Keep in mind that many people who read this forum are not as experienced as yourself and others here. With that in mind, all of us need to be sure we don't "preach" our particular wilderness philosophies and advocate them as the norm, and criticize those who use technology aids.
I agree that "life on the wire" can become a habit that is hard to break, until it becomes a security blanket that one relies on, until that moment when the technology fails us. At that point every wilderness traveler ought to be able to hike and survive with basic skills. However, not everyone has that survival skill set and will need whatever technology is available to help them to continue to enjoy their experience and live through it.
I think this discussion begs a question: what is "tradition"?
Every culture now uses some form of technology that would not have been available in their past, as improved technology helped them in their daily lives. Modern American Indian hunters would think it silly to go after deer or other game armed with bow and arrows, but now use high-powered rifles (which you might seen on gun-racks in their pickup trucks).
The time is rapidly arriving when the use of Spot Messengers or some other communication device will be regarded as "traditional".
If a person wants to pursue their wilderness experience without modern technology, and rely on older, "traditional" technology (like map and compass), that's fine if it helps them. The goal ought to be to enjoy our wilderness experience...and survive it.
Personally, I use a Spot Messenger, but also use map and compass and carry my trusty Enzo Trapper bush-craft knife and flint...just in case.
Last edited by Bob West; 10/15/14 05:38 AM.
