Re: [Paddlewise] GPS Units

From: Michael Daly <michaeldaly_at_rogers.com>
Date: Sun, 27 Jul 2003 17:43:11 -0400
On 24 Jul 2003 at 16:30, Ally Pike wrote:

> But Maine in August is prone to fog.[...]

> really we need it for the core purpose, but the "extras" make the
> diffrence as well since in the future I'm sure we will upgrade along
> the way as newer units come out with more and more features!!

I bought a GPS in 96 or early 97 and find that I very rarely use it.  
Since I always have a map and compass, that suffices until 
exceptional circumstances arise.  Only once have I used the GPS for 
establishing my position - the map I had was too poor a scale for 
locating us on a long, straight shoreline and I wanted to be sure.

While the features of the newest GPS units are nice, I'd have to 
agree with Alex.  With my aging eyes, maps on a handheld GPS are 
useless.  I'd suggest buying a very basic GPS that will allow you to 
establish current position and the bearing to a desired position.  
Forget the maps, electronic compasses, barometers etc.*  

Use the GPS to establish your course in the fog and then turn it off. 
Use your deck compass while paddling.  If you get nervous, turn on 
the GPS and confirm your new position and any corrections to the 
course, if required.

Mike
*Don't get those things in a wristwatch either.  With the money you 
save by getting a basic GPS and watch, buy a weather widget - those 
little electronic things with wind speed, temp, barometer etc.  


***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************
Received on Sun Jul 27 2003 - 14:37:42 PDT

This archive was generated by hypermail 2.4.0 : Thu Aug 21 2025 - 16:31:09 PDT