Shot Scope Pro ZR - 2024 Forum Review

[GolfSpy_APH]

The Shot Scope PRO ZR is a golf rangefinder built to deliver precise distance measurements, helping golfers make more informed decisions on the course. It features advanced technologies like Adaptive Slope, which adjusts for elevation changes, and Target-Lock Vibration, which ensures you’re locked onto your target. The rangefinder also boasts a high-quality optic lens for clear visuals and a dual-display system that allows you to toggle between black and red displays based on lighting conditions. Whether you're navigating a hilly course or shooting for a precise distance, the PRO ZR aims to provide accuracy and confidence with every shot.

Key Features:

Adaptive Slope Technology: Automatically adjusts yardages based on elevation changes, giving you the most accurate distance possible.

Target-Lock Vibration: Provides a reassuring vibration when you’ve successfully locked onto your target, so you know you have the right distance.

Precision Optic Lens: Offers clear and sharp visuals, making it easy to focus on the target, even at longer distances.

Dual Display: Switch between black and red displays depending on the lighting conditions, ensuring optimal visibility at all times.

Water-Resistant Construction: Built to withstand the elements, the PRO ZR is designed for durability, allowing you to use it in various weather conditions without worry.

Please welcome and congratulate our testers!

@MattF 

@Off Map Oscar 

@Gravenor 

@Jawmusique

[MattF]

Shot Scope Pro ZR Review - MattF

G'day viewers, thanks for tuning in.

I suppose I have to introduce myself for the new people around here.

I was born and raised in Sydney, Australia and moved to the US in 2005 to marry my wife. We have one large mammal that eats too much and drives too fast but is kind of OK and he'll do. I've been a member of MGS for 13 years and have been lucky enough to have been selected for a number of tests.

I live in NE Ohio and it's not too bad. The spring, summer and half the autumn are pretty nice, but the rest of it sucks as it's too cold but the forced layoff from golf is actually OK. I've been playing since I moved here because my FIL played and I thought it was a good thing to do with him. He no longer plays but I'm hooked.

I currently play to a 13.8 and have been as low as 12. I hope to drop below that next year as I have a plan. I typically play from around 6500 yards because I like a challenge. I've used the Shot Scope GPS watches since the V2 but recently sold my X5 because I was getting frustrated with the sheer number of missed shots (last round it missed all but 2 shots on the back 9 despite tapping the tag to the band) so I decided to just rely on a range finder and the GHIN app for stats.

I love playing and take it seriously but still like to have fun and banter with my playing partners. So I guess I'm serious about my golf but I don't get hung up on bad shots because I'm not good enough to get mad.

That concludes this part of my intro:

What region do you play out of?

How long have you been golfing?

What kind of golfer are you?

 

Here's The Golf Questions:

How do you want to test this product? I'll be using it on the course as well as shooting stuff around my house, because I can.

What are your plans for the review and comparisons? I'll obviously try to be as thorough as possible and I'll be comparing the Pro ZR to the Precision Pro NX10.

Why are you excited about testing this product? Apparently it's very fast to lock on and you don't have to be super steady.

What do you know about the product already? It's been said it's the best rangefinder on the market currently.

Here's a few unboxing photos.

All the way from Scotland.



Bubble wrapped for a bit of extra protection.





Looks slick.



The battery cover is a twist type, which I prefer.







I really like the carrying case with the way the bungee closes it up over the Precision Pro.

 

Edited September 15 by MattF

[Off Map Oscar]

Shot Scope Pro ZR – Official MGS Forum Review by Off Map Oscar

 

**Introduction:**

 

Hello MGS community! My name is Oscar, and I’ve been selected to review the Shot Scope Pro ZR. A big thanks to the MGS team and Shot Scope for this opportunity.

 

A little about myself: I’ve been reviewing and beta testing products in the automotive and off-road industries for years. Although this is my first time reviewing a golf-specific device, it’s not my first rangefinder review. Years ago, I tested and reviewed the Nikon Prostaff i3, though that review was focused on archery. I’ve been using the Nikon for years with great success for both archery and rifle-related activities. I’ll be using it as a baseline comparison for this test, alongside a budget Amazon rangefinder that works reasonably well but has some shortcomings. Hopefully, the Shot Scope Pro ZR can outperform both and prove to be a solid rangefinder.

I do have some experience with the Shot Scope brand. I’ve been using their V5 watch since it was released. My first watch had a malfunction, but their customer service was excellent and quickly sent me a replacement. I’m hoping I don’t experience any issues with the Pro ZR, but based on my experience, I can confidently say that Shot Scope’s customer service is top-notch.

 

About My Golf Game:

I’ve been golfing for just over a year—1 year and 3 months, to be exact. Some friends invited me out for a round on my birthday last year, and after just 9 holes, I was hooked. I ordered my own set of clubs from Amazon (promptly returned becaue they were terrible ) and I’ve been playing regularly ever since. I started with a 40 handicap but, after practicing a lot, I managed to get it down to 27 by the end of last year. Unfortunately, the winter snow in Northern Utah forced me to take a break.

When the snow melted, I put even more effort into improving my game. I even set up a golf simulator in my garage. This year, I started at a 27 handicap, and as of my last update, I’ve lowered it to a 10. I’ve played about 58 rounds this year and have been focused on data tracking to pinpoint areas where I can improve. One method I’ve used is creating a wedge card with three different swings for each wedge. Using this card, along with my Shot Scope GPS watch for front and back green distances, and a rangefinder for pin distance, I’ve seen significant improvement. My scores have dropped, and my putting has improved dramatically. The rangefinder has been a crucial part of that success, and I’m excited to see how the Pro ZR performs.

I’ve been chasing even par for the past few months, and my closest round so far has been a 78 over 18 holes. I recently shot a 38 on a 9-hole round, so I’m optimistic that breaking par is within reach. I’m currently taking lessons, and although I’ve experienced a bit of a slump as I adjust my swing, I’m hopeful for continued improvement.

