Best GPS for Hunting

Best Handheld Hunting GPS - Best Garmin Handheld Hunting GPS Units for the Fall 2010 Hunting Season

2010-09-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

You may be wondering which Garmin handheld hunting GPS units are the best rated for this fall's hunting season. When choosing a hunting gps many hunters look for a unit that is lightweight, easy to read and use, while being waterproof and receives a signal even in heavy foliage or deep canyons. Garmin has two new lines of handheld GPS units in the Oregon and Dakota series but surprisingly these two series did not make it in to the Fall 2010 . Hunters preferred the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx, the Garmin GPSMap 60 CSx, and the Garmin Rino 530 HCX for the following reasons.

1. Garmin eTrex Vista HCx– Hunters rated the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx as one of the best garmin handheld Hunting GPS units for the fall 2010 hunting season because it is small, lightweight, and easy to use. The color screen makes it easy to view in sunny conditions. The eTrex Vista HCX gets a great signal in heavy tree cover and deep canyons. One hunter really liked the compactness of the Vista and carries it in his shirt pocket for easy access.

2. Garmin GPSMap 60 CSx – This hunting GPS unit is very popular again this season because it has a larger, color screen which makes viewing GPS maps in the field easier on the hunter’s eyes. It also has a SD card slot which allows the hunter to have a special MicroSD card for each of his hunting areas. The GPSMap 60 CSx maybe a bit larger of a handheld GPS but hunters still love it for it’s great reception in the field.

3. Garmin Rino 530 HCx – The Rino remains popular with hunters because it has a build in radio that you can use to communicate with other FMS/ radio users. The Garmin Rino will also allow for fellow Garmin Rino users in your hunting party to pinpoint your current location. This popular hunting GPS also has a larger, color screen and gets a great satellite signal.

So, as you can see, the best Garmin handheld hunting GPS units for the fall 2010 hunting season are the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx, the Garmin GPSMap 60 CSx, and the Garmin Rino 530 HCx.

Customer Review - Garmin eTrex Vista HCx - Best Handheld Hunting GPS

2010-09-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

I got this eTrex Vista HCx to use for hunting and I've found it is useful for much more than just hunting. You can lock on waypoints when you find deer poo, watering holes, trails, rubbed bushes, etc...then you can come back and look at the computer and almost visualize the deers movements thus allowing you to put a stand up in a great place. I also use it to drive in unfamiliar areas. It's not as good as a car GPS but for a good overall use for everything it's great. However, you will need to buy the topographical and city navigator maps on the chip. Its easy because you just plug it in and go. The darn thing is almost idiot proof and tough as nails. I live in the mountains and it works great here in NC!
By: Bruce Moore

Customer Review - Garmin GPS 60CSx Handheld GPS - Best Handheld Hunting GPS

2010-09-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

No matter what you are into the GPS 60CSx delivers. I use it for hunting, fishing and auto navigation. With its electronic compass it works extremely well in the woods, even in heavy cover. Load the lakemaster data card into it and get extremely well detailed maps of your fishing spots. Put the city navigator maps in it and get turn by turn directions with auto routing and re-routing on missed turns. Geocache friendly. There simply is not a handheld on the market with all these capabilities. Did I mention the unit locks on to satellites in extremely dense cover? I can turn this on in my house in my basement sitting 6 feet away from the window and it locks on. Truly well worth the investment. I have had mine a year now with no troubles. I have tried the others and they do not hold a candle to this unit.

Customer Review - Garmin Rino 530 HCX - Best Handheld Hunting GPS

2010-09-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

I purchased the Rino 530HCx about two weeks ago to use while deer hunting in East Tennessee. Everyone in our group has GPS and two-way radio to find our way around and communicate when we are in unfamilar territory. I have been searching for a device that will take care of both needs, without having to handle two seperate pieces of equipment, and the 530HCx has worked flawlessly so far.

The satellite positioning seems to be right on and positioning after start-up was quick. I used the unit to mark several deer trails, rub lines, and possible stand placements and I was able to return to those areas very easily. I used the averaging feature to fine tune the locations and was able to get within 5-7 feet of everything I marked.

Everyone in the group said that radio transmission was crystal clear, they could hear my transmissions better than anyone elses. Don't get me wrong the Garmin in definetly a GPS first and radio second but I was very pleased with its two-way capabilities. It performed as well, if not better, than the midlands and motorolas in the group.

By	J. D. Lane (White Pine, TN USA)

Best Hunting GPS – Best Garmin Handheld Hunting GPS Units for 2009

2010-01-20T13:14:00.000-08:00

Hunters hold a very high standard for the GPS units that they use in the field. They want one that is lightweight, easy to read and use, while being waterproof and receives a signal even in heavy foliage or deep canyons. Garmin has two new lines of handheld GPS units in the Oregon and Dakota series but surprisingly these two series did not make the 2009 “Best Hunting GPS “ list. Hunters preferred the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx, the Garmin GPSMap 60 CSx, and the Garmin Rino 530 HCX for the following reasons.

1. Garmin eTrex Vista HCx– Hunters rated the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx as the Best Hunting GPS for 2009 because it is small, lightweight, and easy to use. The color screen makes it easy to view in sunny conditions. The eTrex Vista HCX gets a great signal in heavy tree cover and deep canyons. One hunter really liked the compactness of the Vista and carries it in his shirt pocket for easy access.

