My review and features of 601 Sorry its a long video, but knowledge is power. This may save you some money and enable you to purchase something that best fits you requirements. Enjoy Alpha
@@AlphaPews This review just made me order one a few minutes ago. Had the 401 an the battery ended up leaking in it an killed it. Prior to that the wrist strap attachment point broke but worked. It was definitely time for the upgrade. This review definitely done it. Thanks 100% cured any wonders I had on the newer one
Great overview of the unit. I'm picking one up tomorrow from REI for SAR work so it's nice to see a solid walkthrough for the device before I pick it up
Glad i can help. Really appreciate your comments. This year there will be lots of reviews coming through so hopefully mine will differ from the normal unboxing. Have a good day 👍
Thank You! Excellent review of the 601. I appreciate you taking the time to video record and share this information. Your video showed me everything I was looking to learn about this unit. Again Thanks!
Thank you for a very thorough review! It helped me to decide between the Foretrex 601 or a new GPS watch (Suunto or Garmin) and now I got my mind set on the Foretrex. Even though it might be a bit chunky on the wrist as you said, I believe it will better help me navigate on my hiking trips. Especially as most GPS-watches today seem to be built for fitness purposes rather than navigation. Again, thanks a lot for this one!
yes this GPS does work 100%. My platoon did a 1up drill. so that means i was the next in charge and i was in charge of leading my platoon to the destination. this garmin uses 10 digit grid(really acurate btw) but we use 8 digit grids. it was a 10k movement and i used it all the way. there was one point where i fell face first in the swap. the garmin also went for a swim and it survived. overall it works. forgot to mention that i had a compass with just to confirm that the north the garmin was facing was the same north on my compass again it never failed.
In the marine corps we used the Foretrex 401 version. This looks much more rugged, just bigger. Although the bars that hold the strap look the same, and those broke CONSTANTLY. People lost their GPS all the time because the strap would bust off from the unit that way. The 2nd problem was the cheap rubber buttons tore all the time. Looking to buy this version for my personal gear. Fuck a compass, I hate old school land navigation
Bars have been made slightly thicker and there is also a. Lanyard hole for a dummy cord setup. The case material also seems different from the 401. I'm with you compass is only a backup for me. So far I'm finding this ace, especially with the raptor tactical case
'I'o pua'a uahi Papale very basic things, yes there are contracts for compass and GPS. But there is nothing consumer about an izlid or a vector/dagger.
Cthank you for the great review! Like you said not many videos on the foretrex 601. Already have a fenix 5x and a 64st but still thinking about buying this one 0:)
Hey man I got a fenix and 64st as well and now considering this. What is the difference u think u will be utilizing this foretrex against 64st? I took my fenix and 64st on hunting trips and they did great. I think this foretrex gives u more active and on the run type of gps navigation?
Hi, I think the battery life and navigation will for sure be the strong points. The display is larger and clear and it seems to get a stronger GPS lock than my other Garmin devices. But if what you have is working for you, consider what extra you might get. The AAA batteries is very useful for longer trips and saves USB charging. But by the sounds of it the 64st and fenix combo may be pretty good!
Awesome review brother, I got mine around November and have been having a problem with it locating a satellite and i have to keep taking the batteries out then put them right back in for it to work. Another thing I didnt like was the app to they make the routes for you on the app and you cant make your own. But love the video man!!
Cory Lemasters thank you Cory. Sounds like device needs a software reset. If you have a PC, try and connect it to update the software. I think the Garmin connect app also does this too. If these fail it will need to go back to the store/Garmin for repair. I hope this helps. Take care
I just got one last week and took it out to try it and had the same problem. I kept losing sattelite connection like crazy. I am going to be hooking it up to my computer and see if it needs an update and hopefully that helps!
At first I couldn't understand how the hell the map worked, then I realised it was essentially plotting bread crumbs of my movements, ingenius. Because I walk around the house a lot that area ended up being the square shaped...I can imagine how useful this would be ina jungle etc...However, is there anyway to get normal map data too?
You should turn WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) option on. It's not to do with weather but a system to increase the accuracy of GPS mainly for aircraft approaches. You are correct that it is a US based system but actually the European have EGOS ( European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service) which is interchangeable with WAAS. So I'd leave it on for better accuracy.
Thank you Alex! This is a great video. I like the 601 so far, this video was helpful. I think I'd replace the Velcro with a snap on the Raptor case, l like less noise. Have you pre-loaded and routes? ATB Jim
My pleasure. Jim I usually plan a route then hike/run or walk it. If I like the route I save them for next time. For sure the raptor case is a winner and protects the device too.
