Shot Scope Pro ZR Rangefinder
The Shot Scope PRO ZR is a premium laser rangefinder with a clever design, premium performance, and a full set of features. Its durable shell and ease of use make it a sturdy and reliable performer day in and day out on the golf course. On top of that, it’s a great value coming in at only $299.
Out of the Box
I’m a big “keep it simple” guy when it comes to rangefinders. I want to be able to open it, pop a battery in, and point and shoot. The Shot Scope Pro ZR does just that. It arrives in a sleek, compact box containing the rangefinder itself, a carrying case, a CR2 battery, a microfiber cleaning cloth, and a user manual. All you have to do is pop the battery in and you’re off and running. The most complicated part isn’t complicated at all. There’s a feature to switch between optic display colors which is controlled by a simple press of the R/B button on the top. The other button is the Mode button, appropriately labeled “M”. A simple press of this lets you easily switch between the two measuring modes. Oh, and a simple flip of the blue switch turns on slope. Doesn’t get much easier.
Features
The Shot Scope ZR is packed with features that cater to golfers seeking precision and reliability. My favorite feature might be the DuraShield Hardshell. This is a metal casing that makes the Pro ZR more “robust” and able to withstand regular use on the course in harsh conditions. There’s also Slope which gives you distances adjusted for height as well as Target Lock with Vibration to let you know when you lock on your target. For fast readings, the Pro ZR has “Rapid Fire Detection”. Shot Scope claims this to be almost instantaneous. Rounding out the distance measuring features is a range of 1500 yards so you should be more than covered on any golf hole.
Another really nice feature is the Red/Black Dual Optics. You can choose whichever best suits your eye, but the idea is that you can use the red display in dark conditions and the black display in bright conditions. The nice part is that it’s easy to switch between the two so you can really go with whatever mood your in that day.
On-Course Performance
I found the Shot Scope Pro ZR to be reliable and accurate. Distances to flag sticks and hazards were consistently precise. The Target Lock function eliminated any doubt about measuring the correct target against any backdrop. While it’s tough to say if it was instantaneous as claimed, Rapid Fire Detection was definitely quick. Having the option to switch between the different color display was also really nice on the course. I found myself consistently going with the red setting because of it being extra vivid against pretty much all backgrounds. The Pro ZR’s optics are also very clear and crisp.
It’s also worth noting that the Pro ZR’s ergonomic design felt comfortable and secure in my hand. With the slight thumb “cutout”, the activation button was convenient and easy to press. The DuraShield Hardshell was reassuring, which I don’t know about you, but it’s nice to feel like an investment like this will last for awhile and you know you can count on it to do so.
Final Thoughts – Shot Scope Pro ZR Rangefinder
If you told me going into this review that I’d potentially be putting a new rangefinder in my bag, I’m not sure I would have believed you. Don’t get me wrong, I’m open to it every time I test one, but I’ve found I’m very picky. Let me tell you, it hasn’t been easy to earn the bag spot for rangefinders. That said, the Shot Scope Pro ZR is a compelling option. It’s accurate, reliable, and has crystal clear optics. The Pro ZR really does have anything you could ask for and flat out does everything well. If you’re seeking a premium rangefinder that’s just as good as all big name $600 options but at half the price, I’d strongly consider the Shot Scope Pro ZR.