 

Q&A:

**How do you plan to test this product?**  

I plan to compare the Shot Scope Pro ZR with my other two rangefinders during the two league rounds I play each week.

**What will you focus on in your review and comparisons?**  

I’ll be looking at several factors: lens clarity, speed of pin lock, build quality, and ease of use. Specifically, I want to see how the Pro ZR compares to my older Nikon and the budget Amazon rangefinder.

**What would make this product a keeper after testing?**  

For me, a clear lens that works well in twilight conditions and the multi-color reticle are key. While the Nikon has excellent glass, it lacks a multi-color reticle and slope capabilities. The Amazon rangefinder struggles in low light and takes a while to lock onto the flag. If the Pro ZR can overcome these issues, it will likely become my go-to rangefinder.

**Why are you excited to test this product?**  

I’m excited because I’ve been a fan of other Shot Scope products, and I’ve been looking for an upgrade to my Nikon that includes slope functionality. The Amazon rangefinder was fine for the price, but it’s clearly not a high-end product.

**What do you already know about the product?**  

I’ve watched a few reviews and follow Shot Scope on Instagram, so I’ve seen their ads and promotions.

**What are your expectations?**  

I hope the Pro ZR is a high-quality product, but if it fails to meet expectations, I won’t hesitate to point that out. As I mentioned earlier, I had an issue with one of their products before, but Shot Scope stood behind it and resolved the problem. However, if this rangefinder also has problems, that might be a bad sign. Only time will tell.

 

Thanks for reading! I should have the Pro ZR in hand soon—the tracking number was sent yesterday. I’ll add pictures of the two comparison rangefinders and do a full unboxing when it arrives. Stay tuned!

 

Here is the base line for comparison.  

 

Unboxing the Shot Scope Pro ZR – First Impressions

Hello everyone! As part of the MGS Forum review process, I’m excited to share the unboxing of the Shot Scope Pro ZR.

In this set of photos, you’ll find a detailed look at what’s inside the box. From the moment I opened it, everything was well-packaged and organized. The Shot Scope Pro ZR was securely nestled within, and the presentation was quite impressive.

First Impressions: Great packaging. Nice letter from the shot scope team. Build quality and general in the hand feel are excellent. 

I play my first round with it here in about an hour so stay tuned for more updates as I dive into testing the Shot Scope Pro ZR. Let me know if you have any questions or need further details!

 

 

Final Review of the Shot Scope Pro ZR

After using the Shot Scope Pro ZR for five rounds, I feel confident in my assessment of its performance. There are some clear advantages to this rangefinder, but it also comes with a few limitations. Here’s my detailed breakdown:

Pros:

Lightning-Fast Performance: The Pro ZR is incredibly fast at acquiring distances—noticeably quicker than the two other rangefinders I used for comparison. It’s so fast that sometimes the slope calculation takes an extra moment to display, but this minor delay is worth it for the overall speed. In fact, I’d say it’s roughly three times faster than my other rangefinders. For those who, like me, double-check their range to ensure consistency, this speed really adds up, making it a big advantage. The budget Amazon rangefinder has flag lock, but it takes much longer to lock in a distance compared to the Pro ZR.

Strong Magnet: The magnet on the Pro ZR is significantly stronger than the budget model. Normally, I keep my rangefinder in the pouch on my bag rather than on the cart pillar to avoid losing it. For this test, I placed both rangefinders on the cart pillar for the entire round, and it became clear that the cheap model slid down the bar with each hole. While it never fell off, I’m confident that a strong impact would dislodge it, whereas the Pro ZR remained securely in place.

Superb Lens Clarity: The clarity of the Pro ZR’s lens is excellent. It’s much easier to distinguish details with this device compared to the budget rangefinder, and it even surpasses my Nikon in this regard. The Pro ZR provides a crisp, clear view that enhances usability, especially when locking onto distant targets.

Top-Notch Build Quality: The Pro ZR feels solid in hand, with a heft that gives it a premium, durable feel without being overly heavy. Although I haven’t dropped it or experienced any rough handling, I’m confident it would hold up well. In comparison, the budget rangefinder feels like it’s made from thinner plastic, and I wouldn’t trust it to survive a fall from a cart onto a hard surface.

Cons:

Battery-Driven: The Pro ZR is powered by a replaceable battery, and mine, along with another tester's, arrived with a dead one. After about eight holes, I saw the low battery warning. I would much prefer a rechargeable option, like the one included with the Amazon budget model. While the Pro ZR claims to support up to 40,000 ranges per battery, I’m personally more inclined toward rechargeable devices for convenience and environmental reasons.

Direct Sunlight Issues: The Pro ZR struggles with lens washout when aiming towards a flag with the sun in the background. This wasn’t an issue with the Nikon or the budget rangefinder. The larger lens or the chrome around the objective lens could be contributing to this problem. Additionally, I noticed that when shooting into direct sunlight, the rangefinder would occasionally provide inaccurate distances compared to my GPS watch. I’m not sure if this is due to the sunlight affecting the laser or if I was mistakenly locking onto the wrong target.

Aiming Reticle Size: A friend who helped me test the Pro ZR mentioned that he found the aiming reticle too large, making it difficult to lock onto the flag. While he appreciated the bold, easy-to-read distances, the reticle size was a drawback for him. He isn’t someone who ranges every approach shot like I do, so this feature may be less of an issue for more frequent users.

Overall Thoughts:

The Shot Scope Pro ZR is a fantastic rangefinder with impressive speed, strong build quality, and excellent lens clarity. However, it does have some limitations, such as being battery-driven and the issues with direct sunlight. These might not be deal-breakers for everyone, but they’re worth considering depending on your playing conditions and preferences.

Would I buy this? Absolutely. My experience with Shot Scope has been nothing but positive, and I believe they’re on par with major brands like Bushnell and Garmin in terms of product quality. At its MSRP, the Pro ZR is competitively priced, and if you have a budget in the $300 range, I think it’s a solid investment. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are other choices, but you should be prepared for some compromises, which I’ve outlined here.

