I haven't used one but it looks pretty cool. I have used a Garmin eTrex Legend C for a while. I think any GPS that gives you a map instead of just coordinate numbers is the most useful feature. I don't know if your eTrex did that, but you might enjoy using it more if it did. IMO I still use larger paper maps too. I just travel a bit more casual knowing I can turn on a GPS and pin point my location when needed. I do lean on it when bushwacking in thick brush and heavy terrain. But mostly I journal waypoints, campsites, trails, and other point of interest.

Now they're combining the SPOT satelite features in one unit. It also expands the communication features of SPOT beyond your chosen pre-trip text message. I don't know if the latest version of SPOT does that. Be nice to hear from SPOT owner/users about this too.

Explain that last paragraph a bit....

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Yes, the eTrex is just a dot on a grey screen. It does show your track, but there are no maps. More of a safety device if you get lost than anything else, IMO. I am definitely looking for something new that I will use more often.

With the DeLorme-Spot combo you can type and send different text messages other that "OK" or "SOS". I'll have to go down to REI this week and have a look in person. That would be nice for communicating with people at home, or if you need to contact an outfitter for a pick-up.

Wally, sounds like people actually prefer the Garmin 60 unit to the 62, from what I've read. And thanks for the "minimums", I will verify all of those with anything that I purchase.

Ranger

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!

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Lots of info!
I use a PN40 se, and like it a lot! The screenshot is the portage between Little John and McFarland east BWCA. I get 2+ days of tracking use from a pair of Eveready Lithium batteries. I also use the yearly map subscription for maps and imagery. Topo9 mapping program is part of the package!

butthead

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Can you explain this?  I have a Garmin 60C and it is about 6-7 years old.  It still works fine. What can Garmin do that keeps it from continuing to be a useful tool?  I suppose for the maps I have, I may not be able to get updates for.  But roads do not change that much in 6 years and topography certainly does not.