Review on Rugged Handheld GPS 🧭 Navigator - Garmin eTrex 22x by Prentice Fossett

4 stars because 5 would be perfect. NO NAVIGATION INSTRUMENT is 100% 100% perfect. I've been using it for a few weeks for running and driving around town, as well as hiking in the White Mountain National Forest. IT DOES A GOOD WORK FOR THE MONEY! HAVE TO KNOW. My device will not work until updates are installed. The open source map is a GLOBAL (entire planet) shaded relief map. That's a huge amount of data. Plan to add a micro SD card for extra storage, connect it to a computer and allow plenty of time for updates before use. After the update, you can select only the regions of the map you need to save storage space. I like having the whole planet! Also, there is NO "safety lock" for the toggle switch and buttons. Be careful not to put pressure on them when carrying the device in a bag or suitcase. A few words about myself. I have been hiking/camping for over 50 years and have never been more than briefly lost (99.9% of those who say they never get lost, either never leave the house or lie). I've always been able to return to a known point in a reasonable amount of time with a map/compass, both or just one (paper maps and magnetic compasses can also be disabled!). I know how to move in the forest. I do NOT take a backpack without a paper map and magnetic compass. I've been using portable GPS for a number of years. When used correctly (always with a paper map and magnetic compass), these are good tools. This Etrex 22x replaces my Garmin Oregon that fell off and got lost in the National Forest (lesson learned, keep it tethered). Somehow I like the Etrex22x better. It has a non-slip side and feels good in my hand. It can be used with one hand (I think light gloves will do). The included open source map is more than adequate for basic navigation. This map is updated by users and in some places contains information that only the user can enter. There are points on this map that are not on paper maps. You can add micro SD cards for specific maps. When hiking, it makes sense to compare information on multiple maps. The Etrex 22x has all the essential features/functions required for normal navigation. Garmin support is VERY USEFUL. Make sure you use their experience and find out about the device BEFORE you go out. Some of the product information is confusing as the manual is for two GPS units (and of course some YouTubers are wrong). The Etrex22x does NOT have a 3-axis compass or barometric altimeter. The compass only knows direction when it's moving (think of your magnetic compass!). The altimeter knows the height of satellite beacons. I have a barometric altimeter and compared it to the etrex22x. I find 22x more reliable. You will find the altitude graphic in the TRACK MANAGER and ROUTENPLANER. Etrex 22x CAN be used for car navigation. The route will be relocated to the roadway. It can also plan routes for cyclists and hikers. You must choose a means of transport. The open source Etrex 22x map has some state and state boundaries. These borders are not as detailed as Micro SD cards, but reflect the total area. Open source maps are updated as new information becomes available. Check for updates from time to time. Overall, I'm confident that the etrex 22x will track my hike and provide me with the information I need to navigate the White Mountain National Forest and wilderness areas (impressively varied terrain!) on and off trails (again, along with a magnetic compass and paper map). ). This replaces a much more expensive GPS unit that had a map specific map installed. It was a difficult step. It's good. For the money I'm thrilled.