Bushnell Backtrack Point>5GPS 1st look

[dc45]

The big brown truck brought me a new Bushnell Backtrack Point>5 GPS Friday afternoon. It locks up (finds its location) fast, has a nearly Marine-proof interface, and useful data screens. I was horrified with the accuracy of the built in digital compass. After carefully following the calibration instructions several times I pretty much decided the thing was worthless for getting a reasonably accurate vector back to a stored point or a usable bearing on a landmark. Next I went to the web site and looked at the online manual, which was just a copy of minimalist 9 page brochure which came with the unit. I had just about decided to send the thing back when I stumbled onto Bushnell’s “BackTrack Digital Compass Calibration Tips” video. By combining all three techniques demonstrated in the video I was able to get useful accuracy from the compass / trackback arrow. I haven’t sat on or dropped my unit yet so I can’t say how robust this thing is going to turn out to be, but for the time being I plan to leave my Garmin in the truck and use the Backtrack to find my way around in the field.

Cheers,

DC

 

[phlii]

Re: Bushnell Backtrack Point>5GPS 1st look

Can this thing give you a grid of your current position? If so, in what coordinate systems?

 

[dc45]

Re: Bushnell Backtrack Point>5GPS 1st look

There is no grid, and they don't mention anywhere which coordinate system they use. Presumably it is WGS84. I guess I could check the coordinates against the Garmin, but for what I plan to use it for it doesn't make much difference. This is a bare bones system which is most useful for finding your back to your truck, a cache or a downed critter.

DC

 

[phlii]

Re: Bushnell Backtrack Point>5GPS 1st look

Rgr. Thanks. Since I carry a map whether I'm in the woods or on deployment, I have been on a quest to find the simplest, most stripped down GPS unit that gives an MGRS grid just as a double check on my position. I was hoping this unit would fit that role.

 

[benjaminzero]

Re: Bushnell Backtrack Point>5GPS 1st look

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: phlii</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Rgr. Thanks. Since I carry a map whether I'm in the woods or on deployment, I have been on a quest to find the simplest, most stripped down GPS unit that gives an MGRS grid just as a double check on my position. I was hoping this unit would fit that role.</div></div>

Look at the Garmin foretrex 101. Wrist mounted so its not in a pouch/ruck if SHTF. Platoon had a few overseas. Simple, effective and light on the wallet. MGRS display as you wanted.

 

[phlii]

Re: Bushnell Backtrack Point>5GPS 1st look

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Zeroed1983</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: phlii</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Rgr. Thanks. Since I carry a map whether I'm in the woods or on deployment, I have been on a quest to find the simplest, most stripped down GPS unit that gives an MGRS grid just as a double check on my position. I was hoping this unit would fit that role.</div></div>

Look at the Garmin foretrex 101. Wrist mounted so its not in a pouch/ruck if SHTF. Platoon had a few overseas. Simple, effective and light on the wallet. MGRS display as you wanted. </div></div>

The one I am currently using is a Foretrex 301 and I really like it. The only minus is that it has many features that I don't use. That being said, you are absolutely right in that it is a great GPS. I can acquire satellites and track my position even in a moving MRAP or MATV.

 

[dc45]

Re: Bushnell Backtrack Point>5GPS 1st look

The Garmin Foretrex 301 has many more features/functions than the Bushnell Backtrack Point>5. It costs more as well ($129 vs. $72 from Amazon.com). They are both small/light GPS's, but really not designed for the same users. If you want or need the extra functionality then the Foretrex is obviously superior. If you are just trying to figure out which ravine you left your truck in, then the Backtrack is fine.

Cheers,

DC