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Handheld GPS for Duck Hunting – Buying Guide, Reviews and Comparison
The following paragraph may be of assistance if you want to take your hunting experience to a higher level and you’re looking for the best handheld GPS for duck hunting but aren’t sure where to begin your search. Following an examination of the features of some of the most highly regarded products currently on the market, as well as reviews of handheld GPS units for duck hunting and customer feedback, we have concluded that the Garmin GPSMAP 62st is the first option to consider. This rugged handheld navigator is equipped with features that will provide you with unrivaled reception while also enhancing your duck hunting experience in a variety of ways. It has a barometric altimeter, a 3-axis tilt-compensated compass, and it comes preloaded with 100K topo maps, to name a few of its many impressive characteristics. Because hunting can take place in a variety of weather conditions, the unit has been designed to be waterproof. If this product is not available, another option is the Garmin GPSMAP 64st, which is also a GPS navigator.
Comparison table
Best Handheld GPS for Duck Hunting (Reviews) in 2021
The large number of both expensive and inexpensive handheld GPS units for duck hunting available on today’s market makes determining which one is best for your needs potentially overwhelming. In order to make your shopping experience easier and ensure that you purchase a high-quality handheld GPS for duck hunting, we have reviewed some of the most highly regarded products in this category.
For those looking for a GPS for duck hunting that is simple to use and durable, as well as one that provides precise bearing and altitude measurements, this Garmin GPS for hunting should be the first one on your list to look at. It is available in both black and white. With specifications that are dedicated to elevating your hunting experience to the next level, this unit has garnered praise from a large number of buyers who have tried it.
Built to last in harsh conditions, this device has a 2.6-inch 65K color TFT screen that can be read in direct sunlight. It also has a rugged and waterproof design, allowing you to continue hunting even when the weather turns bad. In addition, it has a resolution of 160 x 240 pixels to offer.
Precision bearing and altitude measurements are provided by the barometric altimeter and the three-axis, tilt-compensated electronic compass, which are both built into the device. Additionally, the item is compatible with Custom Maps in addition to the 100K topo maps that come preloaded with the item.
Furthermore, the item is compatible with BirdsEye satellite imagery as well as photo navigation, and you will benefit from an exceptional reception thanks to the quad helix antenna that is included. In addition, the handheld GPS for hunting provides a high-speed USB connection as well as wireless connectivity with other Garmin handhelds that are compatible. The sleek yet rugged design ensures ease of use as well as long-lasting performance.
Pros
The features that come with this model will make it easier for you to navigate your way around and get one step closer to your destination.
The barometric altimeter and the 3-axis tilt-compensated compass, both of which are included, ensure accurate bearing and altitude measurements in all conditions.
In addition, the unit comes preloaded with 100K topo maps and is compatible with Custom Maps software. The application also supports photo navigation as well as BirdsEye satellite imagery.
It is the 2.6-inch, 65K color TFT screen, and the 160 x 240-pixel resolution that will make your experience significantly better. The screen is also visible in direct sunlight.
This navigator, which has a sleek and rugged design, will assist you in meeting your various needs without interfering with your comfort while using it.
Furthermore, the materials it is made of make it suitable for long-term use, and the waterproof construction makes it suitable for use in all weather conditions, including rain.
Cons
Because the unit does not have an external power source, you must take precautions to avoid running out of batteries while hunting or hiking in remote areas of the world.
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2. Garmin GPSMAP 64st, TOPO U.S. 100K High-Sensitivity GPS
An alternative model from the same manufacturer, Garmin, that you might want to consider when shopping for a new hunting GPS system is another option to consider. This navigator has specifications that will assist you in reaching your hunting destination and providing precise information on your location. It is simple to use and has been designed to withstand repeated use.
The handheld unit, which has a 2.6-inch display with a resolution of 160 x 240 pixels, is equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receiver, as well as a quad helix antenna, which allows for excellent reception in all conditions. These features will accurately and quickly locate your location, and they guarantee that your position will be maintained even when you are in deep canyons.
Even if you are standing still, the built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass will show you where you are heading. The barometric altimeter will keep track of changes in pressure in order to provide you with accurate information about your altitude at any given time.
Caching from Geocaching.com is made possible by the 250,000 caches that have already been preloaded. The navigator is slim and lightweight, with a battery life of 16 hours and an internal memory of 8GB that has been expanded. In addition to the two traditional AA batteries, the item can also be used with a rechargeable NiMH battery pack that can be recharged while still inside the device.
