Caching with QR Codes?

[+cpttango30]

Would using qr codes for a multistage be ok? Where the qr code would give you the coordinates to the next stage?

[+L0ne.R]

Would using qr codes for a multistage be ok? Where the qr code would give you the coordinates to the next stage?

 

I'm pretty sure it's allowed. You could always contact a local reviewer to get the definitive answer.

If you do, I would suggest putting a note in bold in the short description, so no one is unpleasantly surprised when they get to the stage with the code. Maybe also select the Special Tool Required attribute

[+Mudfrog]

I've found a few set up like that. I know that one of them has the word "barcode" in it's name so i would guess that they are ok.

[+RoadRoach58]

This is one I would love to do. Then phone service isn't required, just a QR app. Lots of caches around here don't list what special tools are needed, and many are listed as traditionals, but have an offset when you get there, or worse yet, just loose coordinates to make them a lot harder. Your question implies you have some sort of QR code generator? If so, do you recommend it?

[+cpttango30]

I just use an online generator. http://www.the-qrcode-generator.com/. It has always worked for me.

 

I had thought about just getting some waterproof stickers and printing the codes on them with a laser printer and sticking them in places like the back of a street sign. But, to me that would be defacing property so I tossed that one quickly.

 

I have also thought about making a bunch of short youtube videos where I dress my son up in costume and make him act like a gatekeeper to give the next set of coords.

Edited October 14, 2013 by cpttango30

[+NotreDameFan11]

Would using qr codes for a multistage be ok? Where the qr code would give you the coordinates to the next stage?

Couldn't you just have caches with a sticker on them with the QR code for the next stage. Also you would probably have to be in range of a cell tower because I believe the barcode app needs to access the net.

[+desmognathus]

And not just one carrier either, as some cachers will be on AT&T , others on Verizon, still others on Sprint... As you can see it has the potential to become problematic.

[+Team Microdot]

I had a series of mystery caches at one time which utilised QR codes.

 

For all 10, one half of the fake coordinates was true - but there was no indicator of which half.

 

A QR code on the cache page for #1 decoded to half a coordinate set to give the full correct coordinates for that cache.

 

In the lid of cache #1 was a QR code for half a coordinate set for #2 - with the other half of the correct coordinates being in the published coordinates of cache #2

 

And so on - up to #10.

 

Obviously I cannot comment on whether this sort of series would be published today.

 

As far as QR readers is concerned I would recommend i-nigma - as it needs no cell connection to do the decode - in fact your smartphone can be in flight mode and i-nigma will decode QR's just fine as everything is handled by the phone without the need for some central server - http://www.i-nigma.com/downloadi-nigmareader.html

[+Harry Dolphin]

I certainly hope that QR codes are not permissible. Certainly not for a multi. Ranks up there with chirp caches (which are mystery) and Whereiwontgo. Both require expensive equipment that not all cachers have access to. My Garmin 30 will do chirp caches. If a cache needs a ladder or climbing equipment, I can usually discern that from the cache page. I do not want to go out on a multi to find that expensive equipment that I do not have is required when I get to the first stage. If Groundspeak is going to permit such a cache, it should require a special icon that I can put on my ignore list. Or go to the website that is known for QR caches. Chirp caches have a special icon. But I can do those (well until the battery dies). Or they would be on my Ignore List. As are Whereiwontgo caches, and UV light rquired. Do not expect everyone to have the expensive necessary equipment for your QR cache.

[GrandPotentate]

I have one right now that has gotten some good comments. I printed them on Shrinky Dinks.

 

This is one of the codes from the multi.

[4wheelin_fool]

I believe they are fine listed under the mystery icon. Multis should have ordinary coordinates, otherwise they are puzzles.

[+St.Matthew]

The ones I have done, I have enjoyed. They were listed with the Unknown icon.

[+flyfshrgrl]

Encoded 3 is a cache from my area using a QR code, but it is listed as a ? instead of a multi.

[+Team Hugs]

I certainly hope that QR codes are not permissible. Certainly not for a multi. Ranks up there with chirp caches (which are mystery) and Whereiwontgo. Both require expensive equipment that not all cachers have access to.

