Handheld GPS vs. FF/GPS combo...

Last bit of gear I need so I can start heading out for some ocean fishing is a good GPS unit.  I already have a FF that I like and am use to, so currently I'm planning on purchasing a handheld waterproof GPS unit instead of the FF/GPS combo.  Any reason I should go with the FF/GPS combo over the handheld unit?

Any recommendations for handheld GPS that would be good for both kayaking and hiking?  I like to keep the cost in the $150-$250 range.

I've recommended the Garmin etrex legend HCx several times because it's a pretty good handheld I'm a huge fan of using separate units.  I like using a handheld because of the ability to upload/download information to and from the unit using a map application I run on my computer.  I save all my tracks from fishing trips into their on separate file and have built up quite a large database of waypoints that I can easily rename, add info to, delete or whatever.  I can make my own tracks to use as outlines of interesting places I've found.  Plus, if one of the units goes down for some reason, I have the other one that I can rely on for the rest of the day. 

I've recommended the Garmin etrex legend HCx several times because it's a pretty good handheld I'm a huge fan of using separate units.  I like using a handheld because of the ability to upload/download information to and from the unit using a map application I run on my computer.  I save all my tracks from fishing trips into their on separate file and have built up quite a large database of waypoints that I can easily rename, add info to, delete or whatever.  I can make my own tracks to use as outlines of interesting places I've found.  Plus, if one of the units goes down for some reason, I have the other one that I can rely on for the rest of the day. 

Great...this is kind of what I was thinking.  I will take a look at the unit you recommended. 

I'm going to be reading reviews and doing my homework before purchasing one...want to be sure it works good for both applications.  Are there any specific features that make a unit more useful for on the water applications (aside from waterproof enclosure)?

I thought that an electronic compass and a barometric altimeter(on the etrex summit model) would be awesome, but it turns out that I never really used them.  I don't have any input on the new etrex models since I've been satisfied with the old ones, that's what I went with when I bought the Legend HCx.  Expandable memory is a very good idea.  The color screen on the HCx is nice, but not a requirement.

I also recommend getting something like a Squaretrade warranty with the Garmin units.  While Garmin does make the best handhelds on the market(IMO) I've had Garmin products crap out on me well before their useful life is up(etrex summit). 

Last bit of gear I need so I can start heading out for some ocean fishing is a good GPS unit.  I already have a FF that I like and am use to, so currently I'm planning on purchasing a handheld waterproof GPS unit instead of the FF/GPS combo.  Any reason I should go with the FF/GPS combo over the handheld unit?

Any recommendations for handheld GPS that would be good for both kayaking and hiking?  I like to keep the cost in the $150-$250 range.

I have had a Garmin "Oregon 450T" for 2 years and love it for hiking and boating.  Touch screen is great, easy to read in bright sun or low light, long battery life, I added the 24K high res topo's for West Coast areas that I hike in....noticed that Cabela's has it on sale for $249 right now.  cheers, roger

If you buy a handheld, you can use if for other things besides fishing. I have the garmin etrex legend and use if for hiking, hunting, and on my motorcycle. I keep forgetting to take it fishing with me though.

Get a Garmin Rino (500+ series).

I've used mine for years and they are great when you are out with buddies that have similar units.  Built in radios with the ability to locate your "lost friends".

I use a Delorme PN-60.  It's not the most user friendly GPS in the world, and is a model that is a few years old.  However,  if you're looking to constrain costs, it's a pretty good choice.  The unit comes with Topo North America that takes care of all of your land maps, and for 30$/year you can get access to NOAA maps and others, plus lower resolution aerial imaging (once you download the maps, they're yours so you really only need to pay this once).

They don't make 500 series rhinos anymore.  Only 120s and 610, 650, 655.

They don't make 500 series rhinos anymore.  Only 120s and 610, 650, 655.

Probably plenty of new-old stock out there still though.  Should make them cheaper than 600-series.

I like that Rino, but from what I've seen the 650 is pushing $500...

They don't make 500 series rhinos anymore.  Only 120s and 610, 650, 655.

Probably plenty of new-old stock out there still though.  Should make them cheaper than 600-series.

Where would you purchase new/old stock of the 500+ series?  Amazon? Anyone have another place to check out?

There is no advantage to having a rino on the ocean.  Nobody uses those frequencies unless it's your buddy who also has a rhino.  VHF is the standard comms for the ocean.

I'd also say it's limited in hiking use.  Their main purpose is hunting.  Some NATO units had to resort to using them in Afghanistan when the high tech stuff failed.  DAMHIK.

A Rino 500 series is basically the same as their 60 series, but adds a radio.  The 60 series is a bit easier to use as it's designed more towards navigating than communicating (bigger map screen and more buttons to get what you want right away).  Of note, Garmin doesn't make the 60 series anymore either, it's been replaced with the 62 series.

500 series


60 series

I would agree about the Rino on the Ocean. You'll still need a VHF.

However, I'm not sure why you say it's limited in hiking use.  Anything outdoors where you may be separated seems to be the perfect use.  I believe there is even a map pack for hiking trials for them....

I know we've used our our snowmobiling a lot when somebody doesn't show up to the spot they were supposed to be at.  We could key up their location and go find them.

Whenever I go hunting by myself I always let somebody know the general location and tell them I'll have my GPS on.  If I go missing, they'll be able to find my half eaten body.

I think this is where i purchased my Rino 4 years ago

http://www.thegpsstore.com/Garmin-Rino-610-GPS-with-Two-Way-Radio-P2808.aspx

I still suggest a good look at 450T, with 400x240 pixel touch screen the display to size ratio is great and price cut makes it a great deal.  It has internal memory you can load maps on and a slot for micro-SD.....