There is No One Perfect GPS for Deer Hunting
Thats right, there is no one perfect GPS for deer hunting. There may be one that you consider perfect for yourself, but probably not everyone has the same needs you do. However, overall there are highly recommended GPS for deer hunting out there, and they are all listed below. These are considered the best GPS for deer hunting. The hunting community has rated these as the most popular GPS for deer hunting. However, choosing a good GPS for hunting depends on what and how you, personally, plan on using your GPS for the hunt. I can't tell you the one single GPS that has been proven the best for hunting, though I have put together a list of the most qualified and top rated GPS for hunting. So I encourage you to look into each of these GPS and find what exactly it is that you are looking for and choose which GPS is best suited for you. GPS technology is constantly changing so check back often for updates.
Features of the Best GPS for Deer Hunting:
- Long battery life (between 15-25 hours)
- Plenty of memory to hold waypoints (14-25 MB should be good)
- Easily portable/light weight (hand held)
- I hunt at night so a easily readable screen
- WAAS capability (allows for accuracy of up to 3 meters)
- Long Battery Life for a Handheld GPS
One of the best features a handheld GPS can have is a long battery life. Deer hunting is not a short event most go deer hunting for days even. A long battery life for a GPS can save a lot of frustration while deer hunting. It allows for longer hunting trips to locations you would not be able to go without a GPS with longer battery life. So be sure you add this feature to your list when deciding the best GPS for deer hunting.
Needs Plenty of Memory While Deer Hunting
It is a common practice to revisit waypoints several times because most deer hunters have spots the like. If you are one to revisit waypoints your GPS will start to run out of memory and no one wants to delete spots that have been good to them in the past for deer hunting. So when shopping for a GPS be sure you save yourself the hassle of having to decide which waypoints are more important and get plenty of memory for your deer hunting GPS.
Deer Hunting GPS Should be Light Weight and Portable
No one enjoys walking around the woods deer hunting while carrying a big heavy burden of a GPS. There are some handheld GPS that weigh up to 3.5 pounds. That would be a terror to go hunting with. Anything over 2 pounds is a little to heavy to be considered in the best GPS for deer hunting category. So try and stay under 2 pounds when shopping for your deer hunting GPS.
GPS Should Have WAAS Capability to be Good for Deer Hunting
WAAS has been around for awhile and yet many GPS owners still have no idea what it is. WAAS capability basically allows for a GPS unit's accuracy to be within 3 meters. When hunting you want to know exactly where you are and how far you have to go in case of an accident. So when deciding which GPS is the best for your deer hunting needs be sure to include WAAS capability as a must have feature.
When Deer Hunting GPS Need to be Water Resistant/Water Proof
As most already know, deer hunting, is an outdoor sport, which means weather applys. When it comes to a $100+ piece of equipment thats primary use is outdoors you don't want a little water to ruin it. So be sure your deer hunting GPS is some what water resistant. Particularly if you are one to go deer hunting in the woods where there are plenty of places to accidentally drop the GPS into standing water.