2. Garmin GPSMap 60 CSx – This hunting GPS unit is very popular again this year because it has a larger, color screen which makes viewing GPS maps in the field easier on the hunter’s eyes. It also has a SD card slot which allows the hunter to have a special MicroSD card for each of his hunting areas. The GPSMap 60 CSx maybe a bit larger of a handheld GPS but hunters still love it for it’s great reception in the field.

3. Garmin Rino 530 HCx – The Rino remains popular with hunters because it has a build in radio that you can use to communicate with other FMS/ radio users. The Garmin Rino will also allow for fellow Garmin Rino users in your hunting party to pinpoint your current location. This popular hunting GPS also has a larger, color screen and gets a great satellite signal.

So, as you can see, the best hunting GPS units for 2009 were the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx, the Garmin GPSMap 60 CSx, and the Garmin Rino 530 HCx.

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

2009-11-09T10:44:00.000-08:00

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.

Hunting GPS - Q&A - Which Accessories Should I Have For My Garmin Oregon 400t Hunting GPS?

2009-06-24T09:51:00.000-07:00

Q. Which Accessories Should I Have for My Garmin Oregon 400t Hunting GPS?

A. The accessories that you want to have for the Garmin Oregon 400t hunting GPS are a carrying case, 12-volt adapter, and specific Topo maps on MicroSD cards for areas that you hunt.

The most important accessory to have for any hunting GPS is a good carrying case. Even though the Oregon 400t is extremely durable and waterproof, you will want to protect the large touch screen from getting scratched. Garmin has two carrying case options for the Oregon series GPS units. You can choose the slip cover case, which slides over and around the GPS unit and features a clear vinyl area to protect the screen. Or you can choose the hard carrying case which is great for protecting your GPS while traveling.

The second accessory you will want to get for your Oregon GPS is a 12-volt adapter. This will allow you to keep your GPS fully charged while in route to your hunting area. You may even want to opt for the auto navigation kit that is available for the Garmin Oregon series so you can easily use your hunting GPS while driving.

Pre-loaded Topographical MicroSD cards are the final accessory you will want to buy. Even though the Garmin Oregon 400t comes with topo maps pre-loaded, you will probably want to get one of the more detailed pre-loaded topographical MicroSD cards that are compatible with this Garmin GPS for each of your hunting areas.

Hunting GPS - 5 Reasons to Use a Garmin Oregon 400t GPS For Hunting

2009-06-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

The Oregon 400t is the top of the line of the Garmin GPS units. It new technology makes it a great hunting GPS unit. The 5 reasons it makes a great hunting GPS are:

1. Lightweight - The new Garmin Oregon 400T is extremely lightweight because it doe not have any external buttons. It has a fully operational touch-screen set up. It is very easy to use because all the options are on the screen. You do not have to remember which button does what function.

2. Pre-loaded Topographical Maps - Getting very detailed topographical maps is essential when using a GPS for hunting. The Garmin Oregon 400t comes pre-loaded with the topographical maps you will need. Garmin has used new user friendly programming so you do not need to be a topo map expert to get the most out of the GPS and its' maps.

3. Electronic Compass - Garmin has also included an electronic compass in the Oregon 400t. This is a very important feature which allows hunters to get a bearing while sitting in a tree stand or standing still.

4. Micro SD Memory Card Slot - The Garmin Oregon 400t also has a Micro SD card slot for additional memory. You can use it for holding specialized hunting maps for certain hunting areas or even carry a MicroSD card with pictures of your previous hunts to show your trophies off to other hunters in camp, right on your Oregon 400t touch screen.

5. Wireless Exchange Between Users - The Oregon 400t allows you to exchange information, wirelessly, between users. This will allow you to alert other hunters in your hunting party of your position as well as the location of animals in the area.

So, as you can see the Oregon 400t has many features that are of great benefit to hunters. This is why the Garmin Oregon 400T is rated as a best hunting GPS unit.

Best Hunting GPS Q and A - What is the Most Important Feature to Look for in a Hunting GPS Unit?

2009-02-25T21:25:00.000-08:00

Q. What is the Most Important Feature to Look for in a Hunting GPS Unit?

A. The most important feature to look for when shopping for a hunting GPS is an electronic compass.

The electronic compass in the GPS unit allows the user to get a bearing while standing still. This is extremely important for the hunter in a ground blind or tree stand or even in a spot and stalk situation. When hunting it is not always convinent to take a few steps in one direction so the GPS can tell where you are heading before it gives you an accurate reading. This is what you will need to do with a GPS without an electronic compass.

Hunting GPS: 3 Other Uses for Your Hunting GPS during the Non-Hunting Season

2009-02-02T08:20:00.000-08:00

A GPS unit is very useful when hunting or scouting for a hunt. But now that it is the off season for hunting in most areas what other activities can you use your GPS for? Below is just a few activities that you can use your GPS for.

· Snowmobiling – In most parts of the country it is snowmobiling time. You can use your hunting GPS to mark your vehicle or place of origin before you start snowmobiling. You can also make a track so you can follow the GPS waypoints back home. This is especially helpful if it is snowing a little or windy so your snowmobile tracks get covered up.

· Geocaching – Geocaching is a fun, new activity that you can do with the whole family. You can go to http://www.geocaching.com/ and get waypoints of caches in your area. Then take your family or some friends and go treasure hunting. It is a good practice to bring along some trinkets to leave in the cache if you intend to take something from the cache.

