looking for a new beacon
 

a lot to choose from, looking for a new digital beacon. any recommendations, and why you recommend it . looking for user info, not BS, may help others out also.

thanks
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i use the bca tracker 2. so easy to use yet performs quite well. It's also priced pretty low.

Anybody know much about Mammut ($$$) or Arva beacons?

I've been using the Tracker 2 the last 2 seasons. Super simple 1 switch operation. I definitely like the simplicity. Also nice that it has a very slight curvature to it, to better tuck-in against your body. I have a couple buddies that may pickup avy gear this year and join those of us that already have. Where'd you find the best deal on it Snowolf?

Pieps DSP for me and Snowvols

Beyond my Pieps I've used the BCA(Backcountry Access Tracker DTS Beacon) and an ancient analog beacon but almost all the patrollers I see here in Utah are using old school analogs or the digital Pieps.

I'm far from an expert other here will know more

Pieps is basically setting the standard these days. The DSP Tour is a less expensive option than the DSP and is basically the same thing. One difference though and this may make a difference for some. If you are like me and enjoy riding with your pooch. Pieps makes a transmit only beacon for your dog. Cody has been using it for a year now. It transmits on a different frequency than the 457 standard. The DSP can switch over to receive that beacon. That way you are not digging up your dog before your friends. All it takes is a DSP running the current software. If you don't have it, updates are quick and easy to get at a Pieps retailer. Receive range is the best in the biz for digital receivers with Pieps.

The Mammut Pulse is another very nice beacon. I've played a lot with the Ortovox 3+ and think it's also fairly nice.

The Tracker 2 is solid if bare bones.

All said, buy a three antenna digital beacon. If it's two antenna like the old tracker, move along.

The best beacon of course is the one you know how to use. That means practice...

reminds me I need to get my ass to the beacon course..........now about that snow

Best part is that it comes in apple green to match my bindings! :giggle:

I love my Tracker 2. Great performance and super easy to use.

I just took an avy course partly taught by a guy who helped design the BCA Tracker 2. His opinion was that some of the others are better in certain ways, but that this one is the simplest, with the fewest potentially-confusing "features." If you're involved in an avalanche you want something easy to use so you don't waste time fiddling with your beacon while you're under stress and your buddy is under the snow. I have a Tracker, and when I upgrade I'll get the Tracker 2.