Top Rated GPS for Deer Hunting
-Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx
Description
Amazon.com Product Description The venerable Garmin 60CS just got a whole lot better. The 7.5-ounce GPSMap 60CSx now features an insanely accurate, high-sensitivity GPS receiver by SiRF that tracks your position even in tree cover and canyons. Plus, you get a bright, sunlight-readable color TFT display and an included a 64 MB microSD card for storage of optional map detail. Add all that to the 60CSx's integrated barometric altimeter and electronic compass, and you've got a unit that is ready to take you anywhere on land or sea. The 60CSx is a refreshing upgrade of the 60CS, and features a removable microSD card for detailed mapping memory. View larger. The device features the powerful SiRF GPS navigation chip for supreme accuracy in all conditions. You also get an electronic compass and a barometric altimeter. You also get a large color TFT display and turn-by-turn routing capability. You can use the 60CSx's memory card slot with preprogrammed microSD cards from Garmin (sold separately) that provide topographic maps, city streets, and nautical charts. In fact, the unit is compatible with most Garmin MapSource products including BlueChart, City Navigator, U.S. Topo 24K, and U.S. Topo and Recreational Lakes with Fishing Hot Spots. The unit comes preloaded with an Americas autoroute basemap that provides automatic routing capabilities including highways, exits, and tide data. There's also a preloaded marine point database. You can even get turn-by-turn directions when you're driving, and an integrated trip computer provides odometer, stopped time, moving average, overall average, total time, max speed, and more. The 60CSx's 2.6-inch, 256-color TFT color display is designed to present mapping and trip information clearly and accurately in any lighting conditions. Plus, the case is lightweight, rugged, and water resistant to IEC 60529 IPX7 standards (can be submerged in one meter of water for 30 minutes). When using two AA alkaline batteries, you'll get up to 20 hours of battery life from the unit. The unit's barometric altimeter system features automatic pressure trend recording while providing current elevation, ascent/descent rate, minimum/maximum elevation, total ascent and descent, and average and maximum ascent and descent rate. Meanwhile, the electronic compass allows you to get accurate headings while standing still. Another key feature of the 60CSx is the 10,000 point automatic track log; 20 saved tracks (500 points each) let you retrace your path in both directions. There's also a large-numbers option for easy viewing, as well as a dual-position display mode. The 60CSx's trip computer provides odometer, stopped time, moving average, overall average, total time, max speed, and more. Meanwhile, a fast processor allows the 60CSx to provide quick auto-routing, turn-by-turn directions, and audio alerts when you use the optional MapSource software, which can be stored on the unit's included 64 MB microSD card. Downloading information is quick with the USB or serial port interfaces. Using the dedicated serial port, the 60Cx can share navigation instructions with repeaters, plotters, and autopilots. The four-position rocker pad and dedicated high-use buttons make navigating through the unit's features easy, even when your fingers are cold or wet. Finally, the GPSMap 60CSx is packed with some extra fun features. An integrated outdoor calendar provides ideal hunting and fishing times, plus moon rise/set/location information. There is a dedicated geocaching mode for those of you into the hot GPS community treasure hunt game. Finally, there are indoor/outdoor GPS games to help you and your friends enjoy the outdoors. If you like the features of the 60CSx, but don't need an electronic compass and a barometric altimeter, check out the Garmin 60Cx. What's in the Box 60CSx unit, 64 MB microSD card, belt clip, USB interface cable, MapSource Trip and Waypoint Manager CD, lanyard, owners manual, and quick-start guide.
Features
- High-sensitivity GPS receiver
- Bright, sunlight-readable color TFT display
- Color-handheld mapping ideal for both marine and outdoor use
- 64 MB microSD card for storage of optional map detail; NOTE: microSD card is located in the device, not as a separate, additional item
- Fast USB connectivity makes loading charts and maps quick and easy
Reviews
Having an e-trex for several years, I was always frustrated with the lack of mileage accuracy. After all, what hiker wouldn't like to know the distance they have gone. I have to admit I was a bit leery when I purchased such an older model as the 60CXs, but the after my research I concluded the 60CSx was far better than the newer models. I wasn't disappointed, between the speed of acquiring satellites (even indoors) the accuracy and ease of use the 60CSx won't let you down.
The only reason I didn't give a 5 is the poor cases and clip on that comes with the 60CSx.
I bought this for my husband years ago for his birthday and it still works! We've brought it with us on numerous trips by car and hiking. I got this one specifically because of it's portability. I didn't like that I had to buy another chip for maps, but it totally worked fine when my husband brought it with him on a business trip and had to drive around puerto rico. We've used it in several middle of nowhere spots as we liked to search for swimming holes (we got coordinates from [...]) and we got great reception. This is definitely one of the best purchases I've ever made. The only thing I would ever recommend if for the manufacturer to make it so that you'd be able to get batteries that would charge in the car. I hate buying batteries for it all the time.
