Best GPS for Deer Hunting: A Comprehensive Guide

In the modern age of deer hunting, technology has become an indispensable tool, enhancing the overall hunting experience. One of the most critical pieces of technology a deer hunter can have is a reliable GPS device. A good GPS not only helps you navigate unfamiliar terrain but also tracks your movements, marks key locations, and ensures you can find your way back to your starting point. This guide will explore the best GPS options for deer hunting, focusing on their features, benefits, and why they are ideal for hunters.
Key Features to Consider in a Hunting GPS

1. Accuracy and Reliability:

    High-Sensitivity Receiver: Look for a GPS with a high-sensitivity receiver that can maintain a signal in dense forests, valleys, and other challenging environments.
    WAAS Capability: GPS units with WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) capability offer improved accuracy by correcting for signal errors.

2. Durability and Weather Resistance:

    Rugged Construction: Hunting often involves harsh conditions, so a GPS with a rugged, shock-resistant design is essential.
    Waterproof: Ensure the GPS is waterproof or at least water-resistant to withstand rain, snow, and accidental submersion.

3. Battery Life:

    Extended Battery Life: Choose a GPS with long battery life to last through extended hunting trips. Some models offer battery-saving modes to extend usage further.
    Replaceable Batteries: Consider models that allow for replaceable batteries so you can carry spares in the field.

4. Display and Usability:

    Readable Display: A clear, bright display that is easily readable in direct sunlight is crucial.
    User-Friendly Interface: The GPS should have an intuitive interface with easy-to-navigate menus and controls.

5. Mapping and Navigation:

    Preloaded Maps: Some GPS units come with preloaded topographic maps that show terrain features, water bodies, and other important landmarks.
    Map Updates: Ensure the GPS allows for map updates and additional map downloads.
    Waypoints and Tracks: The ability to mark waypoints, track your route, and navigate back to specific locations is essential.

6. Additional Features:

    Hunting-Specific Functions: Look for features like game management, sunrise/sunset times, and moon phases.
    Connectivity: Some GPS units offer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity for syncing with other devices and accessing additional data.

Top GPS Devices for Deer Hunting

1. Garmin GPSMAP 66i:

    Features:
        InReach satellite communication for two-way messaging and SOS alerts.
        Preloaded with TOPO maps and direct-to-device BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads.
        Rugged design with a large, sunlight-readable 3” display.
        Battery life up to 35 hours in GPS mode.
    Benefits:
        Combines GPS navigation with satellite communication, providing extra safety.
        Detailed mapping and imagery help in scouting and navigation.
        Durable construction suited for harsh hunting conditions.

2. Garmin eTrex 32x:

    Features:
        Preloaded with TopoActive maps and a 2.2” sunlight-readable display.
        8 GB of internal memory plus a microSD card slot for additional storage.
        Rugged, waterproof design.
        Battery life up to 25 hours.
    Benefits:
        Affordable and reliable with essential mapping features.
        Compact and lightweight, easy to carry in the field.
        Durable and weather-resistant.

3. Garmin Montana 700i:

    Features:
        InReach technology for two-way messaging and SOS.
        5” touchscreen display, easy to read in any condition.
        Multi-GNSS (GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo) support for better tracking in challenging environments.
        Preloaded TopoActive maps and BirdsEye Satellite Imagery.
    Benefits:
        Large screen with detailed mapping for easy navigation.
        Robust construction with extensive communication capabilities.
        Versatile and feature-rich, ideal for serious hunters.

4. Garmin Foretrex 601:

    Features:
        Wrist-mounted design for hands-free use.
        Uses GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for superior accuracy.
        Durable and waterproof (MIL-STD-810G standards).
        Battery life up to 48 hours in navigation mode.
    Benefits:
        Hands-free design allows for better mobility.
        Long battery life suitable for extended hunts.
        Military-grade durability ensures reliability in tough conditions.

