First GPS

[+JASPER04]

Hey I am just getting into geocaching and want recommendations on a first hand held gps. What have your experiences been?

[+stinger503]

I'm currently using a Magellan Triton 500. The device itself works perfectly but the software (Vantagepoint) is buggy. Its pretty easy to use as well. Haven't really checked out the Explorist series.

 

If I were you I would look into the Garmin Colorado and Oregon because I believe they can play Wherigo caches. (Also anything that can use Chirp might be useful as well). I've used a Garmin GPSMap 76 and it had a pretty steep learning curve. I'm not sure that reflects all Garmins though.

 

Delorme has some interesting products (especially SPOT compatibility) but I haven't really seen them being used.

 

Last recommendation: do some research on the community. Chances are you'll be downloading maps (maps from GPS manufacturers can cost up to $100 or more usually), getting help and troubleshooting from them. Example www.tritonforum.com/

[+all4familycaching]

I am currently using a Gramin Colorado 300 and I love it. We also have a Garmin ETrec Legend that the kids use. And a Garmin Nuvi for the geotruck. We have yet to have any problems with them yet.

 

I've also heard that the Gramin Oregons are really good and if you want to do Wherigo's then you'll need one.

 

But really it mostly comes down to what you want and can afford. As any GPS can get pretty expensive. If you want a hands on experience then attend an event in your area and I'm sure that any geocachers would be more than willing to show you theirs and how they work.

 

So welcome and hope you enjoy Geocaching.

[+t4e]

depends on your budget, of which you have made no mention

 

we have both an Oregon 450 and a 550 and we are very happy with them

[+entogeek]

I have a Triton 1500 and 2000, and as of a year ago an Oregon 550. Haven't used the Tritons since getting the Oregon. But as others have said, it really depends on your budget... and what you want to be able to do with your GPS. FYI, you can't mark caches as being found on the Tritons but you can on the Oregon. You might want to look at Magellan's new eXplorist GC models which are getting positive reviews for geocaching.