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If you are after a golf rangefinder for under £100/$100 this Cigman CT-1200Pro model is worthy of consideration
Golf distance measuring devices (or DMDs) were first used in 1995 with the introduction of laser technology. GPS devices arrived about five years later. And nowadays it seems that just about every golfer has one or both of these devices.
Cigman is relatively new to the market, producing a range of measuring instruments for use in surveying, construction and other outdoor pursuits as well as golf.
Their CT-1200Pro Golf rangefinder offers some novel features so let’s take a further look.
The CT-1200Pro Golf rangefinder arrived in a smart black box containing a robust zip-closure carrying case (complete with a carabiner clip), rangefinder, instruction booklet, cleaning cloth and charging cable.
This laser has a rechargeable battery, which, when fully charged, is apparently good for 20,000 actuations. And there is a battery icon on the screen, so as long as you pay attention, you won’t run out of juice at a critical stage in your round.
Out of the box, the CT-1200Pro was noticeable for its compact size. It weighs just 144 gms (equivalent to 3 golf balls). There is also a large colour screen on the left side from where you can alter modes and view data. It is a predominantly plastic construction with some well-placed rubber which provides a reasonably comfortable and ergonomic hold.
Cigman has become renowned for offering loads of modes and the CT-1200Pro is no exception.
There is an eyepiece focus adjuster, offering x6 magnification, which is the norm.
The two buttons on top are pretty standard. The first button switches the device on and off, and measures up to a range of 1312 yards! Although you only get flagstick location vibration upto 250 yards, which I’d suggest is fine for most of us
The second button accesses the various modes and also allows you to switch from yards to metres. You can also access the different modes from the screen on the side, and once I’d got the hang of things, I preferred the latter option.
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The device is designated as IP54 waterproof which means that it will resist splashes but not prolonged immersion. There is no magnetic feature on this model which may be an issue for some, but I can’t say that concerns me.
The CT-1200Pro comes with a well-designed and robust waterproof carrying case in black which offers a choice of zip or elastic closure, and there’s also a carabiner for handy attachment to your bag or trolley.
On course testing
As mentioned already, the Cigman is comfortable to hold, and it quickly locks onto a flagstick when in appropriate mode. It will apparently do this reliably up to 250 yards which is pretty impressive.
I have to say that I found the wealth of mode options rather overwhelming. The ‘Golf’ modes include ‘flagstick’ mode and a ‘continuous scanning’ option; the latter being useful when trying to determine the best aim on a tree lined dogleg, for example.
I remember writing that Bernhard Langer would approve of a previous Cigman rangefinder because for every yardage up to 200 yards, the distance was given to 1/10th of a yard. The latest model just offers this level of accuracy up to 100 yards which I think is more sensible.
There is a mode offering vertical and horizontal distance, which must be for other outdoor activities, such as hiking.
Lastly there is a speed measurement mode which I assume is for hunters (Brian Harmon – take note), but of course, you could use it to quantify just how slowly that fourball in front is actually travelling.
The screen detailing is in black and initially it all feels rather busy, but as with most things, you get used to it quickly enough. The on/off slope function (I’m generally not a fan) works simply, giving both straight line and adjusted distance.
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Where the CT-1200Pro really shines is the side display from where you can adjust modes and view distances, and I think this is the standout feature of this device.
NCG Final Verdict
Laser rangefinders should be straightforward to use.
For me, the Cigman CT-1200Pro is not quite as intuitive as some competitors, but offers lots of modes, an incredible range and locks on quickly and accurately. And the side display is a really positive feature.
I am unconvinced by the rather busy information on the screen but when you see that this bit of kit is budget friendly – available for under £90/$100, and at reduced rates using discount codes (15% off code: NCG15 / 20/25% off at Amazon – see below) – then I think it is a rangefinder that merits serious consideration.
