Anyone Use the Handheld Depth-finders (MarCum LX-i)

[stick]

Does anyone use the handheld depthfinders made by Strikemaster or Marcum. I always thought that they aren't worth a thing, but am re-thinking it. When working with a partner, it's easy enough to pattern a piece of structure, but it is difficult alone. When working together, my buddy carries the LX-3, and I drill holes (or vica-versa). If I'm alone, I haphazardly drill holes, and then walk back and then bring the flasher through. I figured that if I had the handheld, I could toss 'er in the pocket and do it as a one man show. This is assuming that I'm not shooting throught he ice, and then I just use the flasher with a jug of water to shoot through.

Any feedback? (It's a chance to buy something new to expand the ice "tool-box".

[ScoutII]

The LX-i does have a lot of power for a hand held. It will shoot through ice where the stikemaster won't, at least when a friend of mine and I where on the ice comparing.

[Bob Horn]

I used the LX-i last year for the first time and it shot through 2 feet of ice. It`s real handy when you are scouting an area and can find the depth you want without having to get out your fishing sonar.

[Dave]

You can get the Marcum LX-i in a package that contains a belt case, so it doesn't have to bounce around in a bucket. The 2500 watts of power does shoot through the ice well.

[Ray Esboldt]

I really like the MarCum LX-i. It does save time in scoping a piece of structure. You definitely need a little water on top of the ice to make it effective. Sometimes a big spit wad is enough, but drilling a hole and filling a water bottle or cup is better. They are well worth the $129.

[CNY Tim]

I have to give the LXi Performance Pack the thumbs up as well. Having the large digital read out is nice. It was extremely helpful in tracing out a river channel while searching for crappies...

[hoggs222]

I have one & it works great! What I do is carry around a benzomatic torch to wet the ice enough. It takes 2 seconds.

[Sergeant Slabber]

Yup...you won't be disappointed. It saves time and energy!

[Sonicrunch]

Quote:

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I have one & it works great! What I do is carry around a benzomatic torch to wet the ice enough. It takes 2 seconds.

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I agree with the benzomatic torch! That the way to go.

[DEADhead]

thanks for the torch tip!

I've used the old Strikemaster depthfinder plenty last year through 3.5' of ice around DL, with no problem getting a depth. that torch will sure beat carrying around a jug of water though.

I usually scout for structure with the handheld before drilling holes, because it's usually just me out on the ice...