 

Then we should also ban caches hidden on islands. After all, they require boats to get to them, and not everyone has access to a boat.

 

Also, underwater caches; not everyone has scuba gear.

 

Certainly there shouldn't be a cache on the International Space Station. Very few people have access to the equipment needed to get there.

 

And don't get me started on puzzle caches that require special knowledge to solve the puzzles that not everyone may have. (Who is this "Buffy" person, anyways?)

 

[+niraD]

I certainly hope that QR codes are not permissible. Certainly not for a multi. Ranks up there with chirp caches (which are mystery) and Whereiwontgo. Both require expensive equipment that not all cachers have access to.

I agree that multi-stage caches that use QR codes should be listed as mystery/puzzle caches, and not as multi-caches. But the equipment needed isn't that expensive, and is required for many grandfathered virtual caches. Digital cameras are common enough and are relatively affordable, and there are multiple sites that can translate a QR code from a digital image for free.

[+JohnnyVegas]

Would using qr codes for a multistage be ok? Where the qr code would give you the coordinates to the next stage?

I would think not, not everyone has the ability to read a QR code

[+JohnnyVegas]

multi-stage caches that use QR codes should be listed as mystery/puzzle caches, and not as multi-caches. But the equipment needed isn't that expensive

this is not the case, what is not expensive to one person is expensive to another person. And photographing a QR code then going home to decode it is not cheap, and if there are 6 or 7 stages it is even more expensive. Just because something can be done does not mean it is a good idea

[+Team Microdot]

I do not want to go out on a multi to find that expensive equipment that I do not have is required when I get to the first stage.

 

My series of 10 caches catered for this - because the first code was on the first cache page - and it was made clear that further decodes would be required in the field. Thus anyone without the means or inclination to complete the task could simply move on to a cache within their means

[+Paul G0TLG]

I've done one like this in London, from memory it was a QR code on the cache page, one in the field then on to the final, a proper cache box. It got loads of positive comments so don't let the nay sayers here put you off! Just make sure it's clear from the cache page what people are getting into so they can ignore it if they want.

[+Isonzo Karst]

and sticking them in places like the back of a street sign. But, to me that would be defacing property so I tossed that one quickly.

 

This is my primary objection to QR code caches, generally.

 

Re special equipment - take a picture, go home, use an online QR code reader to decrypt. Yes, you need a camera.

 

Is it a nuisance? sure.

 

I'd ignore instantly, because there's nothing about the technology that adds anything positive to the experience.

You can just as easily put the darn coords out - unless the whole point is to use the QR code sticker as some sort of defacing object, which has been my (limited) experience.

[+cheech gang]

I'd ignore instantly, because there's nothing about the technology that adds anything positive to the experience.

 

I agree. I know it only takes a second for a smartphone to read the QR referenced in post #10. I don't own a smartphone, so I would ignore that cache if I knew I would need one. If I didn't know that I would be be encountering a QR code until arrival at the site of that stage I would definitely be perturbed.

 

I generally ignore Chirps, Wherigo's, kayaks required, etc. due to lack of special equipment. At least I am aware of those requirements ahead of time thanks to the courtesy of the owners.

[+Paul G0TLG]

...nothing about the technology that adds anything positive to the experience.

Well that's true, as far as it goes...

But you could equally say there's nothing about puzzle caches that add to the geocaching experience...stay home and do a sudoku, then go geocaching. There's nothing about a multi that adds to the experience - if I wanted to read the plaque on the war memorial while I was out geocaching, I would anyway. I already go to pubs more than I should so what's the point of event caches...

 

Meanwhile, people enjoy setting QR caches and other people enjoy finding them. They require specialised equipment, but smartphones with QR scanner apps are a lot more common than boats, scuba gear, caving equipment, infra-red or UV flashlights, and nobody has complained about those caches.

 

Live and let live...do the caches you want to and ignore the rest, but please don't try to stop people exploring new ways of doing caching just because it doesn't appeal to you, or because you personally wouldn't have the equipment to complete the find.

