Garmin Forerunner 305 w/ heart rate monitor - $100 shipped

I've had this for about a year and a half and used it regularly for about a year on runs.  I used it in one tri for the run and bike portion, but I've never used it swimming.  If you didn't know, this isn't waterproof.  When I first got it I rinsed the back off after my runs to keep it clean, but after a month or so it died. Garmin sent me a new one and now I just use a damp cloth to wipe it down after using it. I haven't noticed it getting slower to find a signal, but it is slow.  It depends on the weather and your location, but in my experience it generally takes a few minutes.  In some locations if you're indoors, it simply won't get a satellite connection. 

I upload my data to Garmin Connect and for some reason it's finicky about uploading new files from the watch.  I have a Garmin 500 for my bike and it always works right away, but with this I sometimes have to unplug it and try it again.  It's never not uploaded, but it is something that may come up.  I've never felt the need to use some of the other available software, but that is always an option.  

It is a really nice tool to map out distances on trail runs, but my favorite feature is the ability to do intervals off the track.  I rebooted it, so all of my workouts are deleted, but the manual shows you how to set it up for intervals. 

Thanks for looking,

Jon

Do you have any trouble with the battery not holding a charge for long? As far as for swimming, I read somewhere that you can get a waterproof bag and put Garmin in your swim cap, obviously not able to look at data while swimming, but would be easy to transfer information, but what do I know. I've never owned one! Haha!

Thanks!

It says that the battery is good for 8-10 hours.  I've logged 5-6 hour runs with it, but I've never used it until the battery expired.  The only charge I ever gave it was when I was uploading my data, so for me, the battery has been a non-issue. 

I know people have used these watches under their swimming cap, but I never tried that.