Garmin is no stranger to wrist-based computer solutions for the outdoors and shooting industries. The company has offered its robust watches for years—providing important data like navigation, weather, ballistics, etc. Now Garmin introduces its latest wrist-mounted platform with the Foretrex series in two options. The new watches boast a long battery life and everything you need for navigation with tactical and ballistic applications.

The Garmin Foretrex 801 and 901

Constructed to a military standard (MIL-STD-810) for thermal, shock, and an IPX7 water-resistant rating, the Foretrex platform can handle hard use in hard environments. Featuring an easy-to-read 2.2-inch monochromatic screen, onscreen data can be seen in a variety of lighting conditions. Correspondingly, the screen is also visible when using night vision goggles.

Both the 801 and 901 utilize advanced sensors to navigate any terrain. These sensors include a 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis compass, and barometric altimeter. Likewise, the Foretrex platform features integrated multi-band signal reception technology, using multiple frequencies for better positional accuracy. Similarly, the units are multi-GNSS and receive signals from more than one satellite constellation for improved performance in challenging environments.

Pairing the Foretrex with a compatible smartphone lets you utilize the features in the Garmin Explore app to plan, navigate, and review. Even off-grid, the app can pair with the watch to load routes and waypoints. Likewise, while connected, the Foretrex will display emails, texts, and alerts on the device.

However, for those that may travel in sensitive locations, the Foretrex provides Stealth Mode and a Kill Switch. While in Stealth Mode, the unit will still collect distances traveled without recording location data. The Foretrex can also upload logged data without revealing location information. Likewise, activating the Kill Switch hotkey quickly resets the unit to factory settings, discarding any stored data.

Each unit supports external ANT+ sensors and is compatible with Garmin devices, like inReach. As a result, users can receive inReach messages directly on the unit when paired with an inReach device. Likewise, you can use the unit to trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 Garmin-staffed Garmin Response Center.

The Foretrex uses two field-replaceable AAA batteries for up to 100 hours in one-second tracking and up to 1,000 hours in expedition mode.

Ballistic Capabilities in the 901

In addition to navigation capabilities, the 901 is also a trusted tool for competitive shooters within Precision Rifle Series (PRS) and Extreme Long Range (ELR) events. This is due to the Applied Ballistics Elite solver integration. Likewise, compatibility with the AB Synapse – Garmin app allows shooters to enjoy more streamlined shooting solutions.

When downloaded to a smartphone, the app allows users to manage ballistic profiles on their Foretrex 901. Additionally, the Applied Ballistics Elite solver provides state-of-the-art solutions for calculating long-range trajectories. Correspondingly, the Foretrex 901 pairs with compatible rangefinders to receive data. The connection also allows users to provide a ballistic solution back to the rangefinder.

“Foretrex is an essential piece of kit for adventurers, tactical personnel and competitive rifle enthusiasts who need robust, dedicated features that can be quickly accessed while keeping their hands free. Now with enhanced positional accuracy and dedicated features for special applications, the Foretrex 801 and 901 will be indispensable tools whether on assignment or at your next competition.” – Dan Bartel, Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer Sales.

Editor’s Note:

I have been wearing a Garmin Tactix since the first model came out. In fact, I wore that first model in the Amazon jungle back in 2014 and put it through some very hard use in very harsh terrain.

Not only did it hold up, but I gave that unit to a friend in the Air Force after I upgraded to a newer Tactix model, and he is still wearing it today. He has had it in Afghanistan a couple of times since I gave it to him, and it is still going strong.

Availability

The Garmin Foretrex 801 and 901 are available now with MSRPs of $249.99 (801) and $599.99 (901). For more info, please visit Garmin.com.

Garmin Foretrex Specs

Quickfit™ Watch Band Compatible: Yes (26 mm)
Dimension: 2.9″ x 1.9″ x 0.9″
Display Size: 2.2″ diagonal
Display Resolution: 320 x 240 pixels
Display Type: monochrome MIP
Weight: 3.8 oz with batteries
Waterproof: IPX7
Battery Type: 2 AAA batteries (not included)
Battery Life: Up to 100 hours in default GPS Mode, UP to 1000 hours in Expedition Mode
MIL-STD-810: yes (thermal, shock, water); bare unit only
Interface: USB-C
Courses: 500
Tracks: 100
Navigation Track Log: 10,000
Navigation Routes: 50
MSRP: $249.99 (801), $599.99 (901)

Features

• Foretrex 801 and 901 keep users on track thanks to multi-band signal reception technology for improved positional accuracy. In addition, multi-GNSS functionality allows the units to receive signals from more than one satellite constellation, improving performance in challenging environments.
• The new units provide Stealth Mode and Kill Switch features to support users located in sensitive areas.
• Foretrex 901 is now compatible with the AB Synapse – Garmin app to provide users with more streamlined shooting solutions.
• Units have a battery life of up to 100 hours in one-second tracking and up to 1000 hours in expedition mode
• The new, easy-to-read 2.2” monochromatic display allows on-screen data to be seen in a variety of lighting conditions – even when using night vision goggles.