VHF Radio/antenna

[wileecoyote]

I've been reading some of the posts by ThomWV and wonder what the best budget Radio/antenna combo would be, along with mounting accessories? I currently have the Icom IC M15 handheld but want more range. I rarely go more than a few miles from shore but would like to be able to reach friends that are 5-10 miles up river. I wasn't sure if the Icom M302 fits the bill with a good 8' antenna or not. I have a 21' bowrider. The mounting base was already there when I got the boat but previous owner kept his radio, antenna, and ratchet bracket. The mount is less than 3' from where I would like to mount the radio.

 

[ThomWV]

Re: VHF Radio/antenna

I think the M302 would be a fine choice, any ICOM radio would be. There are a couple of middle priced antenna by Shakespeare that would work nicely too. Take a look at their 5101 or 5102 antennas. They are medium priced, around $50 or so, and both have metal elements rather than just the unbraided cable. They are not constructed so strongly as the higher cost models but if you're going to be on the relatively smooth water of rivers and lakes the extra strength might not be something that's really important to you. Anyway there are less expensive options out there than the 5225 Shakespeare or the 529VW Digital.<br /><br />Thom

 

[wileecoyote]

Re: VHF Radio/antenna

I found the 529VW for $149 and I'm looking at the M-302. If you know of somewhere better to get the antenna let me know. I think this is the combo I'm gonna get, any accessories or things you can think of let me know. Thanks a bunch!

 

[wileecoyote]

Re: VHF Radio/antenna

I went ahead and got the M-402 and the 529vw from Digital antennas. I'm getting excellent distance and very clear signal. I've had returns on radio checks form 20 miles away saying I'm loud and clear. Thanks for all the help Thom!

 

[ThomWV]

Re: VHF Radio/antenna

You know, different people have different needs of course, but when it comes to an affordable but top-of-the-line communications setup for a small boat you have just hit a home run. You have one of the top models of radio by the best VHF maker out there and more importantly you have it working with the best small boat VHF antenna made. Good choices, very good choices indeed. Now I just hope that you are never called on to use it in an emergency, but if you find yourself having to make that call for help at least you know that you have really stacked the deck in your favor, and that is exactly the right thing to have done.<br /><br />Thom

 

[Das Boot]

Re: VHF Radio/antenna

So io guess Icom wins hands down <br /><br />Not sure about the antenna..............what is the best one for the Icom ? again