Re: [Philmont]: GPS

Mick,

By now you know how opinionated most of us are on this list. The GPS
discussion always seems to be a hot topic each year. I took a GPS in 2001, thinking
I would teach the boys how to use it. We found that a compass and map were
more than sufficient. I only took the GPS out one afternoon at Crater Lake, to
teach the boys. Mine is a Garmin, and it loves to eat AA batteries. In
hindsight, I would invest in a really good sleeping mat first. Mine is a Thermarest
Long LE. I tried several other styles and brands, and settled on this one
after hearing about it on the listserver. It works well for me, and provides
very comfortable rest. The full length model helps keep you warm at night also.
 Mount Phillips was 32'F when we spent the night there in July 2001. My son
had a 3/4 length, and said his feet get cold. He has since upgraded to a full
length model. Second investment for me would be a good boot / sock
combination. I have found that the expedition weight socks from Smartwool work well
for me. Hiking boots are always a big discussion on this list also. Without
good boots, you will have foot issues for a long two weeks. I think that most
adults also found the hiking poles to be a great help on their knees. I
purchased a pair, and love them.

That's my two cents worth. I would go back to Philmont every summer if I
could. It was a great experience for me, and my scouts.

Chas. Clifton
Scoutmaster -Troop 11
Port Neches, Texas
Advisor 708G2001
I used to a Bobwhite...SR-357, and then a Staffer...SR-439

Remember : We are in this program for the boys.......let them lead

In a message dated 1/3/2004 12:05:00 PM Pacific Standard Time,
mickmeyer@cox.net writes:

> Hi:
> Costco has Magellan GPS units for $198. Is this a good investment for
> Philmont? Or should I instead spend the money as a down payment on trekking poles
> for two Scouts and one adult? The Scouts enjoy using the GPS in a real-life
> situation. Seems like a good teaching opportunity
>

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Received on Sat Jan 3 22:25:49 2004