Which PLB?

[nab]

I want to get a PLB, any recommendations? Not after an EPIRB. I would like a small one to carry in the backpack on our walks.

What is the difference between the $270 ones and the $350 ones?

[woolgoolgaoffroad]

the more expensive ones can send exact GPS co-ords within metres of where you are. Others give a general area, and one could be for maritime use only and the other for land

[HKB Electronics]

Have a look at:

http://www.findmespot.com/international/

You can use SPOT as a EPIRB if you want and they also have a track function
so that others can see where you are and have been.

[Mikeb62]

I've had this one for a few years https://www.ja-gps.com.au/GME/mt410g-plb/. Carry it anytime we bushwalking. It has GPS, older model without G in model number was not GPS and I think now discontinued. I think all current models are gps accurate, but do check. A dedicated PLB gives me more peace of mind over a SPOT type unit, which relies on private US company to relay distress details to search authority. SPOT for tracking and daily OK message is nice though.     

[topcat]

I've had this one for a few years https://www.ja-gps.com.au/GME/mt410g-plb/.

x2 - never had to use it though

[Rokcam]

I reckon this is the best on the market in PLB's.  http://kti.com.au/safety-alert-plb/

[Troopy_03]

the more expensive ones can send exact GPS co-ords within metres of where you are. Others give a general area, and one could be for maritime use only and the other for land

I don't know about PLBs, but when you register your EPIRB you can state what sort of usage it is. That is, marine, land or both.

[jeffr]

...

What is the difference between the $270 ones and the $350 ones?

Battery life and/or form factor. Longer life or smaller form factor equals more expensive, small form factor and long battery life equals very expensive.

Usually, on these types of units a dead battery is the end of the units service life (battery costs more to replace than buying a new unit). So maybe spending more now saves money later by extending the time period between replacing the unit; but I personally doubt it as the cost of these things is coming down over time. The new one I'm looking at buying for example has a 7 year battery life, its battery pack is not a Hazmat concern (i.e.: it could travel on an aircraft with me if I wanted to) and its half what I paid for my early model GME GPS capable PLB .

Look at the PLB's you are choosing between, and buy the one with the latest battery expiry date on it. You should find the more expensive units are useable for a longer period then a less expensive unit (its not hard to find a 10 year battery life on some units now). But only you can decide if the additional time before replacing the unit is value for your money or not.

If its for your 4WD and you don't walk very far when travelling, then don't worry so much about the form factor. If your a keen walker though, a smaller form factor, less weight but more frequent replacement might be the right choice for you.

My GME is about to expire in two months time, so as I said above, time for a new one for me. My PLB that is about to expire gave me about four and bit years service, but thats just my recollection, not a fact.



Edit: typos, sorry.

[nab]

Cheers guys, you just confirmed what I had thought.

Just bought a KTI SA2G, $269 delivered with 10yr battery. Hopefully never have to use it for myself.....

[GBC]

I bought the same one a couple of weeks back.

[Rocky and Bullwinkle]

http://beacons.amsa.gov.au/about/beacon-types.asp#epirb2


Which ever one you choose look at the AMSA web sit first, I have Resqulink PLB very happy with it. Small light and easy to carry with all the features. You also need to register it with AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority).

Greg