VHF radio reccomendations

[acampane]

quick question for those using VHF radios. I have in the past always used a permanent mounted vhf on my boats. I recently bought a boston whaler and was thinking of going with a handheld portable vhf. I like the idea to be able to use it on the boat and also take it off onto a smaller vessel or on land if needed. Anyone have any experience with these or which ones to look at? thanks for your opinions and advice.

 

[NYBo]

Re: VHF radio reccomendations

I have both for my boat. My handheld also has built-in GPS and DSC, so it also backs up my dash-mounted GPS in case of emergency. It's a Lowrance LHR-80.

You aren't allowed to use your handheld from shore; marine VHF is for on-water use only except for licensed shore stations.

 

[jsimms724]

Re: VHF radio reccomendations

I have not had much luck with hand helds maybe they have less power.perhaps it depends on where you use it ,My use was on a large inland lake ,that being said I should add I have never paid more than 100$ or so for a hand hed unit. so maybe you get what you pay for ,the last one i bought I use as a weather radio on shore

 

[KX6D]

Re: VHF radio reccomendations

The Standard HX370s. So far I've purchased over 30 of these radios because of the programmable LMR channels for use with a volunteer group. They work fantastic! I have the programming cable and software and am able to toggle the Marine bands OFF so no interference is possible. This is an undocumented feature we found during testing. I expect it works just as well on the Marine bands as it does on the government frequencies. I also have all 5 MURS frequencies programmed in as well as a couple ham radio simplex frequencies and repeaters. You can legally use MURS without a license AND on land or ship to shore. Its a great radio, but by no means the "best". We love them!

If you decide to get a couple and you want to take advantage of the LMR channels, especially the MURS frequencies, I'd be more than happy to program them for free.