Plain Jane, Garmin GPS 12, $148 thru Cabelas, this is an old soldier.

Though it provides a navigation display which is "maplike" it does not upload or download maps. It does upload and download "way points" into a Topo! program in my PC by way of a data cable and to me the waypoints are the key item. This Topo! program also prints out great shaded custom maps that show your waypoints/waypoint names right on the map..

Usually when hunting, I have my GPS set to show no more than a .3 mile display which is like "looking at an elephant through a microscope" but if you are walking and not driving then this is about the right size IMO.

I may be talking out of school, but it is my impression that many of the new high dollar (300) GPS units are oriented to driving, US highway map system, places to eat, places to sleep, major major landmarks and historical points of interest. I'm betting if you follow their map out into the middle of no where and then crank up the "magnification" to .3 miles showing on the screen that that map is going to be kind of "empty".

Now if they have them that will upload an actuial topograph map and have the resolution to make it readable then that might be a hot ticket, but you are going to pay for it.

A feature that some new GPS units have tha t I would consider desirable is a magnetic compass orientation built into the display. The Garmin 12 does not have this, and while managable without it, it is one feature that would make GPS even more intuitive.

It is key, key, key to practice at home so you absolutely know your GPS unit inside and out before heading anywhere where you will actually be relying upon it.

For elk hunting, I would advice against any GPS with movable (break-off-able) antennae or units that are just too bulky. It needs to slide in and out of a pocket quick and easy and lay small in you handl. I personally do recommend Garmin. The Topo! software for one state = $99. Datacable is typically $30.

EKM