GPS - topographical maps.

[The Pastor]

Has anyone got a handheld gps that can use topographical maps?

Im kinda in the market for one, but would like to hear your comments on them.

I will be using it for bush walking / hunting. - using it to record my trips so i dont forget where ive been etc etc

[Cloggy]

Only one brand to consider: Garmin.
Then go for either the Etrex Summit HCx or the 60 CSx.
Both of these have the barometric altimeter and an electronic compass. Two features which I miss on my Etrex Legend Cx.
The Etrex series is nice and compact but make sure you get the H series with the new high sensitivity receiver. The 60 series are slightly larger and have an aerial which sticks out which would be a negative feature when trying to stuff into a backpack or similar.

[ynot slow]

Try www.guncity.co.nz and click on gps part,they have hand held ones and info on them.

[The Pastor]

link deleted

[Cloggy]

Crikey, you want to get that GPS for which you have deleted the link.
That is a real steal. Wonder what their legal obligations are as this is definitly a mistake. I reckon they missed out a zero on the end and this thing is more like $1150.00. They are $499.99 US recommended retail.

[The Pastor]

Crikey, you want to get that GPS for which you have deleted the link.
That is a real steal. Wonder what their legal obligations are as this is definitly a mistake. I reckon they missed out a zero on the end and this thing is more like $1150.00. They are $499.99 US recommended retail.
hehe i know, but i've paid the money, i doubt they will honor the price tho.

[Magua]

I wonder if they're obliged to under the CGA?

[The Pastor]

doubt it, but we'll see lol

[imdying]

I wonder if they're obliged to under the CGA?Naw, the law allows for honest mistakes by retailers.

[Max Preload]

Naw, the law allows for honest mistakes by retailers.

Indeed. It's called the Contractual Mistakes Act (http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1977/0054/latest/DLM443634.html?search=ts_all%40act%40bill%40regula tion_Mistakes_resel&sr=1).

[Cloggy]

I see Gun City have just amended their mistake and this model is now listed as being $799.00 which is still a good price.
Also in their fine print there is this line:
"The contents of this website are presented on the basis that errors and omissions are excepted and that Gun City reserves the right to change any price or product specification that may result from any occurrence."

[The Pastor]

yeah ive asked for a refund. $799 is not a good price its $100 up on the competition.....

i think instead of buying a cheap gps that cant do topo maps i'll just save up and get one for next season.

I can always plot my waypoints on my map with a pen :D

[The Pastor]

Only one brand to consider: Garmin.
Then go for either the Etrex Summit HCx or the 60 CSx.
Both of these have the barometric altimeter and an electronic compass. Two features which I miss on my Etrex Legend Cx.


Thanks for your reply,

Im having trouble weather to spend extra and get a good (60 csx etc) expensive one or to get a cheaper one (eterx legend c http://www.trademe.co.nz/Electronics-photography/GPS/Handheld/auction-202857927.htm)

Why are the features you mentioned important? Whats the extra application over what a cheaper model can do?

Im a realitve GPS novice - so simple words please :)

thanks

Rm

[Cloggy]

The barometric altimeter gives you more accurate altitude readings by referencing barometric pressure to calculations to arrive at an altitude reading rather than the lesser Cx models which rely solely on calculating altitude from known reference points, i.e. the satellites.
The electronic compass will show you where the poles (North / South) are without moving, just like a magnetic compass. The lesser models like the Cx require you to be moving before they can show the poles and the poles are calculated from the known satellite positions.
Minor differences, but had I known this before I bought my Cx, I would have spent a little extra and gotten the better model.
More important though than these two features is that you don't buy a Cx but go for the newer HCx with the high sensitivity receiver. That way you are assured the GPS will work under heavy tree cover. My Cx will lose signal in the bush under tree cover and in deep valleys. To remedy this I have bought a re-radiating antenna which is better at picking up weak signals and amplifying them. The difference is amazing. But the HCx does this out of the box without any extra antennas. Well worth the extra coin.

[The Pastor]

If only i were a rich man lol.

ive got a few months to save so hopefully i can get the 60csx