I know this is an old video but just a couple of points: The strap is thinner so that you can attach it to 1" MOLLE/PALS webbing - it fits right through the loops. To connect it to your phone you need the Garmin Connect app - I think you set up the app first, add the 601 in the app, hit connect on the app, and then hit connect on the device itself. I'm just going from memory there, but I did get it to work.
No worries sharing the knowledge is good! Mine works with the connect app and there is also garmin explore app too. Its a great little unit. But nowadays I use the instinct 2 solar tactical. But the 601 is always with me up a mountain. Always have a compass and I keep two electronic navs plus smartphone
@@AlphaPews Ah good to hear you got it connected. The solar-powered options for the smartwatch-style Garmins seem like a good choice! Good to keep map and compass skills sharp too. I feel like these small GPS units help with that rather than hinder it because I find you really need a map and compass anyway even with the GPS and a pre-loaded route. Just takes the guesswork out of the orienteering aspect of things i.e. finding your exact location.
Gonna order me one in a couple minutes definitely like that. Had the 401 but a battery burst. But this looks like it’s the next go to. It also broke where you mentioned at the strap connection. Haven’t a clue how but did
I got the 701 for the ballistics calculator and I’m loving mine. We have to do land nav in the army and they make us use the compass for the courses but Garmin for actual field shit if the lead team has one
My 301 finally developed 2 blank lines on the LCD that don't seem to be coming back after I accidentally took Jr swimming after 7 years. I just upgraded to the 601 but will keep the 301 as a backup because it still works other than the screen damage.
Hey, thanks for the review. Question about the wrist band - did you purchase it from Garmin? I have a Foretrex 401 and have always disliked the hook and loop band supplied with it - the 601 looks the same. It is just exactly the wrong length for my wrist; too short by itself and too long with the extender. I am interested in the 601 as a replacement.
Hi, I purchased this via garmin indeed. the velcro strap is basic. I upgraded with the nylon nato strap, that is nice. But even better is the raptor tactical case. not only does it protect but looks sweet too At the end of video you can see it.
hey, love the review. Just wanted to drop a tip on eneloops - do you know that IKEA apparently offers rebranded eneloops pro at very competitive price? I saw some battery geek a while back doing the analysis of those and since they are all made in Japan there is apparently only one factory that makes these cell capacities (900AAA & 2450AA). It is known they manufacture eneloops, sooo...why overpay ;-) I hope someone finds this helpful, thanks!
Hi Roy, to be honest unless you need the enhanced GPS mapping, the fenix watches or tactix should be able to do both mapping and serve as a rugged watch. The smartwatches have more modern integration so can help with fitness too.
Hi there. Been wanting to buy this for a long time. I'm concerned about the durability of certains parts--strap bar and buttons--and it's been two years since you upload the video. Any update on how the device hold up after two years? Thanks. Really great video, I have to say. I think yours is the most comprehensive which is what I'm looking for. Cheers!
It's been great to be honest. However for short trips I tend to wear the Garmin Instinct watch, I've got a review on that too. But also I use my device in a case that made of milspec nylon. Raptor tactical case. So I don't have much wear on any of it. I also use a glass screen protector so the display is still crystal clear. I suppose I future proofed it
@@AlphaPews Ah I see. I have to say that my decision to buy the Foretrex 601 is kind of being put on hold right after I saw your Garmin Instinct review. I'm inclined more into the good ol' 601 but there are features of the Instinct that are not present in the 601. 601's ability to change the batteries in the field is a major plus for me. Only time will tell, I suppose. Love that Seiko, by the way. Been thinking of getting the Flightmaster myself hahaha. Cheers! Thanks for the respond.
I'm a watch geek too! Well..gun guy, watches, cars, outdoors stuff. The battery life is good. I've love to review the fenix models, but they are too pricey for my humble channel. I need deeper pockets.
@@AlphaPews Same here, although I never I never fire a weapon before and only "play" with guns that my father had. He's a police officer. Well, I'm pretty sure you'll be there eventually, mate. Good luck!