· Shed Hunting – Soon the deer and elk will be loosing their antlers and you can use your hunting GPS to mark where you find shed antlers. This will help you next year to look around in the same spots for sheds. Of course, it is also a good idea to mark your vehicle before you start hiking looking for sheds so you can easily find your way back.

So, as you can see these are just three activities that you can use your hunting GPS for while you are not using it for scouting or hunting.

Best Hunting GPS – 7 Reasons the Delorme PN-40 Makes a Great GPS for Hunting

2009-01-29T13:23:00.000-08:00

The Delorme PN-40 is a great GPS unit but it also makes a great hunting GPS. The 7 main reasons it is great for hunting are:

1. Waterproof – The Delorme PN -40 is waterproof and can operate in very humid conditions. This is important for any hunter using a GPS in the field when the weather can turn rainy or snowy while hunting.

2. Electronic Compass – The PN-40 also comes with an electronic compass. An electronic compass is essential on any GPS that will be used for hunting because it allows the hunter to get a bearing while sitting still in a tree stand or ground blind.

3. Topographical Maps Included – Delorme includes topographical maps with the purchase of a PN-40 so the hunter will have the proper maps needed to look for popular hunting areas such as waterholes, ridges, and possible funnels that animals use.

4. Bright Color Screen – The Delorme PN-40 has a bright, color screen. This makes it easy for hunters to view topographical maps of their hunting area while out in the field.

5. Large Internal Memory – The PN-40 has 1GB of internal memory. This allows hunters to store 1,000 waypoints of areas of interests such as tree stand and blind locations, points to glass from, and truck/ATV/camp locations. Delorme has also included a SD card slot so hunters can put different hunting areas on different memory cards for easy access to their hunting spots.

6. Rugged Construction – The Delorme PN-40 has a impact-resistant rubberized housing. The rubberized housing allows the hunter to get a firm grip on the unit while out in the field.

7. WAAS-enabled – The PN-40 is WAAS-enabled for accuracy within 3 meters. This allows for precise pin-point locating which is especially helpful when using a GPS unit to document a blood trail and recover an animal.

So, as you can see the Delorme PN-40 makes a great hunting GPS. With it’s electronic compass, included topographical maps, and rugged construction is would make a perfect GPS for any hunter.

Best Hunting GPS – What Accessories are Needed for Your GPS You Received This Past Holiday?

2009-01-26T09:13:00.000-08:00

GPS units were a very popular gift this past holiday season for hunters. But now you will want to get the right accessories for your GPS before your next hunting trip. There are a number of different accessories available but only a few are must-haves when hunting.

First, you will want to get a carrying case for your GPS unit. It will protect you new hunting GPS unit from getting scrapes and scratches on it. Most carrying cases have a clear, vinyl area which protects the screen while leaving open areas for the control buttons. Make sure to get the proper carrying case for your specific GPS unit.

Second, you will want to get a 12 volt adapter for your hunting GPS. This will allow you to charge you GPS in your vehicle while driving to your hunting location. This will ensure that your batteries are fully charged and your GPS is ready to navigate when you start your hunt.

Third, I would recommend getting additional MicroSD memory cards if your GPS unit has this option. It is very helpful to place your topo maps for each hunting area on separate memory cards. Then you can switch the cards depending on which area you are hunting. For instance, if you are going to hunt elk in Arizona you can put all your Arizona maps on one card, while having all your deer hunt maps for your own state on another card.

And finally, an instructional DVD for your new GPS unit will help you learn how to operate it before you go to use your unit for scouting or hunting. If you know how to operate your hunting GPS before you get out in the field you will get the maximum benefit from your new GPS unit.
So, as you can see these are just a few of the accessories you will want to get for your new hunting GPS unit. Having the right accessories make using your GPS much easier.

Hunting GPS Q & A – What Accessories Should I Use for My Garmin GPSMap 60 CSX When Hunting?

2009-01-15T10:09:00.000-08:00

Q. What Accessories Should I Use for My Garmin GPSMap 60 CSX When Hunting?

A. The best accessories to use while hunting for the Garmin GPSMap 60 CSX are a good carrying case, holster or lanyard, 12 volt adapter, and extra MicroSD memory cards.

Carrying Case -A carrying case is especially important when using any GPS for hunting because it will protect the GPS from accidental scratches and scrapes. The Garmin GPSMap 60 CSX has a carrying case available for it which has a clear, vinyl area to cover the screen and has open access to all control buttons.

Holster or Lanyard – When hunting you will want to have a convenient way to carry your GPS with you. You want it accessible yet out of the way when glassing or making a shot on an animal. Check into the various options for the Garmin GPSMap 60 CSX and find one that works best for you.

12 Volt Adapter – A 12 volt adapter for your GPSMap 60 CSX will come in vary handy when you are traveling to your hunting area. You can plug in your GPS unit and charge it on your way to your hunt to save your battery life.

Extra MicroSD Memory Cards – The Garmin GPSMap 60 CSX has a MicroSD memory card slot. This allows you to hold extra maps and hunting areas on separate cards. It is very helpful to have a memory card for each of your hunting areas. For instance, if you have an elk hunt in Arizona and a deer hunt in your home state you can keep the maps for each hunt on separate memory cards.

