How about GPS? Any suggestions

comet

comet

Joined
Oct 8, 2002
Messages
258
I am thinking I would like to get a GPS. Mostly to mark good fishing spots in a lake.

Would like something that could possibly be used with a palm pilot for mapping.

Any suggestions?
 
The Garmins are very nice. I would get one of the medium priced units though. I picked up the new $100 Garmin Gekko and found it to be inaccurate compared to my buddy's Etrex. I then took it back and exchanged and upgraded to the Rhino 120. Nice unit for the two weeks I had it, then it got stolen from my truck.:( :mad:
 
Definitely go with Garmin. I have owned the GPS12, GPS45, GPS48, GPSIII plus, Emap and just bought an Etrex Vista. I would go with the Etrex line for outdoors use. I forget the model name but the "Blue" model is available at Target and is on sale now for about $220 I think. These are small models which is great for hiking and outdoors, but if you think you may also use it for driving, you might look at the Garmin 76 model or emap. Both have larger screens.
 
I've got an Etrex Summit.....great system. GPS plus it includes a baro altimeter. You know where you are, and can predict the weather...;)

Only downside is the lack of a map underlay. I couldn't justify the extra $100 for the map, but you might be able to....
 
Garmin all the way for me. I've owned an older 3 satelite model 40 and, currently use the 12XL 12 satelite model with maps and stuff. Bought it off the forums here too :)

Both are easy to use and accurate. The Etrex models will be a little smaller and lighter and would be my pick for one with advanced features.
 
I'll throw in my vote for Garmin. I have an Etrex Vista. This unit includes maps, barometer, compass, altimeter, fishing and hunting times, moon phases, and more. Unit works great but keep spare batteries handy.

Anyone ever try geocaching as a hobby?
 
I would recommend the Garmin eTrex Legend ("little blue GPS, at Target for around $220", on sale $180 plus $50 rebate from Garmin).

I have used this unit extensively for the past 3.5 years and I have loved it. I use for backpacking, finding points of interest in unfamiliar cities, as a backup navigations source while flying my USAF missions (pilot), and on my bike to navigate and check speed. It is SMALL, waterproof, durable, and has a high resolution screen that makes discerning detail in a 2" screen possible. With it's neoprene carry case, it clips readily to my backpack straps. With it's handlebar mount is goes with me on all my bike and scooter treks.

I have purchased just about all the Map Source software for this unit including Topo, MetroGuide, and Roads and Recreation. The first two are the most useful.

The eTrex Legend has an advantage over the higher end Summit model in that it's batteries last longer. When you have a baro and electronic compass (not needed really), it burns through batteries quicker as these features are always operating. Battery usage is important when you've backpacked into the high country.

I do have a two of critiques on the Legend however: 1) I wish it could take an external antenna. This would be helpful when using it in the car or aircraft. 2) They need to improve the quality of the battery connectors. I have noticed when the unit is subjected to high vibration (like when on my GoPed GSR scooter), electrical contact with the batteries can be lost and the unit will turn off. An irritating occurence for such a high end item and one Garmin needs to fix. :mad:

But all-in-all it is the best unit out there and the price has just come down. Get it at Target and go to Garmin's website for a rebate that is currently in effect. ;)
 
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