[M.T. Pockets]

I've had a Garmin etrex GPS and liked it. Sold it to a buddy when I decided I wanted to upgrade to a new unit that could download maps. I also wanted an electronic compass ( I know, I carry a compass anyway but want be able to get directions off my GPS without having to move).

I thought for sure I'd be buying a better grade of Garmin and their map software. I went to the service counter at a major sporting goods store and explained what I wanted. The boss of the department overheard me and came over and said "You need the Lowrance, it does the best job with maps and costs less". He showed me a little bit and it seemed like it was just what I wanted. It was about $100 less than the Garmin, ran on the same batteries and was a little bit bigger. It also had a bigger display screen.

I don't have any experience with Lowrance personally, but I know they've been around and will be around. They're big hitters in marine depthfinders and aviation navigation, but I haven't heard much about their handheld GPS units. Anyone have any experience with their new models ?