Pros
Its durable design will assist you in locating your way and getting to your destination quickly and efficiently.
The quad helix antenna, as well as the high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receiver, ensures excellent reception in all conditions. As a result, even if you hunt in remote locations, the unit will have you covered.
The product is equipped with a barometric altimeter, which will provide you with precise information about your altitude by tracking changes in the pressure in the surrounding atmosphere.
Your altitude readings and tracking information will be displayed not only accurately but also clearly on the 2.6-inch display, which has a resolution of 160 x 240 pixels and a screen size of 2.6 inches.
Because the device has a 16-hour battery life, you can use it without having to worry about running out of juice while on a long hunt.
Cons
During winter hunting, at least one customer claims that the battery lasts approximately 6 hours. Keep this in mind if you plan on going outside when the temperature begins to drop.
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The success of your hunting expedition is dependent on a number of factors, one of which is the equipment you use. It is not enough to simply use a high-quality hunting range finder; you also require a high-quality navigator in order to know where you are or to obtain information about the distance between you and your target location. An alternative GPS unit to consider is this one from Garmin, which is shown below.
It is possible to see your heading even when you are standing still thanks to the 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass that is built in. The item makes use of a barometric altimeter to provide you with precise altitude information. A barometric altimeter tracks changes in pressure and thus allows you to learn more about your altitude.
The HotFix satellite prediction system, combined with a highly sensitive GPS receiver that supports WAAS, ensure that your location is pinpointed quickly and with precision. Furthermore, even when used in deep canyons, the unit will maintain its GPS location without error.
The sunlight-readable 3-inch color touchscreen display is committed to delivering high-resolution images and crystal-clear enhanced colors while remaining lightweight. Because the item is both durable and waterproof, you can take it on long hunts or hikes without worrying about it breaking. It is resistant to environmental factors such as humidity, dust, and dirt. You can also wirelessly exchange routes, tracks, and waypoints between devices that are similar in nature.
Pros
You can use the device to ensure that you find your way around with ease when exploring a new area or looking for the best hunting spot in the area.
It has a rugged, waterproof, and durable body, allowing you to take it on long hikes or hunting expeditions without worrying about damaging it. It is built to withstand a variety of environmental factors and remain functional even in adverse weather conditions.
The various features it has, such as the barometric altimeter and the 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, will assist you in quickly and accurately locating your location and determining your altitude when traveling.
User comfort and convenience were taken into consideration when designing the menu. The appearance of your display can therefore be easily customized.
The 3-inch touchscreen display will ensure that all of the information you see is displayed in crystal clear detail. As a result, you will enjoy high-resolution photos and vibrant colors.
Cons
The unit’s dimensions are 1.4 x 2.3 x 4.5 inches, which has led some customers to complain that it is too large.
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4. Garmin InReach Explorer+ Handheld Satellite Communicator
This model from Garmin, which is designed to assist you in exploring and communicating anywhere, is also worth considering if you don’t want to get lost while hunting or participating in other outdoor activities. This device becomes an indispensable tool because it allows you to track your location and share it with your friends and family members at the same time.
Because of the unit’s 100 percent global Iridium coverage, it is capable of providing 2-way messaging, tracking, and interactive SOS services no matter where you are. This feature distinguishes it from the competition because such benefits can be life-saving at times. This take-anywhere portable device allows you to exchange text messages with anyone, anywhere, using any email address or cell phone number, no matter where you are.
In high-risk situations, you can use the item to send an SOS to the 24/7 monitoring center, which will then notify authorities. The InReach will allow you to communicate with others by texting back and forth and providing information about your emergency. The digital compass and barometric altimeter built into the device will assist you in keeping track of your location and altitude.
It includes a Wearable4U USB Power Bank with a capacity of 10000mAh, a Wearable4U Wall USB Charging Adapter, and a Wearable4U Car Charger, allowing you to keep your device charged wherever you go. The Earthmate unit can be connected to mobile devices via the free Earthmate application.
Pros
It is designed to keep track of your location while also providing you with the capability of contacting a 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center. It is an essential piece of equipment to have when hunting, hiking, or exploring unknown and remote areas.
The unit is equipped with a digital compass as well as a barometric altimeter, which ensures that you receive precise information about your location and altitude.
