Leupold GX-1i3 Rangefinder Review

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The Leupold GX-1i3 rangefinder is light, compact, and easy to use.  Leupold’s entry-level laser at $300.

Introduction

Over the past two years, the market for basic rangefinders has become extremely competitive.  With newcomers like Precision Pro and TecTecTec, golfers have options outside the big names of Leupold and Bushnell.  To maintain their position, Leupold has redesigned their entry-level rangefinder, the GX-1i3.

Setup & Ease of Use

The basic functionality of the GX-1i3 is the same as any other modern laser: power it up with a push of the button, push it again for your yardage.

Leupold’s upper tier rangefinders have a world of menus, but the GX-1i3 keeps things scaled down.  You can turn Fog Mode on and off, switch between yards and meters, choose from 7 aiming reticles, and activate a beep for the Prism Lock.

The Leupold GX-1i3 weighs a mere 7 ounces, and it’s very compact.  It’s actually a little smaller than I’d like (for reference, my hands are just shy of 8″ from my wrist to the tip of my middle finger), but I can appreciate the size when it comes to packing it in the bag.

Accuracy & Performance

As you would expect from Leupold, the optics are great – it features 6X zoom.  The rangefinder is also lightning fast and accurate.

Two of the ways in which Leupold separates its GX-1i3 from other lower priced rangefinders are with Prism Lock and Pin Hunter 3 technology.  For those not familiar with rangefinder jargon, Prism Lock refers to the laser’s ability to lock in on flagsticks that are equipped with reflecting prisms (many courses have these).  This feature works perfectly on the GX-1i3, and a small lock icon appears to let you know when it’s engaged.  Even more impressive is the Pin Hunter 3 anti-shake technology.  Shaky hands are the number one concern I hear from prospective buyers.  Leupold’s lasers minimize the effects of shaking as well, and usually better, than any other rangefinder on the market.

The distance is displayed in the upper half of the viewfinder on the GX-1i3.  It’s not as high as on some other rangefinders, but I would prefer it to be more centered.  I think that this preference is related to how I hold the laser to my eye and that I always wear sunglasses.  I would strongly suggest checking out some rangefinders in person before plunking down your money so you can find one that matches your preferences.

Value

The Leupold GX-1i3 retails for $300 (support PluggedInGolf, buy it HERE).  The functionality of the GX-1i3 is similar to many of the budget priced lasers.   It separates itself with refinement – faster, better display, and better in-hand feel – and advanced anti-shake technology.

Conclusion

If you’re in the market for a rangefinder with basic functionality that’s well executed, the Leupold GX-1i3 rangefinder is for you.  Leupold’s optics, speed, and accuracy continue to be at the top of the game.

Buy the Leupold GX-1i3 Rangefinder HERE

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Matt Saternus

Editor In Chief at Plugged In Golf

Matt has worked in nearly every job in the golf industry from club fitting to instruction to writing and speaking.

He founded Plugged In Golf in 2013 with the goal of helping all golfers play better and enjoy the game more.

Matt lives in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with his wife and two daughters.

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