[GrandPotentate]

I certainly hope that QR codes are not permissible. Certainly not for a multi. Ranks up there with chirp caches (which are mystery) and Whereiwontgo. Both require expensive equipment that not all cachers have access to. My Garmin 30 will do chirp caches. If a cache needs a ladder or climbing equipment, I can usually discern that from the cache page. I do not want to go out on a multi to find that expensive equipment that I do not have is required when I get to the first stage. If Groundspeak is going to permit such a cache, it should require a special icon that I can put on my ignore list. Or go to the website that is known for QR caches. Chirp caches have a special icon. But I can do those (well until the battery dies). Or they would be on my Ignore List. As are Whereiwontgo caches, and UV light rquired. Do not expect everyone to have the expensive necessary equipment for your QR cache.

 

Expensive equipment? Any smartphone with a FREE app can read QR codes and since my smartphone is cheaper than a lot of GPSr's out there not sure why you think there is expensive equipment involved.

[+terrkan78]

I certainly hope that QR codes are not permissible. Certainly not for a multi. Ranks up there with chirp caches (which are mystery) and Whereiwontgo. Both require expensive equipment that not all cachers have access to. My Garmin 30 will do chirp caches. If a cache needs a ladder or climbing equipment, I can usually discern that from the cache page. I do not want to go out on a multi to find that expensive equipment that I do not have is required when I get to the first stage. If Groundspeak is going to permit such a cache, it should require a special icon that I can put on my ignore list. Or go to the website that is known for QR caches. Chirp caches have a special icon. But I can do those (well until the battery dies). Or they would be on my Ignore List. As are Whereiwontgo caches, and UV light rquired. Do not expect everyone to have the expensive necessary equipment for your QR cache.

 

Expensive equipment? Any smartphone with a FREE app can read QR codes and since my smartphone is cheaper than a lot of GPSr's out there not sure why you think there is expensive equipment involved.

 

If you already have the smartphone, then the equipment isn't expensive. If you have a dumbphone (as I do), then the necessary equipment is incredibly expensive - like $130/mo. (as opposed to $15/mo. for my dumbphone) for the kind of data plan needed to geocache with the phone. It's the price of the plan that's the problem, not the price of the phone.

 

To the OP: I would list it as an "unknown" type. That ensures people will read the cache page and not be unpleasantly surprised when they get to the QR stage.

[+ras_oscar]

If you choose to place caches that require a QR reader, please be sure to point it out to me as soon as possible. I would suggest the text of the hinht as an absolute minimum. I do not have a smart phone and I do not plan to purchase one. I think the suggestion above about placing the first QR on the cache page containing the actual coords is a good one. Not sure whether that would qualify it as a traditional or a puzzle, since the cache page requires coords, even (in puzzle caches) if the cace is not located at the listed coordinates.

[+Team Microdot]

I think the suggestion above about placing the first QR on the cache page containing the actual coords is a good one. Not sure whether that would qualify it as a traditional or a puzzle, since the cache page requires coords, even (in puzzle caches) if the cace is not located at the listed coordinates.

 

In my case it was listed as a puzzle - as the published coordinates were not the location of the cache - one half of those coordinates was correct, one half was not.

 

The other correct half was in the QR code - that was the 'puzzle' element.

 

In this way the seeker had to work out what the code was and how to decode it before setting out to find cache #1 - hence no 'nasty surprises' at GZ.

[+L0ne.R]

...nothing about the technology that adds anything positive to the experience.

Well that's true, as far as it goes...

But you could equally say there's nothing about puzzle caches that add to the geocaching experience...stay home and do a sudoku, then go geocaching. There's nothing about a multi that adds to the experience - if I wanted to read the plaque on the war memorial while I was out geocaching, I would anyway. I already go to pubs more than I should so what's the point of event caches...

 

Meanwhile, people enjoy setting QR caches and other people enjoy finding them. They require specialised equipment, but smartphones with QR scanner apps are a lot more common than boats, scuba gear, caving equipment, infra-red or UV flashlights, and nobody has complained about those caches.

 

Live and let live...do the caches you want to and ignore the rest, but please don't try to stop people exploring new ways of doing caching just because it doesn't appeal to you, or because you personally wouldn't have the equipment to complete the find.

 

I agree. It's surprising to see geocachers argue that technology doesn't add anything to the experience, when technology is usually the thing that makes geocaching so popular.

