10 Best Handheld Gps For Hunting 2025 in the United States

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact and lightweight handheld GPS designed for hunting and outdoor activities. One of its standout features is its ability to enable two-way messaging and SOS communication globally, provided you have an active satellite subscription. This can be a lifesaver in remote areas where cellular reception is unavailable. The device is also water-resistant, which adds to its durability in various weather conditions.

The TracBack routing feature is useful for navigating back to your starting point, and the digital compass provides accurate heading information even when stationary. The inReach Mini 2 syncs well with the Garmin Explore app and website, allowing for detailed trip planning and topographical mapping, which is highly beneficial for hunters who need precise navigation tools. You can also pair it with other Garmin devices to send and receive messages or trigger an SOS, adding another layer of safety and convenience.

Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode, which is essential for extended hunting trips. However, the small 1.27-inch screen might be a drawback for some users, as it may be challenging to read detailed maps or messages. Additionally, an active satellite subscription is required to access many of its features, which could be an ongoing cost to consider. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 offers a robust set of features tailored for outdoor and hunting enthusiasts, emphasizing safety, durability, and reliable navigation.

The Garmin Alpha 200i/TT 15 Dog Tracking and Training Bundle stands out in the handheld GPS category for hunting, especially if you hunt with dogs. The device boasts a high-sensitivity GPS/GLONASS receiver for accuracy and a user-replaceable battery that lasts up to 20 hours, dropping to 15 hours with inReach technology enabled. The 3.5-inch capacitive touchscreen is sunlight-readable, making it practical for outdoor use. You can track and train up to 20 dogs within a 9-mile range, receiving updates every 2.5 seconds.

This is particularly useful for hunters with multiple dogs, allowing quick adjustments via the button-operated design. Another advantage is its topographical maps and BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, enhancing navigation. The interactive SOS and two-way messaging via Iridium satellite network add a layer of safety, though they require a subscription. The product’s durability is highlighted by its robust design and backward compatibility with existing Garmin collars, ensuring long-term use.

However, at 2.51 pounds, it may feel heavy for handheld use. The resolution, at 282 x 470, while decent, is not the highest available and may affect screen clarity slightly. Despite these minor drawbacks, its extensive features and reliability make it a strong contender for hunters, especially dog trainers.

The Garmin Alpha 300/TT 25 Bundle is a robust handheld GPS designed for hunters, particularly those who use dogs in their hunting expeditions. It features a 3.5-inch capacitive touchscreen that is readable even in sunlight, making it easy to see maps and data in various lighting conditions. The device allows you to monitor up to 20 dogs with compatible collars from up to 9 miles away, updating their location every 2.5 seconds, which is excellent for tracking multiple dogs over large areas.

It also includes preloaded TopoActive maps and supports downloadable satellite imagery, enhancing your navigation capabilities. The 55-hour battery life on a replaceable lithium-ion battery is a standout feature, ensuring you have enough power for extended hunting trips. Durability is another strength, with the device designed to withstand rugged outdoor conditions. The built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter provide additional navigation aids, and an Outdoor Maps+ subscription offers access to up-to-date premium mapping content.

The unit can trigger 18 levels of stimulation, tone, or vibration when paired with a training-enabled collar, helping you manage your dogs effectively. However, the Garmin Alpha 300 is relatively heavy at 9.9 ounces and may feel bulky for some users. The price point might also be a consideration for budget-conscious hunters. Additionally, while the device is backward compatible with certain Garmin collars and devices, this might not be useful for new users without existing Garmin equipment. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin Alpha 300/TT 25 Bundle is a top-tier choice for serious hunters who need precise tracking and reliable features.