Will It Stay in My Bag?

I’ll leave that up to the Golf Spy leadership. I’m more than happy to pass it on to another reviewer for further testing. Maybe one of the reviewers of the other range finders would want to swap ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
The cheap Amazon rangefinder has already found a new home with my buddy, so if this one goes to another reviewer, I’ll be back to using my trusty Nikon. That said, after using a high-quality rangefinder like the Pro ZR, I’ll definitely be investing in a premium model—whether it’s this one or something else remains to be seen. But I can confidently say the Pro ZR is a strong contender for my permanent golf bag spot.

 

Edited September 17 by Off Map Oscar

[Jawmusique]

Hello everyone!  My name is Jared, and I’d like to thank the MGS team for the opportunity to review the Shot Scope Pro ZR.  I’ve been playing golf for approximately 20 years, but only really got serious about it when my son started playing 5 years ago in 8th grade.  I started filming my swing, took some lessons, and have come to understand how to put elements together in a swing.  As any good father knows, tormenting my children and beating them in any and all games is a must, and so I must not be defeated. 

Currently, I am a 3 handicap trying to get to scratch by the end of next season.  I’ve shot a 68 this year, and I’m feeling pretty good about getting there.  Since I’ve stated that publicly, no doubt I’ll shoot an 88 the next round I play.

I like to have as much information as possible before selecting a shot to play on the course, and a range finder is a critical part of gathering information.  Unless circumstances don’t permit, I always get to the course early to warm up; I like to know what my body is doing that day, and putting and chipping are (to me) pretty critical.

A good baseline is important in evaluating any product.  I will test the Shot Scope Pro ZR against old trusty, a Bushnell V3.  While the V3 doesn’t have the feature set that the Shot Scope has, it does lock on to the flag in short order.  It has also proved reliable with yardages, and gives me the same yardage each time I spy with my little eye. 

For me, accurate yardage is THE number one most important attribute for a range finder to possess.  I can deal with a finder that is a little slower, or that isn’t pretty if the yardage number is really close every time.  I tend to shoot multiple targets (i.e. front the green, bunkers, etc.) when I’m shooting the pin to get a good carry number.  Thinking I need to carry a wedge 92 when I really need to carry it 95 ends up causing wailing and knashing of teeth.

Aside from accurate yardage, a good strong magnet is super helpful, as well as a rugged design that can take some beating.  While I have read reviews online and watched content, there is no substitute for a good old hands on test.  I am curious to see how beneficial the black vs red is in various lighting conditions.

As soon as I have the Shot Shope Pro ZR in hand, vigorous reviewing will commence.

 

Shot Scope Pro ZR Review

Aesthetics: 8/10

As mentioned above, the Shotscope is well built and fairly neutral in terms of design.  The only knock, for me, is the chrome on the outside of the lens.
 

The Numbers: 18/20

The yardages for are accurate and repeatable.  I've used the Shotscope for 10 rounds, and it has always been zippy in finding yardages.  The same number comes up multiple times, and I am very confident in the numbers I'm receiving from the Shotscope.

With slope, the yardage plays how I think it will every time; I can't think of a single instance where I thought the yardage wasn't quite right.  I also will not quibble over +/- a yard.

 

Setup:

The instructions are very easy to understand, and setup was extremely simple.  The battery included with the Shotscope only lasted about 10 holes, but the replacement battery is still going strong after 9 rounds.  I'm just chalking that up to a bad batch of batteries.  Overall, about as easy a setup as you could want.  I also love that you can simplify what is being displayed if you don't want or need all the info.

 

On-Course: 19/20

The Shotscope is great on the course.  The magnet is strong, and one doesn't have to worry about it sliding around or falling off during play.  Easy and intuitive to use on the course; I quite liked using it.  I could have my yardage and plan my shot very quickly, and there was no fiddling around trying to make it work - it just did.  This rangefinder is definitely faster than most others that I have used.  The only quibble I had was that the chrome interfered with shooting pins where the sun was sitting behind the pin - there was a kind of lens flare that would happen.  I think if Shotscope swapped out the chrome with another material, this would go away. 

 

The Good, the bad, and the in-between: 17/20

 

The good: This is a solid offering from Shotscope.  Extremely competitive in it's class, and it gives you fast and accurate yardages.  
 

The bad: The ONLY gripe I have is the lens flare issue.  Certainly not a deal breaker, but I'm shooting into the sun often.  Would need to finagle some to get the yardages I needed.

 

Play it or Trade it? 18/20

I would definitely play this.  It helps pace of play by being accurate and fast.  It's consistent and built well.  I think the price is fair for the feature set, and I think this benefits golfers of all abilities.  You don't have to be a flag sniper to take advantage of having accurate information for your shots.  In fact, having reliable information on distances to hazards, carry distances, etc will save every golfer shots.

 

Conclusion

The Shotscope Pro ZR is a reliable, well built, accurate, fast rangefinder that will benefit any golfer.  The range of features included is great in this price point, and the Pro ZR is a fantastic offering from Shotscope.

Gallery:

Edited Monday at 08:15 PM by Jawmusique

[Gravenor]

ShotScope Pro ZR // Official MGS Forum Review // by Gravenor

 My Introduction

Before jumping into this review I would first like to say a huge thank you to MyGolfSpy, the forum staff/moderators and ShotScope. The testing opportunities as of late have been nothing short of incredible, and this one is no different. I think I speak for not only myself, but all of the forum members when I say that the chance to test equipment of any kind for a major manufacturer in the golf industry is a privilege. We should all be extremely thankful to MGS and their team for their constant work that has made this site what it is today.

I haven’t actually been a member of the MyGolfSpy forum for very long. In fact, having only officially joined the forum in June 2024 I am somewhat shocked, but more so excited, to be testing for MyGolfSpy so soon. Since the day I joined the forum I have felt right at home. 

