Handheld VHF

[mickfish]

I am going to buy a handheld have done quite a bit of research and like the  Standard  Models just don't know if I should buy the 270,370 or the 460. Don't really care about the features just want a really good unit that I can depend upon. I see the 270 and 370 have NiHD batteries  and the 460 has Lithium-ion will it also take "AA"s? Any problems with either batteries or models ? How much is the Flat Rate Repair Replacment cost after the 3 years? Are these prices in the Ballpark?
270 $125,
370 $156,
460 $187.
I was going to buy the 270 but when I saw these prices I figured I better ask you guys using them. I have a Standard for my power boat and it's worked great for 15 years with no problems. I'm not rich but don't want find I made a mistake when I'm in the water needing help. Thanks

[alantani]

i have the 460.  it gets wet every trip and still works perfectly after 3 years.

[mickfish]

Thanks Alan My neighbor gave me an older Abu 2500 the spool hits the frame when casting unless you loosen the cast control all the way. Think its worth fixing it would make a great trout, smallmouth reel.  Mike

[Kevin]

I have a 460 as well.  It's small and the AM/FM radio is nice...

[kentobin]

get the unit Lithium-ion batteies they allegedly hold a charge and don't bleed off if you don't use them and don't have a memory.

[Potato_River]

I bought the 270 from the following place:
http://www.planetgps.net/vhf-handheld-radio-standard-horizon.html

Doing it over again, I'd get the 470 for the LI battery that Kentobin mentions as well as the smaller, more compact size.  Its well worth the extra $.

Stuart

[ChuckE]

I been using a Standard Horizon HX470S compact submersible with the LI battery, and it's been flawless so far.

[Anonymous]

I guess With the 460/470 your stuck with the rechargables you can't use other battries like with the 270/370 where you can use "AA"s Which might be nice if you were on a 2 or 3 day trip.

[ChuckE]

You're right.  You can't use AA's with the 460/470, but but mine came with a car charger docking stand.  It usually takes about an hour or two for a full charge.

[mickfish]

Thanks for all your input after reading the owners manual the 460/470 can use alkaline batteries for emergency only and it will only broadcast at .9 watts. I can live with the 12volt charger the smaller size is a huge plus. Now I have to save a little more $$ and explain how a smaller more expensive radio will keep me safer(WAF).
Now do I buy a case or just wear it?

[Mooch]

Now do I buy a case or just wear it?

IMO: it will depend on the conditions you're in. I wear mine strapped on the upper left side of my PFD  - almost right next to my chin - so I can easily turn my head, hit the button and talk....BUT...when there's a tough surf landing (or launch), I'll store the VHF in my floating drybox (or drybag) - which is also secured to the kayak.

[Hat Trick]

when buying gear, and your wife finds out, repeat after me, "IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE, THIS -------- WILL HELP INSURE MY SAFE RETURN HOME".

[mickfish]

That's great I already told her that you guys won't let me fish with you unless I have a VHF,Fishfinder(PB Boat finder won't work in a yak) GPS, Bait Tank,seat, and some kayak fishing gear(again can't fish with regular R&Rs).
Think I can get her to believe that they make freshwater and saltwater yaks?

[polepole]

Tell her we won't let you fish with us unless you bring the bait too, right Mooch?

-Allen