When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Handheld Gps For Hunting (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a way to enhance your hunting experience, a handheld GPS device may just be what you need. With the ability to track your location, mark waypoints, and navigate through unfamiliar terrain, a GPS device can be a valuable tool for any hunter. But before making a purchase, there are a few factors to consider.

Firstly, it's important to determine what features you need. Are you looking for a device with long battery life, weather resistance, or the ability to connect to other devices? Consider your hunting style and preferences to determine which features are necessary for you.

Another factor to consider is the device's accuracy and reliability. Look at reviews and ratings from other hunters to gauge the performance of the device in real-life conditions. You want a device that will accurately track your location, even in dense forests or rugged terrain.

Still not sure if a handheld GPS is right for you? Ask yourself some questions. Are you tired of getting lost in the woods or spending hours trying to find your way back to camp? Would you like to increase your chances of success on the hunt by having a better understanding of the terrain? If the answer is yes, then a handheld GPS device may just be the tool you need to take your hunting game to the next level.

10 Best Handheld Gps For Hunting

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for hunters to track their dogs with GPS technology, inReach, a large display, and the ability to track multiple dogs.
2
This product is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, traveling, hunting, and wild exploration as a GPS navigator.
3
The product is ideal for outdoor activities that require navigation and location tracking in various parts of the world.
4
The product is ideal for outdoor activities such as travelling, hiking, hunting, and camping.
5
The product is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who require a durable GPS device with detailed mapping and touchscreen controls.
6
The product is ideal for communication during outdoor activities such as hunting and hiking with long range capabilities.
7
The product is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable navigation, elevation data, and topographic maps.
8
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable GPS and communication device with long battery life.
9
This product is ideal for navigating and communicating while boating, as well as streaming data from compatible chartplotters.
10
The product is ideal for marine navigation with a worldwide chartplotter, featuring a 2.6-inch screen.
The product is ideal for hunters to track their dogs with GPS technology, inReach, a large display, and the ability to track multiple dogs.
This product is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, traveling, hunting, and wild exploration as a GPS navigator.
The product is ideal for outdoor activities that require navigation and location tracking in various parts of the world.
The product is ideal for outdoor activities such as travelling, hiking, hunting, and camping.
The product is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who require a durable GPS device with detailed mapping and touchscreen controls.
The product is ideal for communication during outdoor activities such as hunting and hiking with long range capabilities.
The product is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable navigation, elevation data, and topographic maps.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable GPS and communication device with long battery life.
This product is ideal for navigating and communicating while boating, as well as streaming data from compatible chartplotters.
The product is ideal for marine navigation with a worldwide chartplotter, featuring a 2.6-inch screen.

1. Garmin Alpha: Ultimate Hunting Dog Tracking System.

The Garmin Alpha 200i TT 15X Combo Bundle is an all-inclusive dog GPS bundle that comes with a handheld dog GPS, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, a belt clip, an AC adapter, a microUSB cable, a TT 15X dog device, a 1" red collar strap, an 18.5" standard antenna, a 22.5" extended-range antenna, a contact point set with a wrench, and more. The package also includes a PlayBetter 5000mAh portable charger and a PlayBetter GPS tether lanyard in black.

This multi-dog tracking GPS and inReach technology can track up to 20 dogs or buddies from up to 9 miles away. It also features 18 training levels of continuous and momentary stimulation and measures dogs' speed and distance traveled. With an active subscription, this dog GPS handheld allows two-way messaging using the 100% Global iridium satellite network.

The dog-focused and easy control dog handheld features a 3.5" touchscreen display with a 2.5-second update rate. It also has a button-operated, dog-focused design that makes it easier to maintain the Dog List and Group Management feature that allows dog trainers to keep inactive dogs in the system.

The Garmin Alpha 200i TT 15X Combo Bundle is loaded with TopoActive mapping for detailed views of terrains, contours, rivers, and more. It also has BirdsEye Satellite Imagery to get better-than-real-life views of routes, trailheads, clearings. You can access accurate location info using powerful navigation sensors such as a barometric altimeter and a built-in compass, topped by the GPS and Galileo multi-GNSS support.

