Garmin has just made waves with the introduction of its latest tactix 8 smartwatch, which is arguably the most advanced model the company has ever produced.
The tactix 8 represents Garmin’s newest addition to its tactical watch lineup, packed with military-inspired features. It includes all of Garmin’s standard fitness capabilities, enhanced by exceptional durability and tactical functionalities like rucking and an innovative Applied Ballistics Solver.
If you’re unfamiliar with the latter, the tactix 8 may not be your ideal choice: this feature is intended to provide detailed information for rifle shooting, offering “customized aiming solutions for long-range shooting based on your rifle’s specifications, bullet types, and various environmental factors,” as stated on Garmin’s website. Think of it as a golf watch tailored for shooting enthusiasts. This smartwatch boasts military-grade specifications, featuring advanced GPS, a 1.4-inch AMOLED display, a titanium bezel, and a sapphire lens. It has been rigorously tested to meet US military standards for thermal, shock, and water resistance. Additionally, it includes tactical functionalities such as jumpmaster activity, waypoint projection, dual-position GPS format, stealth mode, a kill switch, night vision compatibility, and support for the increasingly popular rucking activity.
The Garmin tactix 8 appears poised to become the ultimate choice for military personnel and anyone seeking the most robust Garmin watch available. It also features a preloaded Applied Ballistics solver, providing access to aiming solutions for long-range shooting in real-world scenarios. Clearly, this isn’t a watch suited for casual runs in the park.
Additional features include Garmin’s SatIQ technology from the Instinct 3, a 3-axis compass, recreational diving support, and an integrated flashlight. For leisure time between missions, the watch includes access to 43,000 golf courses, alongside Garmin’s renowned health and fitness tracking capabilities. The Garmin tactix 8 is priced at $1,299.99 for the 47mm AMOLED version and $1,399 for the 51mm variant. The solar-powered 51mm version is also available at the same price. For those looking for something more advanced, there is a $1,599 solar model featuring an Applied Ballistics Elite Solver for enhanced shooting solutions. Otherwise, the tactix 8 comes equipped with the Ultralight Applied Ballistics Solver. In the UK, the tactix 8 starts at £1,189, while in Australia, it retails for AU$2,299. Pre-orders will be available starting February 21.
