Good VHF Handheld

[toot]

I need a VHF handheld radio. Reliability and range is important to me. Suggestions on make and models would be welcome.

[svHyLyte]

Originally Posted by toot

I need a VHF handheld radio. Reliability and range is important to me. Suggestions on make and models would be welcome.

We have found the Standard Horizon handhelds to be very reliable and very economical and the batteries seem to hold their charge forever. They make a good stocking stuffer, even if one is stuffing one's own stocking, eh?

[donradcliffe]

If you want reliability, get an Icom. I tried a standard horizon a year ago, and it stopped working in 6 months. Get a waterproof model with a big battery.

[edsailing]

I bought an ICOM IC-M71 earlier this year, waterproof and very good battery life. I am more than happy with it.

[michaelmrc]

i have used standard horizon handhelds for years now never a problem found them better sound quality than the icoms and more reasonably priced.

[kd3pc]

ICOM, still have an M1 that works well, newer ones are smaller, lighter - some float, more powerful, better audio and still well priced.

Can't go wrong..with one.

[onestepcsy37]

standard horizon. my old one is about seven years and still going. broke down last year and bought a new one that practical sailor recommended and it's working fine too.

nice thing about standard horizon is that you get all the accessories as part of the package. with icom and others you have to buy them separately....

[rebel heart]

We have both of these handhelds and they each have their advantages. The SH 850s has a GPS built in, which is very nice as you can see your position all the time. It has a lot of neat features and yeah, it floats. The battery however doesn't last that long (because it's smaller so the unit floats, and it's doing a lot more): Amazon.com: HX850s Handheld VHF w/GPS: Electronics

The Icom M72 is less feature rich but I consider it to be a serious workhorse. The battery lasts an incredible amount of time and if you look around at Harbor Patrol people and guys who work on the waterfront you'll see a lot of M72's: Amazon.com: Icom IC-M72 Waterproof VHF Marine Radio: Electronics

They're both great and it really depends on what you're looking for.

[Sheriff]

Standard Horizon works good and great value for money

[bljones]

I have had a Uniden Atlantis for more thna 2 years and have been impressed.



-I like the charging flexibility (AA batteries, rechageable battery, 12 v. adapter and 110 charger all included)
-Battery life is fantastic- I charge ours about twice a month
-Good range
- 16/9/? channel priority and scanning.
-External mic jack and hands free headset available. A hands free ear piece is a nice feature when you need your hands free, because that is when you REALLY need comms.
- Under $100

[Sheriff]

nice.a link on where they are available my friend

[pete33458]

I am very happy with the one I have...Uniden MHS75

[bljones]

Atlantis 250 Handheld Two Way Vhf Marine Radio, White/gray

[callmecrazy]

I just got an Atlantis the other day off ebay. Seemed like the best deal at under $100 for a handheld.

Handhelds are never going to be the best performers...so the good battery life and consistent range (based on other reviews) with standard features was all I was looking for.

[beetle]

I have an Icom M88, it's waterproof which is great for the dinghy, and small so it fits in a pocket. The range isn't the greatest.

I've owned a Standard Horizon handheld VHF, it worked well also.

I'm partial to Icom, Standard is a good manufacturer as well.

- rob/beetle