Garmin Instinct 2x Solar Tactical: Real world review

Garmin Instinct 2x solar Tactical (Coyote)$499- amzn.to/3rzhp9D
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[@codyjohnson9781]

I've had this watch for a month now and it's awesome. The fitness tracking features are great.

[@royse05]

Great review, I think this sealed the deal on me getting the Instinct 2x Solar Tactical

[@hakunamatata324]

Well, I just found my dream watch. Thank you.

[@larrydotsonviet2]

Thanks so much for your video! It’s on sale right now so I had to pick one up! Really excited to use it on my deployments! Perfect Christmas gift my myself! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!

[@tcwhite0104]

stay safe out there.

[@bwalbwal7895]

Loving my 2X. Gettting on average 30 days charge (leaving about 8 days worth of battery charge). The torch is great for sneaking out of my girlfriends house when needed. The GPS is good - love having the MGRS too. Nice and rugged as well. I like that I can change out the watch band easily too.

[@BhutWhut]

Are you a cop?

[@IHaulBoxes]

I got the 2X and what I do to mitigate the map feature is: I plan out my hike and just put off track waypoints named after a landmark of intrest. Like "lake" or "tower". It's absolutely more than adequate. That along with slower processing is a tradeoff worth making at 1/3rd the price. After all this tech will probably be obsolete in 5 years time.

[@BladeDoomer86]

With Ai, make it 2yrs..

[@THExDUDEx8624]

For sure. One direction Garmin has been going that I don't like. It's almost like Samsung or Google now it seems. A new version of the watch you wear every year. That sucks , because you spend a bunch of money and have something that's outdated way faster. I refuse to go along with the program 😂. Sold my smart watches and got an instinct original. I got it like 2 years after it came out. I fell in love with the instinct instantly. Haven't noticed battery issues after a couple years 👍🏼

[@WristWatcher]

Can you explain waypoints more please

[@bulistabs]

Do you need your phone to use the gps feature. Or does it work off satellite?

[@IHaulBoxes]

@@WristWatcher The watch only displays your planned track and breadcrumb trails. No true maps. But you can mark certain "points of interest" (= gps coordinates which you can give a name) in the vicinity of your route to help orient yourself. These marked points are called "waypoints" in Garmin explore (the software/app where you build your courses).

[@alvilda09]

Ty for awesome review, my instinct tactical on the way 🤘

[@404-Err0r]

Fantastic review, i love it, please keep it coming! I bought the same one as you after watching your video (Instinct 2x tactical) and your real world review is very accurate. In terms of watch bands (If that's a thing for you), which would suit it as there's not many with the coyote tan color? I got myself a nylon black band, but it's not as nice since the color doesn't really match up. Anyways... it is definitely the best watch I've bought to date, beating my Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire to be honest when it comes to price/features.

[@stinct1776]

Very succinct review and to the point. Awesome work, and subscription earned. Instinct makes more sense for the daily average user. But, for an "end of world" scenario those pre-loaded maps on the more expensive watch could make all the difference you will ever need.

[@Justyburger]

I have the Instinct 2x solar tactical in black. I do ocean swims with it, run with it, gym with it, sleep with it etc etc. What I love about it is the battery life, the weight, how rugged it is and of course the price. In the end it does come down to price. I love the Tactix, Epix, Fenix and Enduro, but it's price. In some ways I also prefer the build style of the Instinct, best. I'll explain: There are watches that you can sit flat on a table and there are watches that hold the shape of your wrist (meaning you have to lay them on their side, on a table). In that regard, the Instinct is probably a more comfortable fit. The one thing I would love about the Tactix is that red hue tone. It might only be available on the Amoled? That's the other big decision with the high end watches. Do you pick Amoled or the better battery and always on display? I lean towards the always on display and solar options.

[@ponolovefarms3926]

I love the track me mode when hunting mushrooms in the Pacific Northwest

[@butoikaruga]

Amazing review. I have the instinct 2 tactics, and I never been able to charge it via solar that equals in positive charge. I've contacted them and said there is nothing wrong with it, since is mean to 'maintain' at best.

[@lens7859]

Nice review, might be on my Christmas wish list

[@godsangryhands4499]

I am currently in the market for 1 of these.. This video was a great reference! Thanks!