With the exception of my dad and my brother - none of my friends or colleagues play golf. Having the opportunity to discuss equipment, share practice updates and how we played, compare what we’ve bought and talk about our funniest stories has been brilliant. It is nice to feel so welcome amongst a group of like-minded people who share the same interests as myself.

So, here's a little bit about me. My name is Ryan, and I am 23 years old. I live in the UK, about as far south as you can imagine in Sussex, right next to the coast. My experience with golf started back in 2011.

Outside of golf there's lots of things I enjoy. I recently started a career in the fire & security sector and have always been a huge football fan (I will refer to it as soccer for the sake of the predominantly American audience). My team? Chelsea Football Club. We may be in a rough place right now, but I will always love that club no matter what.

 

 Whats In The Bag

I’m somewhat of a nostalgic soul when it comes to clubs.

Sure, I love the new technology and advancements that golf brands are coming out with today, but I’m not one to change up the bag for the sake of it. I think my WITB will prove that! Here’s what i’m currently playing:

 Driver: Nike VR Pro Limited Edition (9.5°) // Diamana ‘ahina (65g) [S] // Nike Golf Pride T.V.

    

 

 4 Wood: Titleist TS2 (16.5°) // Kuro Kage Black Series (55g) [S] // Golf Pride MCC

    

 

 Irons: Mizuno MP15 (4-PW) // True Temper Dynamic Gold S300 // Golf Pride MCC

    

 

 Wedges: Taylormade Z-Spin (52°, 56°, 60°) // TM Z-Spin [S] // TM x Lamkin UTX

    

 

 Putter: Nike Method Milled Model 004 (35”)

    

 

 About Me & Where I'm From

I spent most of my childhood playing soccer. I never had an interest in the game of golf. My preconceptions were the same as many at that age… old people, ignorant, arrogant and boring.

That was my perception of the sport, at least until I hurt my knee pretty badly at around this time. To cut a very long and tedious story short, my knee was in bad shape due to a meniscus tear I suffered when I was about 10 or 11 years old playing soccer. Fast forward a couple of years and my knee was completely battered, and any chance of me playing another highly physical contact sport without very severe consequences was as good as zero.

This was around the time that my dad suggested I take up golf.

“Golf? I’m not 80”.

That was my genuine response and thought process… but oh how wrong I was.

To say I got hooked immediately is an understatement, but unlike a lot of you I don’t remember much about it. My first range session? Not a clue. My first 18 holes? My first par? Birdie? I couldn’t tell you. I have no idea.

Either way, I suppose it doesn’t matter. The one thing I do remember is why I kept coming back: I loved every second I spent on the course, and I always wanted to get better.

Fast forward well over a decade, I have had somewhat of a love-hate relationship with golf. From 2017-2022 I played very rarely, if ever. Maybe a bucket of balls or two over the summer, but that was it. Since 2022 I have played sporadically, but at the start of the 2024 season I rediscovered my love for the game, just the same way I had all those years previous as a junior golfer.

I have always played golf in the South of England having lived here my whole life. I haven’t yet been fortunate enough to play away from home or abroad, but it’s definitely on my wishlist. From what I understand, golf here in England is quite different from golf in the States, or at least in the more prominent golfing areas like Florida. The summers here are extremely dry. Fairways are solid, greens are indistinguishable from concrete, and you have to get creative if you are going to put a decent score together.

  

By contrast, winter is brutal here. The temperature will often drop below freezing, and the courses get… muddy. Very muddy.

We are also known for fighting the wind - links golf has become iconic over here for a reason, and it is a factor I have always had to contend with since I grew up playing so close to the coast.

As of right now I'm a 12 handicap. The lowest I ever reached was 8 (age 15), and I've been fighting this year to get back to that spot. It's in there somewhere, it just hasn't quite come together all at once yet.

I enjoy tough courses and being strategic in the way I play golf. I try my best to play the game analytically instead of impulsively and I feel this is part of the reason I've been able to hit the ground running since returning back to the sport. I also love data (nerd - I know). GIR %, FIR%, SG, etc. I hope my love for the statistical side of the game shines through in my review.

 

 About The Brand & Product

Now, onto ShotScope and the Pro ZR.

My knowledge of ShotScope as a company is fairly comprehensive, but my experience with their products is zero. Any forum members familiar with my posts previously will be aware of my desire for a new rangefinder having not long had my Bushnell Tour V3 finally give up on me after many years of service.

A forum member, who coincidentally will also be testing the ShotScope Pro ZR, advised me of his experience with, and subsequent admiration of, the Shotscope V5 GPS watch + shot tracking tags. His name is @Off Map Oscar and his personal thoughts on the V5 line were enough for me to add it to my shopping list. Be sure to check out his review in this thread, as well as the other reviews conducted by my fellow testers as I'm sure their insight will be invaluable to your final decisions on the product.

After reading so many fantastic reviews about the V5 watch line, the Pro ZR has big shoes to fill. I’m expecting big things, and I'm very excited to have been chosen for testing! 

So with that being said, my plans for the test are as follows.

I will test the ShotScope Pro ZR in as many different environments as I possibly can, but I want my testing to be primarily on-course based as I think this is: 

a). Where most of you will plan to utilise this product the most should you buy it.

b). The most efficient way to gather data relevant to the product and its functionality.

Additionally, if anyone has anything specific that they would like to see tested, please don’t hesitate to ask and I will be happy to sort it for you.

The questions I am looking to answer in this test are:

1). How does the ShotScope Pro ZR compare to a golf GPS application or watch?

2). Does the “rapid-fire detection” and “target-lock vibration" make the product easier to use than others on the market?

3). Is the “DuraShield” shell as durable as ShotScope claims?

4). How does the Shotscope Pro ZR perform in poor lighting conditions?

5). Does the range really extend to 1,500 yards?

6). How strong is the cart magnet?

7). How clear and legible is the LCD display?

8). Is the anti-slip rubber grip comfortable in the hand and functional?

9). What do other golfers think of the looks, feel, usability and performance?

