Best Hunting GPS – Which Garmin Hunting GPS Is Right for You?

GPS units are becoming very popular with hunters these days, but it may be confusing choosing the right unit for your hunting needs. Many people may be looking at the newest designs thinking they are the best GPS they can buy but it may not be right for them.

Let’s compare two of the newest Garmin GPS models the Dakota 10 and the Oregon 400T to three of the best Garmin Hunting GPS units; the eTrex Vista HCx, the GPSMap 60 CSx, and the Rino 530 HCx.

New Touch Screen Models

· Garmin Dakota 10 GPS – This is the newest model from Garmin. It is more compact than the Oregon 400T. It is waterproof and impact-resistant which are two features many hunters look for in a GPS unit. It also is equipped with Hotfix technology which calculates the user’s position faster.

· Garmin Oregon 400T – This is also a fairly recent model from Garmin. It is a little bigger than the Dakota 10 but it is also a touch screen model. It allows users to share information with other GPS users, wirelessly, which is a nice feature to track other hunters in your party. It comes pre-loaded with topographical maps and has both a barometric altimeter and electronic compass. Hunters really appreciate these three features.

The new technology of these two GPS units is appealing at first many people are reporting that the screens are difficult to read in the sunlight and they are more difficult to use because of all their features. This is why the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx, the GPSMap 60 CSx, and the Rino 530 HCx are still the best hunting GPS units available.

Best Hunting GPS Units

· Garmin eTrex Vista HCx – This one is great if you are looking for a compact unit. It fits in your shirt pocket, has a clear color screen, and is waterproof. It has a barometric altimeter and an electronic compass which allows hunters to position themselves even when standing or sitting still.

· Garmin GPSMap 60 CSx – This GPS is a little bigger but is the most popular among hunters. They like the larger, color screen makes it easier to view topo maps in the field. It also gets great satellite reception in heavy cover and deep canyons.

· Garmin Rino 530 HCx – The Rino has a radio build in to it so you can contact fellow hunters who also have a Rino or have a FRS/GMRS radio. It also has a color screen making it easy to view maps and has the ability to pinpoint your location while sitting or standing still because of its electronic compass and barometric altimeter.

So, as you can see, many people may think that the new technology of the touch screen models would make the best hunting GPS units but after you consider the poor screen visibility and the difficulty in use you may want to consider either the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx, the GPSMap 60 CSx, and the Rino 530 HCx for your hunting GPS needs.