Handheld VHF for ditchbag

[rleslie]

I want to begin looking for a waterproof handheld vhf for our ditch bag. Any recommendations on brand, strength, and inexpensive source will be appreciated.

Roger Leslie

[Vasco]

I got the cheapest one from WM. (forget the brand) as I've got a RAM mike and seldom use a handheld anymore. The good thing about it is that it has a rechargeable battery and also takes AA's so if you're going to put it in a ditch bag you can also include 2 sets of AA's unless your raft or dink has a 110 outlet.

[2divers]

Practical Sailor either just did or is getting ready to do a bit on hand held VHF's. I'd look there before you buy...

2divers

[Jon D]

I too have the west marine one in the ditch bag. it is in a waterproof bag on top of it's being waterproof. the main requirement for ditch bag vhf is is takes AAs. You do not want to depend on recharge-ability for that radio. Also sticking a couple of packs of lithium AAs in is not a bad idea.

[Charlie]

We have the inexpensive WM VHF w/ the dry bag. Bit of advice is don't trust the connection from the bag to the neck strap. Ours broke less than a week of owning them. The fix was really easy. Take the neck strap and put it in the rolls of the dry bag.