10). Is this product a guaranteed bag-maker, or would I consider other options?

11). If I could make one change to this product, what would it be, and why?

I am really looking forward to testing the ShotScope Pro ZR for MyGolfSpy & ShotScope, and I hope that the results and data I collect will be of use to all of you. If any of you have any questions regarding me or my background, the product itself or any requests for how I test moving forward, just let me know. 

 

 Unboxing, First Impressions & Aesthetics

[19/20]

Having received my package from ShotScope, all I can say is I am initially very impressed. I'm kind of combining two sections into one here, but my first impressions and the general aesthetics of the Pro ZR are quite closely correlated. For this reason I have marked this section out of 20.

For starters, the unexpected touch of a note from ShotScope addressed to me personally stating the importance of consumer testing and the features that the company are so passionate about was very much appreciated. This type of stuff doesn't go unnoticed. Also contained in the box I received from ShotScope was:

• ShotScope Pro ZR Laser Rangefinder 
• Rugged & Water Resistant ShotScope Carry-Case
• Carry-Case Bag Clip
• ShotScope Cleaning Cloth
• CR2-3V Battery
• User Manual/Handbook & General Information Literature

With regards to my initial thoughts about the product, it is all so far positive.

Firstly, the Pro ZR is well built. There are no squeaky, loose or flimsy parts or materials used anywhere in its construction. In fact, the rangefinder in-hand somewhat mirrors its carry-case. It feels rugged, durable & dependable.

The colour scheme is sleek, sophisticated and professional, and there are no unnecessary or annoying features like other models I have had on rangefinders in the past. The buttons are simple and easy to use. They feel extremely durable and like they're built to last a lifetime. The Pro ZR also has a nice weight to it. Not heavy, but premium.

The sight-adjuster is also very high-quality. Its not stiff and difficult to adjust but by the same token it doesn't move unless I adjust it, reassuring me that my personal settings wont have changed every time I pull it out of the case. Having said that, it is a bit fiddly to use when the rangefinder is pushed up against your eye, but i'm not sure how much ShotScope could do about this anyway.

The Pro ZR has three buttons on the top. I have added a diagram below to explain the features of each button:

From the very limited initial test-runs I have done so far, the Pro ZR's rapid-fire technology seems to live up to its name. Distances, slope and angles are available in under a second and the vibration when the flag is detected is enough to notify the user that the target has been identified, but isn't over-bearing or too strong.

The only negative I have from my first hands-on look of the ShotScope Pro ZR is the chrome finish that encases the lens of the laser.

The material used is metal and very high quality, so no issues there. However, chrome is a notorious fingerprint magnet and this is no different. It's not a functionality issue, just an aesthetic one. I also feel like this material will not wear as well as the rest of the rangefinder over time as this area of the product will likely be more prone to scratches and will show evidence of wear and tear more quickly, but I think i'm just being picky now.

  

Overall, I think the ShotScope has passed this part of the test with flying colours. Fundamentally, the ShotScope Pro ZR is off to a very strong start. I'm very impressed and looking forward to conducting this test. Now it's time to see what it can do out on the course over the coming weeks.

 

 Gallery

      

      

      

      

      

      

 

 The Numbers

[18/20]

Setup: Setting up the Pro ZR is very straightforward. Instructions are included within the box, but if you have used a rangefinder before you will have no issues with the setup. If you haven’t used a rangefinder before, or you just want to ensure that your setup of the Pro ZR is correct, then the instruction manual is clear and easy to read. The manual includes:

1. A description of the device, its features and the functionality of the buttons
2. A list of the LCD display information available to the user in both M1 & M2
3. Instructions regarding powering the device on and adjusting the focus
4. A description of the modes and display settings and how to change between the two
5. Other information, such as: the cart magnet, enhanced target lock, warranty & legal info, product care & safety, technical data, what's in the box, slope & battery information

At no point did I have to do any research into the product during the setup process. Setting up the Pro ZR is seamless.

Accuracy: The yardages are accurate, and the speed they’re delivered to the user is really fast. The Pro ZR responds quickly when shooting a target and there are no variations of yardages. (If the ShotScope says the flag is 152.6y away, re-shooting from the same location will always show 152.6y). I will however say that shooting the correct target isn’t as easy as I had initially imagined. Maybe it's just me, but I find it very difficult to stabilise the ShotScope over longer yardages (150y+). It’s quite common to initially shoot the objects/hazards behind the green instead of the flag or intended target. I’ll touch on this later in the review.

Battery: This is somewhat of an “I don’t know” metric. The battery life of the ShotScope has so far lasted 6 rounds which is a positive start. However, the battery warning light came on immediately after installing it which was obviously a concern. I’m holding out for the battery to finally give up out of curiosity more than anything, but a set of 2 on Amazon is under £5, so it's not a big issue one way or the other.

Metrics Displayed: I will keep this brief because it's simple. All of the metrics displayed on the ShotScope are useful, and even if you disagree and prefer a more basic layout (yardages only), this can easily be adjusted and additional metrics can be switched off with the click of a button or by simply sliding the “slope” trigger.

 

 On-Course

[20/20]

Using the Pro ZR on course was instinctive. One of the things I most enjoyed about it was how easily it integrated into my golf game. The fact that the ShotScope wasn’t intrusive in terms of interrupting or slowing down my play is a big positive.

One of the somewhat harder to measure factors I would like to mention regarding my on-course use was quite simply… I liked using it! The ShotScope is a pleasure to use. It gives you the data you need, nothing more, nothing less. I felt good using it, and my confidence grew every time I pulled it out knowing I had reliable yardages to any and every target & hazard on the course with the click of a button. It does everything well, and whilst I do feel there is room for improvement there are no definitive weak spots in its performance.