Edited October 15, 2013 by L0ne R

[+JohnnyVegas]

I certainly hope that QR codes are not permissible. Certainly not for a multi. Ranks up there with chirp caches (which are mystery) and Whereiwontgo. Both require expensive equipment that not all cachers have access to. My Garmin 30 will do chirp caches. If a cache needs a ladder or climbing equipment, I can usually discern that from the cache page. I do not want to go out on a multi to find that expensive equipment that I do not have is required when I get to the first stage. If Groundspeak is going to permit such a cache, it should require a special icon that I can put on my ignore list. Or go to the website that is known for QR caches. Chirp caches have a special icon. But I can do those (well until the battery dies). Or they would be on my Ignore List. As are Whereiwontgo caches, and UV light rquired. Do not expect everyone to have the expensive necessary equipment for your QR cache.

 

Expensive equipment? Any smartphone with a FREE app can read QR codes and since my smartphone is cheaper than a lot of GPSr's out there not sure why you think there is expensive equipment involved.

this is not true, with a smart phone you are paying a monthly fee to use the phone, with a real GPS which can be purchase for a little over $100.00 there is no monthly fee. Sure the app may be free but the use of the phone is not free

[+JohnnyVegas]

I certainly hope that QR codes are not permissible. Certainly not for a multi. Ranks up there with chirp caches (which are mystery) and Whereiwontgo. Both require expensive equipment that not all cachers have access to. My Garmin 30 will do chirp caches. If a cache needs a ladder or climbing equipment, I can usually discern that from the cache page. I do not want to go out on a multi to find that expensive equipment that I do not have is required when I get to the first stage. If Groundspeak is going to permit such a cache, it should require a special icon that I can put on my ignore list. Or go to the website that is known for QR caches. Chirp caches have a special icon. But I can do those (well until the battery dies). Or they would be on my Ignore List. As are Whereiwontgo caches, and UV light rquired. Do not expect everyone to have the expensive necessary equipment for your QR cache.

 

Expensive equipment? Any smartphone with a FREE app can read QR codes and since my smartphone is cheaper than a lot of GPSr's out there not sure why you think there is expensive equipment involved.

this is not true, with a smart phone you are paying a monthly fee to use the phone, with a real GPS which can be purchase for a little over $100.00 there is no monthly fee. Sure the app may be free but the use of the phone is not free

maybe QR code caches can be there own category so that those that think they are stupid like chirp and where I go caches can just not download them.

[GrandPotentate]

I certainly hope that QR codes are not permissible. Certainly not for a multi. Ranks up there with chirp caches (which are mystery) and Whereiwontgo. Both require expensive equipment that not all cachers have access to. My Garmin 30 will do chirp caches. If a cache needs a ladder or climbing equipment, I can usually discern that from the cache page. I do not want to go out on a multi to find that expensive equipment that I do not have is required when I get to the first stage. If Groundspeak is going to permit such a cache, it should require a special icon that I can put on my ignore list. Or go to the website that is known for QR caches. Chirp caches have a special icon. But I can do those (well until the battery dies). Or they would be on my Ignore List. As are Whereiwontgo caches, and UV light rquired. Do not expect everyone to have the expensive necessary equipment for your QR cache.

 

Expensive equipment? Any smartphone with a FREE app can read QR codes and since my smartphone is cheaper than a lot of GPSr's out there not sure why you think there is expensive equipment involved.

this is not true, with a smart phone you are paying a monthly fee to use the phone, with a real GPS which can be purchase for a little over $100.00 there is no monthly fee. Sure the app may be free but the use of the phone is not free

I guess it's a generational thing then. For me, to have a regular phone is $30 a month, to have a smart phone is $45 a month, I am willing to spend that extra $15 a month to have access to the internet on my phone, which in turn allows me to have access to geocaching where ever I am and also have access to a QR code. I think as we see more younger geocachers, we are going to see a lot more technology included in geocaches.

[+Harry Dolphin]

 

maybe QR code caches can be there own category so that those that think they are stupid like chirp and where I go caches can just not download them.

