Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld Review

Let’s Talk About Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld

The Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld is a complete remote launch system designed for dog trainers, combining proven Tri-Tronics technology with an advanced new remote receiver design. Garmin has packed a lot of features into this handheld, aiming to provide precise and reliable control of remote launchers and releasers. It promises to put a full range of bird hunting and field trial scenarios right at your fingertips.

My journey to this product began with a frustrating problem. I needed a reliable and versatile system to train my pointing dogs for upland bird hunting. I wanted something that could simulate real hunting scenarios and allow me to work on their steadiness and retrieving skills remotely.

Upon unboxing, the Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld felt solid and well-built. The bright yellow color immediately caught my eye, making it easy to spot in the field. The ergonomic design seemed comfortable for one-handed operation, and the LCD display was clear and easy to read.

I considered the SportDOG Brand Launcher System and the Dogtra RR Deluxe Remote Launcher, but the Garmin system’s rapid launch feature and compatibility with Garmin’s dog collar devices ultimately swayed me. The Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld seemed to offer a more comprehensive training solution. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to its promises of reliability and ease of use.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld at my local field trial grounds. This location provided a variety of terrain and cover to simulate different hunting environments. The initial setup was straightforward, and the handheld paired easily with the remote receiver.

I encountered some light rain during the first session, but the Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld handled it well, thanks to its IPX7 water rating. The one-handed operation proved to be intuitive, and I quickly got the hang of switching between launch and training modes. The range was impressive, easily exceeding half a mile even with some light tree cover. I was immediately impressed with the ease and reliability of the launch.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld has proven to be a reliable and valuable tool. The handheld has held up well, with only minor cosmetic wear and tear on the casing. The buttons remain responsive, and the LCD display is still clear and bright.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The battery life on both the handheld and receiver is excellent, easily lasting through multiple training sessions. The Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld significantly outperforms my previous training setup. The rapid launch feature and compatibility with Garmin dog collars make it a versatile and efficient training tool.

Breaking Down the Features of Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld

Specifications

The Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld boasts a range of impressive specifications:

• The handheld unit measures 2.1″ x 5.4″ x 1.1″ and weighs a mere 3.7 oz. This makes it comfortable to hold and easy to carry in the field.
• The remote receiver measures 4.3″ x 3.0″ x 2.2″ and weighs 7.4 oz. It is compact and easy to mount on a launcher.
• It operates on a radio range of more than 1/2 mile. This range is essential for simulating realistic hunting scenarios.
• The handheld operates multiple receivers. It supports up to 18 receivers for complex training setups.
• Both the handheld and receiver feature rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. This provides long-lasting power for extended training sessions.
• The handheld offers approximately 80 hours of battery life per charge, and the receiver provides more than 200 launches.
• The handheld and receiver are both water-rated to IPX7. This makes them suitable for use in various weather conditions.
• The handheld floats, which is a bonus for waterfowl hunters.
• The receiver features an audio jack for line-out access to an external powered speaker. This allows for amplified sound projection during training.
• The receiver plays three preloaded sounds (duck call, “hey hey hey,” and tone).
• Additional sounds can be downloaded in WAV format (32 kHz, 16-bit mono or stereo). The receiver supports a maximum audio playback time of 48 seconds for mono and 24 seconds for stereo.
• The units operate in a wide temperature range, from -20 degrees to 60 degrees Celsius.

These specifications translate directly into a reliable and versatile training system. The long range, durable construction, and customizable sound options are critical for effective dog training.

Performance & Functionality

The Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld performs its job exceptionally well. The launch system is reliable and responsive, allowing for precise control of remote launchers. The rapid launch feature is a game-changer, enabling seamless sequential launches with a single button press.

The system’s strengths lie in its reliability, ease of use, and versatility. Its main weakness is the limited number of preloaded sounds, but this can be easily addressed by downloading custom sounds. It exceeds my expectations, offering a comprehensive training solution in a compact and user-friendly package.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld is excellent. The materials are durable, and the handheld feels solid and well-constructed. Its weight is balanced and comfortable to hold, even during extended use.

The interface is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a clear LCD display. The learning curve is minimal, even for users unfamiliar with remote training systems.

Durability & Maintenance

The Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld is built to last. The IPX7 water rating provides protection against the elements, and the durable construction can withstand the rigors of field use.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning. Replacement parts, such as batteries, are readily available.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld system includes the handheld transmitter and remote receiver. It is compatible with a wide range of launchers, releasers, and accessories. You can use up to 3 Garmin Delta Series and PRO Series dog collar devices with a single Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld.

The ability to download custom sounds in WAV format provides excellent customization options. The compatibility with Garmin dog collars allows for comprehensive training that combines remote launching with command simulations, tones, and vibrations.

Pros and Cons of Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld

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Who Should Buy Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld?

The Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld is perfect for professional dog trainers, serious hunters, and field trial enthusiasts. Anyone looking for a reliable, versatile, and user-friendly remote launch system will benefit from this product. Individuals on a tight budget or those who only require basic remote launching capabilities may want to explore less expensive alternatives.

A must-have accessory would be a selection of custom sound files tailored to specific training scenarios. A durable carrying case would also be a worthwhile investment to protect the handheld and receiver during transport.

Conclusion on Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld

The Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld is an excellent remote launch system that delivers on its promises of reliability, versatility, and ease of use. The price is justified by the system’s performance, durability, and comprehensive feature set.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld to anyone seeking a top-tier remote training solution for their dogs. If you are serious about improving your dog’s performance in the field, then invest in the Garmin PRO Control 2 HH Handheld. You won’t be disappointed!