A Specialized Tactical GPS HR Watch – The Garmin tactix Charlie
Active Gear Review is supported by its audience. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Garmin has announced tactix Charlie, a new and improved ruggedized GPS wearable that combines specialized tactical functionality with mapping-enhanced navigation and advanced fitness training features. The third-generation tactix watch introduces preloaded full-color TOPO mapping, wrist-based heart rate, advanced performance metrics and a specific “Tactical” activity profile, along with more than 26 built-in activities for any type of adventure.
“Designed for professionals and consumers needing tactical functionality in a wearable form, the tactix Charlie has everything needed for these operations and everyday life,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “Building on the popularity of the tactix Bravo and the fēnix 5X, the new tactix Charlie blends the best of both wearables to offer tactical and multisport features, enhanced mapping, and wrist-based heart rate in one watch.”
The on-watch mapping and navigation features will help keep users oriented and on-course at a glance. While preloaded with digital topographic maps, users have the ability to download and store up to 16 GB of map data for other regions, as well as other types of maps, like marine charts. Built-in navigation features include a 3-axis compass, gyroscope and barometric altimeter, as well as GPS and GLONASS support that makes tracking in more challenging environments quicker than with GPS alone.
Built to withstand challenging environments, the tactix Charlie is constructed with a scratch-resistant black DLC coated bezel with UTC markers. It also features a black titanium rear cover, stainless-steel buttons, and an always-on, 1.2-inch sunlight readable display with a domed sapphire lens. Now compatible with QuickFit™ bands, users can simply swap between silicone, leather or metal bands, no tools necessary.
Packed with features for navigation and training, the tactix Charlie includes multiple features specific to tactical operations like Jumpmaster mode, projected waypoints and night-vision compatibility. For airborne operations, use Jumpmaster for three jump types: HAHO, HALO and Static. Set the watch to dual-positioning mode, and the watch will simultaneously display two sets of coordinate systems, such as MGRS and latitude/longitude, on a single data screen. When “night vision mode” is activated, the backlight settings of the screen will reduce to a level that won’t interfere with the function of night vision goggles.
With the addition of built-in wrist-based heart rate, Garmin Elevate™ wrist heart rate1 technology gives users 24/7 heart rate monitoring, without needing a chest strap. Users can monitor their activities with training status, training load, recovery time, V02 max and more.
In addition to the multisport features, the tactix Charlie includes a variety of connected features. When paired with a compatible smartphone2, users can get call, text, email, calendar alerts, and more smart notifications right on their wrist. It is also compatible with Connect IQ™ store, so users can personalize their watch with apps, widgets, data fields and watch faces.
Water rated to 100 meters3, the tactix Charlie can get up to 12 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode. Users can also take advantage of the UltraTrac™ power saver mode to extend battery life even more.
tactix Charlie will be available in Q2 2018 with a suggested retail price of $749.99. To learn more, visit amazon.com/garmin.
