Information on GPS devices required

[blackthorn]

I am considering getting a GPS device for my oldest son for his birthday. I am basically a technological idiot! What I am looking for is a unit that he can use to navigate in the bush when riding his quad. Any advice with respect to make/models will be greatly appreciated.

[jonp]

have you considered a wrist gps like a Suunto Traverse?

[Jake McCracken]

All the big names are a good choice. In the end it comes down to how much you want to spend and whats available around you.

Personally I prefer Magellan. The unit I have currently works great for navagating on my kayak and my offroad adventures. It has a color touchscreen and is waterproof down to a few feet. But honestly the brand thing is comparable to the Ford vs Chevy thing, they all are available with the same bells and whistles.

I suggest you hit a couple of outdoor outfitters in your area and ask the salesman what he suggests and why. Then after looking at a few in person and seeing pricing and what accessories are available (like and ATV mount) then you can make a better decision. An informed one instead of one based on the ford vs chevy info you'll get here.

Good luck!

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[10x]

Garmin makes a good product in a variety of models.
Background maps are nice but not essential.
Loading a third party topographic map into your GPS can be a challenge.
The Garmin Etrex 10 is an excellent model that is not too challenging to learn.


Learning how to use a compass, how to use the UTM Grid, and how to read a topo map make learning to use a GPS much easier.
One tip, make sure the Geographical survey datum in your GPS is set to the same Datum as was used to create the map or there will be confusion about where you really are.
Datum differences can make a 100 to 250 meter difference in GPS location and where the map indicates you are.
A GPS is best used with a map

[Omega]

I have a Garmin 60CSX that I hacked a topo overlay into, it is now discontinued (Replaced by Garmin GPSMAP 64s) but the antenna was one of the best. I also have the Garmin Rino 130, which I recommend, they have the GPS and a FMRS radio in the same unit and if paired with another, you can send your location or someone can poll your location if you allow, great for hunting trips. The older models if you can find them are reasonable, the newer ones not so much. My 60CSX is still going strong, and even though it is B/W it does the job, same with the Rinos.

[MUSTANG]

Make sure that you procure a GPS that receives it's information from the GPS satellite constellations; NOT from the Cell Towers. GPS based on Cell Phones relying on geolocation associated with the Cell Towers will not work if outside of cellular coverage. Whereas the devices that receive signals from the satellite constellations will operate as long as they can see 4 or more satellites (may not work down in very steep ravines/draws/river or creek areas etc..

Not trying to offend readers; but many are not familiar with the differences.

[farmerjim]

If he will be going where there is heavy overhead canopy, be sure it has a good antenna. One of my marine GPS will not work in the woods.

[blackthorn]

Thank you to all who responded. I have decided on the Garmin E Trex 10 and it is on order.

[GONRA]

What a timely thread to jump onto! GONRA's common wrist watch just gave out.
Wanna getta replacement wrist watch the hasa Satellite Based GPS feature.
Bet ya'll have great suggestions!

Happy Thanksgiving in any event!

[Mr_Sheesh]

For my car GPS at least (Old Nuvi 255W, considering an upgrade though for better performance), I can load Open Street Maps maps (free) onto it. Not sure on the personal GPS' if that's possible or not; Page I use is on http://garmin.openstreetmap.nl/ - Fits my budget nicely!

[KenH]

Make sure that you procure a GPS that receives it's information from the GPS satellite constellations; NOT from the Cell Towers. GPS based on Cell Phones relying on geolocation associated with the Cell Towers will not work if outside of cellular coverage. Whereas the devices that receive signals from the satellite constellations will operate as long as they can see 4 or more satellites (may not work down in very steep ravines/draws/river or creek areas etc..

Not trying to offend readers; but many are not familiar with the differences.

I had no idea there were GPS units that didn't receive the sat, but used cellular signal. That's not much good, GOT to be sat signals would be my thinking.

[Minerat]

I have had a Magellan, a Garman Oregon 450 and a Montana. Of the 3 the Magellan with it's black and white screen was the easiest to see on the ATV. The Magellan will get you there and back with out too many frills but they don't make one like it now.

The color units on the Garmans are hard to see in bright light. I like them for hunting, the downloadable contour maps are the bomb. You can also get private/public land maps too for free or buy chips with maps on them. It's just hard to see in bright light. Neither if my Garmans has the camera.

[ShooterAZ]

I do like the Garmin units. I have the Oregon 600T which have the topo maps already included. I would recommend keeping any of the GPS units in a pocket or otherwise protected from dirt and dust while on an ATV. Around here, they would get thrashed in no time.

[Tom W.]

My wife has a TomTom in her car, and it about drove us crazy Wednesday and Thursday trying to find a place in Nashville. On the way home it didn't take us back the way we came, either. We ended up going down I-65 to I- 85, which was indeed the most direct route, but that wasn't where we wanted to go. Oh well, we made it home safely, but we wanted to see the Muscle Shoals area and the surrounding area first.

I did see a sign near Lynchburg, Tennessee advertising the Jack Daniels factory. It said "There are tours and then there are pilgrimages."