Even the best golfers fall victim to the rules of the game — just ask Greg Norman, Paul Azinger, Craig Stadler, and more recently, Michelle Wie.

The Advertiser, with help from Ko Olina director of golf Greg Nichols, has begun a question-answer feature on the rules of golf. If you have a question regarding the rules of golf e-mail a question to cmurayama@honoluluadver tiser.com.

For additional rules information, ask your local Aloha Section PGA professional or go online to www.USGA.org

Q. Are players allowed to use measuring devices, such as a laser rangefinder on a golf course? — David C. Oshel

A. Beginning in 2006, a player may use a measuring device such as a laser rangefinder or GPS-based system, only if the golf course or tournament he is playing adopts a local rule permitting such a device to be used. If no such local rule exists, then the use of a measuring device is not permitted under the Rules of Golf.

Please note, however, that measuring devices for such things as wind or slope are still not allowable under this new decision. I guess players will still have to "plumb-bob" with their putter to figure out the break of a putt and toss up grass to figure out which way the wind is blowing!