Playing a game of golf can be very relaxing and challenging. Part of this challenge is getting the ball to stay on course, which does not happen always. When the ball does fall in difficult places, more often than not, you will need a specially designed golf ball retriever to get the ball out of water bodies, deep holes, bushes, etc.
Today, with this game gaining a lot of recognition and fame, it is not just the Golf Clubs that have many varieties for one to choose from. A variety of golf ball retrievers are also available for one to choose from. Of the many available in the market today, the top five are:
The Best Golf Ball Retriever: 5 Top Choices
Last update on 2022-04-20 PST - Details
Now that you are aware of what to look for and consider while choosing the ball retriever, here is a detailed review of five of the best such golf ball retrievers in the market.
1. Callaway Ball Retriever
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This tastefully designed retriever is not only good to look at but is good to hold and use too. It is comfortable and convenient to use in those tough spots where your ball tends to get stuck.
2. I Gotcha Golf Ball Retriever
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This brand is very well known for its reliable golf ball retrievers due to its usability and light weight. It is easy to use, convenient to carry and does not occupy much space in your kit.
3. Search And Rescue Orange 2 Ball (24 Foot ) Retriever
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When you play golf, more than one ball goes missing and when the day comes to an end, there will be quite a number of balls to be retrieved. With this retriever that can collect two balls the same time, the work is done faster and easier.
4. Range Golf Ball Shagger From Madewell
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When you have to collect a whole lot of golf balls, a small retriever that can pick up just one ball at a time will not do. Also, one cannot keep carrying a bag along to put the retrieved balls in. it is in such situations that this ball shagger comes very handy.
5. JP Lann Retrievers
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These retrievers can be used on driving ranges where you cannot carry a heavy pole and need something that is not only light but also easy to use. The long telescopic shaft and the lightweight construction make it a perfect device to be carried while playing on such surfaces
The Pinemeadow Golf set is one of the better ones for seniors that we have reviewed. Check out the many hybrids in the set and watch as your game improves over time. Take the time to work with each of the clubs in the set and use them to your advantage.
Do You Really Need A Retriever
A good player knows which wedge to use to get the ball out of the tough spots and the sand bunkers. But when the ball falls into a water body or a big bush? Reaching down with your hand may be an option but not for a classy game like golf. Hence the need for a ball retriever
How To Choose A Golf Ball Retriever
Having a good quality ball retriever is very important as a low-quality one can cause more trouble than really help. While one may have enough knowledge about golf clubs, information about the irons are also available in plenty.
However, choosing the right ball retriever can be confusing. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right golf ball retriever to help you have a more comfortable game.
Factors To Consider
Length – The length of the pole is extremely important because a short pole will not help much when you have to retrieve the ball from a deep pond or a big bush. Hence the pole must be long and firm, not to forget lightweight too, as you don’t want to be carrying around a heavy pole. The ideal length recommended for a retriever is 18 feet, as it will help you reach great heights and depths without much hassle.
Material – Apart from being lightweight, the pole should also be durable. This pole will not be used as carefully as the irons; it will be put through water, bushes, and branches. Hence the material used must be sturdy enough to last through such retrieves. An aluminum pole will be perfect as aluminum is both lightweight and anti-corrosive. However, there are other material options too, in the market today.
Weight – The pole must be lightweight, with most of its weight concentrated on the front. This will make it easiest o retrieve the ball. If the pole is heavy or if the weight is near the handle, it will be tough to maneuver and get the ball out of tough spots.
Handle – Different handles work for different people, due to the difference in the build of the person and the size of their hands. There are different materials used in these handles, and one must try out various options before narrowing down on a particular handle. One can choose from silicon, rubber, metal or even plastic. It is advisable to hold the retriever and use it a couple of times before deciding on one material. This is important because a handle may be very comfortable to hold but may be slippery when actually retrieving the ball. Also, opt for a handle that attached to the pole firmly with screws rather than going in for one that is attached with adhesive. Handles glued on to the pole will not last long and may even come off at the most inconvenient time.
Type – There are different types of retrievers. One can opt for a suction model, the cup model or even the Grabber model. While the suction type is very popular and is also cheap, it may not be the best option to get the ball from a water body, as the suction will not work in water.
While the grabber model is more expensive, it is more effective to get the balls out of water or even from dusty areas where the ball can be coated with dust or debris. However, it is not very easy to use this model. While opting for this model, check if the mechanism is smooth and easy to use.
The cup model is gaining popularity due to its simplicity. It has no moving mechanism and solely depends on your motor skills to get the ball out. However, if the ball were to get stuck in a tricky place, this cup model may not well and require you to put in more effort.
Finish – Just like the golf irons, the look of the retriever should be considered too. This is going to go into the kit along with the other clubs. Hence it has to look the class and also have a good quality. While choosing a finish, ensure the material will not chip off easily, as retrieving a ball will require you to use it everywhere.
Conclusion
A good golf ball retriever is a must in every golf kit bag, as balls tend to get lost or stuck in tricky places. When you have a proper equipment to get the ball out, you not only save time but can even exhibit your professionalism in the game. However, care should be taken while selecting such retrievers. If the wrong type is selected, apart from making it hard to retrieve the ball, it also ends up ruining the rhythm of your game.
Of the five retrievers reviewed above, the I GOTCHA retriever is what we recommend. It is light, durable and can be extended long enough to get the ball out of tough spots. Though very handy, the only issue is when the ball is in a place filled with debris or dust. It is then this retriever finds it challenging to get the ball out successfully.
If you are looking for a good retriever with a mechanism to hold the ball in place and also require it to be light and good looking, this could be the one for you.