Solar Panel for backpack hunting

[Backyard]

I have been very disappointed with my goal zero nomad. I spent twice as much as my hunting partner and even when mine worked his cheap Amazon special worked better. Last year second year for both of us back country camping my goal zero completely quit charging. Sunlight was not an issue in Arizona. Maybe I got a dud but I won’t be purchasing another.

What was Goal Zero's response when you contacted them?

 

[Dirtscoots]

I haven’t even attempted. I didn’t imagine they would have much to say about a two year old unit even if it’s only been used 4 times.

 

[Shraggs]

I would call them, pretty good customer service. It’s not like theses products get used every day, seasonal or periodically so they know.

 

[Dirtscoots]

Thanks. I’ll give it a try

 

[mthayr]

for last 2 years, been very happy on results with my SunTactics solar charge panel. I have the size 8 model (since discontinued). Now a size 5w and 14w are available. It works in charging my power bank (dark energy poseidon) at camp when I'm out hunting.
Made in USA solar panel.

Tried Goal Zero...zero is correct. Tried a couple CN versions off Amazon, Returned them all.

this Suntactics just plain works in keeping my battery/bank chargers maintaining upper level charged each day.

Suntactics S5,1.2Amp,7oz, Hiking Solar Charger

@mavinwa2 How has the durability of that unit been, any issues? Customer service been all right if so? I've read conflicting reports from thru-hikers (PCT/JMT/CDT)

 

[mavinwa2]

never a problem. I've used this unit over 100 times last 2 years. Don't know about company's customer service, never contacted as no problems experienced for me. but Made in USA company, so who knows.

I researched reviews on Amazon, Trailspace, GrayWolfSurvival etc. Most average ratings are 4.5 stars, pretty good! And positive comments from those who contacted Suntactics customer service too.

The problem with PCT thru-hiker reviews, these peeps are constantly moving. So the sun angle is ever changing. I use this solar charger to stay in camp and charge my battery/Poseidon packs. Works great for me this way. I just set up panels to catch most of the sun movement during the day.