This bundle has everything you need to achieve optimum performance from your sporting dogs – from the accuracy of the Alpha 200i's satellite readings, combined with the handy PlayBetter Portable Charger and GPS Tether Lanyard – you'll be ready to take full advantage of the next hunting season!

Pros

  • Tracks up to 20 dogs or buddies from up to 9 miles away
  • 18 training levels of continuous and momentary stimulation
  • Measures dogs' speed and distance traveled
  • Loaded with TopoActive mapping and BirdsEye Satellite Imagery
  • Powerful navigation sensors such as barometric altimeter and built-in compass
  • Comes with a PlayBetter 5000mAh portable charger and GPS tether lanyard

2. Handheld Gps For Outdoor Adventures.

This multifunctional handheld GPS device is perfect for a variety of industries including agriculture, forestry, geology, communication, and fishing. With its accurate acre measurement and length measurement capabilities, it is ideal for agricultural applications. It also has area calculation and park and garden planning features that are useful for forestry purposes. For geologists, the device has a regional water quality survey function. Communication professionals can use this GPS device for network planning and base station location. Additionally, fishing enthusiasts can save the coordinates of their favorite fishing spots with ease.

The device is user-friendly with a simple interface and easy-to-read display. Its compact size makes it portable and convenient to carry around. The battery life is long-lasting, ensuring that it will last throughout the day. The accuracy of the GPS is also noteworthy, providing reliable and precise measurements.

Overall, this handheld GPS device is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of applications. Its accuracy, portability, and ease of use make it a great investment for professionals in different industries.

Pros

  • Accurate acre measurement and length measurement for agricultural applications
  • Area calculation and park and garden planning features for forestry purposes
  • Regional water quality survey function for geologists
  • Network planning and base station location capabilities for communication professionals
  • Easy-to-use interface and easy-to-read display
  • Compact and portable size
  • Long-lasting battery life
  • Reliable and precise measurements

3. Garmin 010-00970-00 Etrex 10 Worldwide Handheld Gps Navigator

The Rugged Handheld Navigator is a reliable and durable device that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. This device comes with a preloaded worldwide basemap and a 2.2 inch monochrome display to provide a clear and detailed view of your location. With a WAAS enabled GPS receiver, HotFix, and GLONASS support, you can be sure to get a fast and reliable signal wherever you go. This device is also waterproof to IPX7 standards, making it resistant to splashes, rain, and other water-related mishaps. The Rugged Handheld Navigator also supports paperless geocaching and Garmin spine mounting accessories, giving you the flexibility to customize your device to your unique preferences. Power the device with two AA batteries, and you can get up to 20 hours of use, especially with Polaroid AA batteries. You can also see high and low elevation points or store waypoints along a track to estimate time and distance between points, making this device a must-have for hikers and adventurers alike.

Explore the outdoors with confidence with the Rugged Handheld Navigator. This device is built to last and is designed to provide you with reliable and accurate positioning information, no matter where you are. With its waterproof design and long battery life, you can take this device with you on all your outdoor adventures without worrying about it getting damaged or running out of power. The Rugged Handheld Navigator is also easy to use and comes with a range of features that make it a great tool for hikers and adventurers.

The Rugged Handheld Navigator is a versatile and reliable device that is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors. With its preloaded worldwide basemap, WAAS enabled GPS receiver, and GLONASS support, this device provides you with accurate and up-to-date information about your location. The device is also waterproof and has a long battery life, making it perfect for use in any weather conditions. Additionally, the Rugged Handheld Navigator supports paperless geocaching and Garmin spine mounting accessories, giving you the convenience and flexibility to customize your device to your specific needs. Whether you're hiking, camping, or exploring new territory, the Rugged Handheld Navigator is the perfect companion for any adventurer.

