Best unit in tree cover

[carlessfamily]

Hi,

 

I've got a basic Garmin eTrex which I've had for a few years now and it's still good enough for me in open country, but in tree cover it pretty much gives up straight away so I'm planning an upgrade (budget $300-500). There are plenty of manufacturers who claim great coverage in challenging conditions (or similar) but none who say "actually our units aren't so good in trees, you'd be better off buying from xyz company".

 

Is there any systematic variation between manufacturers or do I just need to be guided by my wallet ?

 

Thanks.

[+Indotguy]

The Lowrance iFinder series do very well in the woods.

[jholly]

I'm happy with my 76CSx in the woods. The 60CSx should be about the same. I've heard the H etrex's are pretty good also.

 

Jim

[+rtreit]

I've had great results with my 60CSx in tree cover, but I haven't used other units (besides a Nuvi which is terrible in the woods), so don't have much experience to compare it with.

[+GerIRL]

I have NEVER lost lock in the woods under dense NJ deciduous summer tree cover w/ my 60CSx.

[+briansnat]

Any of the Garmns with the high sensitivity receivers will do great under heavy tree cover. Look for an H or X in the name (or both). 60CSX, 76CSX, eTrex H, Venture HC, Vista HCX are some.

[GeoBobC]

I believe, from personal experience, that the 60X models outperform the other Garmin units in tree canopy. I tested a Vista HCx along side a 60Cx for several weeks to reach that conclusion.

[carlessfamily]

Many thanks everyone, it looks like it's going to be one of the garmin 60X series. That's probably good news as here in the UK garmin seems to have a huge lead in the market which should make things easier with mapping, support etc. A while ago it would have been worth getting one sent over from your side of the pond, but those days are over...before long we'll be sending them to you !

[Chrisr61]

Many thanks everyone, it looks like it's going to be one of the garmin 60X series. That's probably good news as here in the UK garmin seems to have a huge lead in the market which should make things easier with mapping, support etc. A while ago it would have been worth getting one sent over from your side of the pond, but those days are over...before long we'll be sending them to you !

 

I just got the 60Csx on saturday and couldn't be happier with it!! This thing gets a signal from in my basement!!

Edited February 23, 2009 by Chrisr61

[+kenk]

This thing gets a signal from in my basement!!

 

You'll want to make sure to capture a waypoint near the stairs so you don't get lost in your basement. That can be very scarey ... at least until rescue crews arrive.

 

;-)

[+ICHTHYS]

The Lowrance iFinder series do very well in the woods.

 

Yes it does. It does as well as my sons eTrex H. The eTrex locks faster, but once my iFinder gets a solid signal it keeps it.

 

The new Endura series looks promising also, too bad I have to wait a couple more months to get one. They are due out in May.

Edited February 24, 2009 by ICHTHYS

[+Dietcoke8688]

I have had GREAT reception with the Lowrance ifind H20. I love the big screen.