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Hello folks, GPS newbie here,

I'm looking to the forum experts to help me out with a little advice on what to buy for snowmobiling, quading and hiking up here in Canada. I've pretty much narrowed it down (price, options) to either the eTrex Venture HC or the GPSMap 60CS. I don't need expandable memory so card slots aren't a factor and I don't think I need any of the options of the more expensive, newer models either. I'm wondering which of the above two models you would reccommend though, and why? Is one of them significantly better than the other?

My basic needs are just to know where the heck I am in the bush (often after dark) and how to get back to my cabin lol. I don't geocache or use it in a vehicle at all either. Any help or insight would be appreciated as I would like to buy one fairly soon to use over the Xmas hollidays. Thanx!

These are two very different form factors. I'd recommend that you go to a brick and mortar store and handle each of these to see which you prefer.

The eTrex Venture HC is a newer model with a High sensitivity receiver which should give you better reception under tree cover.

The GPSMap 60CS has a electronic compass and barometer/altimeter. You would have to get the newer 60CSx to get a high sensitivity receiver.

If you really meant to say 60CS, without an "x", then the Venture HC would be a MUCH better choice IMO, because it has a high-sensitivity receiver. The 60CS doesn't. The Venture will get and hold a satellite lock much better than the 60CS. The difference is huge. To me, this trumps all other issues.

I wonder if you are looking at a 60CS used, or off eBay or something. Garmin discontinued those a long time ago.