Nikon Coolshot 20 Review

Nikon Coolshot 20 is a relatively older rangefinder that’s still in demand since it offers a bunch of amazing features. According to the company, it’s their lightest and most compact laser rangefinder.

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In this Nikon Coolshot 20 review, we’ll have a look at Nikon Coolshot 20 and measure how it fares.

If you search the internet, you will find some newer version of this model, yet this one is still quite in demand thanks to a great yard range (up to 550 yards) and other such features.

Nikon Coolshot 20 golf laser rangefinder offers excellent precision and speed, making it a good pick for not only hobbyists but professionals as well.

We must also mention that this product is completely tournament legal and it complies with USGA Local Rule 14-3. Hence, there is no risk in taking it to the field.

This tool is highly versatile and easy to use. Hence, do not worry about having to spend hours to learn the art of using this Nikon Coolshot 20 golf laser rangefinder.

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Pros
  • Tournament legal
  • One of the most compact laser rangefinders
  • First Target Priority offers great precision
Cons
  • Does not come with instructions
  • Makes it difficult to fit targets beyond 150 yards

Features & Benefits

In this Nikon Coolshot 20 review, we’ll now have a look at the features this laser rangefinder offers to understand what it is capable of:

1. Range Capability

According to the company, it can cover up to 550 yards, however, in our review we found that it may not work very well beyond 150 yards. The image in most cases begins to shake beyond this point and it can get difficult to see clearly.

Other than this, it reports in increments of 1 yard, which may be enough but you will easily find more options that offer increments of 0.56 yard, hence they are more reliable.

2. First Target Priority

This is one of Nikon’s flagship features. In fact, most laser rangefinders from the company come with this technology.

This allows the Coolshot 20 golf laser rangefinder to identify the target that is closest to you. This may not sound like a big deal but it can make a lot of difference when you’re out on the field playing a game.

The technology locks all the available objects in the view and helps you identify your main target so you can easily distance your shot. First Target Priority can be very effective in cases where the flag is surrounded by objects such as trees.

3. Magnification

With this rangefinder, you will be able to enjoy 6x magnification, hence expect clear views for as long as you are in reach. This is made possible thanks to Nikon’s optical technology that is known to provide clear and bright images even if the weather conditions are not favorable.

4. Precision

This Nikon golf rangefinder offers amazing precision by giving the correct distance to the flag. Unlike other similar products out there, this one is able to provide a clear perspective by highlighting hazards in the view so you can find the most suitable path for your shot.

This versatility is great and makes it one of the best golf laser rangefinders on the market. With this beauty, you will be able to see everything from golf carts to bunkers to trees to doglegs to hills.

5. Weatherproof

While we’re not exactly sure about what kind of temperature it can tolerate, the company promotes it as a weatherproof unit hence it is safe to say that it will work well in both summers and winters. We used it in extreme conditions and didn’t notice a fall in quality.

Plus, it works exceptionally well in rainy weather as well since it is rainproof.

6. Clear Display

Do not let a lack of LCD screen disappoint you, this rangefinder’s multilayer coatings offer excellent light transmittance, making it possible to see what’s being displayed even when the sun is out.

The technology reduces the loss of light and manages reflection well, hence you will get to see a clear display. Plus, the display is eyeglass-friendly and will not cause you any trouble.

7. Continuous Measurement

This is another feature that is exclusive to Nikon rangefinders. This golf laser rangefinder can range for eight seconds without a pause to identify even the smallest of objects including pins and mounds.

Do not worry about it being slow as you will not have to wait because the unit will display results right after 8 seconds.

8. An Excellent Care Package

We found the team at Nikon to be quite friendly and informative. The Nikon Coolshot 20 didn’t bother us, but we still got in touch with the team to gauge how they handle complaints.

They typically respond within 24 hours. Plus, since the product comes with a limited 2-year warranty, you will be safe even if something goes wrong with the device.

The company takes care of its customers and ships the product with everything you’ll need including a battery that’ll run for about 2 years and a carrying case. We must add that the Nikon golf rangefinder battery life is quite good.

Social Proof

Check out this link to read Amazon Nikon Coolshot 20 reviews from real customers.

Alternatives

Nikon Coolshot 20i (Slope Version)
Nikon COOLSHOT 40Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized
Yard Range
5506501200
Magnification4x6x6x
ID TechnologyYesNoYes
Tournament LegalYesYesYes

Nikon Coolshot 20i (Slope Version)

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This is a slope variant of the unit we have reviewed above. It is quite heavy to deal with comes with some additional benefits. If you get this one you will:

  • Get less magnification
  • Enjoy the slope feature
  • Have to deal with a heavier unit

Get this one if you want a cheap unit that offers the slope feature.

Nikon Coolshot 40

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The Nikon Coolshot 40 is an upgraded version of the Coolshot 40 with similar features. If you get this one, you will enjoy:

  • More range
  • Better display
  • An expensive product

Get this one if you want to enjoy a unit that can cover more distance. Read our full Nikon Coolshot 40 review.

Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized

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The Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized rangefinder is said to be the best option for pros as it offers:

  • More range
  • Slope technology
  • Locked-on 2 technology that offers more precision

Get your hands on the Coolshot Pro Stabalized if you can afford a more expensive unit.

 

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FAQs

It is rainproof but it is not fully waterproof.
Yes, the agents are friendly and will cater to your needs if you ever have to get it repaired under warranty.
Since it is compact and lightweight, you will have no difficulty in using it with one hand.

Tech Specifications

Yard Range6-550 yards
Accuracy+/- 1 yard
Magnification6X
Main Features8-Second Continuous Scanning
First Target Priority Mode
Waterproof?No, only water-resistant
Dimensions3.6 x 1.5 x 2.9 inches
Battery typeCR123A battery (included)
Weight4.5 ounces
Warranty2-year warranty

Conclusion

Since the Nikon Coolshot 20 is an older model, most golfers do not consider it when they go out to buy a rangefinder. However, we suggest that you consider this option if you are new to the game since it has almost everything you’d want in a rangefinder.

It may not be suitable for pros since it lacks the slope feature and offers a limited range. But, the low selling price is a big USP. Check out the Nikon Coolshot 20 today and see if it fits you.