GPS

[jesselillis]

I'm thinking about getting a GPS- specifically a Garmin 60CSx.

Anyone have one?

Recommend any internet review sites?

Used the MapSource 24K Topo Northwest?

I haven't decided if I really want/need the whistles on the 60CSx or if I should look into a unit that essentially gets you back to your tent/car. What I am really concerned with is getting the unit that picks up signals most reliably.

[sweatinoutliquor]

Just my humble opinion, but the barometric altimeter sucks, and there is no way to turn it off. GPS calculated elevation works a lot better. You can go through a number of different menus to calibrate the barometric altimeter with the GPS, but it's slow and sorta a pain. Magnetic compass sucks too in my opinion, but you CAN turn that off with the push of a button. Saves on batteries too.

 

Personally I'd say the the one step down may actually be better (the one without the mag compass and barometer), but I've never used that one so I don't really know. Other than those two features the thing seems to pretty much kick ass. Color display is sweet, turn on to sat lock times are generally fast, and it's easy to use. I do use the mapsource TOPO software on it and yes, it's pretty cool. I never thought I'd want more than a waypoint machine, but I have to admit that having topo lines and streams and hiking trails can be pretty handy.

 

I'd say that most of the consumer grade GPS units out there that are for "hikers", etc. will get you your signal pretty reliably, except if you are under a canopy on steepish north facing slopes. I'd also consider checking out the Geko models as well. I think they are a little smaller and cheaper, but don't have a color display.

[banos]

Spadout Garmin 60CSX

 

PriceSpider Garmin 60CSX

 

Also check out ebay if you're so inclinded (insert buyer beware warning).. you'll usually find some for a bit less, but be sure to note the sellers feedback rating..

 

goodluck

 

 

 

 

[TrogdortheBurninator]

Geko lacks the high sensitivity chipset, which would make it a no go for me. Did you consider the etrex vista hcx? Basically all the features of the 60csx, but smaller and less expensive ($100 less on amazon).

 

Best GPS forum I found is this: http://forums.groundspeak.com/GC/

 

Lots of good info there.

[rbw1966]

Geko lacks the high sensitivity chipset, which would make it a no go for me. Did you consider the etrex vista hcx? Basically all the features of the 60csx, but smaller and less expensive ($100 less on amazon).

 

. . .and a lot less durable than the 60csx.

 

Use the search feature--there has been considerable discussion of the 60csx on here.

[robertjoy]

The Garmin 60csx is my third GPS receiver. The large screen with topo maps makes the interface 'natural', in that you do not have to transfer the coordinates to a paper map, you can just 'see' where you are in relation to topo features. This means there is much less chance for confusion, especially in poor conditions. The onboard topo feature improves functionality by decreasing the time it takes to evaluate your location, so checking the GPS does not slow down your group. Also the Sirf Star III chipset is very powerful and fast, even in poor conditions. Time to lock-on is only a couple seconds. I highly recommend this unit. Bought mine online cheap.

[snoboy]

Very happy with mine. With the map screen and the high sensitivity I find I use the unit a lot. Decent battery life too, at least for day trips...