Ortovox S1 Avalanche Scanner/Transceiver - 2010 BCS

I bought this beacon due to the range and multi search functions. Does well on battery life. There are alot of gadgets with in the system that I never use, but could be useful one day. Strap system is ok but could be better as in it slips and you have to re adjust from time to time. Whats really nice is the option to change change time you beacon is searching. So if you were searching then got buried yourself, it reverts back to send signal after it stops moving for the preset time or your set time. Multi search function is very cool. I find you really follow the flux lines in on a search where others bring you in on a straighter line. This is not a negative, its just something you may notice when searching for the first time.

Of all things in your backcountry kit, your beacon is the last thing you want to have any questions about. After getting familiar with the S1, you wont have any doubts about how easy it is to use. The display system is far more straightforward and two-dimensional than competitors, and the multi-search function easily allows you to hone in on different burials. The one drawback might be that it doesn't automatically turn on when you clip the waist strap, like old Ortovox beacons. Therefore, it's possible to put it on and forget to turn it on. But everybody always does beacon checks before heading out so this shouldn't be a problem!

What's the difference between this one and http://www.backcountry.com/ortovox-s1-avalanche-scanner-transceiver?

Extremely easy to use. It doesn't just go off of dots and beeps. The screen actually shows you the direction of the beacons buried beneath the snow. I haven't had a true avalanche experience with this beacon but neither do I want to have to use it. I practice using it every year and even during the summer. By far out of everyone I know, they love the ease of use this beacon offers. And the easier to use, the faster you can do your job.

Reliable,fast and fits in the palm of your hand. Has a great range too and some really useful functions,like switching between modes in the event of secondary avalanches. Worth the money of the price tag.

Really fast, great range. Not quite as good midrange as the Pieps but better close range and with multiples. I found and dug out both practice beacons before my partner found either of them. Great extra features too!