Handheld GPS - How to Choose?

[markpj23]

OK, so I want a handheld GPS unit as a safety backup. As usual, many models out there and little info to base a decision on. Boat has no chartplotter (yet) but a Trimble fixed GPS.

I like the looks/features of the Garmin GPSMAP60C/CS and see that it takes the Blue Chart map software. Another interesting unit is the Magellan Meridian marine - it of course uses different software, MapSend.

On nauticalcharts.com I found this disclaimer.."Currently only 3 chart types are safe for navigation: NOAA charts, Waterproof Charts and Maptech Chartkits." So how does this apply to electronic charts such as the BlueChart and MapSend product?

Which handheld units does this group recommend?

Nice to have options, but this is a bit confusing!!

[gosstyla]

I have a GPSmap 76S, a few years old, with all the BlueCharts for Caribbean loaded.

I like it, but it has limited flexibility due to Garmin's proprietary restrictions on the BlueCharts. Therefore, don't plan on buying anymore Garmin products.

[SwampNut]

I'm trying to decide on a handheld also. I want to load lake info, and nobody can give me a straight answer on what to buy. I'd like just basics for lakes and coasts, such as marinas, obstructions, etc.

[Jon D]

I have 3 Garmin Map76s as back-ups. No charts loaded. Never will get any.

Their purpose is to be a GPS -- give me lat lon and feed my PC with the info. The 76 series when I bought these was the best value in a unit that also supported real time NEMA interface. Two spares for the boat -- One in the ditch bag.

[Bill Balme]

Are there any handhelds that take C Map NT chips?