The mere mortals among us who slap it around a golf course while looking for some idea as to how far we need to hit a shot to the green have embraced the use of distance-measuring device for years.
Golf's governing bodies made them legal back in 2014, which meant those who wanted to adhere to the letter of the law could use range finders, post scores for handicaps and play with them in various amateur events.
But a local rule was also attached, allowing any tournament committee to ban their use in that competition. Hence, they've never been allowed on the various professional tours and at the major championships.