i use the garmin gps12. works great and batteries last a long time. i use mine along with a compass at all times. it works excellent to gain a heading and then use a compass set to the heading you want to go. i usually verify the heading every 10 to 15 min depending on the terrain. this holds especially true if ever out after dark or when a snow storm hits and your visual is limited. spent one night in the mountains of colorado after a snow storm hit about 1 1/2 hours before dark. now i never leave camp without it. that was a cold and wet 15 hours.