[@KM-je5xt]

Thank you for your time ṭhis help me tun for me. Got a good price this boxing day 😊

[@robertloszewski1347]

Thank you for this! I have the Tactix 7 with ballistics and love t, but I’d like to pick this one up as well and you helped seal the deal!

[@treysanders4509]

I got the same watches as you. I don’t think the review could get any better. I love both watches and they have help me cheat a little bit when it came to grid coordinates in the army. Lol but I definitely agree with everything you said. For the average person they could get away with the regular versions if needed. I used to do airborne missions back in the day and honestly never used the jump features. The hole reason why I even bought the watch. Lol. Would have been nice to try it out though. I catch myself wearing the instinct more. Far as the mapping on the delta. I used it only once just to try it out. To anyone trying to figure out witch watch to get look at what it’s going to be used for. Cuz if you’re not using any of the features then none of these watches are for you. Unless you like me and like collecting gear lol. Great review though. Best one on this watch.

[@Ebuthsombat]

Great review, thanks. Im keen to hear your thoughts on your Tactix 7 PB vs your Delta Solar when outdoors and in the field.

[@cantstartafire]

Thanks man! Very helpful. Going with the instinct. Cheers! BTW (2x coyote tactical) $399 as of 11/18/23 on the link you provided.

[@brandonrivera3224]

Have this watch and absolutely love it

[@BhutWhut]

Did you get it?

[@Intel_8]

Really digging these reviews! Tomorrow is Amazon Prime day so I'm hoping to grab one of these on sale.

[@willlatham7878]

Did they go on sale?

[@Intel_8]

@@willlatham7878 Nope. Still $499. We’ll see what Black Friday brings. Also keeping an eye on the hybrid models. I like the traditional look of the hybrids with hour and minute hands.

[@milcommguy5927]

I would like to see more on the tactix 7 features "how to"as I am always trying to figure out how to use it, sad as I am using it as a watch and flashlight and nothing else. Good Job.

[@trevino73]

I own the Garmin Marq Adenvturer and love it. It’s own of my best watches.

[@pin_high]

The 2x Solar Tactical is one of the best smart watches I've ever owned. Ive gone over a month without charging it. I use the flashlight all the time and even when tracking hikes or other activities, it last longer than my Apple Watch or Suunto Traverse.

[@xiondFirst]

Well I hope it lasts longer than Apple Watch the thing barely lasts 1 days and ultra lasts slightly more than a day.

[@justsomeguyontheinternet5331]

I ran a Garmin Instinct (non-solar, non-tactical) for about two years. I got a Solar 2 Tactical for my anniversary last November, so after almost a year I can say ai really love it. Excellent for my purposes. I run the fitness tracker too much to really get that much out of the solar charge though, but on expedition mode itll just go forever. the flashlight feature on the 2X seems pretty cool though. I kind of wish I had that, but I also EDC a Streamlight Wedge so I dont really need it

[@dylantheshotgunner5136]

I also run a streamlight wedge. It’s my edc and work flashlight. And it’s been a fantastic light. I’ve dropped it off of the top of semi trailers. Left in the rain for and elements for weeks when I lost it in my work parking lot. It’s been ran over at least 4 times that I know of. I’ve dropped it holding it at least 50 times on concrete. It’s missing a body screw and It has a patina from hell but it’s just as durable as the day I took it out the package. It may be genuinely the toughest flashlight I have ever seen. I still carry it every day.

[@dylantheshotgunner5136]

Just curious. You wear a garmin and carry a light. So I’m going to assume that you carry a knife too. If so what are you carrying rn and why

[@justsomeguyontheinternet5331]

@@dylantheshotgunner5136 Benchmade Crooked River. not overtly "tactical" and does what I want. I'm about 6'4 so a full size knife fits me fine.

[@immortalsoul9122]

Great review! I’m saving up for Instinct 2x with metal band (I can’t wear any resin/rubber)

[@emanuelvega1823]

Nice comparison and great video!

[@eberry023]

I thought the Ballistics main feature was that it was a back up to a jump computer. I was thinking about getting it just to see that difference between my CARP and what the jumpers were likely to come up with before talking to the JM.

