There are a few basic things to remember when it comes to getting out of the wilderness, such as finding a stream and following it downhill. This will keep you close to a water source and lift you out of the worst weather conditions into civilization.
However, if the weather is bad and there are no streams to follow, you will need another method of navigation – the compass.
GPS is great, but what happens when your battery is dead and you don’t have a portable battery handy?
The Compass is the one piece of survival gear that will never let you down. Of course, it can’t tell you if there is a city nearby, but it can keep you from wandering around aimlessly.
Do you Know How To Use A Compass ?
First of all, watch the following You Tube videos which last approximately 3 mins. 30 secs & 8 mins. 30 secs. respectively :
#1 How To Accurately Read A Compass
#2 Beginner Guide To Map & Compass
Theory Lesson:
(I) Prefer a PLATE COMPASS which you can use with a map ? Such a compass has a rotating base so you can remember the directions. If you have one, don’t hesitate to attach your compass carrying loop to your backpack so you don’t lose it on the way.
(II) FIND AN OPEN SPOT
You are at point A and want to go to point B. Try to find an open area so that you can easily find reference points , such as a mountain top, a building, or a river. If this causes you to get too far from point A, try to find specific terrain features around you that can be seen on the map.
(III) PLACE THE COMPASS ON THE MAP
Start by laying your card nicely flat , although it doesn’t have to be completely unfolded. Then you place the compass on the map. If the map is not flat, the needle may get stuck in the compass rose and may not indicate north.
Place your compass on a line, which you may or may not have drawn, connecting point A with point B. Point the arrow at the front of the compass towards your destination .
(IV) TURN THE COMPASS
Leave the compass on the map, or keep it nice and flat in your hand. Turn it until the north of the compass rose lines up with your compass needle . Congratulations, now you just have to follow the arrow . Make sure that your red compass needle always aligns with the north of the compass rose.
If you feel you have a ” fair / rough ” ideas as to how to use a compass, now is the time to consider purchasing but only after reading this excellent article i.e. https://www.myopencountry.com/how-to-use-a-compass/ AND referring to our reviews on selected models.
REVIEWS
| NAME of MODEL | Orienteering Compass (TurnOnSport) | Sportneer Military Lensatic Sighting Compass. | Eyeskey Multi-function Military Compass. |
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| INTRODUCTION | Learning orienteering can be a daunting proposition to the uninitiated. And some of the more feature-rich compasses on this list can be intimidating for someone looking to learn to navigate without GPS devices. FOR BEGINNERS, we recommend a simple and inexpensive option on which you can learn the basics. | Perfect for: Backpacking, hiking, tactical use, and navigation. This is a professional grade compass that features a fluorescent interface and accurate lens function with a rear sight that magnifies the card dial. It’s waterproof and shake-proof so that you can take it with you anywhere. | The Eyesky compass is specially designed to help you get out of emergency situations. It features conversion cards to measure distances, a rotating bezel to determine your heading, and adjustable sight lines to plot your course. It's also built to last. It will take you an entire afternoon to learn how to use the Eyesky Compass and it may be the most precious afternoon you've ever spent. |
| FEATURES / CHARACTERISTICS | Has all the features needed for learning compass-and-map navigation without the restrictive cost of higher-end compasses : - The durable acrylic baseplate sports an adjustable bearing, a compass ruler, a magnifying glass, and a 1:24,000 scale. - The liquid-filled needle case provides a quick, responsive magnetic north bearing, and the waterproof bearings mean you can use it in any weather. - Wt. = 1.6 oz - | Quality model not least because it is designed for military-level survival. It is designed with their speciality compass needles for accurate bearings, granting efficiency to anyone experienced with a compass. It also comes with a carrying bag to further protect your compass. - lens on the rear side - waterproof & shockproof - ergonomic design ; extreme durability. - comes with a carrying bag. | It works well in a variety of scenarios. - good quality construction & design - It’s easy to use, carry, and navigate with. |
| PROS | - The baseplate is made of durable acrylic - Lightweight and durable Includes many useful mapping features - Inexpensive and easy to use | - Professional grade model - Ergonomic design with lens function features - High-end construction - Fluorescent interface - A carrying case is included Waterproof and Shake proof. | - Super versatile - Durable rugged design - Compact - Includes lanyard - Easy to carry - Reliable. A good value |
| CONS | - No compass housing - No lanyard included. | Heavy Dial tends to stick. | A bit heavy ! |
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CLICK on the links in the table below to access these compass models available from your amazon country website :
| Model | amazon.com | amazon.ca | amazon.co.uk | amazon.it |
| Orienteering Compass | Latest Price | Latest Price | Latest Price | Latest Price |
| Sportneer | Latest Price | Latest Price | Latest Price | Latest Price |
| Eyeskey Multi-Function Military … | Latest Price | Latest Price | Latest Price | Latest Price |
Remember that compasses never run out of batteries and can be as precise or more precise than modern navigational tools. Learning to read a map and compass and navigate properly will give you a sense of self-reliance and competence that you won’t get by following the arrow on a GPS.
