How to Choose and Use an Avalanche Transceiver

A compact, lightweight beacon that includes a harness and batteries, the Backcountry Access Tracker3+ avalanche transceiver is easy to use and features an instantaneous real-time display.
Made in USA.
View all Backcountry Access Avalanche Transceivers| Best Use | Backcountry Skiing |
|---|---|
| Analog or Digital | Digital |
| Range | 55 meters |
| Antennas | 3 |
| Multiple Burials | Yes |
| Marking Function | Yes |
| Batteries | 3 AAA alkaline |
| Dimensions | 4.6 x 2.8 x 0.9 inches |
| Weight | 215 grams |
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I've been a BCA Tracker user for well over a decade, so I'm a bit biased, and very familiar with the technology. Mostly because I've had great success with the tracker beacons and also because I crave simple solid gear for my clients and myself. It's fast & reliable like the T-1 and T-2's, and it's now got the ability to deal with multiple burials with a bit more ease. The T3 has also gotten a bit smaller and lighter! (who isn't a fan of that) Which means when I tether and stow it in my zipped front pant pocket it's less noticeable. When choosing a piece of emergency gear I'm VERY picky, and I have no patience for waiting on a slow beacon or a complicated one...
I began using the Tracker 3 at the beginning of last season. I used it multiple times in the backcountry and also while on 2 heli trips. In the process I practiced with it multiple times and was involved in multiple beacon drills. The easy to use format and quick thinking computer made this beacon the fastest in all the drills I did. I adjusted right away to the format and feel very comfortable with it. The size and carry system are also very comfortable!
I have been using the tracker 3 for two seasons, teaching AIARE avalanche courses, and in normal backcountry situations. This beacon is the newest technology that fits into a slim device that doest it all. I find that my search times have gotten better with this beacon, and it does the job the first time. I am very happy with this product
Worn in either the sling or an outerwear pocket, the Tracker 3 is so small you'll forget you have it until you need it. Then you'll be really glad to have it. The display is simple to use and the range competes with any other transceiver on the market. I upgraded from the Tracker 2 a week before taking an avy course and was able to get so familiar with the Tracker 3 that I greased the multi-burial beacon test in only a few minutes.
I've used a number of transceivers over the years including the Tracker, Tracker 2, T3, Mammut Pulse. The T3 is fast and easy to use. Which under a stressful situation like companion rescue, fast and easy is essential. Getting familiar with the transceiver, it has a great amount of features for multiple burials and unique situations. Its also super small and sits close to the body.
I was drawn to this model by the small size and good reviews. I don't have experience with other models but our AIRE1 guide told us that some compromises were made in the smaller design with the layout of the antenna compared to the T2 model but I found range to be great in search mode in the Beacon park. The Transmit/search switch is easy to use and does not come on accidentally. The unit make a nice clear sound when turned on and immediately displays battery life. Battery life seems to be very good and stayed at 99% for the first few days of use. Searching with the device is very intuitive with bright red LED displaying distance and direction. The unit clearly indicated multiple units in transmit mode when I was in search. The included waist/shoulder strap is functional and easy to use and adjust.
Small, easy to use, efficient and makes awesome noises! I love my new Tracker 3. BCA really stepped it up with this newest model. Even easier to use and works great. You can barely feel it while skiing and hiking!
This weekend I had a T3 in a harness when it when went into search mode. When pulled it out the switch it was locked in transmit. Strange?....A few hours later it happened again. After playing around I discovered that even with the switch lock in place if I put pressure on the switch it would change from transmit to search or vise versa. With the lanyard attaching to the bottom it means the T3 is pushed into the harness switch end first which must cause wear and tear on the switch.
Love the size of the Tracker3, I upgraded from the 2 and this one is even smaller. The beacon is easy to use with large numbers and arrows for pinpointing victims. Luckily i've only used it in search mode for practice but i know i can count on it if i really need to.
Easy to use, picks up signals quickly and accurately. Compact package makes it super easy to wear while skiing. Never had to really use it besides practice in the parking lot, but it always excels. Definitely recommend it for the small price jump over the Tracker 2.




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