handheld vhf

[Pacofan]

Looking for a handheld for my little boat. I don't need anything too fancy just to hear race officers, and to call for help should it be required. Advise or reccomendations please.

 

[Norman_E]

Standard Horizon HX280e, costs a little under £100 but is good quality. I have the older HX270e model which is excellent and has a battery that holds its charge even when left over winter. There are cheaper handheld VHFs available, but I regard one as an essential piece of safety kit, and the SH models always seem to to come out with top recommendations in tests.

 

[NUTMEG]

+1

 

[Haven't-a-Clue]

I'd also recommend the S/H HX270, or its current replacement.

 

[Dazedkipper]

I sought the forum's opinion last year on this, came down to the Standard horizon 280 or Icom M33. I went for the icom as it was a better deal, nothing to choose between sets though.

 

[bbg]

IMHO, you should look for something waterproof, and with a Li-Ion battery. I went for a Cobra based on price and I'm certainly not disappointed with battery life. SH and ICOM also have good reputations.

 

[mikehibb]

My vote is for the Icom M33, however think that the latest version is now the M35 (not sure if you can still buy the M33 new)

Waterproof, Li-Ion Battery AND it floats.

 

[Pacofan]

I got a second hand Silva Star for £50 from a well known auction site.

 

[Seajet]

I have a Silva S12, waterproof but non-floaty; while it takes knocks etc and has proven rugged, I have never come across a bit of kit with less 'intuitive', distinctly user UNfriendly controls !

My fault for not trying before buying, something I'd recommend very strongly.

As I say the Silva has proven rugged, but I would only buy it again if at an ultra - bargain price.

Do try sets first !

 

[doug748]

I'd also recommend the S/H HX270, or its current replacement.

Yes, feels very well made, works well and is easy to use.

Mine was swamped in a locker and failed right away. The waterproofing is feeble, by all means buy, but take care of it.

 

[RobF]

HX280e came out as one of the best buys in a recent PBO test. I bought one as a result and am v happy with it. The only downside is that it doesn't float, but can always attach it to one of those balloon keyring lanyard things if that's important to you.

 

[monkfish24]

IMHO, you should look for something waterproof, and with a Li-Ion battery. I went for a Cobra based on price and I'm certainly not disappointed with battery life. SH and ICOM also have good reputations.

+1 this one, I've got one and it's perfect for a small boat, normally comes out on the sailing dinghy with me and have never had a problem wiht battery life