For any survivalist , mastering the use of the Compass and map and is essential.
Whether hiking, traveling, backpacking OR evacuating, having the best compass available will keep you on track. This review and buyer’s guide will ensure you can always find true north !
Even in this technology-filled world, a good outdoors-person knows the importance of having the best compass possible when adventuring outside. Yes, there are compass apps, but there’s no beating the reliability of a tried and true compass when you head off the beaten path.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
The GPS is a system made up of 3 parts namely, satellites, ground stations, and receivers :
Satellites act like the stars in constellations—we know where they are supposed to be at any given time.
The ground stations use radar to make sure they are actually where we think they are.
A receiver, like or me, might find in your phone or in your parents car, is constantly listening for a signal from these satellites. The receiver figures out how far away they are from some of them.
Once the receiver calculates its distance from four or more satellites, it knows exactly where you are. Presto! From miles up in space your location on the ground can be determined with incredible precision! They can usually determine where you are within a few yards of your actual location. More high-tech receivers, though, can figure out where you are to within a few inches!
Since ancient times, Man has looked to the skies to find his way : The ancient sailors of history would be flabbergasted by the speed and ease of pinpointing a location in today’s world. They used the constellations in the night sky to figure out where they were and where they were going.Instead of stars, today we use satellites. Over 30 navigation satellites are zipping around high above Earth. These satellites can tell us exactly where we are.
Also, GPS can be used to keep an eye on dangerous natural hazards. For example :
- GPS can help provide early warning of tsunamis
- to monitor volcanoes
- the aftermath of Earthquakes can be rapidly monitored using GPS.
All that being said, a portable GPS receiver remains a valuable outdoor tool for preppers and survivalists. It can can give you vital information on where you are, where you have been and where you want to go thereby enabling you to steer clear of or avoid dangerous areas and / or situations as was previously mentioned.
The GPS system is an American system that they used only for military applications. The Russian counterpart is GLONASS and Europe has had Galileo for a few years now. Today there are GPS devices that use more than one system. This has made the positioning even more accurate.
Choosing Your GPS
A dedicated GPS outdoors, offers key benefits:
- Much more robust and water resistant
- Field replaceable batteries
- Superior satellite reception in remote locations
- Robust features developed specifically for outdoor use.
HOWEVER, there is one important rule you must ALWAYS remember – Don’t buy a GPS with the idea of giving up your map and compass. Finding your way out of nature is not something you can trust with only battery-powered electronics.
As was the case with me, you’ll find the exhaustive lists of GPS features and functionality a little intimidating. Therefore, you should simplify your decision by considering the following important key issues :
CONSTRUCTION / CASE:
A GPS must have a robust design and be made of materials that offer good shock and abrasion resistance. In addition, it should also be water resistant, so that you can use it safely in rainy weather. All the devices featured in this review offer good durability and qualify for the IPX7 water resistance rating (meaning the device can withstand up to 30 minutes of exposure to water from up to 1 meter).
