it out here

 

Like the other great GolfWRX testers here, I too was pleasantly surprised to receive this Apple Air Tag:

 

 

Nice touch with the Stickers as well 👍

 

 

 

 

 

 @Vortex_Golf buy your design team a beer please 🍻- this is perfect sizing the lanyard is just the right size

 

 

Tracking Integration – A Missed Opportunity?

My one wish—though not Vortex Golf’s fault—is that Samsung’s Android-compatible AirTags were more widely available. I get that it’s a smaller market share, but it does mean Samsung users are left to improvise.

 

For now, those with Samsung devices will probably have to find a lanyard on eBay and attach their own tracker—certainly not as seamless as the integration with Vortex Golf and Apple.Well done, guys! 🤙

 

 

A Design Idea for Future Models

💡  If there’s room on either side of the unit—with one side housing the magnet—then perhaps the other side (where the Anarch logo sits) could include a rectangular, credit-card-sized pocket.

 

Since silicon is flexible, it could be designed to expand slightly, allowing golfers to slip in an Apple AirTag or a Samsung tracker with ease.

 

Just a thought… but it would be a pretty awesome feature!

 

 

Edited May 7 by SwingBlues

[RSinSG]

Played my second round with the Vortex Blade (non slope) today. Again I used it side-by-side with my Bushnell V4. Again, this rangefinder continues to Impress me. I had my buddies use it and they all commented how clear the optics were – much better than what they were using. As I said before – it is as clear as a Vortex spotting scope I have.

 

Different people like different things, and while @SwingBlues didn’t like the case because it didn’t open as far as other ones I considered this a positive. I never use the zipper when playing and at least twice that I can remember I forgot to close the case with the bungee. Normally not a big deal but I remember the two times because I tipped my MGI Navigator cart over and the Bushnell was one of many things that ended up on the ground. Maybe the tighter case would help morons like me.

 

 

This is a cheap Amazon case I got to replace the Bushnell one that broke, and the Vortex is even tighter than it is. Bonus for me.

 

I really like the feel and size of the Vortex. I wear a ML glove and this rangefinder fits my hand perfectly – much more comfortable than the Bushnell or other rangefinders I’ve used. Even though the unit isn’t very much smaller, its noticeable and for me at least it is a better fit.

 

 

 

I tried scoping some long distance pins today and was very impressed with how it locked on the flag. The longest I was able to lock on was 388, but I’m thinking if I had the Anarch with the stabilization the unit would probably go farther. I did get the distance to a building 1205 yards away which is very impressive. No real application for golf but an indicator how well made the Vortex is.

 

The more I use it the more I like it, and as others have mentioned the company is top shelf. Their customer relations is amazing and when you pair that with their warranty it makes getting the Vortex an easy decision.

[NCLancer]

First of all, hats off to @SwingBlues, @RSinSG, @DE-ILLINI, @weems, @CircleC29, @MickeyTankBank, @tj7644, @ScottHutch2,  @agood3putt!  Everyone's reviews, pics and comparisons have been accurate, entertaining, and thoughtful.  Great job by all y'all😁

 

I'm coming at this from a slightly different angle as yesterday was my first day on-course with my own rangefinder.  I have borrowed playing partners units to shoot very occasionally but I use/wear a gps watch for my distance info.  I feel like the rich teenager whose first car is a brand-new BMW!  

 

The Vortex unit is so easy to use for a rookie like me.  I wear a ML glove and it fit perfect in my hand and I had no problems hitting the wrong buttons as I have no bad habits to break.  After 3 holes I felt like a pro shooting bunker edges, stakes, rakes, etc. not to mention the all-important pins!  I wear sunglasses with a distance prescription and I had no problems reading the optics.  The info came quickly and accurately, the lock-in feature insured I was getting what I wanted and I felt confident in my numbers.  I found the case easy to use but as I walked yesterday I just used the net of my pushcart for easy storage between use.  My wife's new cart has a magnetic plate but mine does not and I know when riding I'll use the magnetic feature.    

 

Did I shoot a 97?  Well yes I did but I cannot blame Vortex for any of my troubles as it did it's job wonderfully! 

 

Thank you again to @Vortex_Golf and @GolfWRX_Official for the chance to own and review such a fantastic product.

 

Edited May 7 by NCLancer
words

[CircleC29]

I should add for reference that an XL glove is a little tight on me and why I think maybe the Anarch would be a better fit for people like me.

 

[SwingBlues]

Great News – Slope Issue Resolved

 

I have fantastic news—the issue with the -2° slope reading on my Anarch is being addressed!

 

Luke reached out and let me know that a replacement unit is on its way. Turns out the one I received had a calibration variance, which explains the inconsistent slope measurements I was seeing.

 

That said, its point-to-point accuracy was flawless—yardages were spot on, with only the degree and slope adjustments being off. And despite that, the speed was lightning-fast, delivering readings instantly. 👍

 

Huge thanks for the quick support—excited to test out the new one!

