The Bushnell BackTrack Mini is a compact and rugged GPS device designed for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and hunting. Here are its main features:
Key Features
- GPS Functionality: The device utilizes GPS technology to record routes and waypoints, allowing users to navigate back to their starting point easily.
- Display: It features a 2.25-inch easy-to-read display with a resolution of 128x128 pixels, providing essential information like time and temperature.
- Digital Compass: Includes a built-in digital compass that displays latitude and longitude coordinates.
- Weather Data: The BackTrack Mini provides real-time data on elevation, barometric pressure, and temperature, which can be crucial for outdoor navigation.
- Battery Life: The rechargeable battery offers up to 35 hours of usage, making it suitable for extended trips without the need for frequent recharging.
- Waterproof Rating: With an IPX7 rating, the device is waterproof and can withstand temporary submersion in water, making it reliable in various weather conditions.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: It can connect to the Bushnell Connect app via Bluetooth, allowing users to upload and share trips and waypoints directly from their smartphones.
- Ease of Use: Designed with large, glove-friendly buttons for easy operation even in cold or wet conditions.
- Lightweight and Portable: Weighing only 54 grams (approximately 2 ounces), it is lightweight and easy to carry on any adventure. It also comes with a tether and carabiner for secure attachment to backpacks or belts.
- Additional Features: The device provides information on sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset times, which can be beneficial for hunters and anglers planning their activities[1][2][3][5][6].
Overall, the Bushnell BackTrack Mini is designed to enhance outdoor experiences by providing reliable navigation and environmental data in a compact form factor.
Citations:
[1] https://www.a-alvarez.com/en/54041-gps-bushnell-backtrack-mini
[2] https://www.amazon.com/Bushnell-BackTrack-Navigation-Waterproof-Backpacking/dp/B09PLL4MJ3
[3] https://www.glisshop.co.uk/instruments-lighting/bushnell/backtrack-mini-black45988256
[4] https://www.amazon.ca/BackTrack-Black-Navigation-Point-Finder/dp/B09PLL4MJ3
[5] https://www.futurama.co.za/bushnell-backtrack-mini-gps
[6] https://www.womensoutdoornews.com/2022/07/review-no-backtracking-with-bushnells-backtrack-mini-gps/
[7] https://www.bushnell.com/speakers-and-gps/backtrack-mini-gps/BU-GPSBTM.html
[8] https://www.xhunter.com.au/bushnell-backtrack-mini-gps-built-in-digital-compass-bluetooth-trip-navigation-bugpsbtm
What are the main differences between the BackTrack Mini and other GPS devices
The Bushnell BackTrack Mini stands out among GPS devices due to its specific features tailored for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the main differences compared to other GPS units:
Size and Weight
- Compact Design: The BackTrack Mini is notably lightweight at just 54 grams (2 ounces), making it highly portable and easy to carry during outdoor activities. In contrast, many other GPS devices tend to be bulkier and heavier, which can be cumbersome on long hikes[1][2][3].
Functionality
- Simplicity and Usability: The BackTrack Mini focuses on basic navigation functions, allowing users to record trips and waypoints with a straightforward interface and only four buttons. This simplicity is ideal for users who prefer a no-frills approach, unlike more advanced models that may include complex features or touchscreens[4][8].
- Limited Mapping Features: Unlike many handheld GPS devices that offer detailed topographic maps and extensive waypoint options, the BackTrack Mini does not provide built-in maps. It primarily uses breadcrumb tracking to help users navigate back to their starting point[4][5].
Battery Life
- Long Battery Life: The BackTrack Mini boasts an impressive battery life of up to 35 hours on a single charge, which is longer than many competing models that often require more frequent recharging, especially those with larger screens or more complex functionalities[1][3][6].
Connectivity
- Bluetooth Integration: The device features Bluetooth connectivity that allows it to sync with the Bushnell Connect app for sharing and editing trips. This is a relatively unique feature in this price range, as many basic GPS units lack such smartphone integration[2][6][8].
