VHF Handheld Marine Radios

[bulldawg]

Just another question on radios. Are the handheld units any good???

[perchjerker]

There's nothing wrong with them, but dont count on one for your main method of communication, due to the short antenna. They are fine for talking to your buddies that are close to you, but thats about it. I have used one for years. But it will never replace my main radio with an 8 ft antenna.

just my opinion.

[Rich]

I mounted an 8' antenna permanently on the boat and changed the connector so I could remove the "rubber duck" antenna from the handheld and connect it to the 8' antenna when I'm in the boat. Doesn't work quite as well as a permanent mount radio for distance since the maximum output of handhelds is 5-6 watts, but I've still reached out 8-10+ miles with it. You can then take the radio with you and use it on another boat if it doesn't have a radio. Good Luck. If you plan to go out a long way, go with the fixed mount.

[HarryE]

I've also experienced the Ni-Cad batteries don't last very long. Especially if you do a lot of transmitting. I'd suggest you carry a fully charged spare with you for a full day on the water.