 

At a minimum, they need an attribute. I don't think they're stupid. I have the equipment for chirp caches. But not for Whereiwon'tgo, nor for QR caches, nor uv light required. I can figure out which caches require a boat, or tree climbing equipment. QRs are not mainstream. Give them a special attribute, and I will ignore them. And that's the way it should be. Required equipment that is out of the ordinary should be labelled as such.

[+Team Hugs]

I'd ignore instantly, because there's nothing about the technology that adds anything positive to the experience.

 

Depends on how you use the QRs. One of my favorite puzzle caches (http://coord.info/GC3TJHR) calls on the user to solve a nonogram puzzle in order to create a QR code which reveals the coordinates.

 

All of this, of course, is clear from the cache description page ... since the intent is for you to solve the puzzle first before heading out to find the cache.

[+Don_J]

I certainly hope that QR codes are not permissible. Certainly not for a multi. Ranks up there with chirp caches (which are mystery) and Whereiwontgo. Both require expensive equipment that not all cachers have access to.

I agree that multi-stage caches that use QR codes should be listed as mystery/puzzle caches, and not as multi-caches. But the equipment needed isn't that expensive, and is required for many grandfathered virtual caches. Digital cameras are common enough and are relatively affordable, and there are multiple sites that can translate a QR code from a digital image for free.

 

Yep, you just need a camera and the same equipment you are using to post messages to this forum. Of course, multiple visits may be required.

[+Don_J]

Would using qr codes for a multistage be ok? Where the qr code would give you the coordinates to the next stage?

I would think not, not everyone has the ability to read a QR code

 

Not everyone has a GPSr or a smartphone, therefore no caches should be allowed. I don't have the equipment or the patience to go and take photos and make multiple trips, but this would be no different than any other cache with unknown coordinates. There are hundreds of puzzle caches in my area that I do not have the capability to solve. Based on that, either they all should be banned, or I just have to learn to ignore them.

[+Don_J]

Just because something can be done does not mean it is a good idea

 

Now that, I totally agree with. And as was noted, it really doesn't add anything to the experience while at the same time, it excludes those that don't have the equipment or the time and patience to make multiple trips.

[+redsox_mark]

I think it does add something to the experience. It adds the use of the technology. You may personally find it doesn't improve the experience for you, but it does make it different. Capturing a QR code on your device and having instructions for the next stage pop up is different than finding a box with instructions inside. The QR code could be plain sight somewhere that you might not want to hide a container.

 

I've found some caches which needed an NFC enabled phone. A minority of smart phones comply (iPhones don't). So very restrictive. I don't have one. But I found a friend who has one and did it with him. For that one the reviewer required the "wireless beacon" attribute (the same one used for "chirp" caches. Though that caused some confusion as people with chirp enabled GPS tried to find it and of course could not.

 

I would add the special tool attribute and make it clear what was needed.

[+Team Microdot]

...it excludes those that don't have the equipment or the time and patience to make multiple trips.

 

Sorry - this made me chuckle - it excludes those who don't have the patience i.e. those who can't be bothered

 

That's probably true of every single cache out there

[+LeftyLeo]

I dont mind "special equipment" ... but then shouldnt that then be a 5 for Diff or Terr?

and also if special equipment is needed, regardless of the D/T, it should be divulged on the

cacbhe page just what equipment will be necessary, such as a gps that will receive a chirp signal

(which by the way i thought these caches were required to have an alternate solve method for those

without a garmin gps with chirp, seems thats concidered backing a particular manufacturer,

and frowned upon in the rules)

[+TriciaG]

If you already have the smartphone, then the equipment isn't expensive. If you have a dumbphone (as I do), then the necessary equipment is incredibly expensive - like $130/mo. (as opposed to $15/mo. for my dumbphone) for the kind of data plan needed to geocache with the phone. It's the price of the plan that's the problem, not the price of the phone.

Oh, my. My smartphone is pay-as-you-go. I have to put a minimum of $10/month on it, or $100/year. I use free wi-fi around the city to get online, as well as the wi-fi at home. I have no need to buy a data plan. (If I do, which has happened once or twice in the past 6 months, it's $1 for 10 MB - not a lot of data, but enough to update my cache listing or visit a few web pages.) Find the caches using offline stored listings, log 'em when I get home.