New Video: Hunting GPS: My 3 Favorite Things to Do with My Hunting GPS

2009-01-13T09:02:00.000-08:00

Best Hunting GPS – Top 3 Garmin Hunting GPS Units for 2008

2008-12-18T12:32:00.000-08:00

Do you know what the top 3 Garmin hunting GPS Units for 2008 were? Read on to find out.

The end of the year brings about many top lists, so why not a top Hunting GPS list. Hunters are using GPS units more and more these days for scouting, hunting, and animal recovery. Each hunter probably has his or her personal favorite but we found the following GPS units to be the most popular for hunting in 2008.

3. Garmin Rino 530HCX – Hunters love this model because it also has a radio in it. It reduces the amount of equipment you have to carry while hunting having your GPS and Radio in one. You can communicate with other FRS/GMRS radio users as well as see fellow “Rino” users in your hunting party using the pinpoint positioning feature. Its MicroSD card slot and great satellite reception capabilities also make this GPS unit popular among hunters.

2. Garmin eTrex Vista HCX – This is a favorite among hunters because of its compact size, color screen, excellent satellite reception, and MicroSD card slot.

1. Garmin GPSMap 60 CSX – This is by fair the most popular GPS unit used by hunters. Many hunters like the larger, color screen for view topo maps, the MicroSD card slot, and it’s excellent satellite reception.

Hunters usually like a GPS that has a MicroSD card slot for additional memory, a color screen for easily viewing topo maps, and excellent satellite reception in heavy cover or deep canyons.

GPS For Hunting Q&A - How Can I Use My Hunting GPS When Scouting?

2008-11-20T08:10:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered how you can use your hunting GPS unit while you are scouting for your next hunting trip? Then, read on to find out.

Q. How Can I Use My Hunting GPS When Scouting?

A. When you are scouting for your next hunt you can use your hunting gps to mark waypoints, make routes, or make a track. This is also a great time to make sure the proper topographical maps are loaded into your GPS for the area you plan on hunting.

* You can mark waypoints of your tree stand or blind location, tree rubs, foot tracks, droppings, or water holes. It is good to take the time to develop a little system for naming all your different waypoints.

* You can make routes which could contain varies route waypoints where you would like to glass from along a ridge in a spot and stalk situation.

* You may also want to make a track from your camp or vehicle location as you are surveying a new potential hunting area. Tracks are very easy to make because you don’t have to enter in varies waypoints along your walk. The GPS simply makes a bread crumb trail on the route you took into an area so you can follow the track out.

* You will want to load the correct topo maps in your GPS for your hunting area and look around on it from water tanks, springs, and ridge lines that you want to check for game activity. By getting acquainted with all the landmarks in your hunting area will make for a far more successful hunt come the hunting season. It will give you a chance of exploring other hunting spots during your hunt in case one area is lacking activity.

GPS For Hunting Q&A - Which Garmin GPS Units Are The Best For Hunting?

2008-11-20T08:06:00.000-08:00

Do you know which Garmin GPS units are the best for hunting? Well, read on to find out.

Q. Which Garmin GPS Units Are The Best For Hunting?

A. The Garmin eTrex Vista HCX, the Garmin GPSMap 60CSX, and the Garmin Rino 530 HCX are the best GPS units for hunting.

* Garmin eTrex Vista HCX - This unit is great for hunting because it has a MicroSD card slot so you can put different maps of hunting areas on varies memory cards. It also features an electronic compass to take a bearing while you are sitting or standing still like in a tree stand or ground blind. The Garmin eTrex Vista HCX is also very compact and lightweight.

* Garmin GPSMap 60CSX - This Garmin unit also has a MicroSD card slot and electronic compass. Most hunters like that it is easy to use with one hand. It is also popular for it’s ability to pick up a satellite signal quickly. This has been a very popular model for outdoor enthusiasts for years.

* Garmin Rino 530 HCX - This unit is not as compact as the eTrex Vista HCX but it also has a MicroSD card slot and electronic compass. It’s main feature is that it is also a FRS/GMRS radio. So you can communicate with others who have a radio. The Garmin Rino 530 HCX is most popular for it’s ability to use it’s position reporting feature and share your location with other Rino users in your hunting group.

I would recommend just about any Garmin model for hunting but these three are the best hunting GPS units because of their electronic compass and built in MicroSD memory card slot.

GPS for Hunting FAQ - 3 Most Frequently Asked Questions When Buying a Hunting GPS.

2008-11-19T19:08:00.000-08:00

Hunters generally have a number of questions when considering to purchase a GPS for hunting. It is always good to get one that is waterproof and that has sufficient capacity for entering waypoints. However, the 3 most common questions are as follows:

Q: Do I need a hunt/fish calculator on my GPS and Why?

A. When hunting it is helpful to have a hunt/fish calculator in your GPS so you can check to see when the best time to be in the field is for your hunting location. This information is based on the phase of the moon and will give you a general time when the most game activity will be.

Q. What is the benefit of having a GPS with a MicroSd card slot?

A. The biggest benefit for having a MicroSD card slot in your GPS is so you can pre-load different maps for different hunting areas on different memory cards. Then when you hunt a certain area you can simply place that memory card in the card slot of the GPS and have all the information that you need.

Q. Should the GPS have an electronic compass?

A. An electronic compass is especially nice to have on a GPS that will be used for hunting. This will allow the hunter to get an accurate bearing and reading of their position while sitting or standing still. This way the hunter can use their GPS while in a tree stand, ground blind, or in a spot and stalk situation.

