I'm starting to out together my list of gear that I'll be purchasing for this season and hope to get a little input from the knowledgable minds here. I apologize if these are pretty newb questions, but I just want to make sure I have the rich gear for what I need.
So I'm basically looking for the essentials: beacon, shovel, and probe. I've contemplated just buying the BCA combo pack that I've seen a few places and saving some cash. But sometimes that isn't the best idea, right?
So first question regarding the shovel. I've noticed that some shovels have just a t-handle, while others have a d-shaped handle. What would either be better for? Is it mainly just user preference? What other important features should be looked at when buying a shovel?
I've noticed that carbon fiber probes are recommended because of their deflection resistance, so I've got that in mind while looking for probes. In terms of length, what should I be looking for? I'll mainly be traveling into the backcountry here in Washington State and a bit up in BC, if that makes any difference.
As for beacon, I really have no idea of what to look for. The cheapest option is the low end BCA beacon, but how well does it perform? Is there a better option that still cost effective?
So I'm basically looking for the essentials: beacon, shovel, and probe. I've contemplated just buying the BCA combo pack that I've seen a few places and saving some cash. But sometimes that isn't the best idea, right?
So first question regarding the shovel. I've noticed that some shovels have just a t-handle, while others have a d-shaped handle. What would either be better for? Is it mainly just user preference? What other important features should be looked at when buying a shovel?
I've noticed that carbon fiber probes are recommended because of their deflection resistance, so I've got that in mind while looking for probes. In terms of length, what should I be looking for? I'll mainly be traveling into the backcountry here in Washington State and a bit up in BC, if that makes any difference.
As for beacon, I really have no idea of what to look for. The cheapest option is the low end BCA beacon, but how well does it perform? Is there a better option that still cost effective?