O.T.-GPS

Higher priced units add features color displays, internal electronic mapping, etc. But I find the electronic maps generally lack the detail I need. Also I find the maps are hard to read on the small handheld displays. I much prefer good hardcopy USGS map and a simple handheld GPS receiver.

Tip: Once you get GPS unit, practice "navigating" around your neighborhood, in an open field or similar. Become comfortable determining your position, saving waypoints, creating/following short routes involving several waypoints, following backtrack routes, etc. before you head out into the wild.

Tip 2: Never depend on the GPS as your only means of navigation! Carry also a good map and compass, and know how to use 'em!

Can't go wrong with a Garmin 72 receiver or something similar. Price about $130 and up depending on where you buy. Other brands are available, but I've used these units in my work and they are dependable and reliable.

A pilot friend told me that airline pilots carry these things now, ever since one crew lost all electronics and made it to their destination in England because the pilot had the co-ordinates programmed into his hand-held gps unit. I certainly wouldn't trust my Garmin with altitude if I were flying, though. It often shows a higher elevation at the bottom of a hill than at the top.

For the record, with a 5' bush hog my Fergie drove 15.8 miles to mow a 5 acre field.