Hi there. I was previously on here as just genebob, but had computer problems and couldn't log in.
My question is, we are cosidering a GPS for when we are trail riding, especially when we are in the Black Hills. We were at Cabelas today and the salesman was pushing the Garmin 62S. Have any of you got any experience with this model or have recommendations for others. Part of what makes the 62S attractive is the price. Normally $349 on sale for a couple more days @ $199. Because the sale is short lived, your prompt responses will be greatly appreciated.
Posted 2014-03-09 9:49 PM (#157936 - in reply to #157930) Subject: RE: GPS
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 379 Location: Missouri
I don't have experience with the Garmin, I carry a Magellan SportTrak. That being said all the main functions that I like about mine are listed on the Garmin 62s. I think most importantly is the ability to load detailed area maps. The generic maps are ok, but when you can load a detailed map of the area you're riding in it really helps to orientate yourself. I also like to download and save all my tracks and way points on the computer to be loaded again later if I return. According to the specs the 62s can do that also. It sounds like a good deal, I'd jump on it. A comparable Magellan I think would be the eXplorist 610 which is $350.
Posted 2014-03-10 1:52 PM (#157955 - in reply to #157930) Subject: RE: GPS
Veteran
Posts: 113 Location: Wi
Genebob - I have used two. First was the Etrex 60csx by Garmin. It worked great however, when I downloaded someone else's tracks I only received the first part of every track. I upgraded to the Garmin Oregon 450. All of the tracks came over, it is easy to read, batteries hold up well. I like that this one has a carbiner on it and I can hook it on my saddle. Not sure what the Once the snow melts, I will be using it again in the Black Hills.
Posted 2014-03-11 5:25 AM (#157967 - in reply to #157930) Subject: RE: GPS
Regular
Posts: 54 Location: Croswell MI
Hey Rustyscraper when are you going to the Black Hills?We are going mid Juneish...We live in Michigan and this will be our first trip there.Looking for any input if you have gone before.Or maybe a meet up?My BFF has a garmin but in not sure what model.And yes we do know how to use it.lol
Posted 2014-03-11 6:29 AM (#157969 - in reply to #157936) Subject: RE: GPS
Regular
Posts: 91 Location: Waverly,Oh
I bought the Garmin model 62s from Cabelas a couple years ago to replace a different brand that quit working. A friend recommended it . I have used it trail riding many times and am very satisfied. It is easy to use and the battery life is good. Another good thing is you can purchase SD cards that have Maps of many of the western states loaded on them. The maps show land ownership such as State, BLM, Federal, and Private. You know exactly where you are at all times.
Posted 2014-03-11 8:41 AM (#157972 - in reply to #157930) Subject: RE: GPS
Veteran
Posts: 113 Location: Wi
genebob - I will be out there mid june as well. Staying at Iron Creek in Custer for about 4 days, then going to Hay Creek Ranch over by Nemo. Where are you going?
Posted 2014-03-11 9:23 AM (#157978 - in reply to #157930) Subject: RE: GPS
Member
Posts: 17
Location: Southern Minnesota
We will probably be going out late June to early July. We usually stay at Broken Arrow by Custer. Love the campground, trails and especially the owners.
Posted 2014-03-11 5:27 PM (#157981 - in reply to #157930) Subject: RE: GPS
Member
Posts: 11
Location: Tucson, AZ
If you have a smart phone, be sure to check out all the apps offered. You may find something that will work. A friend has an app that when he goes out on his horse it lets his 'friends'(those he has specified)know where he is and the trail he has taken. Great idea in case he is lost, has an accident, etc.
Posted 2014-03-13 12:55 AM (#158006 - in reply to #157981) Subject: RE: GPS
Expert
Posts: 3853 Location: Vermont
Originally written by az4hmom on 2014-03-11 5:27 PM
If you have a smart phone, be sure to check out all the apps offered. You may find something that will work. A friend has an app that when he goes out on his horse it lets his 'friends'(those he has specified)know where he is and the trail he has taken. Great idea in case he is lost, has an accident, etc.
A lot of the cell phones today that do have true GPS positioning still get their maps real-time via the cell signal, so if you lose cell signal you'll know where you are (GPS coordinates) but you won't know how to get anywhere (map). If you're using your cell phone for GPS navigation, make sure the maps for the area you'll be in (and a good sized safety margin) are stored on the device - usually via an SD memory card.
GPS