 

 

[weems]

34 minutes ago, SwingBlues said:

 

 

Great News – Slope Issue Resolved

 

I have fantastic news—the issue with the -2° slope reading on my Anarch is being addressed!

 

Luke reached out and let me know that a replacement unit is on its way. Turns out the one I received had a calibration variance, which explains the inconsistent slope measurements I was seeing.

 

That said, its point-to-point accuracy was flawless—yardages were spot on, with only the degree and slope adjustments being off. And despite that, the speed was lightning-fast, delivering readings instantly. 👍

 

Huge thanks for the quick support—excited to test out the new one!

 

 

 

 

They shipped my replacement immediately, and I did notice while shooting my mailbox it said -2 everytime.  But I haven't used it on the course yet to verify if its really -2 or not.  I am playing Friday and will find out then.

[SwingBlues]

3 minutes ago, weems said:

They shipped my replacement immediately, and I did notice while shooting my mailbox it said -2 everytime.  But I haven't used it on the course yet to verify if its really -2 or not.  I am playing Friday and will find out then.

 

Yep, you have the same issue as my Anarch. Your replacement should be 👍

 

 

[MickeyTankBank]

I'm a little late to the party here cause I check my mail like maybe once a week, but @Vortex_Golf also sent me an AirTag lanyard with some stickers. Thank you again Vortex.

 

As someone who has left their rangefinder magnetically stuck to the post of a golf cart and left the course more than a half a dozen times (luckily able to recover it each time) this will be a nice feature to have. I just need to find a tag that will work with an Android phone since I don't use an Apple.

 

 

I have 2.5 rounds over the next 3 days, I'll be able to get some more time with the Blade and give some more of my thoughts.

[RSinSG]

I played my home course today and its the first time I've rode a cart with the Vortex. This rangefinder continues to impress me. I've never had one with a magnet, and I've always been wary of using the sleeve with a magnet as I'm worried a good bump will send it rolling. Today I did in fact hit a hole and the cart bounced pretty good but the magnet held. I don't ride that often but for sure I wouldn't worry about attaching it to the cart.

 

And the customer service is literally the best I've encountered in a long time. I'm old enough to remember going to the gas station with my folks and the attendant would come out when your car ran over the bell cable. He's pump your gas, clean your windshield and check your oil and not expect a tip. Then as I got older I can recall certain companies that stood by their product and you felt they cared about you as a customer when things went wrong. That kind of commitment to their product and their customers is very rare these days, and I often feel like I'm an inconvenience to a company when I reach out to them. 

 

Kella and Larry at Vortex were both very responsive when I reached out to them, and unlike many companies these days I didn't have to wait several days for a response.  Its obvious they are dedicated to their company and they both are great representatives that their superiors should be pleased with.

 

Here's some eye candy for those of you who are enduring bad weather. It was perfect here today.

 

 

 

 

 

[DE-ILLINI]

@RSinSG Out golfing with blue sky and mountains as the backdrop is tough to beat!

[RSinSG]

39 minutes ago, DE-ILLINI said:

@RSinSG Out golfing with blue sky and mountains as the backdrop is tough to beat!

Yup. I work at the Ledges in St. George and the back nine when it overlooks Snow Canyon is spectacular. 

[tj7644]

Ok....here's the follow up on testing now that I've gotten the Anarch on the course.

 

1) This is the most feature important for me.  The image stabilization is the real deal!    I love that feature.   I was under the impression that it would be that way from the moment I looked into the view finder.   It was not.   I looked through it and everything shook, bumped and bounced everywhere.  But then I pushed the button and WOW, all clear and stable.   It was a game changer for me.   I have a hard time looking through a view finder without that feature anymore.   My hands are shaky and this feature made locking on targets a breeze and so easy.   I also loved the "scan" feature.   You just move the target and it scans the flag, the tree or bunker behind, etc...   Just amazing. It worked great.   I love the weight, feel and clarity of the view screen on this device as well as the noted image stabilization.   

 

Now for yardages......

 

2) I took this for a test drive on Wed at my local course and had my current rangefinder, Garmin Z30, and my partner had his rangefinder, the Bushnell Pro X3, and then I also had the Vortex Anarch.   During this test we had the slope feature on.   I took numbers and put them in this little chart.   The yardages without slope and then with slope.   What I found out is that the straight up yardages for each device were within 1 yard of each other.   But then with the slope adjusted yardages, they varied a bit more.   I'm not sure why, and I'm not sure which is more accurate.   But here are the numbers.  As you can see, it's not a huge difference, but there are some specifically on the Hole 8, 9, and 10 tests.   Again, I don't know why, but it slightly changes.   I'm sure I'll get to test some more, but for now, this is what I've found.   

 

 

3) Also during this test, we ran over some big bumps and holes with the golf cart and in one instance, early in the round, the Vortex lost it's magnetic grip on the cart and fell to the fairway.   The other rangefinders did not.    As I tested that further and more rigorously, and tried hitting bumps, uneven spots,  and even holes etc... none of the rangefinders fell off the cart, including the Anarch, the rest of the round.   So I'm thinking I didn't get the Vortex situated well on the cart's pole in that first instance.