Because of the unit’s use of Iridium satellite technology, which provides 100 percent global coverage, it is possible to send and receive 2-way text messages from anywhere. The benefit of this is that you can contact your friends and family members or a rescue center whenever you need to do so.
When you purchase the Wearable4U Wall USB Charging Adapter and Wearable4U Car Charger, you will be able to keep your device charged so that you can continue to benefit from its features throughout your trip.
Cons
One customer claims that the Earthmate app’s feature does not function properly; however, the product has received only positive feedback so far.
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5. Garmin eTrex Touch 25 Color Touchscreen GPS
This GPS unit from Garmin, which boasts features that will increase your safety when exploring new places or hunting, should not be overlooked before making your final decision. This device is suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, including duck hunting, and is rugged, waterproof, and durable enough to withstand extended trips and hunting sessions.
Because of the 3-axis tilt compensated electronic compass that is included, the unit promises to provide you with accurate information regarding your location and heading. The item has wireless connectivity, comes preloaded with geocaches, and can track both GPS and GLONASS satellites at the same time. It also has a built-in flashlight. This means that the receiver will be able to lock on to an additional 24 satellites.
In addition to a 2.6-inch color touchscreen display that provides intuitive access to a worldwide basemap and is sunlight-readable, this GPS model also includes a built-in microphone. The eTrex Touch 25 is dedicated to delivering tracking data and mapping regardless of the weather conditions on the day of deployment. It is resistant to environmental factors such as humidity, water, dust, and dirt.
In addition, the device has 4GB of internal memory as well as a microSD card slot for expansion. Also included is support for BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, which will allow you to download satellite images and overlay them on your map for a more detailed view.
Pros
This rugged and durable GPS unit is built to withstand harsh weather conditions and elements such as humidity, water, dust, and dirt, and it promises to assist you in finding your way and arriving at your destination with ease and confidence.
In addition to clear readings, high-quality images, and intuitive access to a worldwide basemap with shaded relief, the 2.6-inch color touchscreen displays information in real time.
As a result of its ability to track both GPS and GLONASS satellites at the same time, this unit can lock on to an additional 24 satellites, which is a significant advantage, particularly if you hunt in remote locations.
This unit has a built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass that will display your heading even if you are not standing still or holding the unit level.
Because it is compatible with a variety of mounts, this model can be used either handheld or mounted on a boat, ATV, or bicycle.
Cons
Although the unit is compatible with BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, a subscription is required in order to take advantage of its features.
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Buying guide
The success of your hunting sessions is dependent on a variety of factors, including the hunting blinds you use, the hunting boots you wear, and the weather conditions that exist at the time of your hunting session. The GPS unit you choose is one piece of equipment that will make a significant and positive contribution to your overall experience.
For those of you who find that your GPS hunting watch does not meet your needs as expected and are on the lookout for a handheld unit, there are a few features you should consider in order to get what you need and make your shopping experience as simple as possible. They’re ready to go.
Accurate altitude and location information
When you’re out and about, a GPS unit is designed to assist you in finding your way and getting to your destination as quickly as possible. That is the first feature that you should pay close attention to. Identify a model that offers improved precision in terms of tracking information by comparing it to other models.
Modern models that are well-liked by customers typically include a barometric altimeter as well as a 3-axis tilt compensated electronic compass, which allows them to provide accurate data about their location, heading, and altitude. Even if it is more expensive, such a device should be considered. It is possible that the benefits will be life-saving.
Satellite reception and speed
If you want to get the most out of your outdoor experience, you may also want to look for a model that has better satellite reception than the competition. This will have a direct impact on the accuracy that we discussed earlier in this article. A reputable navigator will 3D lock your location for you. Think about the size of the antenna it has as well, because the larger this item is, the faster the unit will be able to lock onto your location.
Once again, time is of critical importance. Before you make a decision on which model to purchase, test a few different models to see which one has the fastest response time.
Display quality and unit design
Another feature to think about is the display quality you prefer, as well as the overall construction of the device. Keep in mind that outdoor activities expose you to a variety of environmental factors, including dust, humidity, water, and sunlight. Both the display and the unit’s body should be able to keep up with them without any issues.
As a result, look for a display that is sunlight-readable and produces images of high quality. Take into consideration the materials that were used to construct the unit. Because it is a handheld GPS, they should be durable while still being lightweight enough to make using the device comfortable. Its physical dimensions are also significant. For a short period of time, try out a model to see how comfortable it is.