Re: ship to shore radio questions
Earlier this summer I decided to get a hand held radio. Did lots of research and read about lots of different brands and models. Last month I bought this Cobra brand hand held marine radio model MR HH400 XVP . It works well, has good distance and clarity and features I wanted. Two reasons I bought the cobra brand were because Cobra has a good brand name and reputation for radio communications, and this unit takes rechargable AA batteries. Comes with wall charger, car/boat charger,belt clip, and if the batteries die, you can use regular AA alkalines in a pinch.
Typically available for under $100. Its cheap insurance if you get in a jam. Its submersible up to one meter for 30 minutes and meets the JIS7 standards. A very important feature if you want to use it while bobbing around in the waves wearing your life vest.
Although cell phones will let you contact 911 for help, they do not let you talk directly to the Coast Guard (or local boat) who is looking for you. Very important when you are the target of a search party. Also I know from experience, if you jump into the bay with a cell phone in your pocket, it doesn't work anymore.
It came with two packs of 3 each 2100 mah rechargable AA batteries and one pack was no good. I called Cobra and they mailed me 6 new batteries. Had them in a few days. While I waited for the new batteries, I used alkalines. It already paid off that it doesn't take a propriatary battery.
You can read a full review of the MR HH400 XVP here (I found this AFTER I bought it, DOH! ) :
Cobra MR HH400 XVP Review
