dave, i use the 1:24,000 maps. normally carry the map sheet along with a compass. but if i am hunting in a small area, i print my own topo maps using the maptech program from garmin. i can print the grids, along with some border information, i find UTM the best to use. most of the stuff i know about map reading i learned on my own, reading articles, etc. i also rely a lot on the gps and the maps when i am out in the woods.