When you’re out hunting, nothing is more dangerous than losing track of your current position. There are various threats and potential dangers that exist when hunting so it’s important that you keep all of them in mind to avoid finding yourself in a world of trouble.
Thanks to technology and wireless connectivity, it’s now easier than ever for you to ensure that your hunting trips go exactly as planned. With the invention of GPS, hunters no longer have to worry about maintaining a correct sense of direction or location solely reliant upon manual tools like compasses or directional rods.
There are several different kinds of GPS units out there for you to choose from which can make deciding between all of the various options kind of difficult. If you’re a hunting enthusiast or serious hunter who wants to take advantage of GPS technology while out exploring, you need a premium GPS unit that will give you access to accurate location readings regardless of where you are.
When it comes to finding the right hunting GPS unit, there are several key factors that you need to pay attention to before making a final purchase decision. Depending on your particular hunting intentions, certain GPS units will be better suited for you than others which is why it’s important to look at all of the features of your selected GPS unit before buying it.
Given all of these various factors, you need to put an immense amount of time into figuring out the exact features that each model offers to ensure that you’re getting the best deal on the right GPS hunting unit for your expeditions. There are a lot of companies out there who produce GPS hunting equipment which gives you endless options in terms of choosing who makes the exact GPS hunting unit that you’re looking for.
Some of the key elements that you want to consider when purchasing a GPS hunting unit is its reception reach, GPS accuracy, smartphone compatibility, and more. All of these features will ensure that you’re able to navigate your way through virtually any type of terrain successfully. If you’ve been hunting without a GPS unit, you don’t know what you’ve been missing out on and now it’s time to realize that.
For those serious hunters who need a reliable GPS hunting unit but have been struggling to find the right fit, today is your lucky day. In this guide, we’re going to take an in-depth look at some of the important features that go into every hunting GPS unit in order to make it easier for you to choose the right unit for you.
We’ll cover every individual aspect as it relates to hunting GPS units so that you can confidently shop for the right GPS unit which will help you maintain a straight path while out hunting. Make sure that you read every section in this guide fully to ensure that you know everything to know when buying a hunting GPS unit. We’re going to begin by looking at what hunting GPS units are and exactly how they work so that you can get a better understanding of how they can help you while out on the hunt.
Top GPS Hunting Unit Recommendation
Garmin Foretrex 401
The Garmin Foretrex 401 is a very powerful and robust GPS hunting unit that comes equipped with an array of premium features. It is a really unique GPS hunting device because it can be alternated with AA battery power in the event that the built-in battery dies or becomes drained easily due to use over time.
The Garmin Foretrex 401 gives you up to 17hrs in a total of use time on a single charge which is more than enough to take on your various hunting adventures and interests. This GPS also gives you the ability to view your exact location in various different formats which makes it easier to keep track of your steps while out hunting. The Garmin Foretrex 401 wins our top recommended spot for GPS hunting units because it is small, simple to operate, and packed with capabilities which is exactly what any hunter needs while outscoring wild animals.
Now it’s time to look at exactly what GPS hunting units are and how they can help you thrive while out hunting for wild game. Below, we’re going to break down some of the vital elements that you’ll find in any GPS hunting unit so that you can begin confidently shopping for the right GPS unit that will fit your particular needs and interests.
GPS Hunting Units: What are they?
Much like a compass would give hunters in the old age the ability to track what direction they’re traveling in, GPS hunting units work much the same way instead they use a much more sophisticated technology. GPS stands for Global positioning system and you can find GPS capabilities in pretty much any new smartphone device or another piece of smart technology.
GPS hunting units take things a bit further by offering you the chance to get real-time updated and tracking information about your current location which makes it easy to scout nearby animals and other potential hunting opportunities. GPS hunting units make it very easy for you to keep track of your location without having to put too much effort into it or stopping and having to manually calculate your exact coordinates at the moment.
Every GPS unit available on the market comes with its own set of features and abilities including music playback, social media, sharing, internet browsing, and more however these are often additional features and not all GPS units come with these sorts of features. If these additional features are very important to you, you’ll want to keep them in mind when out shopping for the right GPS hunting unit for you.
