Best Avalanche Beacon

[10003514]

Looking at upgrading my avalanche beacon to a digital style over my current SOS beacon. Have used a few other models besides the SOS but non really stood out as a clear choice. What do most of you use? Likes? Dislikes?

 

[akstormin]

All the digital beacons are very good and much better (read easier to use) in the search mode. Of course it all comes down to money, the more you spend the more features you get. On the lower money end I have a Tracker 2 and an Ortovox and they are both great. Easy to use, reliable and relatively cheap. For the money I spent on both of those you could get a really nice Barryvox, the high end Ortovox, and I'm not sure how much the PIEPS go for but I've heard nothing but good things about them as well. As for popularity I think the Tracker 2 probably is the most common beacon out there right now.

 

[SnowBigDeal]

I would recommend the BCA Tracker 2, the Pieps DSP, or the Ortovox S1.

 

[deschutes]

I would echo what snowbigdeal recommends, with the exception of the Tracker 2. The T2 does not have the ability to suppress signals during a multiple burial scenario, whereas the others on the list do. Don't get me wrong, the T2 is a good beacon. However, if I were looking to buy a new one I would take this into consideration. Given that, I would add the new Ortovox 3+ to the list, since it is at a similar price point as the Tracker 2.

A great resource is: www.beaconreviews.com

 

[EagleRiverDee]

I would suggest looking at the Pieps DSP or Ortovox S1. I researched diligently last year, including reading reviews from users, and those two had the best features and best reviews. I opted for the Pieps, but the Ortovox looks very good as well. Purchased from Snowbigdeal.

 

[WR]

The Barryvox Pulse, or the Pieps DSP are IMO the top two beacons out there features and overall use wise. The S1 isn't bad either.

 

[mtncrawler]

I have an SOS transciever. Did not make it through its warranty period before it stopped recieving signals. Took it back to the dealer where I was given a form with a phone number to call. For a warranty claim I had to send it to Canada, pay shipping both ways, and give them a credit card # so I could be charged if they determined I was somehow at fault. In retrospect, after the loss of use for half the winter, getting stuck with shipping costs, long distance phone charges, and the time spent hasseling with the post office I should have pitched it in the dumpster and bought a Tracker to replace it. Anyone else have warranty issues?

 

[the_epic_king]

Mammut Barryvox Pulse, hands down. I own two.