[@stretchman490]

You should think about adding the coolfire solar charger to your store. Read up on it, as they work amazingly well. For making certain you have a full charge to start with, especially if you're going to need the watch to work.

[@apleparulo3958]

Looks like a great watch. This model doesn't have topo maps and wondering how useful that would be for someone who is more a bushwacker. Do you think the Instince 2 nav is plenty enough?

[@georgegabriel3818]

just bought one, loving it

[@asapoaf778]

Hi sir, nice video. Although how does the Instinct behave during cold weather? does the battery drop like fast?

[@discipleaj]

Great review, thank you. I've stuck with my solar Casio mudmaster (the later version of the Pathfinder series) precisely because it has full reliability with solar endurance and its a really tough watch. I said to friends of mine that I didn't want a Garmin until technology had caught up to allow their watches the advantages of solar charge whilst still having majority of they key features, and it seems that this watch does exactly that. 😃 Now all I need to do is subliminally justify the cost of my second solar watch to my wife via various direct and indirect tactics. Something I think this watch can help with. 😏

[@tuliombtrindade]

Ok.. So we are stuck with the same gshock model... and it is indestructible :). But i also believe that is the one

[@jrdsm]

count me in, lol I had my mudmaster since 2015, I think this is the one im waiting for

[@tomistrawberry1299]

Mudmaster is awesome (i have one) but what It lacks compared to Garmin instinct is GPS navigation, and that's a deal breaker for me.

[@federicovenier5517]

I'm stuck with my Casio ProTrek PRX2000T. I cannot find a valid replacement, and I have been looking for several years. 100% solar, Digital time, silver Titanium band, scratch protection: the impossible mix!

[@Ogokao]

I am also stuck with a Casio G-shock watch , The "GW-9400 Rangeman" , i really want that Garmin but i feel stupid when i know that i wont use my Rangeman anymore if i get the Garmin :(

[@cape3]

Is that Lake San Cristobal in your picture? Great review, thanks!

[@coledobner7059]

really cool watch but it looks absolutely massive on your wrist. i prefer traditional land nav tools, but I have never used something like this. have you tested the abrasive resistance of the face? I am a mechanic and army vet who still likes to get out in the woods and practice bushcraft/fieldcraft, and am interested to know if it can stand up to the abuse. Right now I have a 15 dollar Casio forester that i use because i can always go buy another one if it breaks or gets too scratched up. Edit: sorry if i asked a question you talked about in the video i had it on while working.

[@AhHereWeGo]

I’ve had my instinct 2 tactical solar for about 6 months. Overall I like it, i immediately changed the face so it was easier to see, it’s working great as a fitness/sleep tracker, but even in the sun all day, with what i have turned on, i gotta charge it about once a week

[@KevTubeee]

Do you by any chance have your 'Pulse Ox' scanning continuously ? Makes a huge difference in battery life. I changed this to 'Manual scan only' and changed the face to a black background with white lettering. I also have a regular size Instinct 2 Solar Tactical. Use it daily: During sleep,in the gym,etc. and I easily get almost a full month per charge ?

[@AhHereWeGo]

@@KevTubeee I have pulse ox on for sleep, not all day though.

[@KevTubeee]

Hmm.. Don't know if that will make such a difference then... When I first got my watch I saw a KZbin 'tips & tricks' video about saving battery life on the Instinct 2. There where a few minor points,but like I said earlier,I easily get almost a month out of every batter charge. And living in Belgium I rarely get alot of sun either. 😂

[@dnserror89]

Thanks for the review. I just bought one brand new for €319.

[@serafinski_com]

6:56 The LED flashlight is the most useful gadget in this watch and is used very often. For example, when I go to the toilet at night so as not to look for the light switch...

