New ONIX 400 Portable GPS offers Topo Maps and Live Weather Feeds

The new ONIX 400 GPS from Bushnell, slated for summer 2007 release, offers live weather feeds utilizing XM Satellite broadcasts (XM NavWeather subscription required). In addition, this portable GPS can store aerial photos and topo maps, with GPS info and way points layered on top. Along with Latitude/Longitude and UTM, other internal map data and grid systems can be selected.

The ONIX 400/400CR is the first handheld GPS to integrate satellite weather information with GPS maps and navigation data. While the Bushnell ONIX 200 also offers layering of topo maps and satellite photos, only the ONIX 400 series has the ability to layer weather information on the screen. This could be a real boon for hunters, as well as match shooters looking to predict incoming weather patterns. The compact, waterproof ONIX 400 is powered by a rechargeable Li-Ion battery, with a sleep mode allowing up to 32 hours run-time. An embedded 64 or 128 MB micro SD card holds weather data, maps, photos, and saved locations. Internal memory will store up to 1000 waypoints, 20 trails and 20 routes. (A limited number of map/image downloads are included with each ONIX 400. You can download more photos/maps for a fee.) Models come with a USB cable for connecting to a laptop or home computer. Suggested retail is $499.99. (NOTE–This is just a preview; test units haven’t shipped yet.)

Click HERE and HERE for more ONIX 400 product previews.

Add Texture to Stock for Grip

If you have a match, hunting, or tactical rifle that needs a little more “stiction” in the grip or fore-arm areas, particularly in wet or humid conditions, consider adding a non-slip coating to the stock. This is easily done with inexpensive materials. R+D Precision has a simple do-it-yourself procedure for adding texture to your stock. Be forewarned–this is basically a permanent addition to your stock, so you might want to practice first. Also the application of the bedding compound will change the color of the stock, so you may want to re-finish the stock.

Tape off the area you want to put the texture. Spread a very thin coat of the Steel-Bed on the stock, just enough to cover the area. This can be done using Marine-Tex or Steel-Bed. I am sure there are some other products that could be used but these are the best I have found with Steel-Bed being the best for me.

Here is the secret to adding texture: Using the tongue depressor that is in the kit or something similar, BOUNCE the flat part of the stick on the still wet bedding to get the textured effect. Once the bedding has dried for about an hour, and still kind of tacky, remove the tape, pulling at a sharp angle to leave a nice sharp edge. If the bedding has a sharp raised area where the tape was, wet your finger and rub along the edge and it will knock off the edge but still give that nice sharp transition.

Click HERE for more photos.