Request for Garmin Rino Performance

[CatskillCrawler]

The folks I'm hunting with in Colorado this fall all use Garmin Rinos, not sure which model, and they requested that I get one too. Between my map/compass skills and the handheld GPS I already own, I feel well equipped to handle anything. They like the locator feature the Rinos offer. I also have an FRS radio.

Based upon the product descriptions and reviews that I've read online, it looks like the Rino 110,120,130 offer basic handheld GPS capability with a weak radio like you'd find in the entry-level FRS units. The Rino 530, 610, 650 and 655 offer better map displays, baro altitude and a few other land nav niceties and a FRS/GMRS radio with more power at roughly 4x the cost of the 1x0-series versions.

If anyone has an opinion on any of these models, I'd appreciate you sharing.

We're going to the Flat Tops area of Colorado SW of Yampa. It doesn't look like a radio friendly area unless you're in the same drainage. I don't want to be the guy who doesn't play along with an established network but also don't want to spend $$ on something I will rarely use or benefit from.

Thanks.

 

[OU812]

Pm sent.


Bill

 

[sask boy]

I own the 110 and have nothing but praise for it our hunting party has everything from the 110 to the 530 I have not heard anything negative from any of the guys other than 130 uses batteries fairly quickly.

Blessings,
Dan

 

[CatskillCrawler]

Thanks Dan. I haven't forgotten about you Bill , I should be home this weekend.

 

[HOGWILD338-378]

I would for sure fall back on your map and compass skills as being deep in the woods can cause no signal on a GPS just like a cell phone! Even bad weather can cause a GPS to go on the fritz! Radio would be a must even if it worked part time? Never rely 100% on anything electronic as it will fail at the most in opportune time! Murphy's Law

 

[OU812]

Thanks Dan. I haven't forgotten about you Bill , I should be home this weekend.

Good enough as I know you are busy. Just call when you get time and we'll chat.


Bill

 

[CatskillCrawler]

Thanks for the chat Bill. It was very helpful.

 

[big rifle man]

I've used a GPS, Hand held radio and a cellphone in the area you'll be hunting and have had trouble with all three. My suggestion is also to lean towards a compass and map. I've found this duo keeps me out of trouble. It's a fantastic area to hunt but rugged as hell. Got Elk out of that area three years in a row (after quartering them, no trails where we hunt).

 

[CatskillCrawler]

Thanks for the been there, done that BRM. It's why I was hesitant to spend big bucks on something I may struggle to get a benefit from. I've never seen a map and compass lose signal strength before.