[@geraldacevedo2003]

Real world scenario indeed

[@EZTechClass]

True, and you can double click the CTRL button (top left) to quickly turn on/off the flashlight without going via menu

[@702ification]

Thanks for the info!! subbed

[@TAVAAR7]

I'll have to wait on getting the 2x. I got the first version solar tactical about 3-6 months prior to the instinct 2x launch announcement 😔. Aside from a battery life issue and sending the first one back for a replacement (and the current one showing similar battery life deterioration) its been a good watch and I got it roughly 25-30% off whatever retail was at the time...probably as a closeout with the 2x incoming. Got other priorities until it needs to be retired anyway. If you have the first version instinct solar tactical is there any chance of you doing a 1x vs 2x comparrison vid? A longer time span use of the 2x would be informative too. 👍

[@brentthebloodhound]

Thank you. I just got one because I workout. Hunt. Fish and hike. It’s really nice. It’s better than Apple Watch. And it helps mesure my sleep too

[@cyphre]

Instinct definitely has its place among the competitors. More of an all purpose watch with some great GPS functionality. Even the older Fenix models had maps though, just coming at a premium. Really nice solar upgrade for the Instinct though! Definitely better than the original.

[@enb3810]

I do find it a little frustrating that garmin is so stingy with the storage, it's extremely cheap.

[@ripkej77]

Upgraded from the instinct solar gen 1 to the 2X. The solar actually works and the battery last super long when you dont use GPS ect but 2x longer than the gen 1. Worth the up grade and the flash light will come in handy. 10 out of 10 for me

[@grantdeisig1360]

I had an instinct solar, and I loved it. Bought it for the battery life alone (great for it's capabilities), but unfortunately, I left it on the hood of my truck and drove off not realizing what I had done. I tried connecting to it while I traced my steps, but I never found it. I was pretty bummed. But I seen the 2x and got kind of excited for it, and then it was just on sale for $399 for black friday, so I couldn't resist. Can't wait to get all those cool features back and then some.

[@ripkej77]

@@grantdeisig1360 You’ll definitely like the 2X . battery last a long time

[@pdvision2194]

So I am strongly considering this watch for an applachian trail through hike. If I have GPS on for most of the day, how long of a battery life do you think I'll get with the solar?

[@ripkej77]

@@pdvision2194 that’s tuff if you are using it all day for several days in a row using GPS tracking i don’t know if any watch would out preform this for battery life .. the Solor will work good at maintaining the battery as long as it’s getting sun . I’ll say this normally used my gps once a day for an hour or so and the battery will last for weeks . also i used the flash light quite a bit lately too . Its 80% and it was last chatged on the 5th so 7 days ago. hope that helps

[@pomegranatepip2482]

@@grantdeisig1360 instinct solar is a great watch. I have one as well, and I love watching the Fenix crowd looking down their noses at me with all their features they never use. Lol. (I am sure there are exceptions).

[@CallMeColtLLC]

I got the Instinct Tactical a few years back because I wasn't sure I'd like wearing a watch daily. Back in my Marine Corps days, I had just a real simple time piece to sync up with others. In case I didn't like it, I didn't get solar. That is my biggest regret. But, I'm not ultra high speed or anything, but I find myself using features on it daily & when I do get time to but on the night vision, I like being able to put that mode on. I think the upgrade to this will be worth it with the added features. The light alone would be a huge help to me a lot, and the solar being in Texas, I'd probably never need to charge it. I'd like to see some of the ballistic features on this watch if that is something you would do a short video on. I have never used any of that software. I'm kinda a FUD and use my notepad.

[@danieldavis2292]

Yeah I'm with you, I'm still waiting for ANYONE to do a proper review on AB app on both this and the Tactix. Trying to workout how useful it would actually be at the range for quick adjustments without a spotter

[@wFear]

The ballistic feature pack costs an additional 300£ by the way..

[@CallMeColtLLC]

@@wFear I didn't even know it cost extra. Go figure. Thank you.

[@exploringgodscountry]

I am sticking with casio. That calculator watch is badass. Not to mention the tv remote.

[@jimfromoregonusa9899]

Great review, great job done!

[@Graves-81_69]

To me right now the Tactix 7 series is it. I’m new to it but I’ve wanted a highest quality for a long time and now I can swing one. However my job of 22 years is a pretty demanding trade so I’ve worn out a few GShocks. I’m on board with paying $500 for a watch that’s worth it

[@Thisthat1234]

My gen 1 base instinct is still kicking. Looking to upgrade soon

[@soundmapper]

I have the instinct and it was a gateway into getting their scale. At some point my doctor mentioned I should buy a blood pressure monitor (always been a little high) and look at that, garmin had me covered. I think they have a good stride going. It's a little speedy, but the quality is there.