BATTERY LIFE:
The battery life should be at least 10 hours, so you don’t have to replace the batteries too often. All GPS’s in this review have great battery life and can be used with the included rechargeable batteries and with disposable alkaline batteries. A solar charger is a very handy gadget for charging a GPS during longer trips with a backpack.
DISPLAY:
For a good map overview, your navigation must be equipped with at least a 2-inch display with a good resolution. Many modern Garmin navigation systems are equipped with touchscreens – which aren’t perfect for hiking in cold weather or at high altitudes, as they are difficult to use with gloves on. With touchscreens, however, you can operate the GPS faster and easier. In this review, we have listed two devices with buttons and three devices with touchscreens. All devices in this review have high quality screens.
WEIGHT:
Hiking and mountaineering require lightweight equipment, as lightweight equipment allows you to hike faster and easier. In this review we have only included lightweight GPSs.
SCHEDULING SOFTWARE:
It is a big advantage if a GPS comes with planning software (for PC or Mac) because planning software allows you to easily create routes and waypoints that can then be imported into the device. Usually planning software also shows you advanced information about the routes you have taken such as distance, ascent etc. Some brands have their own software like Garmin for example (eg BaseCamp app available for Mac and Windows) while others have third party applications use.
CHARACTERISTICS:
Modern GPSs not only show your location on a map, but also have other useful features such as an electronic compass and a barometric altimeter. Such a compass and altimeter work even when the GPS signal is not available, so they come in handy when hiking in narrow valleys or dense forest, where it can be difficult to get a signal. Some can also be connected to other devices such as smartphones, cameras (e.g. the Garmin Virb action camera), heart rate monitors and temperature sensors. These devices can then be controlled directly from the GPS, which can also display different information from each device (e.g. notifications from a smartphone, heart rate from a heart rate monitor, etc.)
POSITIONING TECHNOLOGY:
In addition to GPS, some devices also support GLONASS – an alternative to GPS. Devices that support both GPS and GLONASS locate your position faster and more accurately. In addition, they are also more likely to find your position in difficult terrain (narrow valleys, dense forest, etc.). Four of the GPS devices listed here support both GPS and GLONASS, while one device (Magellan eXplorist 710) only supports GPS. In addition, positioning accuracy can be increased with the WAAS function which provides GPS signal corrections, while positioning speed can be improved with the Hotfix function which calculates and stores the positions of satellites for the next 3 days.
Summarizing …..
- Unit size according to screen size : As the screen size increases, so does the size and weight of the unit. Deciding where you are on a low weight GPS and a large screen is a good first step.
- Interface Preference : If you can’t imagine yourself without a touchscreen, your choices narrow down further. For winter activities, consider a unit controlled only by buttons as it is easier to operate with gloves on.
- Advanced Features : More expensive units offer features such as a barometer, electronic compass, and wireless transmission. While these abilities are important to you, it also narrows your final choices.
