SPOT II GPS Messenger or something better?

[Elkduds]

I'm after a device to send "I'm OK" messages and save my butt if I get injured/ill alone in CO mountains. Is SPOT the best technology, can you bet your life on it, is there something better? What is a good source/price? Thanks in advance.

[jmez]

A personal locator beacon is much more reliable and better technology. They make them now that you can purchase a plan and send I'm ok messages. They will not receive messages.

Look up ResQlink by Acr electronics

[itsnlkthing]

I have the ACR ResQLink that only sends distress signals, no I'm OK messages. They have much better capabilities for getting a message out when you really need it. I bought mine at REI but it can probably be found cheaper on the net.

[>>>---WW---->]

I have the ACR ResQlink as well. And I feel confident that when I push the button on that thing, anywhere in the world, the cavalry will be on the way.

I can not sent an (I'm OK) message. However, there is a test button. And I suppose you could use that to let your wifey know all is well if she receives a test.

[itsnlkthing]

I believe you are correct on the test button but I seem to remember that you could only test a certain number of times. I can't remember if that was a restriction or battery limitation. The battery can't be replaced without sending the unit to the manufacturer.

[jmez]

It is a new feature with the ResQLink if you pay a subscription fee. You can use the unit to send a generic I'm ok message.

It does affect battery life and you need to keep track of how many messages you send out. It works with all their units and I believe they just started it last year.

[itsnlkthing]

Thanks, that's good to know. I wasn't aware of that

[Jaquomo]

Any experience with the new DeLorme unit that can send-receive texts via satellite? I'm seriously considering one as a solo hunter, but would like feedback from others

[Elkduds]

Great info. Any thoughts on 2 way satellite communicators? Any new technology due soon to the market?

[Bowhunter]

I have a SPOT the earlier version. I can send im ok messages. help messages to friends or family if help needed packing. and 911 help in an emergency. It worked every time I tried to send a message.It takes aa bateries and lasts a long time. I only turn it on to send messages then turn it off. I haven't used it the last couple years because I hunted in an area that had cell reception at camp or up high.

[kevin_t]

I will sell mine. I've been planning to for awhile. I'm going to go delorme be aside of the 2 way.

[navet]

Any experience with the new DeLorme unit that can send-receive texts via satellite? I'm seriously considering one as a solo hunter, but would like feedback from others

I used a DeLorme in CO last year and it was awesome. I was able to send text messages to my wife and family. I used the se model so I did not have to pair it with my cell phone.The battery lasted all 6 days I was in the woods without a charge..I turned it off at night. My family tracked my online which they thought was awesome. I also had several friends tracking me....very cool...

[AmericanBwana]

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[Elkduds]

Wow, gentlemen! Way to step up w the truth about this technology. I'm leaning toward the Insight, as annual fee for SPOT makes it expensive after a few years. Only thing I don't like is the 2 way, hate to be distracted while hunting. I try to arrange everything so I can unplug from the human world entirely for the duration of the hunt, and let others worry about that stuff. Then again, I'm old enough that acquaintances get sick or die, guess I would have to respond to that level of bad news.

[Mav]

My work gave me a SPOT since I work deep in the woods every day (as deep as you can get in one day and still get stuff done). We use them a lot to check in. Just recently we had a few areas where guys were using the check in button and it never reached the office. So we are checking the coverage of it now. Honestly though if the company didn't pay for it I don't think I would get it. Thanks for everyone posting about the other options out there. Great to hear!

[Jaquomo]

Thanks, guys!!!