I have a Delorme PN-40.  Quite frankly, I think it is a great machine.  Iwas almost turned away by bad reviews as well, but I question muh of the criticism.

It may have a bit of a learning curve, but in my experience it has been dead on accurate.  It comes with topographical maps and extras that aren't included with other comparable models.

On of the things we have used is for as a family is "geocaching."  The uplink features with the caching website works really well.  

I don't think you can go wrong with the Delorme, but it just may take some time to learn the system...but not the much if you can read and have an ounce of patience.  

Enjoy!