I said at the beginning of this review that I had previously used a Bushnell Tour V3. I think it's important to mention that my experience with the ShotScope has been better than that of the Bushnell in almost every area. I think the display of the ShotScope is more intuitive, the quality of the materials used are better than that of the Tour V3, the overall design is sleeker and more attractive, and I think the general performance and speed is a vast improvement on models I have used in the past. The one area I can't comment on (yet), is durability. My Tour V3 lasted many years of poor weather, accidents, drops, and general wear and tear. It's not possible for me to yet comment on the Pro ZR’s durability, but initial signs so far point to no future issues.

Overall, I think my game has shown signs of improvement since putting the ShotScope in the bag. I spoke earlier about confidence, and the Pro ZR inspires just that. I’m really looking forward to integrating the Pro ZR and the ShotScope app into my game more and more as time goes on and I do think that I will see exponential benefits in the long run.

 

 The Good, The Bad & The Inbetween

[15/20]

The Good: The ShotScope Pro ZR boasts many positive features and general benefits over its competitors.

 - Setup: Setting up the ShotScope was very easy. The buttons are simple to use and understand and the ShotScope has no unnecessary or clunky features. If you gave the Pro ZR to someone who had never used a rangefinder before I am confident they could work out what it is used for and how to use it with no instructions or advice.

 - Build Quality: The build quality of the Pro ZR is fantastic. Its construction feels very robust and durable. Every material on the ShotScope is sturdy, fit for purpose, high quality and aesthetically pleasing. There are no loose, squeaky or cheap parts anywhere throughout its construction which is refreshing to see. It is clear that ShotScope takes their quality control seriously which is very positive. I haven’t dropped the rangefinder yet, but I undoubtedly will and I have got no concerns about breaking or severely damaging the product. I think the Pro ZR will age well and stand the test of time given the experience I have had so far.

 - Cart Magnet: Not too much to say here other than the cart magnet is superb. The magnet is built into the side of the device seamlessly which makes it appear as though it isn’t even there, but it covers a large portion of the inside of the rangefinder meaning it is strong and easy to attach to the cart. Even on bumpy paths the Pro ZR was going nowhere. Very impressed.

 - Hard Shell Case: The hard shell case is, like the rest of the device, very well built. It is nice to see that the guys at ShotScope haven’t fallen into the trap of cutting corners for the sake of profit by offering a sub-par accessory with a premium product. The case is well built and made of high quality materials and leaves me in no doubt that my rangefinder is well protected.

 - Simplicity of Use: The Pro ZR is incredibly simple to use. Buttons and functions are minimal which some may consider a drawback, but I would have to completely disagree. The ShotScope has one job - give me the yardage. It does that job impeccably, especially for its extremely competitive price tag. I’m glad ShotScope haven’t tried to overcomplicate the Pro ZR with unnecessary features and gimmicks which would inevitably detract from its primary performance.

 - LCD Display: Relating to the point above the LCD display is very clear. The data on the display is relatively customisable depending on what you want to see (can be changed via mode 1 & mode 2), and is easy to read in both high and low lighting.

The Bad: Unfortunately, as with any product, there are some drawbacks to the ShotScope Pro ZR.

 - Battery: The first issue I encountered was expected poor battery life. Now, I think it would be fair to mention that ShotScope includes their own battery with the Pro ZR so I don’t want to be too harsh here as simply buying a new battery from Amazon is cheap and no hassle. Having said that, after installing the battery and using the Pro ZR at the driving range for a few hours (just general testing of the different modes and features), the battery warning light was on by the time I had finished and was starting my first round (this was approximately 3 or 4 hours worth of somewhat regular use). This hasn’t actually been a big issue as I have now played a total of 6 rounds with the ShotScope and the device is still going strong, but it does make you feel like you're somewhat living on your nerves and waiting for it to inevitably die, which isn’t ideal when this is a device you hope to rely on throughout 18 holes.

 - Chrome Bezel/Encasing: One of the more pressing issues I have encountered using the ShotScope is relating to the chrome encasing around the lens at the front of the device. I mentioned earlier in this review that I felt as though this would be a “fingerprint magnet” and more likely to scratch than other areas of the product. 

Whilst that hasn’t been as much of an issue as I first anticipated, shooting into/against lower sunlight has been. 

When shooting a flag that is “into the sun” (the sun is low and behind the flag/low and visible down the scope), the ShotScope does seem to struggle. The results you get in regards to yardages seem to be a little bit sporadic and often unpredictable, and this is coupled with a hazy/foggy view down the lens. It’s hard to explain what this is like, but myself and the other testers believe this could be a result of the chrome on the front of the device reflecting the sun against/back down the lens. Imagine someone reflecting the sunlight off of a mirrored surface towards your eyes - Whilst the reflection issue isn’t as severe as that, that is the general effect you experience when shooting into low sun. It is very difficult to put this issue down to anything specific, but I feel like this is more than likely an issue with the chrome finish than with the lens. It isn’t a deal breaker because as I will discuss shortly there is somewhat of a resolution for this, but it’s worth a mention.

 - Long Range Targets: Another issue I have encountered is relating to the ability to shoot the intended target. When shooting a target from under 150y the ShotScope kills it every time. It’s fast in its ability to pick out the intended target and the display is clear and easy to read. However, longer distances can be tough to shoot. 

Many times when testing the Pro ZR I ended up receiving the yardage to the trees (long of the green) rather than the flag itself. I found an easy fix to this, which was to shoot the distance to the trees or hazard behind the green first when shooting a flag from over 150y away. If you do this first you know what the distance long of the green is before you try and shoot the flag and can then compare this number to your “flag” result to see if it makes sense. Again, I don’t want to be too harsh on ShotScope here. If this was a rangefinder priced in the £450.00+ area this would definitely be a more pressing issue, but I think it's completely acceptable for the Pro ZR to have such limitations given the £299.99 price point it comes in at.

 - Scratching: I have saved the worst until last because I do think the following is unacceptable at any price point. Whilst this issue doesn’t affect the functionality of the product it is still a little bit frustrating. Since the start of this review I have talked-up the durability and build quality of the ShotScope. I am still standing by that opinion, but I have noticed the following had occurred after finishing my first round.

