vhf marine radio

[boatradioman]

Guys, I have come from a long hiatus from boating and marine activities! Now I ironically, boatradioman, is looking for a portable vhf marine radio. I just found that my portable icom 34 is !@#$ and it is no longer transmitting. What would you guys recommend for me? I am not sure I want to go back to icom, but maybe...

 

[agallant80]

Re: vhf marine radio

What ever you get make sure it is water proof and floats. Most of the cheaper ones are not.

 

[agallant80]

Re: vhf marine radio

You may want to have a look at this.

The West Advisor: VHF Handheld Radios

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: vhf marine radio

I understand icom is the best, although I have been using a series of Uniden's for several years and they are just OK. I like the small icom's.

They must be watertight--submersible, not water proof. I don't think flotation is necessary, simply a preference.

You want 6 watts minimum. Even that has limited range and while in optimum conditions can reach 5 miles, don't count on more than 2.

The way they get you is the batteries; eventually they wear out and when you go to replace them, they have changed the model ever so slightly so you have to buy a new radio. All the batteries wear out no matter what they tell you. Get the alkaline battery back-up.

you can find some deals on refurbished ones from the manufacturers, too.

 

[JoLin]

Re: vhf marine radio

I have a Standard Horizon that's submersible but doesn't float. It cost less then $100., works great and came with both a rechargeable battery (and charging station), and a separate plug-in pack that holds a half dozen AA batteries. You can use either. I've had it for 3 years. I charge it in the Spring and it lasts all summer. I keep the AA battery pack aboard just in case.

 

[NYBo]

Re: vhf marine radio

I have this unit: Lowrance LHR-80 VHF/GPS Handheld Marine Radio 22-17 - iboats I like the idea of DSC functionality in case I have to ditch. Pop the little cover, hold down the button, and out goes the distress call.