gailmenard Posted January 25, 2010 Share Posted January 25, 2010 We went looking for our first cache today and we were not successful. I plugged the coordinates into my Garvin Nuvi and got to where it the readings were exact. Searched around for 30 minutes. No luck. How close should the cache be to the target coordinates on my device? Gail Quote Link to comment
+cachensfun Posted January 25, 2010 Share Posted January 25, 2010 For the Nuvi I'd say within 20 to 40 feet. Quote Link to comment
+StarBrand Posted January 25, 2010 Share Posted January 25, 2010 The general accuracy of most handheld GPS devices is around 15 to 25 feet. Remember though you have might have to add your potential error to any error the cache owner had when placing the cache. That means you could easily find yourself looking for a cache up to 50 feet from where your unit says ground zero is. Most of the time you will find them within 20 feet or less but do be prepared to widen your search. Put the GPS away when you are within 20 feet or so and start looking for likely hiding spots. Back off and reapproach the area if necessary to verify you are looking in the right spot. Quote Link to comment
+Gitchee-Gummee Posted January 25, 2010 Share Posted January 25, 2010 Previous posts are good responses... but keep in mind that they are making reference to a radii distance. Your actual "searching circle" may be double that figure. When you reach the coords in your unit, that is what is called Ground Zero (GZ). From that point on, your GPSr is generally useless. You need to put it away, and hunt with your eyes, etc. That is, after all why it is referred to as a hunt. There are no civilian GPSr units that can reliably put you atop the cache! Enjoy the "hunt" and have fun. Quote Link to comment
+Opalblade Posted January 25, 2010 Share Posted January 25, 2010 Also, start off looking for regular sized caches with low difficulties before looking for smalls or micros. You'll be more likely to find them and over time will give you a good idea of how far off your GPSr could be. Quote Link to comment
+ras_oscar Posted January 25, 2010 Share Posted January 25, 2010 know what size the container is and remember that in order to be successful the hide needs: A. To be difficult to see if you're not looking for it B. Protected from the elements C. In a spot that won't be regularly be disturbed by maintenance processes D. Easy for the finder to remove and replace without tools These requiirements greatly reduces the possible hide locations at a given spot. Quote Link to comment
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