Durability
- Waterproof Rating: With an IPX7 waterproof rating, the BackTrack Mini can withstand immersion in water for short periods. While many GPS devices are rugged, not all offer the same level of water resistance, making this feature particularly valuable for outdoor use in varied weather conditions[1][5][6].
Price Point
- Affordability: Priced around $99.99, the BackTrack Mini is considered a budget-friendly option compared to other handheld GPS devices that can range from $150 to over $500 depending on features and capabilities[8].
Overall, the Bushnell BackTrack Mini is designed for users who prioritize portability, simplicity, and essential navigation features without the complexity or cost associated with more advanced GPS units.
Citations:
[1] https://www.a-alvarez.com/en/54041-gps-bushnell-backtrack-mini
[2] https://www.glisshop.co.uk/instruments-lighting/bushnell/backtrack-mini-black45988256
[3] https://www.amazon.com/Bushnell-BackTrack-Navigation-Waterproof-Backpacking/dp/B09PLL4MJ3
[4] https://hiconsumption.com/gear/best-handheld-gps/
[5] https://www.bushnell.com/speakers-and-gps/backtrack-mini-gps/BU-GPSBTM.html
[6] https://www.futurama.co.za/bushnell-backtrack-mini-gps
[7] https://www.amazon.ca/BackTrack-Black-Navigation-Point-Finder/dp/B09PLL4MJ3
[8] https://www.womensoutdoornews.com/2022/07/review-no-backtracking-with-bushnells-backtrack-mini-gps/
Can the BackTrack Mini be used for both hiking and hunting
Yes, the Bushnell BackTrack Mini can be effectively used for both hiking and hunting. It is designed with features that cater to outdoor enthusiasts in various activities.
Hiking
- Waypoints and Navigation: The BackTrack Mini allows hikers to set waypoints and track their routes, making it easy to navigate back to starting points without relying on cell service, which can be unreliable in remote areas[1][3].
- Environmental Data: It provides important information such as elevation, barometric pressure, and temperature, which can be crucial for hikers to assess weather conditions and terrain changes[1][4].
- Compact and Lightweight: Weighing only 54 grams (2 ounces), it is portable and convenient for long hikes, ensuring it does not add significant weight to a backpack[2][3].
Hunting
- Built for Hunters: The device is specifically marketed as suitable for hunters and long-range shooters. It includes features like a built-in compass and environmental data that can help in planning hunting trips[1][4].
- Peak Activity Times: The BackTrack Mini offers information on sunrise, sunset, and moon phases, which are essential for hunters to determine the best times for game movement[1][3].
- Durability: With an IPX7 waterproof rating, it is rugged enough to withstand various weather conditions encountered during hunting trips[2][3].
Overall, the Bushnell BackTrack Mini combines essential navigation tools with features beneficial for both hiking and hunting, making it a versatile option for outdoor activities.
Citations:[1] https://www.nrafamily.org/content/first-impressions-bushnell-backtrack-mini-gps/
[2] https://www.amazon.com/Bushnell-BackTrack-Navigation-Waterproof-Backpacking/dp/B09PLL4MJ3
[3] https://www.womensoutdoornews.com/2022/07/review-no-backtracking-with-bushnells-backtrack-mini-gps/
[4] https://www.a-alvarez.com/en/54041-gps-bushnell-backtrack-mini
[5] https://www.xhunter.com.au/bushnell-backtrack-mini-gps-built-in-digital-compass-bluetooth-trip-navigation-bugpsbtm
[6] https://www.glisshop.co.uk/instruments-lighting/bushnell/backtrack-mini-black45988256
[7] https://www.futurama.co.za/bushnell-backtrack-mini-gps
[8] https://www.amazon.ca/BackTrack-Black-Navigation-Point-Finder/dp/B09PLL4MJ3