GPS question

“So i have always just used a map and compass, gotten slightly lost a few times, but overall been pretty satisfied with my navagation skills. But, those pocket gps devices look so cool. If i were to purchase one of the basic 150 buck gps devices, what would i be getting, and would it really improve my sense of direction, (or take away from it)?”

“No.

It is just a cool new toy. It is fun to track you miles and plot where you have been. I have a lot more security from my maps. I did have a good expience when I went off trail. It is fun.”

“I love my Garmin Geko 201 ($140 at REI) the geocaching is a great new hobby. When you get one be sure to check out Geocaching.com, mapquake.com and Wahoo.com.”

“One big benefit of a GPS is to be able to locate exactly where you are on a topo map. Especially in the Dacks when you are unable to see landmarks.

Also good for punching in waypoints to change directions on the trail to get around bogs, lakes, peaks etc by previewing a topo map before leaving.

They are a great tool, but should not replace a map and compass and the ability to read and use them.”

“I agree redhawk, I always take my map and compass. The GPS is just another tool for plotting your course.”

“I picked up a Geko 201 for $118.95 and the stretch holster for $8.49 from offroute.comand, and a combination data/12vdc (cig) cable for $13.95 (plus shipping) from GPSgeeks.com. I've been very pleased with the unit while gathering waypoints for a BBC/Discovery Channel project. No mapping capability, but lightweight and full of features.”

“i want one”

“They are awsome, if you know how to use it. Any good GPS isn't limited to lat/lon. One of the most usefull grids my GPS displays is the UTM grid which is used by most survey topo maps. Look at the key, it tells you. Should also tell you the base map revision. This will get you much more accurate results then lat/lon. Also use them for running back bearings. Lets you track a straight line in a certain direction. Takes the guess work out of picking a way point.”