These are just a few questions that most hunters have when considering to buy a GPS for hunting.

Hunting GPS Q&A - What Accessories Would You Recommend For My Garmin Rino 530 HCX Hunting GPS and Why?

2008-11-18T08:35:00.000-08:00

Q. What Accessories Would You Recommend For My Garmin Rino 530 HCX Hunting GPS and Why?

A. The best hunting accessories for the Garmin Rino 530 HCX are the carrying case, earbud microphone, 12 volt adapter, MicroSD memory card, and and instructional DVD.

Carrying Case

This carrying case for the Rino is made of flexible neoprene. It will protect the unit from scrapes and scuffs while still allowing you to operate it. It has a clear vinyl lens over the display area and cut-outs for all buttons and antennas.

Earbud Microphone

An earbud with push to talk microphone is essential for communicating with fellow hunters in the field. By having the earbud attached you eliminate the regular noise associated with keying the mic and when receiving a communication. If you are going to use a radio to keep in touch with other hunters in your group then you must have an earbud microphone to reduce the noise while hunting.

12 Volt Adapter

A 12 volt adapter is great to use while in transit to your hunting destination. Then your Rino GPS will be fully charged when you are ready to use it on your hunt.

MicroSD Memory Card

It is great to have a separate memory card pre-loaded with topographical maps of all your different hunting area.

Instructional DVD

An instructional DVD about the Garmin Rino HCX will teach you how to use the many features so you can get the maximum use out of your GPS when you are out hunting.

So, if you are using your Garmin Rino HCX GPS unit for hunting these are the best accessories you will want to use with your Rino.

Hunting GPS Q&A - How Can I Use My GPS For Recovering an Animal After My Shot?

2008-11-18T08:33:00.000-08:00

Q. How Can I Use My GPS For Recovering an Animal After My Shot?

A. You can use your GPS to track a blood trail by entering a waypoint for every blood spot you come to until you find your animal.

After you have made a shot on an animal that you are hunting, the first thing you want to do is make a waypoint of the position you shot it from. This is something you can do while you are waiting before you start tracking your animal.

When you are ready to start tracking your animal go to where you believe your animal was standing when you shot it. Make a waypoint of this position as well. It may also be helpful to go to the last spot you saw the animal and make this a waypoint, too.

By now you should have blood that you can start to follow. Depending on the amount of blood will determine how often you want to make a waypoint. If it is a heavy blood trail you will have to make fewer waypoints. However, if the blood trail is light and faint you will want to make far more frequent waypoints.

These waypoints will give you a great reference if in the event the blood trail dries up. If this occurs go back to the last waypoint you recorded and start looking in all directions to pick up the blood trail again.

These waypoints will be extremely helpful in the event you need to spot the search at night and resume it will fellow hunting buddies come morning light.

Hunting GPS - A Quick Start Guide to Using a GPS When Hunting

2008-11-18T08:32:00.000-08:00

Using a GPS for hunting can be very useful when scouting, on your hunt, and for recovering your animal. However, you will want to learn how to mark a waypoint, make a route, and use the hunt/fish calculator in your GPS unit before you go out into the field. All GPS units are a little different but some basic instructions are as follows:

Mark a Waypoint

When you want to mark your current position out in the field you will want to go to the mark a waypoint screen in your GPS. You will see your current position in the form of a GPS waypoint. Use your navigation buttons to go to the place an name your position such as TreeStand1, Elk Tank, etc. Now when you want to return to this position you can just find the name you gave it in your list of waypoints and your GPS will lead you back to your current spot.

Make A Route

A route is a series of waypoints that will lead you to your final destination. I often use a route when I am scouting and want to mark several points along a ridge that I would like to glass for animals in potential spot and stalk situation. You can make a route in your GPS by going to the routes screen in your GPS. Then click on New to make a new route waypoint. Continue doing this until you have marked all the points along the way you wish to glass from until you reach your final destination.

Hunt/Fish Calculator

Many GPS units have a hunt/fish calculator built into them which will tell you the best times to be out in the field for hunting based on the phase of the moon. Each GPS is pretty different as to how you access this information so consult your owners manual for specific instruction. This information will help you be in the field at the most opportune time when the animals are up and moving around.

This is just a few things to get you started using your GPS for hunting. To learn all about what your GPS unit can do and how to use it, look for an instructional DVD for your specific GPS model.

Hunting GPS - My 3 Favorite Things To Do With My Hunting GPS

2008-11-18T08:30:00.000-08:00

Do you know what my 3 favorite things to do with my hunting GPS are? Read on to find out.

I love using my GPS unit for hunting. It has really help out in a number of ways. GPS technology can help you when scouting, hunting, and recovering an animal.

Scouting

* When scouting I like to use my GPS unit for marking areas I would like to glass when doing a spot and stalk hunt.

* I also use it after I have set up my tree stand or ground blind so I can easily find my way in the early morning hours before the sun rises.

Hunting

* While I am out hunting I will use my GPS to guide me to my tree stand or ground blind in the dark, morning hours before daybreak.

* I will also use it to look for good areas to hunt in a spot and stalk situation. By using a topographical map that is loaded into my GPS unit I can find canyons, springs, and tanks to look for animals.

* Another great use for my GPS when hunting is marking my vehicle or camp location in my GPS so I can easily return to it after my hunt without a lot of backtracking.

