Artificial aiming devices, are they worth it?

[John Kavanaugh]

I always thought I would love Oakmont until I took the drone tour, had to bail early, after seeing the aiming poles. Puke. Do they work anywhere? The bigger question is why? If you don't know the course, join it. You will get it soon enough.

[Malcolm Mckinnon]

John,

Yes, the aiming poles do work. All over the UK courses.

Why would you find them a bad thing? Very acceptable on top links golf courses.

Best,

Malcolm

[John Kavanaugh]

I think every member should have a home court advantage. Aiming poles are a crutch for skin flints.

Now with range finders just shoot the pole and subtract the appropriate yardage. Blind holes are the last vestige of indecision. The pole gives those in the know the shaft.

[Malcolm Mckinnon]

Well, in my opinion, the members still have an advantage.


The aiming poles I see are middle of the road, conservative lines off the tee. A member, in the know, may take a more aggressive line.

[John Kavanaugh]

Only a fool or an expert takes an aggressive line. I hope nor dream to be either.

[Tim Gallant]

You'll love the 14th at NB when you come across I'll have them remove the pole for the day and I'll point you in the right direction 

[Jeff Taylor]

A planted tree is better because it is "real"?

[John Kavanaugh]

Trees are better than poles. I would prefer a natural tree to a planted one, and better yet if it is only in the general direction. I think we have all looked down at our ball and misplaced exactly which tree we were aiming at, don't see that happening with a pole.

[Ronald Montesano]

"If you don't know the course, join it."

http://imgur.com/x8fJVIH

[Tim Gavrich]

I've always thought the dartboard above and behind the 9th green at the Cascades was awesome.