ADVANCED GPS FUNCTIONS
All portable GPS models do basic navigation. What you choose and pay for depends largely on the nature and quantity of the following characteristics of a unit:
| FEATURE | Comment |
| Barometer / Altimeter | While all GPS receivers can tell you the altitude based on satellite data, a unit with barometer / altimeter function provides more accurate elevation readings taking barometric data into account as well. This feature also lets you know the weather forecast. |
| Electronic Compass | All GPS receivers can tell you which direction you are heading as you move. However, if you get a unit with an electronic compass, it will also tell you which direction you are in when standing still. This is a great convenience as it allows you to orient yourself and plan your route during your breaks. |
| Wireless Data Transfer | This allows your GPS to communicate with compatible GPS units (same brand). It provides a quick and easy way to share data like trails, waypoints, and routes with others. |
| Pre-loaded Maps | All GPS units come with a simple base map. Some units also include full topographic maps. Most units also accept separately purchased topographic maps which are downloaded or provided on a CD or micro SD card. You can manage all your maps and plan your trips by connecting to your PC or Mac, then using the program provided by your GPS manufacturer. |
| Maps and third-party software | Because maps provided by GPS manufacturers can be expensive, you can search online and find an ever-changing array of sites that have inexpensive (or free) maps. If you are not a tech expert or prefer guaranteed products, then use maps and software from your GPS manufacturer. |
| Memory | The more memory you have, the more maps and navigation data you can store. Additionally, most units also allow you to expand your memory, usually via a micro SD card. Bear in mind, the amount of memory you are supplied is usually sufficient for a daily excursion. It DOES NOT take into account un-planned longer stays outside your ‘norm’. |
| Geocaching Features | Many units have geocaching features that allow paperless geocaching and management of found caches. To learn more about the activity, read Geocaching on Wikipedia . NB : You don’t need to purchase a GPS receiver to try geocaching, phone apps work well for this. If you’re already a geocacher and want a GPS for navigation, this option is handy. |
| Digital Camera | Offering a quality comparable to a basic camera, it can also geotag photos so you can see where on the map you took each photo. |
| 2-Way Radio | Allows unit-to-unit calls so you can communicate with close friends and identify other members of your party; you can also receive the weather forecast. GPS units equipped with radio are particularly useful for search and rescue teams. |
| Waypoints | It is also useful that you can save striking points that you encounter along the way, for example a viewpoint, in your GPS device. These are called waypoints or POI (Points of Interest). You can also encounter these waypoints when you walk a GPS route that you have downloaded from the internet. Most GPS devices have a special button for this. |
HOW TO USE YOUR GPS
Even a simple GPS unit has a wide range of settings and features.
Read the manual to familiarize yourself with it. Then practice in the neighbourhood or in a park until you are comfortable with how everything works.
Although the steps vary, ALL GPS receivers have the following basic functions:
- Position display: A GPS shows you where you are by displaying your coordinates; it also shows your location on its base map or topographic map.
- Record trails: When tracking is activated, a GPS automatically establishes tracking points at regular intervals. You use them later to retrace your steps or to assess how far you’ve come.
- Navigate from point to point: A GPS directs you by showing you the direction and distance to a place or waypoint. You can pre-mark waypoints by entering their coordinates at home. In the field, you can ask the unit to mark a waypoint where you want to return, such as the trailhead or your campsite. A GPS unit provides the distance “as the crow flies” to a waypoint. Because the trails do not follow a straight line, the path changes when you hike. The distance to go also changes (decreasing, unless you’re heading in the wrong direction) as you get closer to your goal.
- Show Trip Data: This odometer-like feature shows you cumulative statistics such as distance travelled and height reached.
GPS and your computer
GPS units come with powerful software that lets you manage maps, plan routes, analyze trips, and more. Invest the time to learn it and practice using all of its abilities.
THE CONFIGURATION OF YOUR GPS
BEFORE THE JOURNEY
In order to allow you to customize the functions of your device, the configuration menu offers what can be an impressive number of options. You can start doing basic navigation without worrying about most of them. The Position Format menu, which includes both Position Format and Reference Plane, is the one you need to configure.
STARTING ROUTINE
Develop steps to follow each time you are at a trailhead. The routine will vary depending on the characteristics of your GPS unit, but it should include several of the following:
- Acquire satellites
- Reset trip data
- Clear trip log
- Set a waypoint at the start of the trail
- Calibrate the compass
- Calibrate the barometer / altimeter. (Calibration instructions for the compass and barometer / altimeter should be explained in the kit’s manual).
GPS BATTERY TIPS
- Rechargeable GPS units are great for day hikes.
- For multi-night hikes, long-lasting lithium batteries are your best choice.
- Make sure the batteries are fresh before you start.
- Always carry spare batteries.
- Lower the screen light, it uses less battery.
- If you are not using your GPS, turn off options such as electronic compass and route recorder.