I believe so, but just to be sure check out Garmin's customer support pages. It can certainly plan routes based off saved waypoints, but I am not 100% certain. Thanks for watching
I'm looking for garmin similar to these ones that would take you out far middle of where like boating and snowmobiling are the main ones I need help to finding the best one that makes trails and follow recent tracks made. The best navigation
I think this may fit the bill nicely. When I explore I always have my 601. It's like a navigation safety net. But always have a backup plan, carry an old skool compass too. I use a milspec Silva compass. Always plan your route, check in with a family member and have fun. 👍
Another question about the 701? Any difference between the two like newer models and advanced features? Because I'd like to get the newest one they have by garmin
No probs. The 701 has a ballistic calculator for shooting. But the price jump is very steep and it makes the value to cost ratio less. There are free shooting calcs so it's not needed on the 701. Plus if you use mil dots you will be used to shooting distance and adjusting shots. Drop me a DM on Instagram, it's easier to message there @alpha pewpew 👍
Hey bud, is this good for tracking back along a route accurately as I dirt bike here in Thailand in the jungle and want something to take me back to my start point
Hey Shaun, depending on the GPS reception you should be go to go. I tracked a route on a freeway (motorway) and it had no issues with the speed and accuracy was good. If travelling through thick canopy or jungle any GPS device will have some gaps, but the Garmin uses the compass ref to gap fill. If I'm out in the wild my 601 is with me. However more recently I've enjoyed using my instinct watch! I've done a video on that too. What's cool is that is a versatile tool whereas the 601 is a navigation beast. Both are great, 601 has stronger positional fix for sure. The AAA batteries are a big strong point
Hi Devon, its got everything. I've just changed my unit over to MGRS grid and you can even pre enter grids as waypoints or save them on the fly, e.g. an RVP or fallback RVP/FSP Kit dump cache etc etc. Its done through the units selection in setup under the position format. You can also pick the map datum, dual grid format and what units you use, e.g. miles or Kilometers(clicks) Its fair to say the unit is highly regarded in most military applications. i'm sure you will be very happy with it. Runs off AAA bats too.
Hi! Thank you for your review. Can you explain how can i load or extract my routes/W. points/ treks from Foretrex 601 to computer? Does it work with Garmin Express? Thanks
Hi some computer features from what I understand aren't supported but try express and the garmin software. It can be a little tricky. Otherwise you can use the garmin connect app and review the waypoints and maps and create courses to follow. Best info is on garmin website. With 601 you can visually see your tracks all the time. So it creates a map of where you have been. Which is cool. Stay safe my friend 🙂
Hi Alex, Just watched your informative & helpful clip on here giving the full ‘Heads Up’ On this GARMIN ForeTrex 601. Heard you mention about Wrap-Tactical being the company that you got your protective wrist strap case from. I’ve tried to google them and CANNOT fInd this company anywhere. Can you assist?? Also where did you get that NATO strap from?Thanks, Rich.
Hey Rich, appreciate your kind comments dude. The case is raptor tactical. They are US based. As for the NATO I recommend a 22-24mm strap. Personally I prefer the case as it protects the device. I usually have mine strapped to my pack or in my new favourite place on my TFP
@@AlphaPews ahhhhh, Must be my ears then, I thought you said “Wrap-Tactical” not “RAPTOR-Tactical”, 😂🤣. My ears are slightly shot from being in the Military! Where in particular did you get your exact NATO Strap from, bc that’s the one I would be after too. If your YT Clip was shit, I would have told you that too BUT it defo WAS NOT! Many thanks & Best regards.
So, I checked back with Garmin. Looks like they stopped selling the NATO bands. But they offer these. buy.garmin.com/en-GB/GB/p/pn/010-13075-00 I'd suggest an aftermarket NATO band have a search on eBay or similar. If you go for a diver spec watch band they are usually 3-4 inches longer to allow for wetsuits. So this should be G2G for wearing over gear or layers, jackets etc. 🤟 Be safe dude
Hi mate, with this if I'm in the field and get a couple of grids can I pop them in and this will route/direct me to said grids or does it just give a grid reference of current location? Not too good with technology Haha.
yup, it supports 6 figure military from what I can tell. Its super cheating :-) if out n about in the field-if you get what I mean (nav exercise) take care mate
Hi, it's format differs from the smartwatchs. So distance and pace etc are there but it's not fully supported. I think the app changed a while back so. I personally had trouble uploading hikes. But to be honest, if I'm up a mountain I prefer this over other devices as its screen and mapping is really easy to navigate with
You can upload gpx files, way points to the device but they don't seem to sync over to the app, it just displays distance. Could be a glitch in the app?
