What's the best brand for the money. The garmin are more expensive than the sport dog. Are they worth the extra $ I need it for one dog that will be tracking wounded deer.

I'd go with the Garmin Astro. Garmin has been in the gps business a long time. They acquired Tri-Tronics a couple of years ago. I run the G3 system on my shorthairs. I've got a couple of guys that use the Astro, that hunt with me. The guys I hunt with out west use them exclusively.
Nothing negative about sportdog, but they are relatively new to the GPS business.
Lion Country Supply runs pretty good sales from time to time, and you can't beat Steve Snell who owns Gundog Supply as far as customer service.

I recommend a Garmin Astro that is what I use. I also like for the dog to wear a glow collar at night, so I can see them if they are close.

Thanks

how waterproof are the dc 40s

I wouldn't go scuba diving with them but they are plenty adequate for a dog taking a swim

I bought a "good" condition Astro 220 w/dc40 collar from Coosa Valley Hunting Supply in Plainsville Ga for 275. free shipping. Allen is a good guy to do business with.

The Garmin Astro 320 w/ DC50 collar is the way to go. Order it from http://www.gundogsupply.com they have the best price and are very easy to work with. Very well made and worth the extra money for sure. I love mine.

Garmin, you will not regret it...

x2