 

The monthly cost is exactly the same as my dumbphone from 6 months ago. I cannot imagine paying over $100/month for a phone!

 

Oh, and I like the idea of QR codes in caches, but also agree it should be a puzzle cache (or field puzzle attribute until a QR code attribute is instituted) with clear instructions on the cache page that a QR reader is needed.

[+T.D.M.22]

I don't mind "special equipment" ... but then shouldn't that then be a 5 for Diff or Terr?

and also if special equipment is needed, regardless of the D/T, it should be divulged on the

cache page just what equipment will be necessary, such as a GPS that will receive a Chirp signal

(which by the way I thought these caches were required to have an alternate solve method for those

without a Garmin GPS with chirp, seems that's considered backing a particular manufacturer,

and frowned upon in the rules)

 

First off I just had to fix your spelling/grammar.

Second-Why would special equipment equal a high D/T rating? If that equipment is a boat(Which does require a 5 on the terrain rating) or a climbing harness and ascender(To go UP the rope), I could understand. But how would a magnet, UV light, water bottle, or flashlight equal a 5 rating? Those are things that are used to retrieve caches, and each one could fit on your keychain. What should be done is that these caches are rated appropriately.

 

Then there is the fact that sometimes saying what equipment is required could take away from the experience. There are also caches that need the special equipment, but there could be any number of tools to get the job done. I have a cache the you can't reach (and most won't be able ti climb either) Equipment I've seen used include an extension ladder, wooden dowel with a hook on one end, a stick form a nearby tree, even a cachers child(On his shoulders)

 

Regarding the Chirp: I do believe if there is a Chirp, then there must be some other way of finding the cache. BUT Chirp is not the only one of it's kind. There are other beacons that can be read by different brands of GPS, and even some cell phones. Those are OK-they do not favor one over the other. Although I don't think that's what the issue is, with the Garmin Chirp-but that's a topic best for the forum regulars.

[+LeftyLeo]

I don't mind "special equipment" ... but then shouldn't that then be a 5 for Diff or Terr?

and also if special equipment is needed, regardless of the D/T, it should be divulged on the

cache page just what equipment will be necessary, such as a GPS that will receive a Chirp signal

(which by the way I thought these caches were required to have an alternate solve method for those

without a Garmin GPS with chirp, seems that's considered backing a particular manufacturer,

and frowned upon in the rules)

 

First off I just had to fix your spelling/grammar.

Second-Why would special equipment equal a high D/T rating? If that equipment is a boat(Which does require a 5 on the terrain rating) or a climbing harness and ascender(To go UP the rope), I could understand. But how would a magnet, UV light, water bottle, or flashlight equal a 5 rating? Those are things that are used to retrieve caches, and each one could fit on your keychain. What should be done is that these caches are rated appropriately.

 

Then there is the fact that sometimes saying what equipment is required could take away from the experience. There are also caches that need the special equipment, but there could be any number of tools to get the job done. I have a cache the you can't reach (and most won't be able ti climb either) Equipment I've seen used include an extension ladder, wooden dowel with a hook on one end, a stick form a nearby tree, even a cachers child(On his shoulders)

 

Regarding the Chirp: I do believe if there is a Chirp, then there must be some other way of finding the cache. BUT Chirp is not the only one of it's kind. There are other beacons that can be read by different brands of GPS, and even some cell phones. Those are OK-they do not favor one over the other. Although I don't think that's what the issue is, with the Garmin Chirp-but that's a topic best for the forum regulars.

 

Boats, SCUBA gear, ladders, special light sources, and IMHO beacon receivers and smartphones are "special equipment" that most cachers would not carry with them. That was really my point. I can not climb trees even with proper gear, so i avoid these 5 star caches.

[GrandPotentate]

Boats, SCUBA gear, ladders, special light sources, and IMHO beacon receivers and smartphones are "special equipment" that most cachers would not carry with them. That was really my point. I can not climb trees even with proper gear, so i avoid these 5 star caches.

 

I wouldn't include smartphones in that list, only because of the geocachers I know, most of them DO carry smartphones, even if they don't cache with them.

