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How does the Cigman CT-1000 Golf rangefinder measure up? Read on to find out
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-1000 Golf rangefinder is new for this year so let’s take a further look.
The CT-1000 golf rangefinder came in a smart black box containing a robust 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-1000 looked smart and stylish in dark grey and black. It weighs 209 gms and is compact in size. It is a predominantly metal construction with some well-placed rubber which gives a comfortable and ergonomic hold.
The Cigman CT-1000 offers all the features that we have come to expect from a rangefinder, and more.
There is an eyepiece focus adjuster, offering x7 magnification; most competitors offer x6.
The two buttons on top are pretty standard. The first button switches the device on and off, and measures up to a range of 1093 yards!
The second button accesses the various modes and also allows you to switch from yards to metres. There is a slope switch at the side, which needs to be in ‘off’ when playing competitively.
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There is a magnetic mounting on the right side of the rangefinder which may be useful for those who prefer to travel by golf cart, and the device is designated as IP54 waterproof which means that it will resist splashes but not prolonged immersion.
The CT-1000 comes with a well-designed and robust waterproof carrying case in black which comes with a zip or elastic closure and 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 up to 350 yards which is pretty incredible.
I have to say that I found the wealth of mode options somewhat distracting. There are 5 modes in all, including ‘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 think Bernhard Langer would approve of the CT-1000 because for every yardage up to 200 yards, the distance is given to 1/10th of a yard. But for me, whether the distance is 156.5 yards or 156.6 yards makes no difference.
There is a mode offering vertical and horizontal distance, which must be for other outdoor activities.
Lastly there is a speed measurement mode which I assume is for hunters, 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.
NCG Final Verdict
Laser rangefinders are, or certainly should be, straightforward to use.
For me, the Cigman rangefinder CT-1000 is not as intuitive as some competitors, but offers lots of modes, an incredible range and locks on quickly and accurately.
I wasn’t completely sold on the rather busy information on the screen but when you see that this bit of kit is budget friendly – available for under £100/$100 and at reduced rates using discount codes – then I think it is a rangefinder that merits serious consideration.
Jonathan also known as JT, is one of the biggest golf nuts on the NCG team.
He has quickly become a go-to for expertise on golf shoes and technical apparel. In fact he may have a different pair of shoes and a new waterproof jacket for every club medal he plays in.
He previously worked as a GP, which means he likes to get into the details of things, such as weighing golf shoes with his kitchen scales.
Jonathan is a member at Alwoodley Golf Club and regularly gets out on the golf course to maintain his handicap of five.
