Remoteness in the wilderness is a special experience. Done right and safely, special memories will be made for you, your friends, your family, and even your dog (Allie!). But with that remoteness comes risk. If something happens to injure, strand, or threaten your life, you are on your own to handle it. In The Nutnfancy Project (TNP), when we get out…we get out, often many miles away from rescue services, cities, out of cell phone range, and far from roads. Yes I make sure we go prepared but still full capabilities to both handle serious medicals and technical extrications are limited by SAWC. Enter the second generation of SPOT GPS Messenger, the “SPOT 2.” It has proven to be a reliable companion in Nutnfancy expeditions at this point and is now an indispensable part of my backcountry preparedness items. I resisted the SPOT 1 version because it was too big and lacked versatility. The SPOT 2 at 4.2 oz (with 3 AAA lithium batteries) is 30% lighter and smaller. Moreover it features a better antenna, improved tracking, illuminated buttons, safety covers for the “SOS” and “Help/Assist” buttons (preventing accidental use), a custom message function (have fun with that!), and message-sent indication (very nice to have). Yes you will have to subscribe the $100 a year subscription fee that helps pay for the GEOS Emergency Services that will summon a locally-based rescue team to the broadcasting coordinates. That team will determine the best way in and out to get to you and just …
SPOT 2 GPS Messenger: “Lifeline, Peace of MInd” by Nutnfancy
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@winexprt No customer service issues yet that I know of, but Nutn waited to get the SPOT 2 rather than the first SPOT, and hasn’t had any issues to call them about. All’s good, so far. — Veri
looks like a cool/interesting device for those times when we’re way off the beaten path. i never knew this device existed until i spotted it in your “Witch’s Hut” video (which ROCKED, btw).
just a FYI: in doing some research on this device i came across some very mixed reviews. most of it pertaining to SPOT’s customer service, which was horrible according to some people. just wondering if you’ve have you had any interaction with the customer service end of this company nutnfancy?
im a dedicated tnpr, but its just a bit wierd when he says “make a nutnfancy base camp”
Thanks for the review Nutn. Bought one the other day and my wife and fam are happy I can stay in touch.
@nutnfancy – Love the scenery brother! Curious if and what predator type animals are in the area @ :30 on the video? Thanks
Hey Nutnfancy, You’re doing a great job as always. Any idea when we might see a review on the garmin 60csx?
@mullensk8ter15 LOL!! I think you’re right! And this video has been out two weeks! Duh! Thank you, mullen. — Veri
Not trying to be meticulous here but I think you meant to spell the title “Lifeline, Peace of Mind”. Again, could be wrong. Of course though, like all your videos, AWESOME JOB.
Delorme just came out with a similar device
Thanks for a great review I know there was allot of complaints o the first generation Spot But have been hearing good things on this model I have the same worry wart wife But at least I am not nuts like nutsnfancy carrying 90 lbs on my back army days are long gone lol
found the spot 2 at Eddie Bauer for 130$. I completely forgot about that store but started shopping there more after watching your extended packpack load-out video.
119 at coolebuy . com
I picked one up for the same reason you did and my wife is very happy. Money well spent.
Beginning of the videos, where is that you backpacked? And when packpacking/hunting far in remoteness, where do you park your car to begin the journey?
This is an excellent device and would honestly consider buying this if I had the requirement for it.
Great stuff, thanks for sharing!
Hey Nutnfancy, just do what I do and take the wife every where you go. That way you get to say some change. Nice product. Thanks for the vid. Like it except for the subscription payments. I would buy it for the peace of mind but the payments are a big draw back for me.
@nutnfancy
I live in colorado and I have a fishing license which includes the search and rescue fee. Does anybody know if that search and rescue fee will include any SOS rescue fees initiated by the Spot GPS Messenger??
if you want to play… you better keep momma happy. This looks like a great piece of gear.
When you think about it the subscription is less than $10/ month. Totally worth letting your family and friends know that your OK.
It really gives you a piece of mind when you are on your own. I brought mine along with me on an ocean crossing. I was doing a sailboat delivery from the Carolinas -> Bermuda… solo. The boat had an epirb in the ditch bag. However backups help you sleep better. I had that thing attached to my belt at all times. For example, If I were to get washed over the side of the boat alone with it on autopilot, the ditchbag epirb would be pointless. You would end up watching your ride sail away. SCARY!!
Been considering one of these for the same keeping the wife from freaking out reason. Thanks for the review! Looks like I’ll be adding one to my kit.
have you looked into folding “powerfilm solar panels” brand? They are not that heavy but it can keep your electronic gear charged
High quality video! Most compelling Nutnfancy intro reel that I’ve seen so far, and I think I’ve watched most of your videos. Keep up the heroic work! You are a force multiplier for the good guys.
That would be some good insurance…..just in case.
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