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GPS Watches for Hunting – Buying guide, Reviews and Comparison
In the event that you are interested in purchasing the best GPS watch for hunting but are short on time and unable to conduct the necessary research, we are here to assist you. After analyzing the market and reading what customers had to say about some of the products on the market, we came to the conclusion that the Garmin Foretrex 401 is the model you should give serious consideration. This unit is equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, which improves the reception of satellite signals. Furthermore, this option can keep track of your routes, waypoints, as well as your heart rate during your exercise. Another feature that makes it a good buy is the easy-to-read display, which allows the buyer to have a good sense of where he or she is at all times. When used in GPS mode, the device runs on two AAA batteries and has a battery life of 17 hours when powered on. If this item is no longer available, the Garmin epix TOPO U.S. is a good alternative. Comparison table
3 Best GPS Watches for Hunting (Reviews) in 2021
When it comes to hunting, finding a good GPS watch for the job is not an easy task, especially when you are trying to navigate through the countless models that are currently on the market. In order to be of assistance to you, we have decided to lend you a hand by compiling a list of products that have received positive feedback from users.
1. Garmin 010-00777-00 Foretrex 401 GPS Watch
In the market for a waterproof device that you can take hunting with you, the Garmin Foretrex 401 might be just what you’ve been looking for. This device is powered by two AAA batteries, which must be purchased separately, and it can be used for up to 17 hours before the batteries need to be replaced again. While on your hunting expeditions, this unit can keep track of your waypoints and routes, ensuring that you do not become disoriented or lose your way. Furthermore, because it is compatible with a heart rate monitor, you can also use it while exercising to track your progress. Because it includes what the seller refers to as a TracBack feature, this model can assist you in retracing your steps after an accident. The device’s largest advantage is its large display, which can be read in two different positions at the same time. As a result, no matter how you hold it, you will be able to see your location. Additionally, this item includes a trip computer that displays information about sunrise and sunset times, an electronic compass, and a useful barometric altimeter as an added bonus. The display measures 1.42 x 0.91 inches in total and has a resolution of 100 x 64 pixels on a diagonal basis. The high-sensitivity GPS receiver that is included with this model ensures that this GPS will have improved reception even in deep canyons and densely forested environments.
Pros
When the Foretrex 401 watch is shipped, buyers will also receive a USB cable, a wrist expansion strap, as well as a guide and a manual, which you should read before using the watch for the first time. This device enables owners to create and store routes, as well as providing them with useful information about their vehicles. It actually includes a trip computer, information about sunrise and sunset, as well as information about hunting and fishing. One can connect the watch to a computer and analyze his or her activity by connecting the watch to the computer with the USB cable. Anywhere you end up during your hunting expedition, this GPS unit can assist you in retracing your steps so that you never have to worry about becoming disoriented or losing your way.
Cons
The most common complaint that buyers have expressed about this piece of equipment is that the manuals provided by the seller are difficult to understand and adhere to. Furthermore, it has been noted that the battery life of the watch is not particularly long. For this reason, you may want to bring a couple of extra batteries with you on your trip.
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2. Garmin epix Topo U.S. 100K
This contemporary-looking alternative has a large high-resolution display measuring 1.4″ in diagonal size. To make matters worse, the device enables users to read it even when they are standing in direct sunlight. Buyers will be able to load a large number of maps onto it because of the 8GB internal memory that it has. In order to make the watch as visually appealing as possible, the manufacturer designed it in such a way that it can be customized by switching between a variety of watch faces, widgets, and applications. This model is also popular among owners because it allows them to stay connected at all times. The TOPO U.S is well-known for its ability to wirelessly upload data to the Garmin Connect app as well as to LiveTrack. You can also use it to connect with your phone and receive texts, alerts, and emails directly to your watch, which is a nice feature. The device’s practical display allows the user to swipe to access detailed maps on the fly, which is particularly convenient. There is also the option to use the built-in worldwide shaded relief basemaps. As a result, you will not run the risk of becoming disoriented or losing track of where you are at all times. Because this watch has plenty of memory space, you can also download additional maps that you can easily access, such as BirdsEye Satellite Imagery or BlueChart g2 maps, which are both available for purchase separately.
Pros
This model is equipped with auto-calibrating ABC sensors, which can provide you with relevant real-time information when needed. According to the seller, this option has an EXO antenna with GPS/GLONASS reception that is made of stainless steel and includes GPS/GLONASS reception. Therefore, it has the potential to withstand the test of time. Using the 8GB memory slot, the owner can store a large number of maps on the device. He or she will be less likely to become disoriented in this manner. Because it has a 1.4-inch high-resolution color touchscreen, any maps that you choose to load onto it will be displayed in crystal clear detail.
Cons
Some customers have complained that the device’s battery life falls short of expectations in certain situations. However, only a small number of people expressed concern about this issue. One customer complained that the product is not as efficient as he would have liked it to be because of the numerous software bugs that it contains. Another customer agreed. And to make matters worse, this watch does not perform well when both maps and apps are being used simultaneously.
