Airmap 1000 Questions:
-Is the Airmap 1000 a bit too big for a portable GPS device?

Nope

-Is the Wrist strap even worth messing with on a device this large?

Nope

-Will this GPS device receive signals reliable without use of the
external antenna?

Yes


Airmap 500 and Garmin 96 Questions:
-Sensitivity good without external antenna? (In a C172)
-Again, Is the wrist strap worth even trying? Does it get in the way?

Garmin 196
-It looks like this device has the ability to set on top of the dash
in the plane with the antenna exposed through the windscreen. So I
would imagine if left on top of the control panel an external antenna
is not necessary.

Correct

So, would an external be needed?

No


-With the previous in mind, is this device usable if left on top of
the panel?
-Can you reach up and accurately press buttons as needed?

No. not in any rough air

-Is the screen large enough to see if left sitting on top of the
Panel?

No


General Questions:
How do the GPS Yoke mounts work?

The RAM mount with the AirMap 1000 is superb


I do not own a plane and rent, so is
the Yoke Mount easibly removable,

Yes the Ram mount is easily Removed

or should I forget that idea all
together and just use a wrist strap? Does it work on a Cessna 172
without getting in the way?

Yes it does

Is the wrist strap even worth messing
with?

NO



Of the 4 GPS devices I have listed in or near my price range which is
the best all around device for the money?

The AM 1000 has by far the largest screen, useful for older eyes
and single button presses, important in Rough air

I think the most important
thing to me is the ability to acquire a signal without the use of an
external antenna. I do not want wires running through the airplane
getting in the way and interfering with the flight controls.

Additionally, I want it to be usable while flying without causing too
much distraction. By that I mean I do not want to be head down trying
to figure out what button to push to switch modes. Single button
presses to switch between functions would be ideal.

We chose the AM 1000 becauses of this...

Since I do not fly long trips a lot, battery life is not of real
concern. I would be happy with about 4-5 hours battery life.


Would be close, keep the backlight off...

Dave