[@user-du8tg4wh3k]

nitric oxide daily and in 45 days or less you will see a marked improvement. horbaach nitric oxide mac 3000 mg on amazon. I was running really high BP 190/100 or higher now 120/80 sometimes slightly lower. Um yeah so I am thinking about a 2x over a G Shock GBD-H1000 or H2000 or Garmin Enduro.

[@user-uu9oy5wp8l]

@@user-du8tg4wh3kIndeed. Beet root is the way to go.

[@Josiah_Sanchez8]

Awesome info thank you keep it up very very helpful

[@giovannifontanetto9604]

Good for tropical countries, I live in Rio de Janeiro, just walking in the street it will charge.

[@federicoezequielmackin]

super useful review. thank you

[@MikeHoncho27542]

You are a bad influence on me😂😂 I bought the all black sunnto core a few years ago after you did a review. Guess what came in the mail last week? A Garmin instinct 2x tactical. Love the reviews and content. Keep up the great work

[@PreparedAirman]

Nutnfancy did that to me for years lol

[@semper7717]

Also, Tactix has a bigger screen, colored screen, and some other features that you pay for. Does the Instinct allow you to quickly change out the wristband like the Tactix does?

[@Szymon331]

i'm huge fan of Instict series. I have been personally useing first Instict solar about 3 years. 2x tactical is my dream but it is too big for me and i know i dont buy this model. I use this wath daily and when i ride on bicycle (downhill and enduro) and smaller watch i safer and more comfort. Mayby Instict solar 3 will be better like 2x but in smaller body :) Nice review :)

[@peterkelly7226]

Nice review I would like to see more videos👌🏼✌🏼

[@ufcpa1]

The Instinct 2x is a good value and I agree with your assessment. It does significantly lack in one area not mentioned, versus the Tactix and Fenix series of watches, in that it has a significant delay in saving activities to memory when completed. This lag can be 15 to 20 seconds, compared to 1 second for the Tactix/Fenix. Considering that the 2x is significantly less expensive than those watches, that may be fine for many. I thought it would be ok for me, but ultimately I returned it and bought a Fenix 7.

[@pomegranatepip2482]

I’m genuinely amazed that that is an issue for you. Wow.

[@starfallmedia329]

Bro can't do something else for 15 seconds. Most American thing ever

[@xmateinc]

The fenix 7 is a better purchase for sure. I don’t think the instinct is worth 500. Maybe 350 but for 500 you might as well get a fenix. Mapping on the tactical sucks.

[@258shoff]

@@xmateincI prefer the old school g shock look to the instinct

[@22leggedsasquatch]

Please do explain the ballistics aspect. Thanks..

[@leonpatrick5606]

You must have some small wrists because that watch looks huge on you. I brought the Garmin fenix 7x pro sapphire solar, and it's also a beast. Im charging it once a month with all features on minus the brightness, which is set at 5%. Awesome review

[@unityxg]

My Daily Driver is an Epix2 Sapphire but this thing is reallllllly cool and I kind of want it.

[@alphonsecadieux6127]

That amount of sunlight sure results with a beautiful tan line 😜

[@mrgreen2769]

I was considering the tactical but I don't like the screen layout plus many of the features i'd never use like nightvision, ballistics and so on. I choose the Moss Garmin Instict X2 which has a very nice layout and features i'd likely use. Other than a few extras both watches are about the same and the stealth feature is just an overhyped sales pitch to get military service members to buy. Honestly if we did go to war with China they'd have a fix on all soldiers wearing it, they manufactured most of the components.

[@apanmarius]

100% the instinct 2x solar is gonna be my next watch

[@engineer12v]

Hey there is another big difference lol the tactix has a ballistics computer in it too as well as topo maps which are very useful for land nav

[@genomedia44]

Awesome review. What's the area you're in at 4:50, looks good for hiking and outdoors activities?

[@PreparedAirman]

Most of the videos were filmed in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.

[@SpaceExplorer31]

I had the instinct 2 tactical and I sold it to fund the Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Titanium. Wasn’t impressed with Fenix screen. Sold it. Hated it. Might try out the Instinct 2 X.

