The Garmin tactix Tactical Ops GPS watch is a rugged time piece that packs a lot of features into its frame. The case is made from stainless steel, PVD-coated in a non-reflective Black, and is waterproof up to 50 meters. The face consists of a non-reflective, scratch-resistant, curved mineral glass. The negative mode liquid crystal display is designed for stealth operation, and the Green LED backlight is NVD compatible. The wrist straps are made of polyurethane, and are also Black.
The tactix’s high-sensitivity GPS automatically calibrates the on-board altimeter, barometer and 3-axis compass, in addition to the time and date in multiple time zones. The GPS feature allows the user to create routes, record up to 1000 waypoints, 10,000 track points, and the TrackBack features guides the user back along a previously recorded tracklog. The tactix has ANT+ and Bluetooth capabilities to share tracks, waypoints, and routes with other compatible Garmin devices or smartphones. The tactix features a preloaded world wide basemap.
The tactix functions as a recording tool for training. It can provide real-time performance data, including distance, pace, cadence, and calories burnt. It’s compatible with Garmin’s heart rate monitor, speed/cadence bike sensor, and foot pod. Additionally, the tactix features U.S. tidal data and the Garmin jumpmaster software for amphibious and airborne operations.
The tactix is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. It can last up to 50 hours on a single charge in GPS mode, three weeks in sensor mode, and five weeks in watch mode.
I’ve been wearing the tactix around for a few days, and I like it. Setup was quick and simple, and once I got used to the buttons and menu navigation it became easy to switch between the different functions. At first, it didn’t seem that I was getting the listed battery life out of the watch, so I left it on an extended charge and now it’s still going strong a couple of days later, with barely a dent in the battery meter. It’s also worth mentioning that despite the styling, this isn’t a “big watch”. It’s lightweight and isn’t uncomfortable to wear at all.
The Garmin tactix is currently available from www.strohmanenterprise.com. Run by a USMC Veteran, Strohman takes good care of military and LE personnel.
