Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Backpack Hunting Thoughts on Garmin In Reach, Sat. Phones or other options?

I do an InReach message check every time I turn it on during the day or in the morning...and leave it off the rest of the time. Don't see dropped messages with that system. Also ensure I have a clear view of the sky when sending or looking to receive messages.

I do much the same. I have not had a missed message either. The clear view of the sky can be important - usually it works fine in the tent, but if it seems to be dragging I will put it outside the tent.

Surprised by the experience of 406. Most of the first hand failures I know of have been with the spot, not the Inreach.

Have a Inreach pre Garmin did a lot of checking, before I bought very happy with it. Like the ability to pay for it when I use it, and suspend use when not. A lot easier to coordinate meetings on hunting trips in non cell coverage areas, and gives me comfort when alone far from home, or weathered in. Also carry it in my go to
shore boat bag , or flying up here. Spot has a very spotty reputation here for not working!