[+T.D.M.22]

I don't mind "special equipment" ... but then shouldn't that then be a 5 for Diff or Terr?

and also if special equipment is needed, regardless of the D/T, it should be divulged on the

cache page just what equipment will be necessary, such as a GPS that will receive a Chirp signal

(which by the way I thought these caches were required to have an alternate solve method for those

without a Garmin GPS with chirp, seems that's considered backing a particular manufacturer,

and frowned upon in the rules)

 

First off I just had to fix your spelling/grammar.

Second-Why would special equipment equal a high D/T rating? If that equipment is a boat(Which does require a 5 on the terrain rating) or a climbing harness and ascender(To go UP the rope), I could understand. But how would a magnet, UV light, water bottle, or flashlight equal a 5 rating? Those are things that are used to retrieve caches, and each one could fit on your keychain. What should be done is that these caches are rated appropriately.

 

Then there is the fact that sometimes saying what equipment is required could take away from the experience. There are also caches that need the special equipment, but there could be any number of tools to get the job done. I have a cache the you can't reach (and most won't be able ti climb either) Equipment I've seen used include an extension ladder, wooden dowel with a hook on one end, a stick form a nearby tree, even a cachers child(On his shoulders)

 

Regarding the Chirp: I do believe if there is a Chirp, then there must be some other way of finding the cache. BUT Chirp is not the only one of it's kind. There are other beacons that can be read by different brands of GPS, and even some cell phones. Those are OK-they do not favor one over the other. Although I don't think that's what the issue is, with the Garmin Chirp-but that's a topic best for the forum regulars.

 

Boats, SCUBA gear, ladders, special light sources, and IMHO beacon receivers and smartphones are "special equipment" that most cachers would not carry with them. That was really my point. I can not climb trees even with proper gear, so i avoid these 5 star caches.

 

Read everything I posted. I did admit some equipment deserves a high rating. But the fact the special equipment or tools are required doesn't. A flashlight or bottle of water or small magnet may be needed to find a cache. That should not rate the same as a boat being required. It's all relative- equipment that is less common, more comber some should be more difficult than something that can be found almost anywhere. Not everyone carries a flashlight, but really how had did it to get one? Go buy three cheap ones for a buck.

[+Team Microdot]

First off I just had to fix your spelling/grammar.

 

Read everything I posted. I did admit some equipment deserves a high rating. But the fact the special equipment or tools are required doesn't. A flashlight or bottle of water or small magnet may be needed to find a cache. That should not rate the same as a boat being required. It's all relative- equipment that is less common, more comber some should be more difficult than something that can be found almost anywhere. Not everyone carries a flashlight, but really how had did it to get one? Go buy three cheap ones for a buck.

 

Ironic?

[+Don_J]

First off I just had to fix your spelling/grammar.

 

Read everything I posted. I did admit some equipment deserves a high rating. But the fact the special equipment or tools are required doesn't. A flashlight or bottle of water or small magnet may be needed to find a cache. That should not rate the same as a boat being required. It's all relative- equipment that is less common, more comber some should be more difficult than something that can be found almost anywhere. Not everyone carries a flashlight, but really how had did it to get one? Go buy three cheap ones for a buck.

 

Ironic?

 

If there isn't an Internet law for this, there should be. Every post addressing someone elses spelling or grammar, will include at least one spelling or grammatical error.

[+niraD]

Every post addressing someone elses spelling or grammar, will include at least one spelling or grammatical error.

Yeah, I agree...

[+T.D.M.22]

First off I just had to fix your spelling/grammar.

 

Read everything I posted. I did admit some equipment deserves a high rating. But the fact the special equipment or tools are required doesn't. A flashlight or bottle of water or small magnet may be needed to find a cache. That should not rate the same as a boat being required. It's all relative- equipment that is less common, more comber some should be more difficult than something that can be found almost anywhere. Not everyone carries a flashlight, but really how had did it to get one? Go buy three cheap ones for a buck.

 

Ironic?

 

If there isn't an Internet law for this, there should be. Every post addressing someone elses spelling or grammar, will include at least one spelling or grammatical error.

 

 

Yup. It's one of those universal laws. Just like nobody has to use the bathroom until there isn't one nearby. And that cache that everyone had trouble with is found be a newbie saying how easy it was.