Nikon Coolshot 40

We review the latest Nikon laser rangefinder legal for use in club competitions

Nikon COOLSHOT 40
Nikon COOLSHOT 40
Golf Monthly Verdict

Good value for money here when you consider the range and level of detail. There’s little need to adjust the eyepiece to focus on shots of different lengths and the speed at which distances are displayed via the Hyper Read technology means there are no pace of play issues.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    A clear display with battery meter will be well recieved, as will the speed at which the accurate distances are displayed.

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Such long distances displayed to the nearest half a yard seems unnecessary. The carry case is a little basic.

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Golf Monthly's Nikon Coolshot 40 review, a sleek laser rangefinder with multiple functions that help get accurate distances to the flag quickly

Key technology The Coolshot 40, with a maximum range of 650 yards, is legal for use in competitions when an appropriate Local Rule is in place. It has a higher quality finder than previous models, which Nikon says will produce bright, clear images. The First Target Priority Mode picks out a flag on a green from the trees behind it. New Hyper Read technology delivers a very quick yardage display (approximately 0.5 seconds).

GM Review The Coolshot 40 is compact, looks smart and up-to-date and feels solid and well built. The fact that the closest distance will always be displayed during the automatic eight-second scan means you’ve got no issue with picking out the wrong target, as long as you don’t accidentally catch the lip of a bunker.

It fits perfectly in your hand, and has everything you need to receive quick, accurate distances during a competitive round. The built-in battery meter is a welcome addition.

The Coolshot 40 is a worthy rival to the Bushnell Tour V3, and is perfectly suited to both practice and competitive rounds. If you’re looking for a less expensive alternative, the Nikon Coolshot 20 is a superb option for just £179.99.

Joel Tadman
Technical Editor

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.


One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.


Joel's current What's In The Bag? 

Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9° 

Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15° 

Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18° 

Irons: Ping i230 4-UW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind

Putter: Evnroll ER2V 

Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x