5. Bushnell BackTrack G2:

    Features:
        Simple, user-friendly interface.
        Stores up to three locations.
        Compact, pocket-sized design.
        Operates on two AAA batteries with long battery life.
    Benefits:
        Extremely easy to use, great for beginners.
        Very portable and lightweight.
        Affordable option for basic navigation needs.

Why a GPS is Essential for Deer Hunting

1. Enhanced Navigation:

    A GPS helps you navigate unfamiliar terrain, ensuring you can find your way back to camp or your vehicle.
    It allows you to mark and return to specific hunting spots, such as tree stands, feeding areas, or watering holes.

2. Safety and Emergency Situations:

    GPS devices with satellite communication can send SOS alerts and messages in case of emergencies, providing an extra layer of safety.
    Even without communication features, a GPS ensures you can find your way back in low-visibility conditions like fog, snow, or darkness.

3. Scouting and Planning:

    GPS units with detailed maps and satellite imagery help in scouting and planning your hunts by showing topography, water sources, and other critical features.
    You can use the GPS to record tracks and waypoints, analyzing them later to improve your strategies.

4. Efficiency and Convenience:

    Modern GPS units offer features like sunrise/sunset times, weather updates, and game management tools, making your hunting trips more efficient and enjoyable.
    With a reliable GPS, you spend less time worrying about navigation and more time focused on the hunt.

In-Depth Reviews of Top GPS Devices for Deer Hunting

1. Garmin GPSMAP 66i:

    Overview: The Garmin GPSMAP 66i stands out for its combination of navigation and communication features. This device is ideal for hunters who venture into remote areas where cell service is unreliable.
    Detailed Features:
        InReach Satellite Communication: Allows for two-way messaging and SOS alerts via the Iridium satellite network. This feature ensures you can stay connected and call for help in emergencies.
        TopoActive Maps: Preloaded maps provide detailed topography, helping you understand the terrain better.
        BirdsEye Satellite Imagery: Direct-to-device downloads offer real-time satellite images, which are incredibly useful for scouting new hunting grounds.
        Durability: Built to military standards for shock, water, and thermal resistance, ensuring it can withstand the toughest conditions.
        Battery Life: Up to 35 hours in GPS mode, extendable with battery-saving options.
    Pros:
        Combines navigation and emergency communication in one device.
        Detailed and accurate maps enhance navigation and scouting.
        Robust and durable, suitable for extreme hunting environments.
    Cons:
        Higher price point compared to other GPS units.
        Requires a subscription for InReach satellite communication services.

2. Garmin eTrex 32x:

    Overview: The Garmin eTrex 32x is a compact and affordable GPS unit that offers essential navigation features, making it a great choice for hunters on a budget.
    Detailed Features:
        TopoActive Maps: Preloaded maps with routable roads and trails, making it easy to navigate through different terrains.
        Internal Memory and Expandability: Comes with 8 GB of internal memory and a microSD card slot for additional maps.
        User-Friendly Interface: Simple controls and a readable 2.2” display that works well in direct sunlight.
        Durability: Rugged and waterproof design ensures it can handle rough conditions.
        Battery Life: Up to 25 hours on a pair of AA batteries.
    Pros:
        Affordable and reliable with all the necessary mapping features.
        Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in the field.
        Durable and weather-resistant, ideal for outdoor use.
    Cons:
        Smaller screen size compared to more expensive models.
        Lacks advanced features like satellite communication.

3. Garmin Montana 700i:

    Overview: The Garmin Montana 700i is a premium GPS unit that combines advanced navigation with robust communication features, making it perfect for serious hunters who demand the best.
    Detailed Features:
        InReach Technology: Enables two-way messaging, tracking, and SOS functionality via the Iridium satellite network.
        5” Touchscreen Display: Large, bright, and easy to read in any lighting conditions.
        Multi-GNSS Support: Uses GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for superior tracking accuracy in challenging environments.
        TopoActive Maps and BirdsEye Imagery: Preloaded maps and satellite imagery for comprehensive terrain analysis.
        Durability: Built to military standards, resistant to shock, water, and extreme temperatures.
        Battery Life: Up to 18 hours in GPS mode, extendable with power-saving settings.
    Pros:
        Large screen with detailed maps and imagery.
        Advanced communication features for enhanced safety.
        Durable and versatile, suitable for all hunting conditions.
    Cons:
        Expensive compared to other models.
        Shorter battery life in standard GPS mode.