[@jimbo6413]

Yeah, 2% drain per day sounds about right. I like the watch. Does everything I'm looking for (tracks my workouts, handles phone/text/email notifications), but not so sure about the "indefinite" spin. Charge lasts for a little over for a month in my experience (which is still pretty amazing). Solar charging is great, but unless you're outside every day for a fairly long stretch (presuming it's sunny), then you won't notice much difference. When I am able to make it outside on a sunny day then the solar charging capability will of course slow the drain down (meaning a 1% or literally 0% drain for that day), but that's about it. Still a solid investment and I'm happy with it.

[@ni7suj]

Thank you. 👊

[@Yugo-CA]

Could not find an answer to my question and your videos have been the most helpful so far with the Garmin watches. My previous phone after opening the connect app and it connects to my instincts 2 tactical, I can then close the app and lock my phone and put it in my pocket etc and it would alwasy stay connected (unless I walked away too far) but this new phone I got when I lock the screen and leave the app it disconnects from the watch. Any ideas?

[@gabrielfelixmunoz739]

can you review/go over how the gps works

[@Anomeley]

I have several Garmin watches, well more than several but they include the Garmin Tactix 7 Pro with Ballistics (also solar), the Solar Instinct 2 Tactical (smaller version of this) and this larger version the 2X Solar Tactical. The question is a valid one but the 7 Pro Ballistics is superior to me because of the software which is also available on this model BUT you have to pay the $300 again to activate it so then it becomes an $800 watch not $500. The only real positive is it's a lot lighter and the solar on this one unlike the Tactix is advertised to be superior.

[@adamw1845]

Also sacrifices Spotify. I love been able to listen to my music offline without having to take my phone for a run. I could give up maps and touch screen if it had Spotify offline

[@chrisallen2792]

I can’t go full smart watch. But I have a watch to tell you about. Tissot t touch. I’ve deployed to Iraq many times… and this watch took that beating… and kept working. I was and still am 1 with this watch. I still wear it… I got it in 2003 right after we invaded Iraq. In 21 years I’ve only had to change the battery 3 times. 21 years… 7 deployment…. Still my go to watch. The compass is outstanding. And has saved my ass more then once. Watches these days won’t last but a couple updates. You need to know how to go minimum.

[@XrayMike17plus1]

I have a Casio Solar Mudmaster on my wrist that Ive used for around 10 years. Not all the features but the ones it has haven't yet failed. Does the Garmin have a sappire crystal? Can you replace the bezel? Curious. I might replace the Mudmaster for the tight features and trade-offs.

[@suryakulshreshtha]

As an owner of the similar Instinct 2. I can safely say after 2 years of usage..... Garmin Instinct 2 solar only runs for maximum 5 days with Pulse Ox and Heart Rate on continuous use & no notification connect and twice a day connect to phone via bluetooth for data sync worn all day. 40 percent display brightness. Using GPS only for a 1 to 2 Km run a day.

[@naoidfpaiourej3299]

I've got big arms but that thing is like wearing a dinner plate. Sticking with the 2 Solar

[@CEPrepper]

Do either allow you to have service and music so I don’t have to have my phone in BT range?

[@n057828]

Version 1 I got 2-3 weeks battery with most turned off. Returned 😂 Oh just to let you know I’m outdoors 5-6 hours each day delivering Mail!

[@anonymousmc7727]

What kind of solar panel did wall-e have?cause he charged up fast😊

[@Utubeisazzho]

They make a good golf watch. Gps to this pin is great. Visuals of each hole with data

[@daultinpayne3592]

Do you have to download a specific app to use it for golf ?

[@sometrucka5881]

I want one of these watches now..

[@TalZKazaz]

Hello, what do you think on instinct 2 solar vs tactix delta? Thanks!

[@ericschmidt3759]

Can you transfer data to iOverlander in order to transfer to another GPS? With either watch?

[@doal9525]

It's better this or g shock h2000?

[@Pygex]

Just want to point out (I have solar tactical 2, not 2x). If you move a lot in very cold temperatures (-10C to -20C, 14F to -4F), you will love the big buttons on the instinct devices. Being able to toggle GPS, ABC and things you want without taking your warm gloves off is so convenient.