My first GPS but I love it. Used it throughout New Zealand and Australia. Nice and rugged for hiking and horseback riding. Used it mostly for driving. Not fancy like the one's intended for cars but does the job.
Got this item as birthday present and love it. Works quite a bit better than my previous cheaper GPS
Not bad , but not as good as other reviews I read. I'd recommend buying the Oregon for the price difference.
-Garmin eTrex Vista HCx Color High-Sensitivity Mapping Handheld GPS
Description
Neither deep foliage nor steep canyons will faze the rugged Garmin eTrex Vista HCx navigator. Equipped with a high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, the unit locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover. The advantage is clear: whether you're traipsing through thick woods or strolling near tall buildings and trees, you can count on the Vista HCx to help you find your way when you need it the most. The Vista HCx also includes a built-in electronic compass that provides bearing information even when you're standing still, along with a barometric altimeter that tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude. You can even use the altimeter to plot barometric pressure over time, which can help you keep an eye on changing weather conditions. Adding maps to the Vista HCx is easier than ever thanks to the device's microSD card slot, which accepts cards preloaded with MapSource data for your land and sea excursions. Just insert a MapSource card with detailed street maps, and the Vista HCx will provide turn-by-turn directions to your destination. Plus, the card slot is located inside the waterproof battery compartment, so you needn't worry about it getting wet. Besides appreciating its small size, users will also be happy with the Vista HCx's unique button layout, with five buttons located on either side of the unit. The benefits of this design are twofold: First, the Vista HCx is a breeze to operate with just one hand, and, second, with the buttons on both sides of the unit, the bulk of the front is dedicated to the 256-color, sunlight-readable TFT display. This makes it easy to distinguish map details regardless of the time of day. The Vista HCx basemap, meanwhile, contains lakes, rivers, cities, interstates, national and state highways, railroads, and coastlines--in short, a host of helpful details for your outdoor adventures. Other details include an IPX7 waterproof housing, 1,000 waypoints with names and graphic symbols, a built-in patch antenna, a USB interface, a hunt/fish calendar, sun and moon information, and a geocaching mode. The Vista HCx, which runs for up to 25 hours on a pair of AA batteries (not included), measures 2.2 by 4.2 by 1.2 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty. What's in the Box eTrex Vista HCx, basemap, MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager software, USB cable, wrist strap, quick start guide, user's manual.
Features
- High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver provides peak performance in any environment
- Lightweight, compact and waterproof
- Features a 1.7-inch X 1.3-inch screen with 256-level color TFT
- Built-in basemap with automatic routing capability
- USB connection for high-speed map downloads
Reviews
This is the third Garmin product I have purchased. The eTrex Vista HCx works well for me while cycling. The memory card slot was an important feature for me. I use MapSource and topo maps for navigating country roads. The altitude feature is great for tracking elevation climbed while riding.
Thus far, this product is as advertised. Even with the very basic base map, one is still able to set way points, tracks, check distance, elevation and compass direction accurately. I have yet to get one of the 24k maps, but anticipate doing so in the future. The size is ideal and battery life with sanyo eneloop rechargeable batteries seems impressive.
I just think that the GPS could come with more maps instaled and with a microSD card included.
I've had my Garmin eTrex for about two months now and by itself it's good product, but when you couple it with a fully functioning map software, it's great. It's small, compact, easy to use, and you can carry it with you anywhere. There's just couple of things to be aware of. When I purchased the eTrex I assumed the mapping software included in the purchase was sufficient to guide you almost anywhere. I was wrong. You almost have to purchase the mapping software, in order to get up to date information on locations, waypoints, areas of interest etc. That's an additional $100. But you have to be careful which of the three choices you choose. Down loadable directly to the device, a CD Rom, or a SD card preloaded with the software. I chose the down loadable version which took several hours to download via FIOS connection, only to find it was not compatible with the software that Garmin provide at the time of purchase. The way to go is to get the CD rom so you can manipulate the information on the computer that you would like to see on the hand held. So the software that I have on my computer that Garmin provided is virtually useless without some type of mapping software. I would prefer that Garmin package the software and the device together, but I imagine the price would not make it conducive to the consumer.
