Astro 220 vs 320

[elkhuntingfool]

For those that have seen or used - is it worth spending the extra $ to pick up the 320? I've read the reviews - but want to know if anyone has had real world use of one.

Thanks!

[gonehuntin']

I'm thinking of selling my 220 and going to the 320. Seems that what the big selling point is, is the three axis compass. The 320 points to the dog more reliably.

That being said, I've been very happy with my 220.

[gdog]

I upgraded and like some of the new features. I did just have a dc40 collar die on me though. Less then month old. Garmin customer support was great. They 2nd day shipped a new one at no cost to me due to a hunt I have this week.

One of the big benefits is suppose to be the new Birdseye maps you can download. Haven't used that yet and not sure I will since I have the Etrex map.

[MO_GSP]

never had the 220 but i have the 320 and am still learning some but think its phenomenal so far love the compass and i think it has a bit better range than the 220

[codym]

A little off the topic but I have a 320 and I used it on a elk hunt and the thing ate batteries really fast. Is there a specific brand or type you guys have success using?

[elkhuntingfool]

Cody - try lithium batteries - I have them in my GPS and works great. Also - check to see how long your backlight is on - that will drain batteries quickly.

[SetterNut]

I sold my 220 for a 320 and am very pleased with the 320. As Drahts points out the 3 axis compass is much better.
The 320 is also easier to use and navigate through the menus.

[nj gsp]

Just got the 320, and I like it. Still learning my way around it though. I've been using the Duracell NiMH 2650AH rechargeables and the Duracell GoMobile charger. Keep the backlight off, and battery saver mode on and they will last all day. You will notice the battery level indicator will read different levels depending on back light setting. I also carry an extra set of batteries in my vest just in case but I haven't had to swap them out in the field yet.

A pair of Duracell Alkaline batteries lasted for a total of 8 hours of use (not continuous) over two weeks, and although low they still had a reasonably good power level when I swapped them out for the rechargeables.

[codym]

I guess I had the backlight on high and the battery save mode off (No wonder it was eating em huh?). I think I will invest in some rechargeable lithiums (if that even exists). Besides that I love the 320 and the dc 40 collars awesome tool.