Suggestions on SOS GPS device

[FrankieP1988]

Looking for some advice on SOS transmitter devices, I don't really need anything fancy. I'm just looking for something in case of emergency in the backcountry. I've read a little bit about the spot and inreach devices. Any other suggestions?

 

[Jeff Martin]

I use the :
[h=1]
McMurdo FastFind 220 Personal Locator Beacon with GPS[/h]Pros:
Very light and
Uses the same technology as the larger beacons. Strong signal
PLB connects to NOAA which also gives me a lot of comfort. I never trusted a 3rd party when my life is on the line (SPOT) It has always surprised how many people jumped on SPOT without knowing the quality of service from a yearly sub 3rd party. JMO
PLB has no yearly fee
Able to be used anywhere - not sure about SPOT, etc... I have "heard" of issues in certain parts of alaska, etc..not sure if it is true

 

[shaun]

I've used spot in CA and CO with great success this year it will be sitting in gear closet though now that I bought a sat phone

 

[Weston]

I'm on the SPOT bandwagon, I have the small square one that lets me send texts, I like the feature because its nice to let the family know that I'm fine if I want to spend another day or so in the hills. I might have bought the InReach if I wouldnt have impulse bought the SPOT. Thankfully, I cannot comment on how the actual emergency button works. The only complaint I have is that sometimes pairing with my Iphone is spotty. however for the emergency use you do not need to be paired.

 

[todd kelly]

Ive had the first gen SPOT since they came out. It has worked great and I have never had any issues with it. Well worth the money in my opinion. I have read about many SOS success stories with it here in BC.


I see they have come out with a gen 3 Spot.

 

[colonel00]

I cannot speak from experience yet but I am heavily leaning towards getting a DeLorme InReach. These allow for two-way communication which I think would be fantastic not only for checking in with the family but even in an "emergency" situation where it would be vital to receive information back.

The DeLorme system uses the Iridium network which some say is a little better than the one Spot uses (at least for now as they are upgrading I believe). Pricing on the DeLorme is a bit higher but again, you get more. Personally, I am looking at the 4 month seasonal plan since that is really when I would need it. That would only be $20 more than a Spot yearly plan (since they don't offer anything shorter) and include unlimited tracking and predefined messages along with 40 text messages.

 

[armyjoe]

The new DeLorme Inreach SE. Iridium network is fantastic for N. America and you can txt back and forth with SAR to let them know what is going on and they will give you updates on your rescue team. The 4 month seasonal service is good for most and its not SAT phone expensive.

 

[colonel00]

armyjoe, it sounds like you have one so let me ask, do you get charged for incoming messages? That was the only concern that I had and I have not had the time to dig around and find out.

Edit: Nevermind, found the answer

Messaging/tracking usage charges are billed monthly. Text messaging fees apply to incoming and outgoing messages. Overage fees apply to usage that exceeds the text or tracking messages included in the plan, as outlined

That would just suck if someone started text bombing you and there was no way to stop it.

 

[matty_ren]

colonel--

There is also a text counter on the new SE that you can reset every month so you know how close you are to going over your plans limit.

 

[armyjoe]

armyjoe, it sounds like you have one so let me ask, do you get charged for incoming messages? That was the only concern that I had and I have not had the time to dig around and find out.

Edit: Nevermind, found the answer



That would just suck if someone started text bombing you and there was no way to stop it.

I do and that's the reason only a hand full of people have my contact info. Wife, Aron, hunting buddy Casey and that's it. With the updated software its easier as was pointed out to keep track of texts. Also one note, I get better and more reliable service with the newer model.

 

[colonel00]

Thanks for the info fellas. Don't really need one this year but definitely on my list for next year's trips.

So, when you use the counter to see that you are getting close to your limit, can you prevent people from sending you messages? Granted, at $.50 a message overage it isn't a huge fee but it could add up.

Oh, and sorry for kind of hijacking the thread but hopefully it is also helpful info for the OP.

 

[rjs34]

I have the Inreach SE and just used it on a back country hike for 5 days and didn't have any issues at all. Get the Spot if you don't want texts back and get the Inreach if you want 2 way communication.

 

[rjs34]

Thanks for the info fellas. Don't really need one this year but definitely on my list for next year's trips.

So, when you use the counter to see that you are getting close to your limit, can you prevent people from sending you messages? Granted, at $.50 a message overage it isn't a huge fee but it could add up.

Oh, and sorry for kind of hijacking the thread but hopefully it is also helpful info for the OP.

No, you can't prevent people from sending you messages that I know of.

 

[FrankieP1988]

Thanks for the info guys!