Great Price Super Fast Shipping! Thanks A++++++ Best Bang for the Buck! Did ton's of research Buy this one Very Accurate! I fly PPG and really depend on this unit!
-Magellan eXplorist 200 Handheld GPS
Description
Featuring TrueFix TM technology for reliable accuracy to within 3 meters, built-in maps and customizable screens make navigating the outdoors fun and easy. Save track logs, waypoints and more to 8 MB free memory. Powerful, affordable and easy to use.andnbsp;andnbsp; Built-in maps of North America or Europe make it easy to navigate major roads and highways. Map detail includes parks, waterways, city centers, airports and other major points of interest. Save up to 5 track log files, 500 points of interest and 20 routes to the additional 8 MB of available memory. Intelligently designed for comfortable right or left handed use, the clearly marked keypad provides one-touch access to all your most important features. Joystick controller makes scrolling the simple menus fun and easy. The large backlit display is easy-to-read day or night. Customizable navigation screens show your location, speed, direction, and distance to destination and more, just the way you want it. Put easy-to-use, powerful and affordable GPS in your pocket. - Easy-to-use - Navigate in seconds with simple menus, one-button shortcut to key features and joystick control - Built-in maps - North American or European basemap shows major roads, parks, waterways and many points of interest - Large backlit display - Clearly see your GPS information day or night - TrueFix technology - Reliable accuracy to within 3 meters - Track logging - Store 150 track files with 2000 points each -
Amazon.com Product Description There's a lot to Magellan's small, cool eXplorist 200 handheld GPS navigation device beyond its vibrant yellow exterior. Inside and out, the eXplorist is built to provide real GPS (global positioning system) abilities for serious outdoor use--from its tough, impact-resistant, waterproof exterior to Magellan's proven, powerful, and easy-to-use technology. The eXplorist 200 rewrites the rules by proving you can spend less and actually get more. Map page. View larger. Navigation page. View larger. Location page. View larger. The eXplorist 200 packs GPS navigation into a tough, impact-resistant device. View larger. The eXplorist 200 includes all-new Magellan TrueFix technology with a 14-parallel-channel, WAAS/EGNOS-enabled GPS receiver to provide precise position fixes within three meters while ensuring reliable, accurate satellite-signal acquisition and tracking. Small, lightweight, and easy-to-use, anyone can pick it up and get going without studying a manual. Among its many features, the eXplorist 200 offers three navigation screens with track plotting to help you find the fun--and then find your way back. Outdoors enthusiasts will appreciate Magellan's one-button access, which takes you directly to the functions that matter most: the menu, navigation screens, personal points-of-interest, "go to" routing, and backlighting. In addition, the eXplorist 200 stores up to 500 waypoints, 20 routes, and five track logs with up to 2,000 points each, providing ample storage even for avid navigators. The unit also supplies a built-in North American background map, which offers convenient access to roads, parks, waterways, airports, and more. Designed for compact, fit-in-your-pocket convenience, the eXplorist receiver measures just 4.6 by 2.1 by 1.3 inches (11.7 by 5.4 by 3.3 centimeters) and weighs less than four ounces (115 grams), yet still has room for a large, 2.3-inch (5.8 centimeter), four-level grayscale LCD. Plus, with the zoom capability and an amber backlight, this device guarantees optimum viewing, even at night. The unit's rugged exterior is cased in a rubber-armored, impact-resistant shell that is waterproof to the rigid IPX-7 standard. The eXplorist 200 is ready for adventure in all conditions and terrain, whether you'll be hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, mountain biking, or simply finding your way around a new area. What's in the Box eXplorist 200 GPS navigator, manual, and quick-start guide.
