I'm going to purchase a PLB. Driving a 20+ year old truck in remote areas with small kids justifies the insurance IMO. I do not want a yearly/monthly subscription and don't need text functions. Just need a pure "holy chit I'm F'd and need help" device. I've narrowed it down to the McMurdo Fast Find and the ACR ResQlink. Anyone have experience with either or both?
I bought the ACR ResQLink four years ago, as I do a lot of solo off roading, camping and hiking. Fortunately I have never had to use it, but I do the self tests, which have always worked perfectly, sending the test notifications to my wife and son. The GPS location is not that accurate, but close enough. It's a bit of a hassle re-registering it every couple of years, but ACR sends a reminder email and it's not hard to do online. The ACR website is fairly easy to set up and use. Great peace of mind when you are out in the middle of no where with no cell service.
I spoke with my local Search and Rescue coordinator and he recommended the ACR. I carry is while exploring remote locations and never had to use it but it is nice knowing I have it if I need it.
I would suggest to consider the Spot Messenger (and variants). You have four messages you can send (pre-made). For example, I have one setup as "Need non-emergency help" in addition to HELP!!!. The other two are end-of-day and beginning of day check in. Something to think about. Plus track log lets others "play along" wit your trip and save the track log later.
I would suggest to consider the Spot Messenger (and variants). You have four messages you can send (pre-made). For example, I have one setup as "Need non-emergency help" in addition to HELP!!!. The other two are end-of-day and beginning of day check in. Something to think about. Plus track log lets others "play along" wit your trip and save the track log later.
The only reason I'm not considering the SPOT or other text variants is the associated monthly/yearly fees. The ACR seems to have the biggest following among the one-way PLBs. The McMurdo has an integrated antenna, but not sure if that's a good or bad thing to be honest.