- When you’re not taking photos, quit the Camera app.
- Turn the touch sensitivity to normal,
- Activate battery saving mode.
General Information
| What does a GPS cost? The price differences between the GPS devices are significant. That does not mean that one device is much better than another. The price differences are mainly caused by the extras: a digital compass, a built-in altimeter on air pressure, greater ease of use and operation, a color screen, better water resistance. Market leader – Garmin Garmin is the market leader and that position has only grown stronger in recent years. That is why the list above only contains Garmin models. Utilize GPS = invest time to learn & understand If you want to buy a GPS device, keep in mind that it costs not only money, but also time. You have to invest time in order to get to know your device. That does not happen automatically. It’s not plug and play like an iPhone. To me that was quite a culture shock in the beginning. I didn’t understand much and found my GPS extremely user-unfriendly. Patience is a virtue here also. However, it was well worth the time investment. I have enjoyed it a lot for years now! Read the manuals & GEO-COACHING If you have the GPS device at home, check/download their manuals that you can easily find via Google. Experiment with your GPS, go out with it, explore the possibilities and also the impossibilities. Practice ! Practice and Practice ! Put tracks on your GPS with Basecamp You need software to get GPS tracks of hikes on your device. Garmin has a free program for this: Basecamp. Download, read the manual and get started. You must invest time in this programme. |
GPS MODEL OPTIONS & REVIEWS
GARMIN
You will immediately notice that all our reviews / recommendations discussed later on are manufactured by Garmin. This is not a coincidence ! Garmin is the absolute market leader as regards this navigational / communications devices .
[ Garmin Ltd. (shortened to Garmin, stylized as GARMIN, and formerly known as ProNav) is an American, Swiss-domiciled multinational technology company founded in 1989 by Gary Burrell and Min Kao in Lenexa, Kansas, United States, with headquarters in Olathe, Kansas. Since 2010, the company is legally incorporated in Schaffhausen, Switzerland.
The company specializes in GPS technology for automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor, and sport activities.Due to their development in wearable technology, they have also been competing with activity tracker and smartwatch consumer developers such as Fitbit and Apple ].
Garmins are hard to come by !
Many ‘Garmins’ are currently unavailable or very limited in supply – not only on amazon websites.
Probable causes:
(1) the demand for GPS devices has been high in the past 18 months because many more people have started walking because of Covid-19 Pandemic and
(2) the current shortage of chips and other component parts explains why the manufacturer is having problems delivering its navigation products.
| Name of Garmin Model | GARMIN 66i | GARMIN MAP GPS 64sx | GARMIN In-REACH (Mini) | GARMIN e-TREX TOUCH 35 | GARMIN OREGON 700 | GARMIN MONANA 700i |
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| INTRODUCTION. | Top of the range handheld GPS. With the 66i, you get Garmin’s premium navigation tools in a rugged design, alongside the added benefit of satellite messaging and SOS via inReach (Garmin acquired the company in 2016). | This Garmin handheld GPS combines features and reliability to be a great choice. Its construction is very robust and so the GPS can easily withstand harsh conditions. The Garmin GPSMAP 64sx is a perfect option whether you’re going climbing, cycling, geocaching, or hiking and an emergency situation occurs. | The Garmin inReach Mini is an all-in-one handheld GPS device and two-way satellite messenger. Though this device deserves its place on this list of great handheld GPS devices, it’s really a communication device first and a navigation device second. Being an incredibly compact package, the inReach Mini is highly capable of helping you get to where you’re going and staying in touch with the world when you’re out of cellphone range. | The Garmin eTrex has