Recovery - Tracking an Animal

After I have shot an animal I also make a waypoint of the spot where I shot it from. Then I mark waypoints for each bloodspot I come to. If the blood trail in very heavy I don’t make as many waypoints however if it is a small and scanty blood trail these waypoints can really help out if the blood trail end. With the help of these blood trail waypoints you can go back to the last good blood spot and have a better chance of recovering you animal.

As you can see a GPS is very useful when scouting, hunting, and recovering an animal.

Best Hunting GPS - A Holiday Gift Guide to the Garmin eTrex Vista HCX and its Accessories

2008-11-06T10:20:00.000-08:00

Do you have a hunter on your holiday gift list who would love a GPS unit or accessories. Read on and find out about this great hunting GPS unit, the Garmin eTrex Vista HCX .

Many hunters are using GPS units and accessories on their hunting trips now. The Garmin eTrex Vista HCX is among the best for hunters.

1. Garmin eTrex Vista HCX - The Garmin eTrex Vista HCX is a great hunting GPS unit. It is compact and lightweight. It has an electronic compass which allows for the user to get a bearing even while sitting still in a tree stand or a ground blind. The MicroSD card slot allows the user to put maps of different hunting areas on memory cards. This lets the user change out the memory card for certain hunting spots.

2. Accessories for the Vista HCX - Some of the best accessories for the Garmin eTrex Vista HCX are a carrying case, lanyard, and holster. The carrying case protects the GPS unit from scrapes and reduces glare from the display area. A retractable lanyard or holster allows a hunter to keep the GPS unit handy yet out of the way. These GPS accessories are must-haves for all hunters who use a GPS unit.

3. Software for the Vista HCX - The best topographical map for the Vista HCX is the Garmin Mapsource Topo 2008. This software will give you topo maps of your hunting areas in the United States including terrain contours, topo elevations, trails, rural roads, and springs. Topo software is extremely helpful to hunters so they can find possible hunting spots while using their GPS unit.

4. Instructional DVD for the Vista HCX - An instructional DVD by Bennett Video for the Garmin eTrex Vista HCX will help the new user become familiar with the unit. This DVD will teach the user how to mark a waypoint, make a route, and make a track log in their new GPS unit. It is very important that the hunter knows how to operate the GPS unit before using it on their first hunting trip. This will cut down on the frustration and allow the user to get the maximum benefit from the GPS unit while hunting.

So, as you can see these four ideas are great for the hunter on your Holiday shopping list this year. Any hunter would love the Garmin eTrex Vista HCX and it’s accessories to use on their next hunting trip.

Best Hunting GPS - A Holiday Gift Guide to the Garmin GPSMap 60CSX and Its Accessories

2008-11-06T10:16:00.000-08:00

Do you have a hunter on your holiday gift list who would love a GPS unit or accessories. Read on and find out about this great hunting GPS unit, the Garmin GPSMap 60CSX .

Many hunters are using GPS units and accessories on their hunting trips now. The Garmin GPSMap 60CSX is among the best for hunters.

1. Garmin GPSMap 60CSX - The Garmin GPSMap 60CSX is a great hunting GPS unit. It has an electronic compass which allows for the user to get a bearing even while sitting still in a tree stand or a ground blind. The MicroSD card slot allows the user to put maps of different hunting areas on memory cards. This lets the user change out the memory card for certain hunting spots.

2. Accessories for the GPSMap 60CSX- Some of the best accessories for the Garmin GPSMap 60CSX are a carrying case and lanyard. The carrying case protects the GPS unit from scrapes and reduces glare from the display area. A retractable lanyard allows a hunter to keep the GPS unit handy yet out of the way. These GPS accessories are must-haves for all hunters who use a GPS unit.

3. Software for the GPSMap 60CSX- The best topographical map for the GPSMap 60CSX is the Garmin Mapsource Topo 2009. This software will give you topo maps of your hunting areas in the United States including terrain contours, topo elevations, trails, rural roads, and springs. Topo software is extremely helpful to hunters so they can find possible hunting spots while using their GPS unit.

4. Instructional DVD for the GPSMap 60CSX- An instructional DVD by Bennett Video for the Garmin GPSMap 60CSX will help the new user become familiar with the unit. This DVD will teach the user how to mark a waypoint, make a route, and make a track log in their new GPS unit. It is very important that the hunter knows how to operate the GPS unit before using it on their first hunting trip. This will cut down on the frustration and allow the user to get the maximum benefit from the GPS unit while hunting.

So, as you can see these four ideas are great for the hunter on your Holiday shopping list this year. Any hunter would love the Garmin GPSMap 60CSX and it’s accessories to use on their next hunting trip.

Best Hunting GPS - The 3 Best Garmin GPS units for hunting: A Holiday Gift Guide Comparison

2008-11-05T12:31:00.000-08:00

Do you know which Garmin GPS Units are the best hunting GPS to give as a gift this holiday season? Read on and find out what makes these three GPS units the best for hunting.

If you have a hunter on your gift list this holiday season you may want to consider getting them a GPS unit. But the big question is which one’s are best for hunting and why.

1. Garmin eTrex Vista HCX - The Garmin eTrex Vista HCX is a great GPS for hunting because of its compact size, electronic compass, and MicroSD card slot. It is small enough to fit in a shirt pocket and very light weight. The electronic compass allows the hunter to get a bearing while standing still either in a tree stand or ground blind. The MicroSD card slot allows for additional memory and storage of specific hunting areas and waypoints on certain memory cards that can be interchanged when changing hunting areas.