Yep, appears that on this device it logs the pure basics. But I trust it 100%. So if I'm doing work and need tracking its ideal. I do recommend a case for it though. I'm not a fan of the velcro strap.
john being honest i haven’t tried extracting the raw data yet. But the garmin connect app on ios seems to work ok. Limited fitness tracking but navigation features are strong.
I need to know the grids in MGRS and DMM at the same time of a location where i am not necessarily, for example the grids of a target. Is it possible to do this with this GPS ?
It's raptor tactical. Based in USA. Its nice as protects and also prevent glare from the reflective screen. The basic strap is 24mm I believe so you could throw on a nato diver strap. However the raptor case will allow u to veg up the device so if your on ops I will not be a nice black square amongst your usual camos
I believe battery life and some of the nav features are much improved. Also smart notifications and the screen is super clear when you compare both units. 401 is still a great unit 👍
Hi. There isnt a charge feature as far as i am aware. I carry spare batteries when out in the wild. So far as the battery use is economical, ive never needed them. The 601 has a much improved battery consumption compared with the 301/401.
I dont think overkill at all. For me its bombproof and has superb runtime. So its peace of mind knowing you can get to exactly where you want and if you get a bit lost-its no issue
Hi, how do you upload a GPX route wirelessly ? My Garmin Connect app and desk top say the 601 is connected but that it is incompatible, while my Forerunner is good to go. Also i've tried to plug in via usb( not ideal) but the 601 isn't recognised.
Hi Simon, I haven't tried the gpx for a long while now. So you may have to check out garmin's faq on their website. Usually I live track and it records. Another way around is inputting the waypoint manually, or trying the store the gpx file on the device without going via the app. Like I said I don't usually use gpx files but I believe it can be done. I just can't recall how.
@@AlphaPews Yeah i returned it. No end of compatibility issues and compared to my forerunner 645 it's a nightmare. 645 just downloads anything from Garmin Connect no issue but the 601 is a dinosaur in comparison. Too much trouble.
Question: what is the resolution of the altimeter? I'm doing a work project that needs at least .5 feet accuracy. This doesn't look more than 1 meter (1 foot)(?)
Hi buddy best to check on garmins website. Personally found it to be invaluable when outdoors for safety and tracking reasons. support.garmin.com/en-GB/?partNumber=010-01772-00&tab=manuals
When using pan and Tracback feature I began navigating a track by selecting go there is a icon that pops up at the beginning of the track that says MAP. I contacted garmin but they couldn’t tell me what Map stands for. Does that waypoint MAP pop up when you select track back go? If it does what does it stand for? Thanks for your help! Much appreciated.
Not sure, I will test mine and see what it says. I have seen a notification when the track memory gets full. So sometimes you have to delete some older tracks. Maybe try that.
I checked yesterday, no map notification, so I think it's got to be the memory being full? Let me know if clearing tracks worked 😉 always welcome, appreciate you watching the video
I recently got a 601, and am trying to get comfortable using it for navigation. Tonight I was trying out the Pan and Trackback feature, and noticed it put a point on the map screen labeled 'MAP'. Couldn't figure out what that meant or why it was there. Don't think it showed up in waypoints list. I know it's years later but curious if anyone ever figured that out.
Page by page video tutorials are desperately needed for the 601-701 to be worthy of a purchase, ie instruction on how to use the 601 with Google Earth & Google Maps etc, ie enter a coordinate and go. I find myself getting lost in the devices page after page of caca that has nothing to do with locating that coordinate. Sending mine back tomorrow, just needed a device to roughly and EFFICIENTLY locate property borders without having to toy around, going back and fourth through screen after screen and page after page after page of irrelevant info to get there.
Technically yes, but in a thick forest canopy the signal could be weakened. It's really for lost hikers or even in very bad weather, fog/white out etc. Sometimes features like these aren't used too much, so ideal to practice skills. Have a good christmas.👍
It has so many types of units so mine is preset for UK maps. Check out www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/foretrex601-701/EN-US/index.html for the latest info 👍 take care
As this is more navigation biased, you can track speeds and distance and elevation etc. But I prefer the garmin instinct for fitness. I did a video on that also. Much easier for training. Even has bike modes
You would need a battery charger. But depends. The battery life on ultra track is great, so extended trips you will have no issues. I usually carry two or three spare sets of batteries
Nice video, but you may want to edit out the portions where it displays your coordinates if that really is where your house is. Watching the video with those portions in there I now know your name is Alex, you work in law enforcement, and I know where your house is.
Everything works as it should but for one thing. When I do a route though courses and send it to my Foretrex 601 it tells me my device is not compatible. Any ideas.