4. Garmin Foretrex 601:

    Overview: The Garmin Foretrex 601 is a wrist-mounted GPS unit designed for hands-free navigation, making it ideal for hunters who need to keep their hands free.
    Detailed Features:
        Wrist-Mounted Design: Allows for hands-free use, improving mobility and convenience.
        Multi-GNSS Support: Uses GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for precise tracking.
        Durability: Built to military standards (MIL-STD-810G) for toughness and water resistance.
        Battery Life: Up to 48 hours in GPS mode, ensuring it lasts through long hunts.
        Compatibility: Supports night vision goggles, useful for nighttime hunting.
    Pros:
        Hands-free design offers great convenience.
        Long battery life suitable for extended hunting trips.
        Military-grade durability for reliability in tough conditions.
    Cons:
        Smaller screen size may be less convenient for detailed map viewing.
        Limited advanced features compared to more expensive models.

5. Bushnell BackTrack G2:

    Overview: The Bushnell BackTrack G2 is an ultra-simple GPS unit designed for basic navigation, perfect for hunters who need an easy-to-use and affordable device.
    Detailed Features:
        Simple Interface: Easy-to-use with straightforward controls, storing up to three locations.
        Compact Design: Small and lightweight, fits easily in a pocket.
        Battery Life: Operates on two AAA batteries with a long-lasting charge.
    Pros:
        Extremely user-friendly, great for beginners.
        Very portable and lightweight.
        Affordable option for basic navigation needs.
    Cons:
        Limited features compared to more advanced GPS units.
        Not suitable for detailed navigation or scouting.

Why a GPS is Essential for Deer Hunting

1. Enhanced Navigation:

    A GPS helps you navigate unfamiliar terrain, ensuring you can find your way back to camp or your vehicle.
    It allows you to mark and return to specific hunting spots, such as tree stands, feeding areas, or watering holes.

2. Safety and Emergency Situations:

    GPS devices with satellite communication can send SOS alerts and messages in case of emergencies, providing an extra layer of safety.
    Even without communication features, a GPS ensures you can find your way back in low-visibility conditions like fog, snow, or darkness.

3. Scouting and Planning:

    GPS units with detailed maps and satellite imagery help in scouting and planning your hunts by showing topography, water sources, and other critical features.
    You can use the GPS to record tracks and waypoints, analyzing them later to improve your strategies.

4. Efficiency and Convenience:

    Modern GPS units offer features like sunrise/sunset times, weather updates, and game management tools, making your hunting trips more efficient and enjoyable.
    With a reliable GPS, you spend less time worrying about navigation and more time focused on the hunt.

Conclusion

Selecting the best GPS for deer hunting involves considering various factors such as accuracy, durability, battery life, and additional features that enhance your hunting experience. The devices listed above offer a range of options, from basic models suitable for beginners to advanced units with comprehensive features for serious hunters. Investing in a high-quality GPS can significantly improve your navigation, safety, and overall success in the field.

 

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About the Author: Earnest Sherrill

Earnest Sherrill is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and writer who resides in the warm and breezy state of Texas. With a deep love for nature, Earnest enjoys exploring the great outdoors and sharing his experiences through his writing. He writes about various aspects of outdoor life and the intriguing happenings of everyday experiences. When not writing, Earnest cherishes spending time with his youngest grandchildren, who bring vibrant energy and robust attitudes to his life. Stay connected with Earnest to discover more about the wonders of the outdoors and the joys of life's adventures.

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