Garmin GPSMap 76 Handheld GPS Navigator

I bought the GPSMap 76 because of its quad helix antenna. Reviews of other GPS receivers frequently complained that the satellite signal was lost in trees or under heavy cloud cover. I have yet to lose the signal when outdoors. It can even usually get the signal in my wood frame house.

I originally just wanted an odometer for hiking but decided to get some mapping capability. I have used the GPSMap 76 for hiking, driving and biking. It's not optimized for any of those uses but is pretty good as an all-around unit. If I need a street navigator on a regular basis I would get a unit that specializes in that function. The GPSMap 76 does not calculate routes but you can use the path tool in Google Earth to draw trails, convert them to GPX files with KML2GPX then download them to the GPS receiver. I have found this invaluable when hiking or offroading in unfamiliar areas. It also traces your path which you can upload to your computer and view exactly where you went in Google Earth. When on a long drive I mount it in front of my speedometer and it becomes a map, electronic speedometer and altimeter.

I got the topo maps (pre 2008). Even though these maps are about 30 years old, the streets shown are usually useful for driving. However, when zoomed-out they are very slow to load and too cluttered (the 2008 topo map has very inaccurate street maps). I often use the built-in map for driving but that leave out some major roads.

It's a little large and could really use an SD card slot to save trails. Otherwise it's a good GPS receiver.

I bought this product to use with my boat and because the features made me believe it had all the lakes. After opening the box I discovered the lakes where I live are not included! I called the customer service and was told I needed to download the lake portion for $150.00. NO THANK YOU!Garmin GPSMap 76 Handheld GPS Navigator

The product was used and still had some way points in it, which I deleted. It was in like new condition and worked perfectly. All literature and cables appeared to never have been used. I did email the vendor with a question about software for this product and received a prompt response.

This gps locked on to satillites even in remote Utah canyons, is intuitive and works well. I am very pleased.

The GPSMap76 is a great unit! More functions than I'll ever be able to figure out how to use. Contrary to the what the writeup says, the unit does fit into my shirtpocket. So far, only two shortcomings. 1) Not rechargeable (2-AA batteries) and 2) the manual seems sparse on details of "how to". All-in-all 4 stars. A REALLY GOOD UNIT!!