Let's put a fork in this and call it DONE. We're wasting each other's time.

Bob Miller wrote:

Bob Miller wrote:
It sounds like you're assuming you need an IFR GPS for approaches.

As it happens, my airplane *does* have an IFR *approach-approved* GPS
installed, but, regardless, I never said that. You read that into my
post - I assumed no such thing.

I'm suggesting using the GPS for backup xc navigation and using
VOR/ADF/RNAV/DME/ILS approaches. Your charts must be up to date and
you need to check for NOTAMS and TFRs before flying. Why does a VFR
GPS need to be updated, and as someone pointed out, keeping them
updated is not all that expensive. I looked up the update cost on the
196 - $35. Have an old panel mounted Trimble GPS useful for slaving
the A/P to. Annual update cost $0.

Oh, jeez, a pre-flight primer for the student pilots among us. Fine.
That's not an issue with me, nor, did I ever post any opinion regarding
use or update requirements of VFR GPSes

OK, I looked up my Airchart cost from May. Entire US, both VFR
sectional style atlases, all approach plates and all updates. $400.
I assume you could get part of the country for $300. Knowing I am set
for IFR chart legality - priceless.

OK. So, what?

I'm not sure what the snipe here is about???

Nor was I certain what your point was.

The claim was made that IFR is not practical for light GA SE flying.

Yes. That was the claim, and I agree with it.

Maybe you fly purely for pleasure.

It doesn't matter a WHIT why I fly. The points made to argue that
position are valid, regardless.

It seems you are projecting the assumptions that are valid for you on others.

I posted my personal opinion, based on my personal experiences with
these issues. If you wish to project those somewhere else, have at it.
Your option.

The reason for my post is to ensure that anyone who reads this thread sees another side to the story, namely that it is practical, useful and desirable for many (maybe not all) situations to maintain the IFR rating.

OK. As long as it's caveated as "your opinion".