GPS Question: Garmin Etrex Vista

[Gaffney10]

I was wondering if any of you guys use the handheld GPS units, in particular the Garmin Etrex Vista. I am thinking about purchasing one for mountain biking/hiking, etc and I was wondering what the best handheld unit was for under $300 and so far I have found this to be the Vista.

Also, as far as software is concerned, is it better to go with the National Geographic Topo series, the MapSource series or the Delorme series?
One advantage of the Mapsource is that all 50 states are included.
Also, the best deal I have found thus far is around $220 with a carrying case, anyone know of any cheaper? Thanks!

[Gaffney10]

anyone use handheld gps??

[bagtagley]

You might try sending a PM to Buzzworthy. He knows these sort of things.

[Telenater]

I don't know that I'd say the Etrex Vista is the best, but it has benefited from more refinement than most any other recreational GPS has.

I've only used the topo software for mapping routes onscreen and haven't transfered them to the GPS for navigation. The other software packages I don't know much about except that you can load the mapsource onto the gps so that you can visualize where you are on it's little screen more accurately.

FWIW, I use a GPS for work but not for recreation. In anything except a whiteout I'm as comfortable with a map an compas as I am with a GPS for getting my ass found.

For work, I'd rather use a Trimble GeoXT or a ProXRs connected to a laptop. Sorry Buzz, we got locked into being Trimble whores.