Features
- TrueFix technology with a 14 parallel channel, WAAS/EGNOS-enabled GPS receiver
- Stores up to 500 waypoints, 20 routes, and five track logs
- Convenient, easy one-button control makes operation a breeze
- 2.3-inch, grayscale LCD and rubber-armored, impact-resistant, waterproof shell
- Measures 2.1 x 4.6 x 1.3 inches (WxHxD)
Reviews
I went elk hunting with my new Magellan eXplorist 200 and 3 buddys who all owned Garmin E trexi (Plural of E trex). I was able to mark spots and name them before my buddys were even able to mark them. Accuracy was essentially the same.
This was a very good and accurate GPS unit. Sturdy and well made. Batteries lasted a long time and it found the satellites pretty quickly. Some of the functions such as setting it to coordinates you wanted to find was a bit awkward it worked flawlessly. I ended up selling it on E-bay as I wanted a unit with a more detailed map. The new unit has a better map but is not as accurate as this Magellan was.
Nice things about the explorist is it's cheap, ruggedly simple, good screen resolution, nice hand fit, good satellite fix and much better than Garmin's old chips'fitted gps. Great for outdoor adventure.
Downside is, low resolution track logging. Can't beat Garmin's Etrex features.
I'm a hard-core Garmin fan. I own 5 Garmin receivers ranging from the old GPS 12XL to the newest GPSmap 60CSx. But for the second edition of my book, "Outdoor Navigation with GPS," I was committed to including information about a broader range of receivers. Since Magellan again refused to loan me an evaluation unit, I decided to buy this inexpensive receiver. Not expecting much, I put it though its paces and was pleasantly surprised. It's fairly easy and intuitive to use, lightweight, and rugged. True, it doesn't have any kind of computer interface port or external power port, but for a casual geocacher or hiker, it works just fine. I had no problem learning to use it in just a few minutes, once I figured out that Magellan uses the term "Points of Interest" instead of the industry standard term "Waypoints." (When will Magellan ever settle on a standard name? On their older units they called them "Landmarks.") The grayscale screen is easy to read both indoors and out, and the buttons are easy enough to use. I like the fact that Magellan has provided dedicated "MARK" and "GOTO" buttons rather than burying the functions way down in a softkey menu, something that certain other manufacturers could take notice of. The built in maps are more of a marketing ploy than really useful. They don't have enough detail for highway navigation and without a computer port there's no way to add more detail. There are a few other minor quirks like a user interface that is inconsistent in how you enter numeric data. All in all, though, it is much better than I had expected. I brought it along for a GPS navigation class I recently taught and found that inexperienced GPS users could quickly master it. It's not the choice for the serious GPS navigator, but for the casual user who won't need to connect it to a computer, it may well be sufficient. My original plan was to sell it as soon as I was done writing the manuscript, but now I'm seriously considering keeping it.
I don't have a clue how this item works - I just took it out of the box. What I can tell you is that it does NOT accept a cigarette lighter adapter, as one might conclude it would, given that Amazon and other dealers include a cigarette adapter as an accessory.
-Garmin GPS, 60, WATERPROOF, 28 HOUR BATTERY
Description
Backwoods, boundary waters, blue highways - the GPS 60 is your trusted guide to the great outdoors. The GPS 60 along with the GPSMAP 60 are packed with several of the features found in the 60 series color units, but sport an affordable, high-resolution, monochrome display for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget.The rugged, waterproof GPS 60 is the perfect, low-cost, navigator for wherever your spirit of adventure takes you.The GPS 60 is a non-mapping unit that comes factory pre-loaded with a 1 MB marine point database that includes worldwide cities. Like the other products in the 60 series, this trusty handheld is compact and lightweight, with a user-friendly interface. It's reliable and extra-precise as WAAS can make it. The unit also offers a dedicated geocaching mode, indoor/outdoor games, an alarm clock, sunrise/sunset and moon phase tables, optimal hunting and fishing times - plus much more.The GPS 60 makes it easy to navigate the great outdoors on a budget.
Features
- CATEGORY:GPS / CB Radio / 2-Way Radios / Scanners>GPS
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