For those who can’t quite see what I'm talking about, it appears the “slope” trigger has started to scratch the orange paint off of the rangefinder. This isn’t really a big deal, but it is slightly concerning for this to have occurred after just one round and it has definitely made me question the ShotScope’s durability over the near and more distant future. As I use the product more and more I will post regular updates regarding this and issues similar to this should they occur.

The Inbetween: Some of the Pro ZR features discussed by ShotScope I feel indifferent to.

 - Dual Optics: One of the features marketed by ShotScope that I feel somewhat indifferent to is the dual optics. The ShotScope has the ability to interchange between red & black optics depending on the lighting conditions making the display easier to read as needed. To be honest, I don’t know how beneficial this feature is. Its certainly nice to have the option and I'm yet to make up my mind whether I prefer the black or red display, but having used both in good and poor lighting conditions I don’t see one as more beneficial than the other.

 

 Play it, or Trade it?

[19/20]

So, will I be playing the ShotScope moving forward?

Yes. Absolutely. I’m really pleased with the Pro ZR’s performance and I think my golf game has been positively influenced because of it. I enjoy using the ShotScope, and coming in at under £300 I think the pricing is very competitive given the performance it has to offer. If I was in the market for a rangefinder under £300 I think the Pro ZR would be top of my list - or very close to it.

If you’re a golfer looking for a high quality, somewhat budget friendly rangefinder that ticks every box relating to performance, build quality and style factor, then look no further. Are there flashier gadgets on the market with bigger marketing schemes, extra features and more bells and whistles? Yes. Are those products going to make me a better golfer, or make me enjoy the game more than the ShotScope does? I don’t think so. I’ve said it many times already but it is worth saying again; the Pro ZR performs well where it needs to. It is almost comparable to the position a Toyota holds in the car market. Reliable, well built, solid all-rounder that you truly feel won’t let you down. I’m really looking forward to using the ShotScope long term and I don’t think I would consider another option at this price point.

To summarise this section I think the ShotScope Pro ZR is a great choice for a golfer of any level or experience. I don't think the device leaves much to be desired in terms of performance, and I think the metrics available to the user are going to be easy to understand, regardless of how "tech-savvy" you are. If I was playing for money i'd be happy to use the Pro ZR to give me the best chances of winning my match, and i'd be confident in its ability to deliver consistent and reliable results.

 Final Score 

91/100 

 Conclusion (TLDR)

I have played a total of 126 holes with the ShotScope Pro ZR, and I'm delighted to say that I am very impressed. This is a high quality, well-built, easy to use rangefinder that will no doubt appeal to the masses. Whether you’re a novice golfer looking to take your game to the next level, or a seasoned veteran seeking an upgrade, the Pro ZR is worth a second look. 

The retail price of the ShotScope is £299.00 in the UK - very competitive given the performance on offer from a young blooded, hungry brand constantly striving for improvement and looking to take over the world of golf technology.

The ShotScope has its issues and there's no denying that, and to learn more about these issues you should check out my “good, bad & inbetween” section posted above. But even so, this is a strong performer in a field of big-money brands and aggressive marketing, and I must admire ShotScopes ability to carve out a path for the Pro ZR in such circumstances. To summarise: looking for a rangefinder under £300? Look no further.

To finish, I thought I'd give some answers to the questions I listed in my “about the brand” section. Hopefully this will give you all a better insight as to whether this is the right product for you.

1. How does the ShotScope Pro ZR compare to a golf GPS application or watch? With regards to comparison between applications and rangefinders, both have their pros and cons. If you’re flag hunting, then the ShotScope Pro ZR will blow a golf GPS application out of the water. With regards to hazards, cover numbers and carry distances a user may find an app to be more effective in these areas. The perfect combination, at least in my opinion, would be one combining the ShotScope Pro ZR rangefinder for pin yardages with the free ShotScope app (which can be downloaded on the app store and used free of charge) for course management related distances.
2. Does the “rapid-fire detection” and “target-lock vibration" make the product easier to use than others on the market? Yes. The Pro ZR is quick to react to pins and subtly alerts you when you’ve done so. Just make sure you’re shooting the pin, and not the trees in the background.
3. Is the “DuraShield” shell as durable as ShotScope claims? Hard to say at this stage of testing, but the ShotScope has thrown up no major durability issues so far. I’m confident the device will hold up over time from my initial impressions.
4. How does the Shotscope Pro ZR perform in poor lighting conditions? The Pro ZR performs well in poor lighting conditions and has the ability to switch from a standard black LED display to red LED display with the push of a button to make life easier for you. I’m not yet convinced that one is easier than the other, but it’s a nice feature to have when your visibility is poor and you need your distances.
5. Does the range really extend to 1,500 yards? I believe so. I tested this quite a lot early on and could only find a target 800 yards away. The Pro ZR had no added delay when shooting such a distance - in fact, it was just as quick as shooting a pin from 90y away.
6. How strong is the cart magnet? Very. I was really impressed with not only how strong the cart magnet was, but how nicely ShotScope managed to integrate it into the product. 10/10 from me on this one - the Pro ZR is going nowhere.
7. How clear and legible is the LCD display? I couldn’t be happier with the LCD display. The rangefinder has a large range of focus settings designed for every player, and the data displayed on screen is clearly presented and easy to read.
8. Is the anti-slip rubber grip comfortable in the hand and functional? Yes. At no point have I felt as though the Pro ZR will slip out of my hand, nor have I dropped it. The rubber grip is comfortable in-hand, but it also feels durable and high quality.
9. What do other golfers think of the looks, feel, usability and performance? I spoke at length with my brother and dad about the Pro ZR. Both agreed that this is a fantastic product at a great price. My brother loved the way the ShotScope looked and was very impressed with how easy it was to use, and my dad explained to me that he would not hesitate to put one in play himself if I did not already own one that he could steal when I'm not looking! The reactions I got from other golfers regarding the ShotScope Pro ZR were consistently positive.
10. Is this product a guaranteed bag-maker, or would I consider other options? Simply, yes. The Pro ZR is a guaranteed bag maker and no, I wouldn’t consider any other options in this area. The Pro ZR does exactly what I need reliably and accurately. What more could I ask for?

