Avalanche Beacons

[Hawk]

So we are headed out this winter to Chamonix to visit some Sugarbush regulars that moved there for the season. With any luck we may even have some guided tours into the unknown. It was strongly advised that I buy an avalanche beacon which I expected to do anyway. Does anybody have any suggestions for a good, cost effective product. I see them out there for $200 to $500 dollars. I am sure AHM has one. What you say?

[teleo]

Not sure what models are best these days, the technology has improved since I last needed one. Been to long
Whatever you get, make sure you play with it! Can be fun having someone bury a beacon and see who can find it first. And that way you get to use it, because you never really want to have to use it.

[gone.skiing]

You should be able to find something between $200 and $300. I have early BCA Tracker version from a few years ago. Very intuitive and easy to use.
http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorge.../BCA0101M.html

I found a used one for my son last winter on TGR forums for $170. It was also digital, but Ortovox version. Functionally very similar. Ortovox has an interesting feature where you can't put beacon on without turning it on. Strap cliip works like an on switch. I thought it was neat - no walking around with turned off beacon.
http://www.backcountry.com/store/rev...rtovox-M2.html

If you keep an eye on forums, you might be able to find something in decent condition. You will also need a probe and shovel to go with beacon.

[Hawk]

I saw those on back country. They looked pretty good and had good reviews. I have a pack, shovel and rope. All I need is a probe.

Thanks for your thoughs.

[gone.skiing]

Not a problem. If you need extras, ping me and I could lend you a couple. I brought beacon for my son to JH last year and it came in handy in sidecountry.

[freeheel_skier]

I have the tracker dts. It's very easy to use.

[ski_it]

Lou Dawson's site, wildsnow.com, has good reviews of a bunch of different models: http://www.wildsnow.com/category/ava...beacon-review/