I tried similar and gpx files work but not via mobile devices. I tend to use my garmin instinct and then have the 601 when hiking in hills as backup. Then have the option for way points and more powerful backtrack naviagtion. I love the big screen
you cannot use Garmin Connect to wirelessly send data to the 601. You would have to use Garmin Base Camp software on the computer to do it (spent me a few months and a lot of internet surfing to find out) Other than that, the 601 seems no problem at all
It's a tracker and nav device and also compass, show weather pressure and also links to device. I personally only recommend if your going into backwoods and need a robust solution between way points defined by you. Or ideal for hunting. Primarily this is a military navigation device following on from the 301 and 401. The 701 also has ballistic calculator function for bullet drop etc
@@AlphaPews Ok it's what I thought: you need to define waypoints, you can't just visualize a map and make your itinerary on the fly. Thanks for answering.
You can define stuff on the go too. For example if you setup camp or leave some kit hidden in the woods. Or even just where u parked you car. Then the map it creates is kinda like a breadcrumb style and you can later overlay this when you sync your device, then a map. Will be shown. What kind of activities you thinking of using it for?
I like the 601 for training purposes.. but you really should be using the oh so wonderful DAGR if you are in an operational environment. Im sure many of my fellow military folks have heard this before, but it really is true. The DAGR has the encrypted band and is harder for an adversary to "spoof" and/or track you with your own GPS signal. Like I said, I love this GPS, but if you're operating, please use the encrypted GPS.
@@AlphaPews plotting trails around my mountain property, alot of it has been unexplored. As well as land nav purposes and plotting extraction points for military exercises.
@@TheRiskyDingo ah ideal, if you want more bang for buck check out my instinct 2 reviews. I find it nicer to use but I admit the huge screen of the 601 is compelling.
not a scratch on it. the only military grade rating is for durability. imo it's the best consumer grade gps. the military has gps that defeats gps jamming better (DAGR) than this device.
I think why people use this is its super easy. Technically everything can be tracked most have phones in a pocket unless your 1IC has a strict no phones rules.
In short if your used to GPS grid locations you can enter waypoints and create routes on the fly. Or simply switch on and device tracks you, then later you can follow that route or pick waypoint locations depending on your activity. What you planning to use for?
Hi, no beacon mode. I assume you mean a GPS beacon. Those GPS beacons are usually single use devices so I'm not aware of them being. Integrated into small navigation devices. The 601 is mainly for nav, and it's very small for what it does.
On express its got less features as this is more a no frills navigator. Don't forget you need to update it as the satellite database is downloaded periodically to assist lock. It's kinda like your sat nav. If the device looks to the sky and listens in wrong direction it will take ages to obtain a lock. I think 601 and above are OK with express for simple mapping. Daily I use a garmin tactical watch and when I'm out in the wild the 601 is my go to. But I always have a compass
@@AlphaPews I plugged it into my computer, my computer recognizes it, but Garmin Express doesn’t have any of the Foretrex series GPSs in it’s database, so it won’t allow an update. I can update my Nuvi, because when you hit “search for devices it’s recognized. Garmin needs to fix that feature on their express.
Ah man that's sucks. Reach put to garmin of ideas could also try garmin explore and garmin iq apps on your mobile device. I think the last time I updated my 601 is was through explore app
@@KA1of1 just checked mine and its same as your. I clicked trouble don't see your device and it tool me to connect app. I'm not sure if they have changed support for older devices
Richard Ryerson not at all. Lots of features. Battery life is better etc. Check out garmins website for the full specs. I had a 401 and 301. Both are good but this trumps them. Its like an evolutionary design. These units are made to be robust and fit for purpose, therefore in order to get these features some things like colour screens/touch screens will not be likely to be used in the future as military and outdoors end users want a solid unit that just works. If i’m up a mountain- i want this to guide me home or to my exfill etc. The inreach mini is an example of this. Big tech super simple design and robust.
@@AlphaPews Actually good points especially battery life... I like the fact it uses aaa so no worrying about recharging out in the middle of nowhere... I am still undecided but I can get one for $279 Canadian so I am tempted... Thanks for the great review... Cheers
BLa,BLa,Bla!!!Don't do like the GARMIN constructor, just tell us how to press buttons but rather how to actually use the functions...It seems to me that this is the purpose of the object...Regards!
blah blah blah I fell asleep waiting for you to show the Nav. function I still you want though the buttons. Change this, change that, but what does the map look like?
