Vortex Optics has been a dominant force in the hunting and outdoor optics industry, specializing in high-end scopes, sights, binoculars and rangefinders. In 2024, they launched a line of rangefinders specifically designed for the golfer. Featuring three models with varying price points and features, paired with their unconditional lifetime warranty, have they established themselves as a major player in another sporting category?
Their golf rangefinder line consists of three models: Blade, Blade Slope and Anarch. The Blade is the base version and includes a cart magnet and pin-spotter mode. The Blade Slope builds on those features by adding a slope function. The Anarch, their premium model, adds a red display and image stabilization. All models are tournament legal, shockproof and waterproof.
Four members of the MyGolfSpy Forum were selected to put the Vortex line of rangefinders through rigorous testing. Read on to see what they have to say and if Vortex deserves consideration when you’re shopping for an upgrade.
Vortex rangefinder testing highlights
Optics Quality: Testers raved about the crystal-clear optics throughout the line of rangefinders. 6X zoom made it easy to locate targets and Anarch testers noted that the image-stabilization feature made it easy to lock on to both pins and hazards on-course.Build and Durability: Testers noted how well-constructed the full line of rangefinders were, saying they felt heavy in terms of build quality, not excessively bulky. They fit well in hand, had a premium feel and the “Magnesium Chassis with Comfort Guard” helped with keeping a secure grip in all conditions.A Personal Touch: Testers all received a hand-written letter from the Vortex team along with Vortex’s “Flight Pack” accessory kit, including tees, ball markers, branded golf balls, a hat and towel. They loved the personal touch this brought to their testing experience.Accurate Yardage: When it comes to club selection, accuracy cannot be compromised. All Vortex models were second-to-none with all testers comparing these rangefinders to other major competitors. Differences as large as eight yards were noted, which can lead to pulling the wrong club.
Initial thoughts and impressions
Our testers were eager to get underway with the testing of Vortex’s line of rangefinders, with two testers putting the Anarch through its paces and one tester working with the Blade and Blade Slope, respectively. Initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive.
Hosel_Rockets was impressed with the lengths Vortex went to, saying, “they went above and beyond to make me feel like part of the Vortex team. Along with the rangefinder, they also sent over an extra box filled with goodies, including a hat, divot tools, tees, golf balls, a towel, and two separate hand-written notes.”
