Garmin Rino 120 is the new GPS/Walkie-Talkie that my group picked up for out last kayaking outing. I already own Garmin Legend but I figured that I can sell it on ebay and for extra money have a reliable communication and navigation tool in one.<br>Well using it all weekend proved that it was worth the money. It has the standard features of the radio and GPS unit so you already know what to expect out of the box but there are some extra functions that are unique for Rino. I love the trip odometer feature which allows me to time my progress, adjust speed and control break point. With the buddy to buddy reference positioning system I can do sweeps on the river and keep my group spread out without fear of loosing anyone. Also it’s easier to manage food and camp if you know how far people are away from you and what’s their ETA is. Obviously I wasn’t able to hit every possible feature but from what I got to use it I already establish the possible pros and cons of the unit.<br><br>Pros:<br>-GPS with WAAS build in. Very accurate.<br>-Unit is small and waterproof (ok no diving).<br>-Build in very loud alarm clock<br>-Build in games will kill some boredom (kills battery)<br>-When talking to your buddy your unit automatically sends your position out so he knows where you are (you can shut it off). <br>-Strong clip<br>-Easy to access even in the kayak<br>-Walkie-talkie has nice scrambler and coding device.<br><br>Cons:<br>-When using GPS (waas on) and Walkie-Talkie batteries drain fast<br>-Window needs screen protector because it scratches too easily<br>-Unit doesn’t feel that solid as big priced Motorola radios (goes for all Garmin units)<br>-Like with all GPS units (or at least the one I worked with) you need open (partially open or steady position) sky for clear accurate signal<br>-Radios even if functional will only have 2 mile radius. Enough for camping and woods but not enough for any other land movement tactics cooperation SAR.<br>-Screen size was reduced. It still looks ok but I got used to bigger screen from my previous unit so I’m still adjusting.<br>-Cool white backlight that was a trademark on most of the Garmin units was substituted by green glow one. Is it a problem? No, but I think I was able to see a bit clearer with the white light.<br>-Color. Unit is hunter green. Which is good and bad. Horrible if you drop it and try to find it again. But good if you want it to blend with your clothing.<br><br>At the end it’s a nice tool to have. GPS, radio, alarm clock and games all packed into one nifty unit. <br><br>Link to the man. website:<br>http://www.garmin.com/products/rino120/<br>
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Matt
http://brunerdog.tripod.com/survival/index.html