Handheld or portable GPS

[LilBastage]

I found an older thread on these, but I'm sure the tech has improved since then.

I'm looking for a handheld or portable GPS unit. We will use it for geocaching, the boat, regular hiking, and some biking.

Any suggestions? I've been looking at the Garmin Legend HCx. It sounds like it has all the features and it's very portable by the looks of it (which will be nice for clipping on the handlebars of the bicycle).

I'm just wondering if anyone has any other units they'd recommend or any experiences with this particular model.

 

[w00ts!te]

You also get a cellphone that has a GPS system in it. I have the new HTC Incredible and the GPS tracking/maping is amazing.

 

[souldog]

You also get a cellphone that has a GPS system in it. I have the new HTC Incredible and the GPS tracking/maping is amazing.

Is that dependent on whether you have cell phone coverage or not? Because if not, that is AWESOME! :thumbs:

 

[mmburtch]

GPS app for my I-phone works as long as you have power and a view of the sky.

 

[LilBastage]

I'm not getting a new cellphone. I'm looking for a dedicated GPS unit. Not many cellphones are waterproof or even water resistant.

 

[grateful1]

Have you tried using a map?

Garmin

 

[AVB]

You should get a sextant and really impress everybody.

 

[LilBastage]

Have you tried using a map?

Garmin

I tried to use a map and the tachymeter on my watch to find my speed, but I'm getting lazy and I don't ride very fast making it much more difficult.

You should get a sextant and really impress everybody.

Is that like a protestant but more fun? I'm not sure TheWife(c) would approve. :sign:

 

[Shamrocker]

You should get a sextant and really impress everybody.

No no no... you really need to get out a theodolite and do stellar observations on both the sun and on timing stars. I've done it, more should too!

eta: I'm a fan of Garmin handhelds, and the newer ones typically have a geocaching function on them for storing the waypoint and data on the cache.
The only thing I don't like about some Garmins is the 4-way thumb-stick used for navigating the menus. My buddy has a Garmin Colorado (I think) and it hada scroll wheel that was pretty slick.

 

[Breedy]

I hope this helps.

 

[Wurm]

Garmin Oregon series are nice but expensive. I have the 400 which (I think) is no longer made, my only complaint is the screen is on the dim side when in bright light situations.

 

[tsmckenney]

Alan, I've got a Garmin GPS V personal navigator. This thing is made for hikers, boaters, outdoors folks. Waterproof. The thing is tough. It also has a trackback thing on it, which is why I bought it. Thought I was going to have to bury a couple bodies. Turns out I didn't need to do that.

Check it out online. If it interests you, drop me a line. BTW, works in the car as well, but the graphics aren't ideal for that.

 

[Bsneed51]

Hire a sherpa. They will even carry your stuff.