GPS hunting units are systems created to make your hunting expeditions much easier and much more seamless. At the core, GPS units have onboard navigation systems that you can use to remain safe and hunt efficiently no matter where you are. If you’ve been a hunter for quite some time now but have never used a GPS hunting unit, you honestly don’t know what you’ve been missing.
Below, we’re going to look at some of the key features that everyone should look for when selecting the right GPS hunting unit that will be right for your specific hunting needs. Make sure that you read the following section in full so that you know exactly what to look for when you begin shopping for a GPS hunting unit.
Key Features to Look for When Purchasing A GPS Hunting Unit
There are a lot of key features that you should be looking for choosing the right GPS hunting unit for you. While all of the must-have features will vary depending on the person and their particular hunting intentions, they will largely remain the same just due to the nature of the hunting industry and the devices themselves.
Below, we’re going to take an in-depth look at some of the most important factors that you need to pay attention to when purchasing a GPS hunting unit that is perfect for you. We’ll cover all of the most vital features that you need to ensure your selected GPS hunting unit has before making the purchase.
Make sure that you read this entire following section in full to ensure that you know the essential factors when it comes to buying a GPS hunting unit.
Topography Capabilities
Topographical information is very important when hunting because it gives you the ability to get a real-world glimpse of different terrain elements which may pose a threat to your journey before you even encounter them. Not all GPS hunting units come with topographical details which is why it’s important that you check for your selected
GPS hunting unit to have topography details so that you can maximize your hunting experience and overall kills. Topographic information will give you a very detailed view of the terrain that you’re traveling on so if you’re serious about hunting, the topography is absolutely essential. Without topographic details, you’ll have to brave the elements and nature all by yourself which can put you at significant risks for injury or even worse.
Waterproof Rating
When you’re out hunting, there is no way to tell exactly what kind of elements you’ll be up against. Because of this, it’s important to purchase a GPS hunting unit that is waterproof. By having a GPS hunting unit with a high waterproof rating, you’ll be able to safeguard yourself from potential device malfunctions or issues if you happen to drop it in some water.
There are several different waterproof ratings all ranging in how much protection that they actually provide for your device, IP7 waterproof ratings are the bare minimum rating that your selected GPS hunting unit should have. By making sure that your GPS hunting unit comes with a high waterproof rating, you’ll be able to hunt confidently knowing that your prepared to take on virtually any situation.
Build Quality
Every GPS hunting unit will be made of different material types and other substances which vary in terms of the level of protection that they provide. It’s always advised to purchase a GPS hunting unit that is made from a solid metal with rubber or silicone straps and attachments.
Accidents happen and especially when hunting, this is why you should purchase a well-built GPS hunting unit that can withstand falls and drops. A well-built GPS hunting unit will also last much longer than other types of materials and build qualities so this is a very important element to look for when choosing the right GPS hunting unit for you.
Versatile Features
Every GPS hunting unit will come with GPS capabilities as part of the standard design however you want to make sure that you buy a GPS hunting unit that has a rather robust set of features. These features can include things like areal imaging, POIs, and more because these features will just add to your overall hunting experience without interfering with your efficiency or accuracy.
Every GPS unit manufacturing company decides to implement different features into their devices so pay attention to what each particular GPS hunting device comes with to help you along your journey. While some features may seem nonessential at the moment, they will come in handy later on down the line.
User interface
You want to make sure that your selected GPS hunting unit is very easy to use because, during a hunt, there will be little time to make hasty decisions or try to fumble with the device in order to make it work correctly. Look at any buttons that you’ll have to use to operate the device and see how it feels in your hand so that you’ll be able to determine if it has the right usability means for your desired hunting goals.
Look at the type of battery that has also to find out if you’ll need to constantly replace it or if it’s built into the device itself for easier connectivity and longer usage times. There are a lot of things to look for when determining the overall ease of use of a certain GPS hunting device and those factors will vary from person to person which is why you should establish your exact need before going out to buy any GPS hunting unit.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of your chosen GPS hunting unit will impact how mobile you are and how effectively you’ll be able to hunt which is why you should take this factor into consideration before purchasing any GPS hunting unit.
