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Author Topic: Best GPS for difficult terrain, tree cover etc.  (Read 864 times)

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Offline lurcher

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Best GPS for difficult terrain, tree cover etc.
« on: February 11, 2004, 01:02:06 PM »
I'm looking at buying my first GPS, either a Garmin or a Magellan. I would like a pretty high-end unit with mapping memory, electronic compass altimeter/barometer etc. One of the main considerations is the ability to work in arduous terrain. A friend of mine has a Garmin 12XL. It is OK in the open, but once you get into tree cover things can get difficult.... The external aerial helps but it is a pain.

I understand that there is terrain that all hand held GPS's will struggle with

Initially I was thinking about getting an etrex, maybe a vista however  on another site I read that.....
 
"eTrex models (due to their small size patch type antenna) have slightly less antenna gain and sensitivity and may not perform quite as well as others in difficult receiving conditions"

What GPS with features that I mention would you suggest given that getting readings in toiugh areas is important?
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Offline jackfish

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Best GPS for difficult terrain, tree cover
« Reply #1 on: February 17, 2004, 08:33:11 AM »
I have a Magellan Meridian GPS (now discontinued) and 32MB RAM.  I have never had a problem getting satellites in the woods.  If you want a compass and barometer you would need the Magellan Meridian Platinum.  You should be able to get one with the PC data cable, MapSend TOPO and a 32MB data card for $375.  You wouldn't need much else.
http://www.magellangps.com/en/products/product.asp?PRODID=1
http://www.thegpsstore.net/detail_MA59803.asp
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Offline Jeff Vicars

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Best GPS for difficult terrain, tree cover
« Reply #2 on: February 18, 2004, 05:53:13 PM »
I've never had a problem with my Garmin Vista.
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Offline Siskiyou

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Best GPS for difficult terrain, tree cover
« Reply #3 on: February 18, 2004, 06:39:15 PM »
I have to admit that I have had a few problems with the garmin legend in deep, narrow canyons with a heavy oak canopy.  I have had to look for openings to get reception.  Elevation difference between ridge top and canyon was over a 1000 feet.

The problem did not show up on the ridge tops with heavy cover.  

I noticed that the landline folks use a battery powered external antenna in heavy cover.
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Offline .22 coyote

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Best GPS for difficult terrain, tree cover
« Reply #4 on: February 19, 2004, 10:16:43 AM »
If I was in your shoes (or had to replace my Garmin Etrex Vista for some reason), I would be looking at the new Garmin 60CS or the Garmin 76S.  Between price, weight, display resolution, and battery life, I would probably lean toward the 60CS because it has almost twice the battery life, and that is a very important feature for my uses.  Note: the 60CS has an improved antenna over the Etrex units (probably the same as the 76S).  It would be nice to hear what you choose, and how it works for you.

http://www.garmin.com/products/gpsmap60cs/spec.html

http://www.garmin.com/outdoor/products.html
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