Get Within Range with Garmin

Garmin’s new Approach Z30 is the definition of Affordable Quality

By Tony Dear

In April, Garmin introduced its Approach Z82 laser rangefinder, touting it as the most accurate rangefinder on the market…with good reason. Capable of shooting distances up to 450 yards to within 10 inches, it was, the company said, designed specifically to “help improve a golfer’s situational awareness.”

The Z82 had several other best-in-class features that made it so prized among golfers but, of course, something of that quality didn’t come cheap. At $600, it rivaled Bushnell’s X3+ for the most expensive rangefinder in the game.

Last week, Garmin released the much more affordable Approach Z30 which obviously doesn’t come with quite as many features as the Z82 but which still offers everything the typical rangefinder buyer is looking for.

Naturally, the Z30 performs all the tasks you’ve come to expect of a quality rangefinder, but it comes with features that set it apart. You can pair it with any compatible Garmin smartwatch, handheld, or the Garmin Golf smartphone app to see more through the viewfinder, including distances from the pin to the front and back of the green. A laser range arc appears on the screen revealing everything in play.

The ‘PlaysLike’ Distance feature lets you adjust the yardage for uphill or downhill shots based on the change in elevation from where you’re standing. You get even more with the latest enhancements to PlaysLike Distance when you pair the Z30 with a compatible device. This enhanced feature factors in air pressure, temperature, wind and humidity – a combination known as ‘air density’.

The Z30 has a magnetic cart mount, and is accurate to +/- one yard up to 400 yards while the viewfinder gives you 6x magnification. You also get Tournament Mode with an external indicator light, vibrational feedback, the ‘Find My Garmin’ feature, and an IPX7 water-resistance rating. The CR2 battery should be good for a year, and the device weighs only 210 grams. Included in the box is a carry case, carabiner clip, hand strap, wipe cloth, and battery.

$400
Dimensions – 4.4″ x 3.2″ x 1.5″ (112 x 80 x 39 mm)
garmin.com

Colorado AvidGolfer Magazine is the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it, publishing eight issues annually and proudly delivering daily content via coloradoavidgolfer.com.

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