Every GPS hunting unit on the market weighs a different amount so you may want to try a few options before selecting the GPS hunting unit that you feel is right for your needs. the best GPS hunting unit will be small lightweight and easy to pack around. Consider the type of environments you’ll be hunting in so that you can make the right decision about which GPS hunting unit will be best for you.
Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is really important when it comes to GPS hunting units, storage will allow you to store topographical information and other location details that will be essential to helping you further your hunting adventures.
Some GPS hunting units even come with the ability to insert an SD card for expanded storage options and these are the best types of GPS hunting units because that extra storage space and expandability will give you the option of pre-loading maps and other terrain information before even going out on the course.
Always look for extra storage space options and expandability when choosing the right GPS hunting unit for you. some GPS hunting units come with massive amounts of onboard storage space so if you choose one of these devices, you’ll be fine without an SD card.
Display Size & Quality
The size of the display on your GPS hunting unit is important because it will allow you to see exactly what type of terrain and environments you’re about to interact with. Every GPS hunting unit comes with a certain type of display which can either be color or colorless.
Depending on your specific hunting needs and the type of environment you’re going to be in, while color screens are often times the most reliable, black and white screens can also be beneficial in certain situations. Direct sunlight, heavy rain, clouds, and a lot more can affect your viewing ability which is why you should consider the type of screen your GPS hunting unit has before finalizing the purchase.
What is the most accurate handheld GPS hunting unit?
Every GPS hunting unit comes with its own set of tracking parameters and GPS capabilities. The answer to the question above is difficult to answer because “accuracy” will all depend on what you’re looking for and the type of terrains that you’ll be adventuring into.
To verify the accuracy of your selected GPS hunting unit, you simply have to ensure that it comes with GLONASS capabilities and GPS+ tracking which ensures that the mapping information you receive is accurate and spot on. Many GPS hunting units will list their accuracy and reliability on the packing so look at the information on the box to find out which GPS unit will be most accurate for your intended usage.
How to use your GPS Hunting Unit
Each GPS hunting unit works by different means of GPS positioning and tracking, most GPS hunting units work by way of a cellular network or internet connection. This is important to remember so that you can make sure your device is able to provide you with the necessary information while out hunting.
Your budget and how tech savvy you are will determine how easy your selected GPS hunting unit will be to operate and use. If you’re having trouble figuring out how to operate your GPS hunting unit, you can visit their manufacturer’s website to learn more about how their product works.
Why should I use a GPS hunting unit instead of my smartphone?
Many people ask questions about why they should use a GPS hunting unit instead of a smartphone. The answer to this is simple, smartphone reception is not always reliable when out hunting. GPS hunting units are specifically designed for the wilderness and outdoors so you’ll be able to remain connected to the information most important to you regardless of what type of network options are near your selected hunting area.
GPS hunting units are also dedicated to location tracking and topographical monitoring which you won’t find in any smartphone. GPS hunting units provide more detailed information related to the roads and terrains that you’ll be traveling on.
Now that you know all the information you need to know about selecting the right GPS hunting unit, it’s time to give you some of our top recommendations when it comes to the various GPS hunting unit options available out there. All of the GPS hunting recommendations listed in this guide vary in terms of their features and capabilities so always remember your personal preference before making a final purchase decision.
Top GPS Hunting Unit Recommendations
Below, we’re going to look at some of the top GPS hunting units available on the market right now. All of the GPS hunting unit recommendations listed below are different in their build quality and functionality, make sure that you read each product description in full so that you can make sure you’re choosing the right GPS hunting unit for your next adventure or expedition. While these recommendations are our top picks, there are several other GPS hunting options out there so don’t limit yourself to the ones solely on this list.
2. Garmin eTrex 20x
The Garmin eTrex 20x is a robust and powerful handheld GPS hunting unit that comes packing all of the standard features you need and more. The Garmin eTrex 20x comes equipped with a 2.2” 65K color display that is very easy to read and operate under virtually all and any conditions.
It has HotFix satellite protection, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, and a lot more. The Garmin eTrex 20x comes with a microSD card tray that allows you to expand the onboard storage of the device easily and smoothly.