Pros

  • Preloaded worldwide basemap and 2.2 inch monochrome display for clear and detailed view of your location
  • WAAS enabled GPS receiver with HotFix and GLONASS support for fast and reliable signal
  • Waterproof to IPX7 standards for protection against splashes, rain, etc.
  • Support for paperless geocaching and Garmin spine mounting accessories for customization
  • Power with two AA batteries for up to 20 hours of use (best with Polaroid AA batteries)
  • See high and low elevation points or store waypoints along a track to estimate time and distance between points

Cons

  • – Monochrome display limits the device's visual capabilities

4. Hys Dual Band Transceiver: Your Ultimate Outdoor Companion

The VHF/UHF frequency range of this two-way radio allows for clear and reliable communication in outdoor activities such as hiking or travelling. With DSP digital voice encryption and location search, users can communicate with peace of mind knowing their conversations are secure. In case of emergencies, the SOS function and built-in GPS location system provide added safety measures. The alarm function and bright flashlight illumination also come in handy in unexpected situations. With a communication range of 5-8 miles and a voltage of 8V DC, this radio is both powerful and efficient. FCC IDENTIFIER: SV8T-518.

Pros

  • Clear and reliable communication in outdoor activities
  • DSP digital voice encryption ensures secure conversations
  • Location search feature adds convenience
  • SOS function and built-in GPS location system provide added safety measures
  • Alarm function and bright flashlight illumination come in handy in unexpected situations
  • Powerful and efficient with a communication range of 5-8 miles and a voltage of 8V DC
  • FCC IDENTIFIER: SV8T-518

5. Glove-Friendly Gps With 5" Touchscreen: Garmin Montana

The Garmin GPSMAP 66i is a reliable and durable navigation tool that is built to last. It has a rugged construction design that is rated to MIL-STD 810 for thermal, shock, water, and vibration resistance. The device features a 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen display that offers 50% larger viewability than the previous model. It also comes with versatile mounting options that make it easy to use in different environments. With multi-GNSS support, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, the GPSMAP 66i provides accurate location tracking and navigation. It also comes with preloaded TopoActive maps, which allow users to explore outdoor terrains with ease. Other outdoor navigation sensors such as a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter provide users with additional information about their surroundings. The device is pro-connected with ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi connectivity, and BLUETOOTH wireless networking. This feature gives users direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, Connect IQ app support, and more. The Garmin GPSMAP 66i is also compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app, which helps users manage waypoints, routes, activities, and collections. They can use tracks and review trip data from the field. With all these features, the Garmin GPSMAP 66i is the perfect device for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore nature with confidence.

Pros

  • Rugged construction design that is rated to MIL-STD 810 for thermal, shock, water, and vibration resistance.
  • Large 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen display that offers 50% larger viewability than the previous model.
  • Multi-GNSS support, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, that provides accurate location tracking and navigation.
  • Preloaded TopoActive maps that allow users to explore outdoor terrains with ease.
  • Outdoor navigation sensors such as a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter that provide users with additional information about their surroundings.
  • Pro-connected with ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi connectivity, and BLUETOOTH wireless networking that give users direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, Connect IQ app support, and more.
  • Compatibility with the Garmin Explore website and app, which helps users manage waypoints, routes, activities, and collections. They can use tracks and review trip data from the field.

6. Ailunce Hd1 Dual Band Gps Ham Radio

The HD1 DMR radio is a highly versatile device that provides reliable communication over long distances. It offers high-quality voice transmission, dual time slot, and longer battery life which makes it stand out among other DMR radios in the market. With its dual time slot feature, it supports two group calls in one channel under direct model. The HD1 DMR radio can work in either analog or digital mode, and users can easily switch between the two modes.

In addition, this radio comes with an SMS messaging feature that allows users to edit and send messages to multiple contacts directly from the front panel. It also has an FM radio function that can be used to switch to FM frequency when not in use for calls, which is perfect for outdoor activities like camping or hiking. The device is powered by a 3200 mAh rechargeable battery that enables normal use for more than 15 hours. Additionally, users can set the backlight time to reduce power consumption and increase usage time.

