Tactical-buff like me will be glad to know that Garmin has recently introduced a “Tactical Edition” of the brand’s Instinct GPS smartwatch. Basically, what Garmin did was, it blended the rugged build of the Instinct with tactical functionality borrowed from Garmin tactix series.
The result is a rugged, tactical watch without the high price (though, it is still pricey by my standard. More on that in a second). Expected the Instinct Tactical Edition to get enhanced features of the Garmin tactic series like night-vision compatibility mode, Jumpmaster, dual-position GPS formatting, pre-loaded tactical activity, and waypoint projection. Plus, there is a new stealth mode for off-grid functionality.
“Packed with features for navigation and training, the Instinct Tactical Edition includes multiple features specific to tactical operations including Jumpmaster and tactical preloaded activities, projected waypoints, dual-position GPS formatting, and night-vision compatibility. For airborne operations, use Jumpmaster for three jump types: HAHO, HALO, and Static. Set the watch to dual-positioning mode, and the watch will simultaneously display two sets of coordinate systems, such as MGRS and latitude/longitude, on a single data screen. When night vision mode is activated, the backlight settings of the screen will reduce to a level that won’t interfere with the function of night vision goggles.”
Well, that sure sounds like porn to me even I am not a military person.
It comes outfitted with a sunlight-readable 1.2-inch display with scratch-resistant domed sapphire lens in a fiber-reinforced polymer case and further features tough MIL-STD-810G build, black diamond-like carbon (DLC) coated titanium bezel, black titanium rear cover, stainless steel buttons, chemically strengthened, water resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), and fully vented silicone bands with 2 independent removable keeper loops.
Other features include multiple GNSS satellite networks to help track your location in more challenging environments, and the usual smartwatch functionalities like tracking heart rate, steps, distance and whatnot, supporting a variety of activities, and of course, push notifications.
Garmin Instinct Tactical Edition GPS Smartwatch runs on a rechargeable battery good for up to 12 hours in smartwatch mode, up to 20 hours in GPS mode and up to 35 hours in UltraTrac battery saver mode. It is available now, going at $50 over the standard issue at $349.99.
Image: Garmin.
