Anyone use or have any input on the MarCum LXi? I'm mildy thinking about getting one to toss in the tackle box when I'm in the "run and gun" mode of hole drilling....

I have one and like it, shoots threw the ice very well. It will work good for "run and gun" fishing.

I've used the LXi and other handheld sonars. They work great as long as you can get to the surface of the ice (ie. under the snow) and the ice is clear. One great feature about the LXi is that the digital display is on the top, very convenient and quick to use.

We carry the LXi and a few other models of handheld sonars, feel free to check them out at the link below if you like.

Always in my parka pocket any time I'm on the ice. No need to drill a hole. Very powerful: will shoot through the thickest ice as long as you can get down through the snow and pour some water on the surface. Much better design than the competitors' models of the same general shape due to ease of readout on the top end of the unit.

I just use my LX3. Sure its a little more bulky carry but it saves alot of money over buying another unit.

Use it and really like it for searching out spots to drill (find breaklines). If the ice is too crappy to get a good reading, I will use it after drilling holes. Much eaiser to carry when & less were & tear on the FL-20 transducer.

Once I stake out the area, I put the LXi and stick with the FL-20 for fishing and finding active holes.

Thanks for all the input. Now I want to do some price checking since Versa Electronics of Minneapolis purchased them..they stated in their purchase announcement prices would be dropping. Think I'll go do some shopping....

Prices dropped on Flashers.

Cameras, Showdowns, and LXis didn't have price drops.

Keep an eye on the classified sites ... not too uncommon to see them on these sites. That's where I picked up mine ... basically new condition for a good price.

I've used mine for 5-6 years now. Like said before great for finding breaks or any depth of water. I have shot through 2ft of ice with it. If you have a good hand held torch you can melt the ice to get good contact. Windy days are a little tough. You can use your one pound propane tank for the gas. You don't need to get the fancy stuff. Just don't let the LXi set there to long it might freeze to the ice.

Just wanted to thank everyone who gave me input on this subject. I'm headin' to my favorite big Sporting Goods store tomorrow to purchase an LXi. (Glad my Buddy is the manager of that department...) I had been tossin' this idea around for the last year. Will let you know what I think of it.

Have 2. One new for ninety in case if your buddy cant match.
Good units.

6 years and (one battery change) going strong, amazing.. Not only depth but the fish scan mode is a key feature too. It automatically goes in to scan after it displays the depth and will let you know audibly and flash what depth the highest fish is in the cone return signal. I found a filthy thick pile of crappies in a deep basin 29' suspended up to 19' off. Also on a bluegill search in 9' of water we found em in a back bay area using a travel lane in 6.5' Pretty neat deal down to 1/10th of an inch.
When the ice is dry on top I carry a self-ignition plumbers torch. I also put a layer of 3m duct tape over the entire battery compartment to provide a extra layer of protection. I have gotten my money's worth out of it.