Rich
I've had a 172 for about 10 yrs.
I was slow to get a handheld gps because of the wires/mounting etc.
Once I concluded that I was not going to be getting a panel mount color moving map anytime soon, I purchased a 295 (about three yrs ago).
Have it mounted on the yoke, and love it.
The situational awareness issue in both IFR/VFR is non existant.
Plan to spend a lot of time playing/learning with it at home!
Garmin is good about standing behind their products, as long as you bring your checkbook...David Clark is the only mfgr I've come across in my flying that inexpensively supports their customers for ever!
KSGR

I put my 295 then the 296 on the front edge of the glareshield - its easy to get to and work and doesn't block anything. I really liked the 295 but recently upgraded to the 296 - It's taking a little time to get used to the colors - lots of them but not as contrasty as the 295.

They're both great and the terrain is added  to the 296.

The software upgrades are free but you pay for the database updates, like buying new sectionals - cost a little more but lots of current info available easily.

I believe The 296 processor is a little faster also - so it updates faster.

Wire it into the ships power (with a fused in line) - see other posts - and it'll warn you if Your Aircraft's power starts to go and you otherwise had not noticed it.

Ken

One of the best features of the garmin 196 and 296 is the extended battery life, over the 195 and 295. They run on less batterys and they stay powered longer.

I have a 196.  It is mounted on the panel and uses panel power.  I have an external antenna.  I even have it connected to my autopilot.  I keep thinking about purchasing a panel mounted (430 530) anything else would be a step backwards.  I love the 196 and am sure the 296 is just as good.

Rich

Curt,

I would really like to see pictures of your GPS mounted on the panel. When I get mine, that is where I would like to mount it.

Thanks,

Rich

There has been some isues with the power cord for the 296, not the same one as the 196 by the way.

If you're still looking I have a 295 for sale. $750
Great shape. June 04 aviation database.

You should know they now sell a mount that fits in the stack and holds the 296 or 196.  I don't remember the manufacturer, but there are some for sale on eBay and other places.  If you email me directly, I'll send you a picture of it.  I'm getting one to put my 296 in the panel...good luck.

Patrick
N8557U

I have a lowrance 1000 and its a nice unit I use it both in the Cutlass and the car. Buttons are easy to pick and Lowrance just put out a update for the database that contains full maps of all taxiways on 21 major fields.