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

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

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

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

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

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?

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?

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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?

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.

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

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

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

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.