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3. Garmin Fenix 3 Sapphire GPS Multisport Watch
An additional GPS option that might be of interest is the Garmin Fenix 2 handheld navigation system. Suitable for both hunting and fitness training, this model is an excellent choice. What makes it worthwhile is the fact that it can display real-time performance information such as the distance you have walked, the pace you are walking at, the speed you are walking at, your heart rate, and the number of calories you have burned. The HRM-Run monitor2, which is also available from Fenix, can be used in conjunction with this device to give you even more information about your running performance and fitness. In order to make this option as versatile as possible, the seller has also included a swim mode and a ski mode, which can be customized to meet your specific needs when participating in either of these sports. As an added bonus, the item enables the owner to stay in touch with his or her loved ones by connecting to personal social media accounts, which can be accessed through the device. While hunting, if you pair it with your personal phone, you will receive a slew of notifications that will keep you connected to the rest of the civilized world while you are away from civilization. The watch is also equipped with high-sensitivity GPS tracking features such as a worldwide basemap, a 3-axis compass, and the TracBack app, in addition to other features.
Pros
Despite the fact that it has a large display, this model has an extremely appealing design. Additionally, this unit can provide users with a plethora of real-time performance data, which can aid them in gaining a better understanding of their own progression. A 3-axis compass and a worldwide basemap are among the many GPS tracking features included in this watch, according to the seller. A TracBack app that helps you avoid getting lost is also included, which can be extremely useful when navigating in an unfamiliar area. When participating in various sports, such as fitness, swimming, or skiing, the option can be used. As a result, you will no longer be required to purchase additional pieces of equipment. Previous users were pleased to report that the model has a long battery life as well as a sturdy design that prevents it from being easily broken.
Cons
Several owners have expressed concern about the watch’s display, stating that it is not always easy to read and that the red backlight is difficult to see because of the screen. Some users reported that the watch that they received broke within a short period of time. However, the majority of reviews for this device have been overwhelmingly positive.
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Buying guide
It is not an easy task to locate the best hunting GPS watch, and the process is not without its challenges. In order to aid you in your search, we have compiled a list of characteristics that are considered essential in a product of this nature. So take a look ahead and plan your shopping accordingly!
According to reviews of GPS hunting watches, the accuracy of the GPS sensor that is built into a device is critical to its performance. This is the case because the watch that you intend to purchase should make it simple for you to navigate when you are exploring unfamiliar territory during your hunting expeditions. Furthermore, the sensor should function properly when traveling to areas that are densely forested with dense vegetation. As a result, there should be no exceptional circumstances that would compromise the dependability of your hunting GPS equipment. Going online and reading what experts had to say about the technology used in specific models is a good way to get a sense of how this aspect is being handled. Apart from that, you might want to take a close look at what previous owners had to say about the information that the model that you are interested in can provide.
Water resistance
In the same way that you would check to see if a high-quality hunting range finder is water-resistant before purchasing one, you should always check to see if the model that you have found for sale is water-resistant. From this perspective, you should only consider devices that are capable of withstanding contact with water. As you are aware, hunting is an activity that necessitates spending extended periods of time outdoors, regardless of the weather. Because of this, it is recommended that you arrive prepared to deal with inclement weather conditions. Additionally, you should avoid taking the chance of not being able to use your GPS because of the rain. Although this is true, it does not follow that you should only purchase a device that is intended to be submerged in water. Choose instead a watch that is sweat, water, and dirt resistant; this should be adequate.
Extra features
In a similar vein to when purchasing a hunting flashlight, the option on which you intend to spend your money should be intuitive and straightforward to operate. Because of this, it is recommended that you purchase a watch that has a high-resolution screen and a long battery life so that you do not find yourself in unfamiliar territory with no idea how to get back home. As an added bonus, it is worth noting that a high-quality device of this nature should include features that are specifically designed for hunting. Some models, for example, include built-in compasses, storm warning alarms, and maps that have already been downloaded. Even more so, there are options that can be used to connect to one’s social media accounts, which is an added bonus. In this manner, one can request assistance if he or she becomes disoriented. Furthermore, some units can be connected to one’s phone, allowing one to have direct access to his or her notifications, calendar, and text messages, for example. If you are working with a limited budget, it is recommended that you set a price range and stick to it as much as possible. Because of this, you will be less likely to be tempted to look at products that are out of your price range. If you enjoy going on hunting trips but find it difficult to select high-quality pieces of equipment, this buying guide on how to get a monocular for hunting may be of assistance. In addition, this article on how to purchase a trail camera may be of assistance to you. You can also read our articles on how to choose the best hunting boots, how to choose the best pair of hunting pants for cold weather to keep warm, and how to choose a durable and comfortable hunting backpack to carry your essential hunting supplies, if you’re interested in other hunting equipment.