The HD1 DMR radio has more features that make it a great choice for communication needs. It has an IP67 waterproof rating that makes it suitable for use in harsh weather conditions. Users can make single, group or all calls with ease using this radio. It also supports FPP function and VFO mode, which gives users more flexibility when using the device.

Pros

  • High-quality voice transmission
  • Long battery life of over 15 hours
  • Dual time slot for two group calls in one channel under direct model
  • Can work in either analog or digital mode
  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • SMS messaging feature
  • FM radio function for outdoor activities
  • Supports FPP function and VFO mode

7. Topoactive Gps With Altimeter And Compass.

The GPSMAP 64sx and GPSMAP 64csx are rugged and water-resistant GPS devices designed to provide outdoor enthusiasts with reliable navigation aid. They come with a 2.6-inch sunlight-readable color display and button operation for easy use. These devices are preloaded with Topo Active maps featuring routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking in the U.S. and Australia. With a high-sensitivity receiver featuring a quad helix antenna and multi-GNSS support (GPS, GLONASS and Galileo) and a 3-axis compass with barometric altimeter, users can know their location and elevation with utmost accuracy.

The GPSMAP 64sx and GPSMAP 64csx also offer wireless connectivity via BLUETOOTH technology and ANT+ technology, making it easier for users to share their tracks, waypoints, and geocaches with other compatible devices. In addition, the GPSMAP 64csx has a built-in 8-megapixel autofocus camera with flash, which lets users capture and geotag their photos on the go.

With a battery life of up to 16 hours in GPS mode, users can rely on GPSMAP 64sx and GPSMAP 64csx to guide them through their outdoor adventures without worrying about running out of power. These devices also come with a wide range of optional accessories, such as carabiner clips and bike mounts, to enhance their usability and convenience.

Pros

  • Rugged and water-resistant design
  • High-sensitivity receiver with quad helix antenna and multi-GNSS support
  • 3-axis compass with barometric altimeter
  • Wireless connectivity via BLUETOOTH technology and ANT+ technology
  • Preloaded with Topo Active maps featuring routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking in the U.S. and Australia
  • Optional accessories available to enhance usability and convenience
  • Long battery life of up to 16 hours in GPS mode

8. Garmin Gpsmap 66i Bundle With Inreach Technology

The Garmin GPSMAP 66i GPS Handheld and Satellite Communicator is a versatile device that comes with a power pack to ensure that you never run out of battery. It features a large 3-inch sunlight-readable color display that makes it easy to view maps and other information. The device comes preloaded with Garmin TOPO mapping and provides direct-to-device Birdseye satellite imagery downloads without requiring an annual subscription.

With support for multiple global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and navigation sensors, the GPSMAP 66i is a reliable and accurate device that can be used in any situation. The device also offers cellular connectivity, which allows you to access active weather forecasts and geocaching live.

The GPSMAP 66i is compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app, which helps you manage waypoints, routes, activities, and collections. You can also use tracks and review trip data from the field. The device features an internal, rechargeable lithium battery that provides up to 35 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode and 1-minute tracking mode (display off), and up to 200 hours in Expedition mode with 30-minute tracking.

The Wearable4U Ultimate Power Pack includes a USB power bank with a capacity of 2200 mAh, a car charger, and a wall USB charging adapter. With this power pack, you can keep your device charged at all times, whether you're on the go or at home.

Pros

  • Large and easy to read 3-inch sunlight-readable color display
  • Preloaded with Garmin TOPO mapping and direct-to-device Birdseye satellite imagery downloads
  • Multiple global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) support and navigation sensors
  • Cellular connectivity for active weather forecasts and geocaching live
  • Compatible with Garmin Explore website and app
  • Rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 35 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode and 1-minute tracking mode (display off), and up to 200 hours in Expedition mode with 30-minute tracking
  • Wearable4U Ultimate Power Pack ensures that the device never runs out of battery

Cons

  • – The device is relatively expensive compared to other GPS handhelds

9. Garmin Inreach Gps With Boat Data Stream.

The Garmin GPSMAP 86i handheld device is perfect for all your marine adventures. It comes with a 3-inch display which is visible even in sunlight and has a button operation for easy use on the water. Its floating design and water-resistant feature make it a reliable device while you enjoy your time on the water. The device also supports optional BlueChart G3 charts, which are perfect for fishing and boating. You can also stream boat data from compatible chartplotters and instruments to consolidate your marine system information.

