Lowrance I Finder or Garmin Legend

[Bowfin]

Looking for a good handheld GPS for marking fishing spots, mapping, and driving the interstate for less than $200 (shooting for around $150). So far i am down to the Lowerance I Finder and the Garmin ETrex Legend. What are some opinions and shortcomings of each device? <br /><br />So far:<br /><br />The lowerance accepts MMC cards, has a basemap installed, but isn't waterproof.<br /><br />The Garmin has 8 meg memory, waterproof, smaller screen, built in basemap. <br /><br />Thanks,<br />Bowfin

 

[SeaMasterZ@aol.com]

Re: Lowrance I Finder or Garmin Legend

The lowerance accepts MMC cards, has a basemap installed, but isn't waterproof.

unless you have a yacht as dry as the inside of a car ... fuggetabout it!<br /><br />its like making an outboard that you cant use in water, lol<br /><br />(the briggs aside!)

 

[PAkev]

Re: Lowrance I Finder or Garmin Legend

Bowfin,<br /><br />I have the I finder and am happy with it. As far as the waterproof thing goes, it comes with a waterproof storage bag for those times you may risk getting things a little wet. Do you really plan driving down the interstate with your GPS lying next to your bait pail? I originally got the Legend as a gift but returned it for the I finder since I can use the same software and MMC cards as my Lowrance X18 onboard GPS/Fishfinder. A few other factors which led me to choose the I finder are that the memory (up to 128meg with the MMC card) affords you the ability to cover a lot more real estate with detailed map info, The software option is one price for the entire Country rather than purchasing several regional software packages, and the batteries and MMC compartment are relatively easily accessable.<br /><br />Happy New Year.<br />Kevin

 

[Ralph 123]

Re: Lowrance I Finder or Garmin Legend

I'm with Ray. If the humid air gets in and condenses on the circuit boards it may not last very long esp if you boat in saltwater.

 

[SeaDawg]

Re: Lowrance I Finder or Garmin Legend

I agree with the guys about water and moisture. <br /><br />If there is ANY chance you are going to be near rain or boats, I would stay away from the the Lowrances and Magellans that are not waterproof. <br /><br />I would also recommend that you look at the Garmin GPSMAP 76. It has a built in basemap, and the bigger screen is MUCH nicer. I've owned both, any you will find it hard to drive/navigate using the Legend, unless you have it on the "compass" screen". <br /><br />Actually, be careful using any hand held to navicage on the highway, or you will wreck someone, or yourself. Almost done it.

 

[whiteknight]

Re: Lowrance I Finder or Garmin Legend

me and brother both hunt with the legend' we love it has been working great in boats also(but have only had them in boats last 2 yrs)<br />I dont leave home without the garmin <br />My 2 cents