Compasses, altimeters, barometers, solar chargers, flashlights, radios: we bring a lot of tech-toys into the backcountry with us. Most of these are necessary, some, like radios and solar chargers, are luxuries. Enter the Eton Raptor, a device that combines all of these gadgets into one unit. I brought the Raptor with me to the Wasatch Moutains and the canyons of Escalante to see if a single device could really combine all of these useful resources into a reliable, pack-ready piece of gear.
First things first: you’ve got to set the Eton Raptor up so it’s ready to aid you in the wild. I found the initial setup process a bit confusing, but eventually I had it up and running. Dialing in the compass, altimeter, time/date and other functions will take a bit of getting used to, and honestly, I brought the instruction pamphlet along with me the first couple times out. Navigating through all the functions is done with the click of a button, and once you figure out how to personalize all the settings, you should be ready to rock.
Thanks to large changes in elevation and direction during Wasatch hikes, I was able to get a solid feel for the Raptor’s performance. The results were good: checked against my analog compass, direction readings proved to be accurate every time. Elevation readings were less precise, but like many other devices, the Raptor relies on air pressure to generate an altitude reading. Changes in pressure will affect how accurate the reading is, but on calm days it was always within 50-100 feet of my actual elevation. Pretty good in my experience. The barometer also gets a thumbs up; readings rose and fell appropriately with changing weather conditions.
The Eton Raptor is certainly larger than other all-in-one devices, and that’s due to the fact that it is also a radio. The unit features the full range of AM/FM stations, but the real gem is the NOAA Forecast stations. Click through the different bands and you’ll lock in to the report for your area. I found this to be a great feature when camping in Escalante. Each morning I would tune in and listen to the complete forecast. Because I was miles away from the nearest town and my phone had no signal, this was the only way to find out what the day’s weather would be. It was nice to know that I would be entering slot canyons with a reliable report of clear skies and sunshine. When it comes time to rock out, the Raptor offers a headphone adapter to plug in your portable music device. The sound quality is not as good as portable speakers, but it does eliminate the need to carry the extra weight if music is a must have on your backcountry adventures.
Finally, the Eton Raptor is a handy power source. The back of the device is a solar panel, and a USB port can be found on the side. This means that you can not only charge the Raptor while hiking or relaxing in camp, but you can plug your other electronics into it for a boost. I clipped the Raptor to the outside of my pack while hiking (the top of the device has a large, built in carabiner) and let the sun do the rest. When I got back to camp I charged up my iPhone and camera- all without having to lift a finger. I really love the design and function of the solar charger and USB plug.
There are, of course, some shortcomings. The Raptor is much larger than many do it all gadgets, and if you don’t really need solar charging or a radio, than this unit isn’t for you. The Raptor is not waterproof, so you’ll have to be mindful if rain is falling or there are water crossings on your route. Finally, the radio wasn’t very effective for AM/FM tuning. In fact, the only signal I got in the desert was the NWS Forecast station.
I found the Eton Raptor to be an awesome device. A little bulky, perhaps, but once I considered all that comes with it, I have to say I’m a fan. Carrying the Raptor eliminated the need for numerous other pieces of gear, and provided me with the comfort of having a weather forecast at the ready. If you want to cut down on the clutter in your pack, and gain the ability to charge the electronics that do make the cut, then the Eton Raptor is certainly worth checking out.
The Good: Do-it-all device with accurate instrument readings, a built in weather forecast, and solar charging/distributing capability…and there’s even a bottle opener!
The Bad: Bulky, not fully waterproof
The Verdict: Great device for those who need all the features included. Cuts out the need for multiple devices taking up space in your pack.