Stay connected from anywhere with the Garmin GPSMAP 86i. It has inReach satellite communication and two-way text messaging, which works via the 100% Global Iridium satellite network. This feature allows you to communicate with others, share your location, and receive weather updates. The device also functions as a remote control for convenient operation of your Garmin autopilot and Fusion Marine products. You can activate this feature by downloading free apps from the Connect IQ store.

The Garmin GPSMAP 86i also supports GPS-based location tracking. With a satellite subscription, you can share your location with others. The device has an adjustable GPS filter that smooths speed and heading indications over swells. The device is powered by an internal, rechargeable lithium battery that provides up to 50 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode. You can pair it with your compatible smartphone to receive smart notifications.

In summary, the Garmin GPSMAP 86i handheld device is a must-have for marine adventures. Its water-resistant and floating design, along with its sunlight-visible display, make it a reliable device on the water. Its inReach satellite communication, two-way text messaging, and GPS-based location tracking features make it easy to stay connected from anywhere. Its ability to function as a remote control for other Garmin products and its support for optional BlueChart G3 charts make it a versatile device. Pairing with your smartphone to receive smart notifications is a bonus. Its long battery life is an added advantage.

Pros

  • Water-resistant and floating design
  • Sunlight-visible 3” display with button operation for ease of use on the water
  • Stream boat data from compatible chartplotters and instruments
  • InReach satellite communication and two-way text messaging via the 100% Global Iridium satellite network
  • Functions as a remote control for convenient operation of your Garmin autopilot and Fusion Marine products
  • Supports optional BlueChart G3 charts
  • Adjustable GPS filter smooth speed and heading indications over swells
  • GPS-based location tracking
  • Internal, rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 50 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode
  • Pair with your compatible smartphone to receive smart notifications

10. Garmin Gpsmap 78 2.6-Inch Marine Gps Navigator And Worldwide Chartplotter

Looking for a reliable marine-friendly handheld GPS receiver? Look no further than Garmin GPSMAP 78sc. This device is perfect for boating and watersports enthusiasts, thanks to its waterproof design that complies with IPX7 standards and can even float in water. The device measures 2.6 x 6.0 x 1.2 inches, featuring a 2.6-inch color TFT display with a resolution of 160 x 240 pixels and a display size of 1.43 x 2.15 inches, with a diagonal size of 2.6 inches.

The Garmin GPSMAP 78sc comes with a built-in worldwide basemap, and you can load additional maps using the microSD card slot. You can also get a detailed analysis of your activities and send tracks to your outdoor device using Garmin Connect. The device supports geocaching GPX files for downloading geocaches and details straight to your unit.

The Garmin GPSMAP 78sc requires 2 AA batteries to operate, and the manufacturer recommends using NiMH or lithium batteries for optimal performance. The device has a memory capacity of 1.7 GB, providing ample storage space for your maps and waypoints.

Pros

  • Waterproof to IPX7 standards, floats in water
  • Built-in worldwide basemap
  • MicroSD card slot for loading additional maps
  • Supports geocaching GPX files
  • Detailed activity analysis with Garmin Connect

Cons

  • – Batteries not included
  • – Display resolution could be higher

Best Handheld Gps For Hunting FAQs

Are there any special considerations for using a handheld GPS device for hunting in remote or wilderness areas?

