I’ve been using a Garmin Rino 750 for some time now and find it an excellent tool for not only navigation, but also as a means of two-way communication. Recently, Garmin updated its Montana series of navigation aids, all with a host of useful features.
The 710, 710i and 760i make up the new Montana family. They are durable, functional and innovative.
I was sent a Garmin Montana 760i for evaluation in the field and as soon as I unboxed it I had a close look at its features. The 760i is a handheld GPS with a five-inch touch screen and loads of useful options. First and foremost, it offers exceptional navigation anywhere in the world via pre-loaded worldwide maps and additional downloads.
Next, it features inReach technology, offering two-way messaging, texting and SOS functionality, all via satellite. You can send and receive messages to a mobile phone number or email address anywhere. You can also post to social media and communicate from your inReach to another inReach unit while in the field. This function is also available on the 710i and ensures if you don’t have mobile reception you can still make contact with the outside world.
To use the inReach features including messaging, SOS, tracking and weather, you will need an active satellite subscription. That said, you can still use the GPS as a navigational device without registering a subscription, but you won’t be tapping the full potential of this unit if you don’t. To get started, however, all you need to do is download the free Garmin Messenger app.
The 760i has a red, external SOS button for emergency services. To activate an emergency signal, you actually have to lift the SOS cap and press the internal button. This eliminates accidental activation. This is a must-have safety feature in remote areas where other means of communication fail. I’ve carried a similar unit in Arnhem Land in the NT and the Southern Alps of NZ, for peace of mind, but thankfully, never had to use it.
The large colour screen of the Montana 760i is ideal for showing you the lay of the land and just what’s around the next corner. TopoActive maps featuring terrain elevation and landmarks will allow you to create your own route, see where the creeks, rivers and tracks lie, and know how far it is back to camp or to a chosen hunting area.
To top it off, you can also take 8MP photos on the Montana 760i (the camera is not available on the 710 or 710i) and tag the location. The unit even features a flashlight that also acts as a camera flash.
Other welcome features and apps include an altimeter, geocaching, photo viewer, active weather, marked waypoints, saved tracks, sun and moon phases and much more.
The Montana series has a waterproof IPX7 rating, which basically means it can be submerged up to a metre deep in water for 30 minutes without damage.
All three Montana 700-series units use two satellite systems, that is, they are multi-GNESS.
To charge the unit, a USB cable is supplied. Maximum battery life on a full charge is up to 24 hours, but obviously the more options you use the quicker the battery life is reduced.
I took the Montana 760i for a trial run on a new fox whistling property I’ve picked up that covers several thousand acres and found it performed as expected. It also allowed me to mark the productive spots, let me know exactly where I was and even take a photo or two.
The above is only a brief overview of the Montana 700 series and no doubt I’ll find more features as I continue to use it out bush.
To find out more ask at your local gun shop or Garmin outlet, or visit the Garmin website. Â
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