This Garmin model comes with 3.7GB of onboard internal storage which is enough to store plenty of maps and other critical topographical information that you’ll need while out on your hunting expeditions.
The Garmin eTrex 20x comes with BirdsEye Satellite imagery and you can even load TOPO 24K maps which is very useful for traversing a variety of different terrains. In addition, it comes with OpenStreetMap which allows you to move around local city areas and streets without any problems.
The Garmin eTrex 20x lets you store at least 200 routes and 2000 different points of interests so that you can hunt and explores limitlessly. If you’re looking for a premium GPS hunting unit that is packed with everything you need to catch animals, the Garmin eTrex 20x is perfect for you. Price: $149.99
3. Garmin GPSMAP 64st
The Garmin GPSMAP 64st is a very powerful GPS hunting unit that is packed to the top with a lot of advanced features that will assist you on your hunting adventure. The GPS has a 2.6″ color screen that is easy to read in direct sunlight, rain, cloudy weather, and virtually any other type of climate. It comes with a double battery design that allows you to switch between physical AA batteries and the integrated battery unit that comes with the device.
The Garmin GPSMAP 64st has a maximum battery life of 16hrs which is plenty of time to allow you to hunt and catch all of the animals you’re interested in without running out of juice anytime soon. This model comes with 8GB of internal storage space with the ability to expand the onboard storage by way of an SD card. The Garmin GPSMAP 64st is pre-loaded with TOPO 100K maps right out of the box which gives you the ability to take on your hunting desires as soon as you’re ready to.
The Garmin GPSMAP 64st also gives you the option to subscribe to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery which gives you constantly updated on the surrounding terrain and environments that you interact with. It features a quad helix antenna that makes the GPS locating services very reliable and trustworthy. The Garmin GPSMAP 64st is also compatible with a lot of different smartphones out on the market which makes it easy to sync your map information and details. Price: $258.63
4. GARMIN GPSMAP 66st Handheld Hiking GPS
The GARMIN GPSMAP 66st Handheld Hiking GPS comes with topographic mapping details which makes it easy for you to remain on the straight path while out hunting or hiking. The GPS also comes with GNSS capabilities which provides you with a more reliable tracking system to maintain your direction and location while out on the trail.
The GARMIN GPSMAP 66st Handheld Hiking GPS also has a barometric altimeter and a three-axis compass that assists the onboard GPS system to provide you with even more reliable performance and navigation while hunting or hiking. The GPS unit has active weather alerts to keep you safe and protected while hunting or hiking. Price: $448.99
5. GARMIN OREGON 650T
The GARMIN OREGON 650T has a 3in touchscreen in addition to multi-touch features and a daylight display so you can always access the information you need. It likewise has topographic maps which allow you to get a close view of the upcoming trail before you encounter it in person.
The GARMIN OREGON 650T comes with a 3-axis compass that gives you accurate distance and location monitoring under virtually all terrain conditions and weather types. The GARMIN OREGON 650T is a great general GPS unit that doesn’t come with many cons and it’s a very reliable device which is also a plus for this GPS. Price: $546.00
6. GARMIN OREGON 700 HANDHELD GPS
The GARMIN OREGON 700 HANDHELD GPS has integrated ABC sensors and uses a 3-axis tilt in order to provide accurate locational tracking. It comes with a built-in compass which makes it easy for you to monitor your current location and positioning metrics very easily.
The GARMIN OREGON 700 HANDHELD GPS even has ascent and descent tracking so that you can monitor your elevation easily, and also has a IPX7 water rating which protects from damage if you happen to drop it while out on your hunt. The GARMIN OREGON 700 HANDHELD GPS also has very sensitive and accurate GLONASS and GPS capabilities so you’ll remain on the trail at all times. Price: $259.99
Conclusion
All of the information included in this article will help you determine which GPS hunting unit is best for you. By taking the time to review each section fully, you’ll be able to identify the key factors and features you’ll need your selected GPS hunting device to have.
We’ve covered virtually every single piece of information you’ll need when shopping for a GPS hunting unit so use this guide as a starting point to help you create a personalized checklist of what features you want most in your choice of a GPS hunting unit. Start using a GPS hunting unit to make your hunts more accurate, fun, and safe.
