Compared a few different models at the store, including the Bushnell Sport, Scout, 500, and some Nikons. Purchased a Bushnell 500, and it works great. Thanks for the recommendations everyone.

Tip for measuring: Get a pair of two-way radios (walky talkies), have your buddy stand on the proposed tee spot, and shoot back at him. For dense areas, have him carry an umbrella and hold it up. For very dense areas, tape a long stick on the handle of the umbrella then have him hold it way high up (then jump in the car and drive away /msgboard/images/clipart/happy.gif ). Use the radio to tell him to hold the umbrella higher, move left, right, whatever. The radio is helpful to relay the distance and have him write it down while you walk to the next basket placement.

I was surprised that our "566" monster shot is actually 666!

Anybody use, or consider using, a GPS unit instead of a range finder?

Without differential correction GPS units aren't going to be very accurate. You are better off counting strides.

this topics lame

I disagree I think there is nothing wrong with this topic :)

I would recommend a GPS unit in heavy woods just to get a general idea of hole lengths (often far removed from early estimates) where range finders are not feasible. Once the fairways are cleared, I would want a range finder measurement instead.

I've got a pair of GPS units and side by side, they will show that they are 30-40 feet apart.