Yes, there are several special considerations for using a handheld GPS device for hunting in remote or wilderness areas. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the device is fully charged and that you have spare batteries or a power bank with you to avoid running out of battery power while in the field. Secondly, it is important to familiarize yourself with the device and its features prior to heading out into the wilderness. This includes understanding how to use the device to navigate, mark waypoints, and track your movements. Additionally, it is important to ensure that you have the appropriate maps and software installed on the device for the area you will be hunting in. Finally, it is important to have a backup navigation method, such as a paper map and compass, in case the GPS device fails or loses signal in the wilderness. By taking these considerations into account, you can ensure that your hunting trip is both safe and successful.

Can a handheld GPS device help me find and track game while hunting?

Yes, a handheld GPS device can be a valuable tool for hunters who are looking to find and track game. These devices use satellite technology to provide accurate location information, allowing you to mark key spots such as game trails, water sources or potential hunting sites. With a GPS device, you can navigate to these spots with ease, even in challenging terrain or difficult weather conditions.

In addition to providing location information, many GPS devices also offer mapping features that can show you the topography of the area you are hunting in. This can be particularly useful for identifying areas that are likely to be frequented by game, such as ridges or valleys.

Another key benefit of using a GPS device for hunting is that it can help you track your movements and mark the location of any game you spot. This can be especially helpful if you are hunting in a large area or unfamiliar terrain, as it can be easy to lose track of where you have been or where you saw game.

Overall, a handheld GPS device is a valuable tool for any hunter who wants to improve their chances of finding and tracking game. With its advanced location and mapping features, it can help you navigate to key hunting spots and keep track of your movements throughout the day.

How accurate are handheld GPS devices for hunting?

Handheld GPS devices have become an essential tool for hunters to navigate their way through unfamiliar terrain and keep track of their locations. The accuracy of these devices, however, depends on various factors such as the quality of the device, the signal strength, and the surrounding environment.

Modern handheld GPS devices utilize advanced technology and can provide accurate location information up to 3 meters or less. The accuracy of the device can also be improved by using additional tools such as external antennas or signal amplifiers.

However, in some situations, GPS signals can be disrupted by natural or human-made obstacles such as tall buildings, mountains, or dense forests. In such cases, the accuracy of the device can be compromised, and hunters may need to rely on other navigation tools such as maps or compasses.

Overall, handheld GPS devices are highly accurate and reliable tools for hunting, but hunters should also be aware of their limitations and use them in combination with other navigation tools to ensure their safety and success in the field.

What are the top features to look for in a handheld GPS for hunting?

When it comes to hunting, having a reliable and accurate GPS device can be crucial. Here are some of the top features you should look for when choosing a handheld GPS for hunting:

1. Durability: Hunting can be rugged and tough, so you need a GPS that can withstand the elements. Look for a device that is waterproof, shockproof, and built to last.

2. Accuracy: A GPS with high accuracy is essential for hunting. Look for a device that uses multiple satellite systems and has a high sensitivity receiver.

3. Topographic maps: A good GPS for hunting should come with detailed topographic maps that show terrain, elevation, and other important features.

4. Battery life: You don't want your GPS to die in the middle of a hunt, so look for a device with long battery life. Some models even have replaceable batteries or the option to use rechargeable ones.

5. Ease of use: A GPS should be intuitive and easy to use, even if you're wearing gloves or in low-light conditions. Look for a device with a user-friendly interface and large, easy-to-read screen.

By considering these top features, you can find a reliable and effective handheld GPS that will enhance your hunting experience.

What is the battery life on a typical handheld GPS device for hunting?

The battery life of a handheld GPS device for hunting can vary depending on the quality of the device and how often it is used. Generally, most devices can last anywhere from 8 to 20 hours on a single charge. Some high-end GPS devices come with rechargeable batteries that can last for several days on a single charge, while others may require AA or AAA batteries that need to be replaced periodically. It is important to note that the battery life of a GPS device can also be affected by the weather conditions, such as extreme temperatures or high humidity levels. In order to ensure that your GPS device has a long battery life, it is recommended to carry spare batteries or a backup charger, especially if you plan on using the device for an extended period of time.

Leave a Comment