Thank you for taking the time to read my review. If you have any questions regarding the ShotScope Pro ZR, please feel free to contact me in this thread and/or direct message me. I will try to get back to you as soon as I can and I would be more than happy to test anything I may not have mentioned. Once again, thank you to My Golf Spy and ShotScope for the opportunity, and I wish you all the best of luck out there on the course!

Edited September 29 by Gravenor

[sirchunksalot]

Congratulations testers! 

[TJ Hall]

Congratulations testers!

[KC Golf]

Congrats Testers!  

[poprocksncoke]

Congrats testers!!  

[Shankster]

Congratulations ya’ll.  I really need to get myself one of these someday.

[Shrek74]

17 hours ago, GolfSpy_APH said:

Please welcome and congratulate our testers!

@MattF 

@Off Map Oscar 

@Gravenor 

@Jawmusique

Congrats testers! Look forward to hearing how the new Shot Scope operates. Good luck!

[RickM71]

Congrats to the testers. I'll be following this one for sure. 

[Off Map Oscar]

Thanks everyone.  I posted my intro above. I have some ideas on how to go about this review but would absolutely love to hear what others want to see!

[Off Map Oscar]

I'll be comparing the ZR to these two range finders. The nikon was released in 2014 and is still a solid performing optic. It does have an angle mode but it's not the same as slope. More of a ballistic angle that is essential useless for golf. 

The other one is a no name brand from Amazon that I picked up just to see if my guesses were accurate on how much angle there was and how much it affected distance. It's cheap and does the job but can absolutely be better. 

[Off Map Oscar]

Couple teaser shots

[Off Map Oscar]

Added my unboxing photos to my original post. Can't wait to get this thing out on course this afternoon 

[Off Map Oscar]

[Willie T]

On 9/10/2024 at 4:13 AM, GolfSpy_APH said:

The Shot Scope PRO ZR is a golf rangefinder built to deliver precise distance measurements, helping golfers make more informed decisions on the course. It features advanced technologies like Adaptive Slope, which adjusts for elevation changes, and Target-Lock Vibration, which ensures you’re locked onto your target. The rangefinder also boasts a high-quality optic lens for clear visuals and a dual-display system that allows you to toggle between black and red displays based on lighting conditions. Whether you're navigating a hilly course or shooting for a precise distance, the PRO ZR aims to provide accuracy and confidence with every shot.

Key Features:

Adaptive Slope Technology: Automatically adjusts yardages based on elevation changes, giving you the most accurate distance possible.

Target-Lock Vibration: Provides a reassuring vibration when you’ve successfully locked onto your target, so you know you have the right distance.

Precision Optic Lens: Offers clear and sharp visuals, making it easy to focus on the target, even at longer distances.

Dual Display: Switch between black and red displays depending on the lighting conditions, ensuring optimal visibility at all times.

Water-Resistant Construction: Built to withstand the elements, the PRO ZR is designed for durability, allowing you to use it in various weather conditions without worry.

Please welcome and congratulate our testers!

@MattF 

@Off Map Oscar 

@Gravenor 

@Jawmusique

Alrighty dighty it’s time for the  testing crew (awesome big congrats by the way) to line ‘em up and hit them in the cup from the fairways as the Shot Scope dials in the pin!  Have fun testing!  

[MattWillGolf]

Congratulations Testers! It appears this test is off to a fast start!

[dlm]

Have fun and congrats test folks

[Havocguns]

Congrats to those selected!

[Rico_de_Gallo]

congrats guys ... will be curious about the value at the given price point compared to others in the market.

[josmi15]

congratulations on those selected.  looking into getting a new Range Finder, so i'm looking forward to all of these reviews, to see if this is the one for me.

[GolferXY]

I see better golf in your future, testers! Congrats to the chosen, may the course be with you!

[Glenmore5]

Congrats to testers....

[Rob Person]

Awesome intros !  

Couple of questions lurking in my mind already.

Lens clarity, ease of adjustment for focusing with or without glasses/sunglasses, screen layout and marking designations simple?

[Bohnson]

Congrats testers, SS makes a great product! The website is great too. Love using their strategy tab to plan my rounds of golf. 

[Off Map Oscar]

2 hours ago, Rob Person said:

Awesome intros !  

Couple of questions lurking in my mind already.

Lens clarity, ease of adjustment for focusing with or without glasses/sunglasses, screen layout and marking designations simple?

I'm a single round in currently so I'm not gonna make any claims till I have a few more rounds to truly know the product.  

Thus far I believe the lens clarity is good. I haven't played in low light yet and that will be the real test. Focus ring adjusts well. I have used it with and without glasses and was able to adjust the ring with my index finger with it up to my eye easy enough but the ring does have some resistance so I'm not worried about handling and riding in it's bag changing it. 

One thing I noticed right away compared to my comparison rangefinders is the bold text and layout is much easier to read than the other two. More detailed information to follow after a few more rounds but currently on those topics things seem good. 

[Off Map Oscar]

Today was a great day. My usual playing partner and I did 18 in a cart together instead of using the scooters. This meant we were together for almost every shot and we're using range finder for every approach shot. I used the ZR for the front 9 and he used the Amazon special. On the back 9 we switched. He and I both came away with strong opinions of each range finder which I will include with my review. 

 

One think I want to ask my fellow reviewers. Please use your ZR into the sun and let me know what you experience. My round ended at about 615 today and the last few holes were into the sun. I don't want to taint your perspective so I won't say what I experienced but I'm curious if you notice anything not necessarily unusual but different than shots not with the sun in the background.  

Edited September 15 by Off Map Oscar

[Off Map Oscar]

I hadn't even looked at scores till just now. I can smell that even par thru 9. I want it soooo bad.