I've used everything from $20 collars off Ebay, to middle of the line to Garmin. If you've never used a training collar before then it's fine to start with something cheap. But get something waterproof or you've just wasted your money! I have a used tri-tritronics L200 (I think is the model) if you're interested. It claimed to reach a mile. It will reach that far in a clear field. Through the brush good luck. That is the problem with any collar (other than Garmins) anything in the way they don't work. I also have a
lighted tip antenna for my Garmin so I know its transmitting to the dog.
Just remember you pay the same amount no matter what you get. It's just how much of it is in stress and aggravation. and how much is in cash.