been the most popular and successful recreational GPS device for 15 years. The Touch 35 is the newest addition to the family and is even easier and more convenient to operate. The Garmin eTrex Touch 35 was designed to simplify all of your outdoor adventures & urgencies. | the Oregon 700 is a high-quality device that combines technological luxury with a compact size, a good value, and lots of practical features. Compared to the Montana 700i, the Oregon 700 is smaller and lighter, which likely appeals to those trying to maintain a lightweight kit. Its fast processor ensures that everything runs smoothly and smoothly. | The most expensive model of our review ! However, its tank-like durability, large and high-resolution touch screen, and the expanded memory make it one of the best handheld GPS devices on the market. |
| BASIC SPECIFICATIONS | 1= Weight : 8.1oz (0.51lbs) incl. battery 2= Dimensions : 6,6 x 16,3 x 3,5 cm 3= Screen Display : 3 inches 4= Battery Duration : 35 hours 5= Internal Storage : 16GB 6= Water Impermeability* : IPX7 (i.e. Complete submersion 1mt. for 30 mins). This is second highest rating after IPX8 which is total submersion impermeability. | 1= Weight : 8.1 oz. incl. battery 2= Dimensions : 6.1 x 16.0 x 3.6 cm) 3= Screen Display : 2.6 inches 4= Battery Duration : 16 hours 5= Internal Storage : 8GB 6= Water Permeability* : IPX7 | 1= Weight : 3.5 oz. 2= Dimensions : 5.17 x 9.90 x 2.61 cm 3= Screen Display : 0.9" x 0.9" inches 4= Battery Duration : Up to 90 hours at 10-minute tracking (default) Up to 35 hours at 10-minute tracking with 1-second logging Up to 24 days at 30-minute tracking power save mode Up to 1 year when powered off 5= Internal Storage : 6.3MB 6= Water Permeability* : IPX7 | 1= Weight : 5.7 oz. 2= Dimensions : 5.84 x 10.16 x 3.3 cm 3= Screen Display : 2.15" inches 4= Battery Duration : 16 hours 5= Internal Storage : 4GB 6= Water Permeability* : IPX7 | 1= Weight : 7.4 oz. w/batteries 2= Dimensions : 6.1 x 11.4 x 3.3 cm 3= Screen Display : 3" 4= Battery Duration : 16 hours 5= Internal Storage : 1.7GB 6= Water Permeability* : IPX7 | 1= Weight : 14 oz. 2= Dimensions : 8.76 x 18.30 x 3.27 cm 3= Screen Display : 5" inches 4= Battery Duration : 18 hours 5= Internal Memory : 16GB 6= Water Permeability* : IPX7 |
| EASE Of USE. (Practice navigating with your device before you head out !) |  |
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| # Waypoints / Favourites / Locations Memorized. | 10,000 | 5,000 | 500 | 4,000 | 10,000 | 10,000 |
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| PROS | A premium GPS device with satellite messaging/SOS; Accepts micro-SD card to increase internal memory storage.; Possible to communicate and exchange text messages without having to rely on cell phone coverage. | It has multi-GNSS support which includes GPS, Galileo, and GLONASS ; With its 3-axis electronic compass will ensure fast and precise positioning. | GPS and satellite messaging in a lightweight and affordable design ; Easy-to-read display ; Reliable Reception. | Compact Size ; Modes for hiking, cycling types, hunting and more ; Power lasts a day. | Bright 3 inch color display, which can be operated with a touchscreen ; 3D compass knows where you are, even when you are not moving ; Easy-to-learn interface ; Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity | Rugged construction with Gorilla Glass screen ; Huge, high-resolution display ; Integrated satellite messaging and SOS capability. |
| CONS | Expensive and not as accurate as many other options reviewed ; The interface is the same old clunky interface that has been around on Garmin units for years - using the GPSMAP 66i will feel like you picked up your old flip phone ! | No separate coverage of USB / Antenna socket ; USB interface is outdated. | The primary function of the inReach Mini is satellite messaging and SOS ; It has limited GPS functionality ; Limited navigation and mapping features ; Paid subscription required for all communication features. | Low resolution screen ; Virtual keyboard is quite small ; Combination of "activity history" & "track manager" is confusing. | Cannot be used whilst wearing gloves. Hence it is not suitable for cold weather conditions ; Annoying pop-up menu in activity mode. | Heavy, bulky & expensive ; Due to its vast connectivity capabilities and its huge, brightly lit display, the 700i has a shorter battery life than other more 'simplistic' devices in our review ; Difficult to use whilst wearing gloves ; |
