VHF recommendation?

citygent111 · 12 August 2021, 18:02

Hi all, after pondering for weeks & weeks over whether to get a SIB, we've opted for a 3.8m rib instead.

I'm now in charge of sorting out the "accessories" and wondered if anyone could recommend a VHF radio?

I'd like a handheld one as we sometimes head out on kayaks, so would be nice to take it with us then too.

The rib will be used for generally buzzing across the bay, visiting coves, beaches, and maybe a spot of fishing? I guess we'll always be in mobile phone range, but I'd just like the reassurance of a radio.

I know I need to get the SRC course/test, and register the radio with ofcom, but it's which one do I buy that is my headache!

Thanks!

Pikey Dave · 12 August 2021, 19:09

Personally I wouldn’t buy anything but either Icom or Standard Horizon. Both makes cover the full range of fixed & handheld VHF. Even the most basic models will have all the essentials you need. Decide what bells & whistles you want & go from there. Look out for deals with Cactus/Force4 etc.

Steve509926 · 12 August 2021, 19:30

Can't comment on anything other than the one I have - Standard Horizon HX890.
Inuitive, battery lasts at least 2 days, it floats, it works.

Nos4r2 · 12 August 2021, 19:52

I'll echo the above, though I'll suggest a DSC handheld if you can stretch to it if you don't have a fixed set.

Avoid Cobra. Unless they've massively improved in the past few years they're cheap and nasty.

HDAV · 12 August 2021, 20:04

Personally I have had 3 SH great radios…hx890 under £200 just dsc or hx300 not speed £100 boat show sometimes has offers and is in September depends how much you will get out before then

citygent111 · 13 August 2021, 08:46

Thanks everyone, looks like SH is the way to go!

cleatsandcode · 13 August 2021, 13:21

I love my Icom ic-m25 as it floats, reliable and uses standard USB to charge which for me is a selling point as I'm able to lose a charger within five minutes of unpacking.

HDAV · 13 August 2021, 16:15

Quote:

Originally Posted by cleatsandcode

I love my Icom ic-m25 as it floats, reliable and uses standard USB to charge which for me is a selling point as I'm able to lose a charger within five minutes of unpacking.

SH HX300e is the same

but cheaper

https://www.cactusnav.com/icom-euro-...iABEgIUSvD_BwE

https://www.cactusnav.com/standard-h...n-p-12713.html

cleatsandcode · 13 August 2021, 16:24

Noted! I just went Icom everything after a few cobra units (inherited and bought).

paintman · 15 August 2021, 14:55

Another vote for the SH HX300E from me.

Bought a couple of months ago and very pleased with it.

John Kennett · 15 August 2021, 18:31

I’ve had one for a couple of years now and it’s still going strong. I wondered whether the charging port cover might be a weak point, but no problem so far.

I’d rate SH and Icom as equally good, but SH is cheaper so better value. You won’t go far wrong with either though.

essex · 20 August 2021, 21:30

I've got horizon hx40e. It's very light if you are keeping it on your lifejacket. It floats with the case. The battery life is good. It doesn't have DSC though

Northern Pike · 21 August 2021, 02:30

SH made in China. Icom made in Japan. Icom audio better and louder; good for this old deaf diver.

nicksharpe · 21 August 2021, 19:55

Just a point on this, not recommending anything. We got caught out by a double engine failure off Oban a month ago, drifting towards rocks.

I used my Cobra handheld for a total of maybe 5 minutes to hail a passing yacht, which merrily helped pull us somewhere safe where I was able to fix the main engine and continue.

You can't do that with a mobile, no matter how much reception you have

citygent111 · 29 August 2021, 18:42

Just a quick update - went with the Icom in the end.

Nice and simple - like me! Plus the shop had in stock so.....