SKIP ... I use both While I really like my GPS unit is has failed to keep a lock sometimes when it's cloudy. The compass does not fail. I use a "hand held" compass that can be placed in a mount on the boat and then easily removed when I take line of site bearings. So IMHO Use both. Don't "Skip" one or the other... Sorry Had to make a PUN... Great boat that M15. CDF Ranger20 uoting W David Scobie <wdscobie@yahoo.com>:
a compass is less likely to break than GPS, and the batteries cannot 'run dry'.
with that said i use a GPS. i sail in puget sound, an area i've cruised for 30 years, i am able to find my way by dead reckoning. meaning, if my GPS isn't working i'm still OK using paper charts.
when exploring the idea of a compass i too was faced with the issue of 'where to put the thing?' (there are some good ideas posted on the monty site.) i also wanted the ability to know my speed (i do have a 'knotstick', but it is a lot of work to use single handed). the GPS provided me with the functions i wanted ... plus the added bonus of allowing me to chart my course (within the limits of GPS accuracy). i also use the GPS for my land-side travels: hiking, hunting and camping in the olympic, cascade and rocky mtns.
i'm using a Garmin GPSMap 76. i've not purchased the electronic charts that go with the GPSMap76 as i prefer paper charts (and paper maps). the basic chart information installed in the unit is close enough for my type of sailing (again, i'm sailing in a place i know well). the GPSMap 76 uses 2 AA batteries. i have use rechargables, and have a good supply on-board. i gennerally am able to get 8-10 hours of use per battery charge (this is without using the backlight). as a final thought - i'm still looking into having a compass. it is always a good idea to have 'backup' when boating. this is why, even though we all trust our M-boats to float and get us through all sorts of weather, we have life vests on board at all times (when not at dock or at anchor i'm wearing an inflatable). d. scobie M15 #288 wcampion@aol.com wrote: I am looking for some feed back and thoughts from people who are currently using either a compass or a GPS or both.
Thanks in Advance, Skip Campion M-15 #201
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