2. Garmin GPSMap 60 CSX - The Garmin GPSmap 60 CSX has been a mainstay for outdoor enthusiasts including hunters. It is not as compact as the Garmin eTrex Vista HCX but it too has an electronic compass and MicroSD card slot for additional memory. Many hunters like that it is easy to use with one hand while hunting and also how quickly it acquires a satellite signal, ready to navigate.

3 . Garmin Rino 530 HCX - The Garmin Rino 530 HCX also has the electronic compass and MicroSD card slot but it is also a FRS/GMRS radio. This radio allows you to communicate with other FRS/GMRS radio users or to use the position reporting feature to let other Rino users in your hunting party know where you are at.

So, as you can see, these three Garmin GPS units are the best hunting GPS’s available. Any hunter would love to receive one of these as a gift this holiday season.

Hunting GPS - Holiday GPS Gift Guide for the Hunter on Your List

2008-11-05T12:30:00.000-08:00

Do you know what the Hunter on your list wants this holiday season? Read on and find out the top GPS related gift ideas for this holiday season.

Yes, it is that time of year again and what to get the Hunter on your gift list? GPS units and related items are very popular with hunter now. So, why not get them a hunting GPS or accessories. You may consider one of the following ideas.

1. Best Hunting GPS Units - The best hunting GPS units are the Garmin GPSMap 60CSX, Garmin eTrex Vista HCX, and the Garmin Rino 530. All of these models are great for hunting. Each model has an electronic compass which all hunters love because they can get their bearing while sitting still in a tree stand or ground blind. The Garmin Rino 530 HCX is also a two-way radio so you can keep in touch with other hunters and use the pin-point reporting feature to let other Rino users in your hunting group know exactly where you are at.

2 Best Hunting GPS Accessories - The best GPS accessories for hunters are a good carrying case, a lanyard, and a holster. These accessories will protest the GPS from scrapes as well as keep the GPS handy for use by the hunter. If you have chosen the Garmin eTrex Vista HCX you could get a couple MicroSD cards for the hunter to load specific hunting maps onto. Or if you have chosen the Garmin Rino HCX, an earbud with microphone is great for hunter so they don’t make noise when using the radio feature.

3. Best Hunting GPS Software - The best GPS software for hunters is a great topographical map such as Garmin MapSource Topo! U.S. 2008 . This will show terrain contours, topo elevations, trails, rural roads, and springs. Every hunter will love that advantage of hunting with a GPS with loaded Topo maps to help find them the best hunting spots.

4. Best Hunting GPS Instructional DVD’s - When a hunter gets a new GPS unit they want to learn how to use it quickly so they can use it on their next hunt. Bennett video has produced excellent how-to DVD’s for all the most popular GPS unit. The hunter on your gift list will learn how to mark waypoints, and make routes and tracks in no time at all with the help of one of these instructional DVD’s.

So, as you can see if you pick a GPS related gift for the hunter on your gift list this year they will enjoy it on every hunting trip through out the year.

Instructional DVD's - Learn How to Use Your New GPS

2008-10-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

Do you have a new GPS and you would like to learn how to get the most out of it. Then you will want to purchase an instructional DVD from Bennett to learn how use your GPS which includes step by step instruction.

GARMIN MAPSOURCE TOPO 2008 DVD US

2008-10-29T13:01:00.000-07:00

If you have a Garmin GPS you will want to use the Garmin MapSource Topo! U.S. 2008
on your next hunting trip. Having a Topo map of your hunting area loaded on your GPS unit really helps when trying to find new areas to hunt.

Hunting GPS - Three Ways to Use Your GPS When Scouting for Your Next Hunt

2008-10-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

A GPS unit can be very helpful when hunting but even more so when scouting for your next hunting trip. The three best ways to use a GPS unit is for marking waypoints, making routes, and making tracks.

Marking Waypoints - As you scout for your next hunting trip you will want to mark items such as your tree stand or blind location, game sign (either tree rubs, foot tracks, or droppings), and water holes that have game activity. By marking these waypoints in your GPS it will give you an overall view of the game activity in your potential hunting area.

Making Routes - If you are doing spot and stalk hunting you can use your GPS to make a route of the area you plan on hunting. Start by starting the route at your vehicle position then make a route waypoint at varies places you would like to glass in your hunting area in the order that you would come to them.

Make a Track - While you are scouting for your next hunting trip you may want to make a track when you start exploring a new area. When you leave your vehicle or camp start making a track log with your GPS. This will make a “bread crumb trail” for you to follow back to your starting point without having to mark any waypoints along the way. This is very helpful when you are just surveying a new area to hunt and most of your concentration is looking for game sign, game trails, and a good tree stand location.

As you can see using your GPS to mark waypoints, make routes, and tracks while scouting for your next hunting trip is extremely helpful. When it is time to go hunting you will appreciate the potential hunting spots you marked in you GPS on your scouting trip instead of blindly having to find a good place to hunt.

Hunting GPS: The 3 Biggest Mistakes that Hunters Make When Using a GPS Unit.

