Never owned one before... I noticed some of the newer models have all kinds of extras that I don't think I will need. Anyone have any good advice?

What is most important for you...ease of use, transmission distance, multiple signal deconvolution, performance/features, size/weight, display options, price, etc...?

I use Backcountry Acess Tracker DTS. It's pretty easy to use. Most important is a Avi 1 class and lots and lots of practice.

imo, Ortovox

Haven't had to use mine in a "real" situation, but in the test runs I've done, my Backcountry Tracker (think that's the name) has worked well. Consesus, though, seems to put the Ortovox at the head of the pack.

Curious, though- you're putting this in the CALIFORNIA section, of all places?!!

Depending on how much $$ you want to spend, i'd say the Mammut Pulse.


A 360 degree arrow and a meter count make for fast and easy locating, along with good search for mulitiple burials.


But nothing will replace a Avy class and hours of experience.


JL

Oops... Sorry for posting under Cali. Maybe an elf can move it? Thats what I get for posting drunk.

I plan on using it for backcountry snowboarding in the Sierra. Weight is an issue, although reliability and ease of use is most important to me.

I had been looking online for info a while ago and came across this site and also
this table rating quite a few with links to the individual reviews. Looks like they like the Pieps models quite a bit.

I can't comment on the others opinions on Ortovox and Mammut (although I've heard Mammut's Pulse is effective), but I own the Pieps DSP and it works great, although I haven't used it - thankfully - in a live burial situation. Its fast, effective, easy to use and seems to receive some of the highest ratings. However, its not the lightest on the market, but I tend to believe that my life is more important than lightening my load by a few ounces . The new Pieps Freeride seems to be getting some attention as a lightweight alternative, but sounds a bit simplistic. A good review of the Freeride can be found here http://www.sierradescents.com/gear/2009 ... eride.html

Thanks for all the info. I'm in no rush so I guess I'll have plenty of time to do some research.

BCA's new Tracker 2 is just about to be released. Go to the Telemarktips avalanche forum to read about it.