Garmin eTrex 30x 010-01508-10 Handheld Navigator

Description

Garmin makes some of the best compasses for preppers and outdoorsy individuals. One of their standout offerings is the eTrex 30. This handheld compass with a GPS function is the most popular model from Garmin, and for the right reasons.

It has a rugged and durable body that is well complimented by a simple-to-use interface and wide mapping capabilities.

With a weight of 5 ounces and dimensions of 1.3 x 4 x 2.1 inches, the eTrex 30 is a highly portable compass that you can rely on to find your way when you are backpacking, hiking, travelling or escaping a crisis. It is very compact and will fit in your survival bag, backpack or waist pouch very easily. Most importantly, it is designed ergonomically.

Here are some highlights:

3-axis compass with 2.2-inch display

The built-in 3-axis feature, combined with the GPS function, means that the Garmin eTrex 30 can tell you your precise location and the direction you need to be heading to. The fact that it is compatible with marine, topographic, and road maps makes it even more versatile and beneficial.

You can use it to view all the physical features of an area, including landmarks, natural features, and distance from one point to another and so on. That should make it easier for you to plan your routes and even schedule.

The eTrex 30 is one of the simplest electronic compasses to use thanks to its highly interactive interface. It has a 2.2-inch color display that is readable even when there is sunlight. Generally, using this compass shouldn’t be a problem regardless of the weather.

Speaking of which, it is also waterproof to IPX7 standard and won’t be affected by rain, splashes or if it falls in water that is not more than one meter deep.

Wide range of navigation features

As far as navigation goes, this battery-powered (uses two AA batteries) compass brings so many beneficial features to the table.

First off, it has a barometric altimeter that measures your altitude at any given point.

Secondly, the GPS function uses Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) systems in geolocation. Those two are responsible for its strong and reliable signal as well as fast positioning. They make it very easy for you to use the eTrex 30 to know your location and direction in an instant, even when there is heavy cover.

Thirdly, the compass uses a worldwide base map. That means you can use it anywhere on earth. That’s an important consideration because in case of a crisis you may be forced to go to places whose maps are not available in the average compass.

Keeps getting better

The eTrex 30 is wireless enabled, which gives it the capability to share information between devices. You can send and receive routes, waypoints and geocaches to/from other members of your party.

Other than that, you can also download your own data like routes and geocaches and save them on your compass. The data will provide you with the much needed information on location, terrain, survival tips and so much more.

Finally, this compass allows for customization. There is a built-in app for planning trips in advance. You can view and organize information like waypoints, routes and tracks that you plan to take. You can also order your maps depending on your travel plans so that the compass displays maps in a pre-determined order that depends on the locations you plan to visit.

If you get lost somewhere along the way the eTrex 30 can retrace your steps with pinpoint accuracy.