Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Tactical Review: Built for More Than Just Looks

The Story Behind the Watch

It was November, and my brother and I were attending the Revolver Roundup at Gunsite Academy in Arizona as sponsors. After a few days surrounded by fellow firearms enthusiasts, my brother—who has a serious thing for watches—made an observation:

“Why do we see so many Garmin watches?”

Although I've been a full-time part of the firearm industry for about a decade, I admit I hadn't noticed. This is more due to my failure to pay attention to such a detail than the lack of available data around me. So, a bit of research later, we realized: Garmin dominates the tactical smartwatch space. Their watches are known for ruggedness, reliability, and features built for extreme environments. A few weeks later, a Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Tactical showed up on my doorstep as a Christmas gift from my brother.

What Makes This Watch Tactical?

Garmin doesn’t just make one tactical watch—they have an entire ecosystem. But here’s what stands out about the Instinct 2 Solar Tactical, and why I think it still holds up—even after Garmin released the newer Instinct 3.

Primary Features I Use and Love

• SOS and Incident Detection
  • You can manually trigger a distress alert or let the watch automatically detect incidents, sending an SOS to preprogrammed emergency contacts. This is done ultimately by sending texts from your Bluetooth-connected phone, not by utilizing any sort of Garmin satellite messaging service, but I still find it highly valuable.
• Built-in Flashlight
  • At first, I didn’t think the flashlight would be useful. I was wrong.
  • I use the adjustable LED several times a week—whether I’m running in the dark or just need a quick light source.
  • Includes preprogrammed strobe patterns for visibility and signaling.
  • Max brightness: ~20 lumens (enough for utility use, not to blind someone). Reminds me of the light on one's smartphone.
• Activity Tracking Accuracy
  • I’ve worn smartwatches since 2015, and Garmin’s step tracking is more accurate than anything else I’ve used, according to most of the tests and studies I've seen conducted on the question. Certainly, I trust it. Unlike many others, it also tracks stair climbing, not just flat steps which I initially found a little concerning like someone was watching me (Note: Garmin isn't watching me. Their tech is just good enough to detect when you climb stairs).
• 24/7 Heart Rate Monitoring
  • Many watches check periodically. This one monitors your heart rate continuously—day and night. This leads to more details and more data which I find highly valuable.

Secondary Features I Appreciate

These aren’t must-haves, but they definitely add value:

• Altimeter
  • No, I’m not parachuting anytime soon, so the “jump mode” isn't critical. But being able to check my elevation instantly is surprisingly satisfying.
• Extreme Customization via Connect IQ Store
  • From watch face designs to niche apps—like a CPR timer that counts chest compressions—there’s a ton of functionality available.
• Insane Battery Life
  • In normal use, I get about 40 days per charge. The solar panel probably helps, though if so its minor in my normal (not in the sun all day) lifestyle. Regardelss, even without constant sunlight, the longevity is incredible.
  • Garmin claims up to 51 days in smartwatch mode with optimal solar exposure.
• GPS Waypoints and TrackBack
  • Handy when I’m out hiking or traveling. It’s like having a personal breadcrumb trail you can retrace.
• Ballistics Calculator
  • Haven’t used it, probably won’t—but it’s still cool to have one on my wrist.
• Stealth & Tactical Features
  • Night vision compatibility
  • Stealth Mode (disables wireless connectivity)
  • “Kill Switch” (data wipe on demand—what I call Capture Mode)
  • These aren’t features I expect to need, but they’re fun to show off.

Military Validation

A personal highlight: A close family member recently graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy, and while there, was issued two Garmin watches. That, along with other stories I’ve heard, suggests Garmin isn’t just for wannabe operators—Uncle Sam trusts them too.

Final Verdict

The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Tactical has become one of my favorite pieces of gear. It’s tough, accurate, endlessly functional, and lasts forever on a single charge. Whether you’re a runner, outdoorsman, concealed carrier, or just someone who likes tech that works when it counts, this watch is worth it.

Even if you didn’t get yours as a gift like I did.

Key Specs at a Glance