Icom M-88 radio

Still a noob, and still gearing up, and one of the things I don't have yet is a radio... just ordered what I understand is one of the better VHF handhelds off Amazon... Amazon lists it at $249, and Icom is offering a $50 rebate on this radio if purchased before July 31st, so I went for it and should have it in a week... I'm just about geared up...    Backcountry

I suggest using a dry bag  for your radio regardless of which model you decide on.  I bought a pretty high end radio (HX460, I think) and while it still works well, it is suffering the effect of salt water.  Paint/case is corroded/warped to the point that I need jam it in the charger...  I now use a cheapy dry bag for VHF radios from West marine.  On clearance for $4-5...

I suggest using a dry bag  for your radio regardless of which model you decide on.

Amen to that! My old Uniden is acting up and will have to replace it soon. Will definitely pick-up a dry bag for the next VHF I get.

hay backcountry I have the M-88 with lapel Mic hm-138 I have never
put it in a dry bag I just wash it everytime i use it in saltwater
it is 3 years old now and going strong

you pick the best radio for the job you will be happy

Hodges Marine has the Icom M88 for $206 and another $50 off Rebate, buy by 7/31/07 = $156

http://www.hodgesmarine.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=ICOM%2D88&CartID=1

Other good buys:

Eagle Cuda 168 FF w/ducer - $74 (love mine)

Garmin GPSMap 76 - $164 (love mine)
Garmin GPSMap tilt/swivel marine mount - $23 (great, surprisingly durable, taken a beating from me)

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