Radar Size (nm) Used by Single Handers

[Bluefuss]

It would seem to me that the further the distance a radar system would cover would be directly related to the length of nap one might safely take on extended trips. As I have never solo'd for more than a few hours I would like some feed back on this issue by single handers.

[Ram]

i have a 48kw and set it at 6 miles with a warning at 3 miles and 2 miles

[Bluefuss]

Originally Posted by Ram

i have a 48kw and set it at 6 miles with a warning at 3 miles and 2 miles

And what length of nap will that allow?

[Paul L]

Check the radar horizon - see calculator below. You aren't going to detect a commercial fishing boat at 20 miles. The longer distance you set your radar to, the less likely you will see small targets close in. A larger antenna will give much higher resolution, this is why a 4kw radar with a 24 in antenna (3.9*) is better than 2kw radar with a 19in antenna (5.2*).
Radar Horizon Calculator