Need Help Choosing A GPS For Hiking

D

Dave568

Joined
May 24, 2005
Messages
118
I'm interesting in getting myself a handheld GPS for hiking. The only problem is, I have no idea where to begin. I am looking for something that will provide color topo maps of just about anywhere I go. Ideally, I'd like something that would help me navigate in a car as well - something with street name maps would be nice. My primary purpose will be hiking though. I know there are probably a lot of options out there, and I am currently exploring the choices and doing research on the net, but I was hoping some of you here who use GPS for hiking might be able to recommend a GPS that I can look into further. Ideally, I'm looking to spend less than $300, but I guess if it would make a big difference to spend a bit more, I could.

Thanks for any help.
 
My Magellan Gold doesn't have a color screen, but the software with it provides color mapping from your pc/printer. It's larger than the Garmins are, but it's a dandy. At the time I bought it, Magellan was noted for better wilderness/offshore use, and Garmins held the edge for city navigation. No idea if that's still true, I've been so happy with mine that I quit looking for a better one.
 
REI had a sale on a few weeks ago (20% off) and I was looking into getting one, the Magellan stuff seemed to have a better reuptation.

FYI. Amazon is cheper than REI even with the 20% off so take your time.
 
Lots of good info here:http://gpsinformation.net/
I have a Magellan Sportrak Color and it does the job well. Also a good one under tree cover although there isn't a receiver made that is totally accurate under heavy foliage.
 
Temper said:
REI had a sale on a few weeks ago (20% off) and I was looking into getting one, the Magellan stuff seemed to have a better reuptation.

FYI. Amazon is cheper than REI even with the 20% off so take your time.
Click to expand...

I tried to buy a gps 60csx at REI during the 20% off only to find out it wasn't valid on gps or canoes :grumpy:
 
I have the lowrance expedition and love it. It was $300.00, but with the color screen it is well worth it. My next investment will be the map create 6 PC soft ware that you can down load on to cards and put into the lowrance, very high detail, topo, lakes,steets,address. I really like it.
 
I have used the Magellan Gold for quite a few years now and have liked it. I am looking at replacing it now (sat on it too many times hunting, and had a set of batteries explode in it). It still works but I have had some contact problems with the batteries.

What I am now looking at is the new Magellan eXplorist series. They are good looking units, but I have been waiting for the XL to come out so I have the option of AA batteries instead of a rechargable only. I really like these with the SD slot for map storage, and 19hrs continuous usage on a set of batteries.

Anyway, on my list would be map storage, and reciever sensitivity. When I first bought my Magellan, I had talked to a number of people in search and rescue, and the Garmins were losing lock with the satellites when the Magellans in the group would stay locked. I don't know if that is still the case, but it was a big factor when I originally purchased mine.

--Carl
 
i use a garmin etrex vista and i love it got it out of the bargin cave in cabelas for around $200 no wear no tear works just fine almost brand new.
 
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