Opinions on a inexpensive but dependable VHF

Since soon I want to explore some bigger waters I need to get some safety equipment is on top of my list. I am kind of new to VHFs. My dad is a HAM radio operator and im sorta familiar with that and will be getting my HAM license in April. Anyone have any opinions on any VHFs, I am sorta on a budget, kind of looking for a beginner one that is easy to operate and that I wont be too upset if it decides to be a submarine, lol. Thanks

Jeff

Uniden Voyager.

There's a few others who've asked the same question. Do a search and I think you'll find a lot of good info.

Z

I glanced around a little, just wanted a fresher opnions since models and prices change so frequently.

Jeff

Hey Jeff, Don't cut corners on a VHF! Most of us use a quality VHF and uniden has the total package in their submersible. I have had to rely on my VHF in very trying situations and the Uniden came through with flying colors but like most equipment always take care of it and test it frequently (before any paddle). I have had radios fail me, like the day Dan got hit by the Landlord, right in the middle of a drift. So no such thing as failsafe  in the deep blue always hookup with a buddy(s) and be safe. Frankfishing's .02

PS. You ready to try some Halibut from the ARW soon?

everyone on this forum seems to use either uniden or standard horizon... you and I are in the same boat (need a VHF) I just asked this question recently and that is all I heard... uniden and standard horizon.  both seem like solid choices... I think you are looking around $120-$150 for something good.

I would check ebay, though its not a quick and easy process.  I almost got a Uniden Voyager for 80 bucks, but wasn't around a computer when the item ended.  I did however find a nice deal on a WestMarine handheld VHF, waterproof but with alkaline batteries, for 40 bucks!  had a broken belt clip, and can use a lithium-ion battery pack if I can find a place to buy one.  I use this one for friends, or as a backup if I don't charge my Icom M34 (personal choice).

Here are some currently on ebay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/STANDARD-HORIZON-HX270S-HANDHELD-VHF-MARINE-RADIO_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ31275QQihZ025QQitemZ380006471171QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

http://cgi.ebay.com/Uniden-Atlantis-250-Two-Way-VHF-Marine-Radio_W0QQitemZ350036084187QQihZ022QQcategoryZ155297QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.com/ICOM-VHF-MARINE-TRANSCEIVER-IC-M3A-STILL-IN-BOX_W0QQitemZ110233155718QQihZ001QQcategoryZ40066QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.com/West-Marine-VHF-150-canoe-kayak-boating-weather-radio_W0QQitemZ300207934681QQihZ020QQcategoryZ149987QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Gonna watch this one myself in case it stays low price:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ICOM-MARINE-VHF-M-34-RADIO_W0QQitemZ370032717072QQihZ024QQcategoryZ40066QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Can you get a charger?:
http://cgi.ebay.com/UNIDEN-VOYAGER-1-5-WATT-VHF-MARINE-TWO-WAY-RADIO_W0QQitemZ160218840200QQihZ006QQcategoryZ149987QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Hope this helps!

Oh yeah.. I forgot.. ICOM.. thats the other one alot of guys use.

Like a couple other guys have mentioned, I want it to work when my life depends on it... this is what I selected... it's not cheap, but it gives you an idea of what's at the other end of the spectrum...

http://www.icomamerica.com/en/products/marine/handhelds/m88/default.aspx