Handheld GPS Unit selection suggestions
1 You will need to decide between a mapping screen vis-a-vis a numerical longitude/latitude readout saying where you are. Many reviews say this is one area to insist on value for money. The function enables you to see where you are from a reference-waypoint point of view.
2 Because of the conditions Scenario Paintball takes place, you will need to get a waterproof or water-resistant model. For water-resistance ratings, look up the IPX standard of the device. Am IPX of 4 means the device can withstand water splashed on it. However, for a GPS that can withstand accidental swims in the pond, you need a certified IPX-7 model.
3 If you are just planning on using your Handheld GPS for just paintball then size of routes or memory will not matter. However, if you are like most of us a looking for multiple uses, get the standard of a twenty-route memory. But you can go for as many as 50. For the still route-memory hungry, there are the GPS receivers with memory-card slots.
4 Again if you are planning a multi-use unit those with 500 user-entered waypoints are safe choices.
5 You also need to address size and weight issues. For straight paintball this is less of an issue as smaller usually means better. Again, if you plan of using it for driving and/or long distance hikes, you may op for a larger screen. There is basically a direct relationship between weight and screen size; so will it be a bigger display (which means a bigger unit).
6 Pick a unit that employs at least 12-channel parallel receiver. The advantage in this is that you get the best signal even in wooded areas. The latest units currently have 15 channels.
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