Range Finders?

[alexlax12]

Every two years the USGA comes out with "The Rules of Golf" and they have made additions to the 2006-2007 edition including rules governing the use of rangefinders. However I can't seem to find what the actual changes are. I'm aware that Professionals are permitted to use them during practice rounds but what about everyone else? Are there restrictions on when or what kind of rangefinders you can use? Also, if you have extensive knowledge, are they allowed in local tournament/competitive play, or in my case, High School Matches? Any help is greatly appreciated.

[kugino]

i don't have the actual rules with me (you can find them on the web-just google) but yes, they are now approved for tournament play by the USGA. the caveat is that the tournament has to actually approve it for play...so, it's a tournament by tournament decision as to whether they'll allow it. i doubt they'll approve it for play in pga, lpga, etc. tournaments, but i can see a lot of smaller local tournaments allowing it. for your high school, you'll have to check with your local district athletic association to see whether they've approved its use.

[kklick]

Here is the rule.

14-3/0.5 Local Rule Permitting Use of Distance-Measuring Device Q. May a Committee, by Local Rule, permit the use of distance-measuring devices? A. Yes. A Committee may establish a Local Rule allowing players to use devices that measure distance only. However, the use of devices that gauge or measure other conditions that might affect a player’s play (e.g., wind or gradient) is not permitted. In the absence of such a Local Rule, the use of a distance-measuring device would be contrary to Rule 14-3. (New)

[alexlax12]

Thanks guys!