Edited May 9 by tj7644

[DE-ILLINI]

1 hour ago, tj7644 said:

Ok....here's the follow up on testing now that I've gotten the Anarch on the course.

 

1) This is the most feature important for me.  The image stabilization is the real deal!    I love that feature.   I was under the impression that it would be that way from the moment I looked into the view finder.   It was not.   I looked through it and everything shook, bumped and bounced everywhere.  But then I pushed the button and WOW, all clear and stable.   It was a game changer for me.   I have a hard time looking through a view finder without that feature anymore.   My hands are shaky and this feature made locking on targets a breeze and so easy.   I also loved the "scan" feature.   You just move the target and it scans the flag, the tree or bunker behind, etc...   Just amazing. It worked great.   I love the weight, feel and clarity of the view screen on this device as well as the noted image stabilization.   

 

Now for yardages......

 

2) I took this for a test drive on Wed at my local course and had my current rangefinder, Garmin Z30, and my partner had his rangefinder, the Bushnell Pro X3, and then I also had the Vortex Anarch.   During this test we had the slope feature on.   I took numbers and put them in this little chart.   The yardages without slope and then with slope.   What I found out is that the straight up yardages for each device were within 1 yard of each other.   But then with the slope adjusted yardages, they varied a bit more.   I'm not sure why, and I'm not sure which is more accurate.   But here are the numbers.  As you can see, it's not a huge difference, but there are some specifically on the Hole 8, 9, and 10 tests.   Again, I don't know why, but it slightly changes.   I'm sure I'll get to test some more, but for now, this is what I've found.   

 

 

3) Also during this test, we ran over some big bumps and holes with the golf cart and in one instance, early in the round, the Vortex lost it's magnetic grip on the cart and fell to the fairway.   The other rangefinders did not.    As I tested that further and more rigorously, and tried hitting bumps, uneven spots,  and even holes etc... none of the rangefinders fell off the cart the rest of the round.   So I'm thinking I didn't get the Vortex situated well on the cart's pole in that first instance.

When I had my Blade Slope out on the course last weekend, I used the magnet feature and had no issues with the range finder coming off the cart.  Now I do not remember hitting any large bumps, but I was not being careful as I drove the cart.  I will keep an eye on this next time out.

[tj7644]

44 minutes ago, DE-ILLINI said:

When I had my Blade Slope out on the course last weekend, I used the magnet feature and had no issues with the range finder coming off the cart.  Now I do not remember hitting any large bumps, but I was not being careful as I drove the cart.  I will keep an eye on this next time out.

I really believe it was user error and NOT the Vortex. I think I had just the end of the magnet touching the cart post.  The rest of the round when I tried to see if it would fall off it didn't.   

[tj7644]

20 hours ago, RSinSG said:

 

I played my home course today and its the first time I've rode a cart with the Vortex. This rangefinder continues to impress me. I've never had one with a magnet, and I've always been wary of using the sleeve with a magnet as I'm worried a good bump will send it rolling. Today I did in fact hit a hole and the cart bounced pretty good but the magnet held. I don't ride that often but for sure I wouldn't worry about attaching it to the cart.

 

And the customer service is literally the best I've encountered in a long time. I'm old enough to remember going to the gas station with my folks and the attendant would come out when your car ran over the bell cable. He's pump your gas, clean your windshield and check your oil and not expect a tip. Then as I got older I can recall certain companies that stood by their product and you felt they cared about you as a customer when things went wrong. That kind of commitment to their product and their customers is very rare these days, and I often feel like I'm an inconvenience to a company when I reach out to them. 

 

Kella and Larry at Vortex were both very responsive when I reached out to them, and unlike many companies these days I didn't have to wait several days for a response.  Its obvious they are dedicated to their company and they both are great representatives that their superiors should be pleased with.

 

Here's some eye candy for those of you who are enduring bad weather. It was perfect here today.

 

 

 

 

 

Glad you're enjoying the Vortex.    Good pics, rolling to 10 tee, and then again up by 12 tee.    Really enjoy that course.

[NCLancer]

My wife plays 18 holes every Thursday morning with a women's group at our local course and she expressed an interest in borrowing the Vortex.  She uses a GPS that she attaches to her push cart when walking but she wanted to test out the new addition to our family!  She said she used the rangefinder quite often and was impressed with the ease and clarity. 

 

Her best score ever at our home course is 91 and this week she was just one off with a sterling 92.  Here's a pic of her on the Par 4 9th as she almost holed out from the fairway for an eagle...yes she tapped in the birdie putt.  She finished the front 9 with an impressive 44. 

 

Now we aren't saying that her fantastic day was all because of the Blade Slope but the results cannot be argued...I might have a tough time getting it back from her!!

 

 

Edited May 10 by NCLancer