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| FINAL RATING |  |
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More information (and best offers) regarding the 6 previously reviewed models can be obtained by CLICKING the links of your amazon country website in the table below :
| NAME of MODEL | amazon.com | amazon.ca | amazon.co.uk | amazon.it |
| Garmin 66i | CLICK HERE | CLICK HERE | CLICK HERE | CLICK HERE |
| Garmin 64sx | CLICK HERE | CLICK HERE | CLICK HERE | CLICK HERE |
| Garmin inREACH (mini) | CLICK HERE | CLICK HERE | CLICK HERE | CLICK HERE |
| Garmin eTrex Touch 35 | LATEST OFFER | LATEST OFFER | LATEST OFFER | LATEST OFFER |
| Garmin Oregon 700 | LATEST OFFER | LATEST OFFER | LATEST OFFER | LATEST OFFER |
| Garmin Montana 700i | LATEST OFFER | LATEST OFFER | LATEST OFFER | LATEST OFFER |
Before summarizing, an “honourable” mention deserves to be given to another messaging-type gps model which represents a larger replica of the Garmin inREACH (mini) described earlier and with more functionality .
HOWEVER, Before we explore the InReach in depth, I want to mention that you need a paid subscription to use this Garmin InReach model. I know that a lot of readers are not interested in paying for a subscription, so if that’s you, you can stop reading here !
Its navigation functions have some flaws but it’s worth the cost just for the messaging and weather features. For a few hundred bucks, the Garmin InReach Explorer Plus could save your life. It’s a no-brainer !
Rugged and impact resistant.
Dimensions - 6.5 x 2.7 x 1.5 inches
Weight - 7.5 ozs.
Display Size - 1.4 x 1.9 inches
Colour Screen - Yes
Screen Pixels - 200 x 265
Battery type - Internal Lithium ion (Rechargeable)
Av. Battery Life - 100 hours (10 mins interval tracking) ; up to 30 days in power-save mode
Water-Resistance rating - IPX7 : Complete submersion at 1 metre for 30 mins. Easily easily withstands rain, snow and splashes
Basemap - Yes
Wireless communication - Yes
O/S Compatibility - Windows/Mac
Barometric Altimeter - Yes
Digital Compass - Yes
Topo Maps included - Yes
# Waypoints - 500
Includes USB cable and carabiner clip.
PROS :
- " Great gps with tons of features. The fact that I can communicate with friends n family with no cell service was a major selling point. Can also suspend service, so not paying a bill for something that isn't being used ".
- " Simple, yet powerful. Full connectivity to your cell for texting makes fpr a great upgrade. Having the screen for full gps usage is definitely a plus compared to the mini. I have 2 in total purchase within a year of difference. That tells you something ".
CONS :
- Expensive initial purchase,
- Largest and heaviest messenger
Summary
For those who spend a lot of time in the backcountry or on trips to remote areas, the inReach Explorer+ is a great tool for staying in touch via satellite messaging. It also has fully featured GPS functionality, weather forecasting, and an SOS button. The Explorer+ invented the two-way satellite messaging category and is absolutely still relevant.
OVERALL RATING = B++
GENERAL SUMMARY
- GPS is a satellite positioning system devised by the USA military.
- First reserved for the military, it has become frequently used in the civilian sector, for example
Aviation, navigation, and sports competition were the first users of this initially very expensive equipment. - The terrestrial latitude / longitude position is calculated thanks to various satellites which transmit radio signals towards the earth.
- The user can save positions (latitude / longitude), plot a route, choose a destination (go), navigate (obtain direction and speed).
- GPS due to the options available is affordable. You can find a GPS for less than 150 €uros.
We now move onto discussing Tactical / Survival Watches some of which incidentally include a GPS functional feature !
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