[@Army4Runner]

Didn’t read all the comments, but the Tactix 7 AMOLED does have a full aviation navigation (direct-to) capability (not that you can use it flying IFR but it’s a lifeline). Also, the Tactix has the ability to integrate and control other Garmin GPS products such as trolling motors and autopilot on boats. The Tactix also has a sapphire crystal screen and titanium/polymer case. Lastly, I’m unsure if you can change the watch strap on the Instinct, but you can change the Tactix one with their quick fit system. That being said, I’m very likely exchanging my Tactix for the Instinct. One question on the flashlight; when you activate it does it allow you to change the intensity or color after pressing the button twice? The Tactix allows that without having to go into the settings page. Is all that worth $1,500…? Dunno…

[@opie2736]

I have an older instinct model, and one thing I have found is that my watch band began to tear around my favorite slots. I had to start wearing it tighter, and eventually it stretched to a comfortable point. Is the band on the Tactix better? I am looking to get a new watch

[@josephmcclung9987]

Hap Arnold approves of your profile picture.

[@Hypnotic6]

In my opinion the maps are the only thing that make the difference in smart waches ( and the solar panel is mandatory ) for everything ) :)

[@cbr6864]

You make that watch look huge. Was hesitant to purchase but it looks like a normal size watch

[@PreparedAirman]

It's considered fairly large for the watch community at 50mm, but they do make a 45mm version aswell.

[@Jb305903]

It would be perfect if they could add maps. Even black and white would be fine. Also get rid of those ribs on the inner bezel.

[@pawninwordsandsoon]

Manufacturers should work on technology that uses the momentum of movement of your hand to charge the battery. Like a mechanical automatic watch. And combine it with solar in addition to that. It would be so damn amazing never having to plug in your smart watch for charging. The only thing that keeps me off smartwatches is I feel battery life is not reliable

[@Hey_load]

I have the OG instinct solar and love it more than my tactix 7 but I need the actual maps and offline music. Tactix is my go-to.

[@blivionofficial8648]

where can i get his layout from is it exclusive to the tactical or also available to the 2x solar in the normal version

[@justinmc9287]

The Garmin watches look great. Do they require a subscription for the GPS or maps to work ?

[@PreparedAirman]

No subscription is required. When you buy it all the features are free to use. Applied Ballistics app is the only paid featureif you want it.. It's a long range shooting app. Very nice and detailed. It's through a third party so that why you will need to pay extra if you want it.

[@justinmc9287]

@@PreparedAirman thanks! These look like great watches. I saw one on Outdoor Gear Review and had to look into them. I appreciate your review and response.

[@roddenby]

The tactix 8 is going to have to be amazing for me not to go to the instinct series for my next watch.

[@highdesertdrew1844]

I've been running the instinct tactical for a few years, I skipped on the solar as I didn't want a huge watch, and honestly, checking out the size of those things on your wrist, it looks like a Flava-Flave clock on your wrist. The only complaint I have about the instinct tactical, is it doesn't give me a regular barometer, the built in barometer only has compensation mode, so if it's being used with a ballistic app, you have to make sure it supports compensated barometers.

[@tcwhite0104]

I agree the barometer on garmins is useless, the Casio and Protreks I have are what the Garmin should have. I think I'll stick to my ProTrek PRT-50B which is a hybrid and connects to the ProTrek app for mapping.

[@BloodEagleTactical]

The watch gps its self has different power modes, low medium and high ping rate. So on low gps mode it will do a ping every 5 min to 10m, on medium it will ping like every 4 to 6 minutes, high is like every 3 minutes. And the only difference besides power is when you bring up your map on your p.c and you'll just see more of a accurate path on high. On low it wont be as accurate but still accurate. You have to look at the manual and online videos to learn more tricks.

[@101thebigdog]

Hey how do you adjust the display screen brightness , not the brightness when you hit a button but just display mine is super dim

[@dougdew5264]

Question - Do you have to have a paired cellphone or cellphone reception for the GPS to work or is it stand alone? Also does it require a subscription to use?

[@PreparedAirman]

No subscription is available or needed, and a cell phone isn't needed to use many of the features. GPS will function just fine without a cell phone.