What Are Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt Slope Batteries?
Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt Slope batteries are high-performance **3V CR2 lithium cells** designed for Bushnell’s slope-compensating golf rangefinder. They deliver stable voltage for precise distance measurements (450–1,000 yards) and feature **7–10 hour runtime** per pair. Built for extreme temperatures (-20°C to 60°C), they resist voltage sag during rapid-fire scanning. Pro Tip: Replace both batteries simultaneously to prevent uneven load distribution.
What battery type does the Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt Slope use?
The device requires **two CR2 lithium batteries** (non-rechargeable) with 800–850 mAh capacity. These cylindrical 3V cells (ISO designation CR17345) provide instant peak current for the rangefinder’s Class 1 laser. Bushnell recommends 2–3 sets per golf season for casual players.
Technical Specs: CR2 cells use lithium manganese dioxide (Li-MnO2) chemistry, achieving 3V nominal voltage with 0.3% annual self-discharge. Their 15-gram weight minimizes device bulk. In testing, they maintained 2.8V+ for 250+ activations. Pro Tip: Store spares in a sealed bag to prevent humidity-triggered corrosion. For example, a golfer playing 20 rounds annually would cycle through 2–3 battery pairs. Budget-conscious users often opt for bulk CR2 packs from Panasonic or Duracell. But how critical is brand consistency? Generic CR2s work but may lack anti-leak coatings protecting Bushnell’s $300+ electronics.
| CR2 Brand | Capacity (mAh) | Price per Pair |
|---|---|---|
| Bushnell OEM | 800 | $12.99 |
| Panasonic | 850 | $7.50 |
| Generic | 780 | $4.99 |
How long do Tour V3 Jolt Slope batteries last?
Runtime ranges **6–10 hours** depending on scan frequency and Jolt vibration usage. Heavy users (e.g., tournament players) report 4–6 rounds per pair. The 45mAh per activation (laser + LCD) drains cells faster in slope mode.
Deep Dive: Battery life hinges on three factors: temperature, scan duration, and Jolt alerts. At 25°C, continuous scanning depletes cells in 6 hours, while intermittent use extends it to 10. Below freezing, runtime drops 30% due to lithium’s reduced ion mobility. A 2022 Golf Digest test showed 1,200+ yardage checks per pair. Pro Tip: Disable slope mode during practice rounds to save 22% power. Ever wonder why the low-battery icon appears abruptly? CR2 cells have a steep discharge curve—voltage plummets from 2.7V to 2.0V in under 10 minutes. Carry spares!
Are rechargeable batteries compatible?
Most **rechargeable CR2s** (3.2V LiFePO4) risk overvoltage damaging the rangefinder’s ICs. Only 3V LiMnO2 rechargeables like Kentli CR2 work but offer 500 mAh—37% less runtime. Not recommended for tournament play.
Technical Risks: Standard Li-ion CR2s charge to 4.2V, exceeding Bushnell’s 3.6V max input. Kentli’s 3V chemistry avoids this but cycles poorly below 10°C. A fried rangefinder repair averages $175—far costlier than disposable batteries. Pro Tip: If using rechargeables, check polarity—reverse installation fries the diode array. For example, a Colorado pro golfer reported Kentli batteries lasting 3 holes in 5°C weather versus 18 holes with lithium primaries.
| Battery Type | Voltage | Tournament-Safe? |
|---|---|---|
| Disposable CR2 | 3.0V | Yes |
| Kentli Rechargeable | 3.0V | Marginal |
| Li-ion Rechargeable | 3.7V | No |
Can I use third-party CR2 batteries?
Yes, but prioritize **UL-certified brands** (Panasonic, Energizer) with anti-leak seals. Avoid uncertified imports—their inconsistent diameters (15.8–16.2mm vs. standard 16mm) can jam the battery tray.
Compatibility Check: Bushnell’s compartment fits 16mm ±0.1mm cells. Knockoff brands sometimes swell to 16.3mm, requiring pliers for removal. Voltage stability is another issue—low-tier CR2s drop below 2.5V after 150 activations, causing “ERR 02” codes. Pro Tip: Test third-party batteries with a multimeter—discard any below 3.1V fresh out of packaging. Is saving $5 worth a malfunction during a critical putt? For context, a PGA coach’s rangefinder failed mid-lesson using budget CR2s, displaying “888” before dying.
How to store unused CR2 batteries?
Keep in **airtight containers** at 15–25°C. Avoid glove compartments—summer heat accelerates self-discharge (0.5% monthly loss at 35°C). For 6+ month storage, refrigerate (not freeze) to maintain 98% capacity.
Preservation Tactics: Lithium cells degrade via electrolyte decomposition above 30°C. Silica gel packets in storage cases prevent moisture-induced terminal corrosion. Pro Tip: Label battery purchase dates—CR2s lose 15% capacity after 5 years. A Michigan golfer preserved 2018-made CR2s until 2023, retaining 82% charge via fridge storage. But what if batteries get wet? Saltwater exposure permanently shorts cells—rinse terminals with distilled water and dry for 48 hours before use.
Fasta Power Expert Insight
FAQs
Yes, but check voltage—some models like Pro XE require 3.2V. Tour V3’s 3V CR2s may underpower them.
Can I leave batteries in the rangefinder offseason?
No—leakage risks corroding contacts. Remove and store separately.
What triggers the “Replace Batteries” warning?
Voltage dropping below 2.4V during laser activation. Replace immediately to avoid erratic readings.
Are lithium CR2s airline-safe?
Yes—FAA allows up to 20 spare cells in carry-ons. Keep original packaging for TSA checks.