2008-10-23T13:56:00.000-07:00

Everyone is using GPS units now and hunters are no exception. They are great for marking game sign, waterholes, potential hunting spots, and marking a blood trail. But before you go in the field with your GPS unit make sure you are not making these 3 mistakes.

1. Not Marking Your Truck or ATV position - This is the biggest mistake most hunters make when using a GPS. They are so excited to get starting on their hunting or scouting trip that they left their vehicle without marking it in their GPS unit. Before they know it they are a mile from the truck and remember that they didn’t make a mark of their vehicle location. Don’t let this happen to you. Make a habit of marking your vehicle position in your GPS unit before you put your pack on or pick up your gun/bow.

2. Not Carrying Extra Batteries - It is extremely important to always carry extra batteries for your GPS in your hunting backpack. Even though most GPS units can be used for more than 25 hours on one set of batteries, who knows how many hours you have used your GPS for before your hunt and how long you may need it after you are in the field.

3. Not Looking Around at Their Surrounding - GPS technology is very good for marking the location of your vehicle or hunting spots but it is very important that you do not rely on it as your only directional device. Always look around at your surrounding and make mental notes of landmarks of your vehicle location and hunting area. A compass is also a great device to have in your pack. When tracking with a GPS make sure to look up and notice the sights around you. Technology can fail. The GPS could stop working or you could drop and break it. Always use common sense when on your hunting trips and don’t rely solely on your GPS for your direction.

By avoiding these mistakes when using your GPS on your next hunting trip you will get more out of your GPS as well as having a safer hunt.

GPS For Hunting: The 4 Must-Have Accessories For Your GPS When Hunting

2008-10-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

When you are out in the field hunting and using a GPS unit it is very helpful to have the right accessories for your GPS. It makes your GPS unit much more simple and easy to use.

1. Carrying Case - A carrying case will save your GPS from getting some scuffs and scrapes on it while hunting in the outdoors. No matter how careful you are with your GPS you are bound to drop it sometime while in a spot and stalk hunting situation or walking to your tree stand. Most durable carrying cases have a clear vinyl for protecting the display. This is also helpful to reduce glare from the display area. The carrying case also has holes in it for easy use of the operating buttons.

2. Software - You will want to get the correct mapping software for your GPS unit. Having topographic maps loaded on your GPS for the area you are hunting is extremely helpful especially in a spot and stalk situation. You can find canyons, springs, and other areas that you can check for game.

3. Lanyards or Holsters - You will want to have some form of carrying your GPS unit either with a lanyard or holster. A retractable lanyard is great for hunters because it keeps the GPS unit handy when needed yet out of the way when not in use. A holster is also a good option because it is easy to get the GPS in and out of without making a lot of noise like a belt clip and button setup.

4. Instructional DVD - An instructional DVD about your GPS unit is a great way to learn how to get the most out of your new GPS unit. The last thing you want to be doing is trying to figure out how to use your GPS unit when you are out hunting. You will want to learn how to enter waypoints, make a route, and a track. Also make sure you know how to access the hunt/fish calendar so you know when the best time to be in the field is. Also learn how to access the sunrise and sunset information on your GPS unit.

Of course, you can get vehicle power cables, gps mounts for your bike, car, or boat, and additional memory cards for your GPS unit. But a good carrying case, topo map software, lanyard or holster, and an instructional DVD are the most helpful GPS accessories for any hunter.

Best Hunting GPS - The Top 7 Reasons Why the Garmin eTrex Vista Hcx is the Best Hunting GPS

2008-10-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

Many people are asking which GPS is the best for hunting. The Garmin eTrex Vista Hcx is among the best GPS units for hunting for many reasons but here are the top seven.

1. Long Battery Life - It is very important to have a GPS unit that has a long battery life to it when hunting in the outdoors. The Vista Hcx will run approximately 25 hours on 2 AA batteries. Remember to always carry extra batteries in your pack while hunting so you don’t get stuck in the middle of nowhere with out having replacements.

2. Compact & Lightweight - When you are doing spot and stalk hunting you will appreciate having a GPS that is both compact and lightweight. The Vista Hcx is small enough to fit in your shirt pocket and only weighs 5.5 ounces.

3. Waas-enabled & Electric Compass - It is extremely important to have a GPS that is Waas-enabled when hunting like the eTrex Vista Hcx is because it will locate your position quickly and precisely even when you are hunting in heavy cover or a deep canyon. The Garmin eTrex Vista Hcx is also equipped with an electric compass which will provide your bearing information even while you are sitting still in a tree stand or hunting blind.

4. Hunt/Fish Calculator & Sun/Moon Information - The Vista HCX has a Hunt/Fish calculator which tells you the best times to hunt each day. It also provides you with sunrise and sunset times so you can plan your time hunting in the field better.

5. 256 Level Color - You will enjoy the 256 level color of the Vista HCX with it’s easy to read screen and great contrast that it brings to your topo maps while outdoors.

6. Great Memory and MicroSD slot - You can record 1000 waypoints, 50 routes, and 20 tracks with the Garmin eTrex Vista HCX. It has a microSD slot where you can insert preloaded microSD cards with MapSource information about the area you are hunting.

7. Water Proof - But the most important reason why the Garmin eTrex is among the best hunting GPS unit is because it is water proof. You don’t want to worry about damaging your GPS unit when you are out hunting and a rain shower or snow flurries start to fall.

These are just a few of the reasons why the Garmin eTrex Vista Hcx is the best GPS unit for hunting.