No one has the perfect handheld VHF radio....

I've tried a Cobra MRHH350 and a West Marine-labeled radio....both units last for about 3 years and then the Li-ion battery loses charge. A new battery costs $30-50.

I wish Cobra made an IP8 version of their MRHH125....because I really like the ability in emergencies to use standard AA batteries.

Is there a handheld that is at least IP7 and has the ability to use standard AA *AND* Li-ion batteries?

My Standard Horizon 870 has an auxiliary tray for AA batteries

Maybe if you loaded it up and then vacuum sealed it and stashed it with your First Aid/Emergency Kit

Dude, I think you found my next VHF. Did not know about this one. Seems that it fits the bill. Thanks!

Can only transmit at low power with the pack

   I was reading this thread and wondered if I hadn't noticed that my Standard Horizon radio had AA battery capability, so I had to look.  Turns out mine doesn't, maybe because it's the cheaper model HX100.  But then I looked at West Marine's site and the lithium replacement battery is $44, but you can buy a 2 pack of the radios with batteries (I assume) for $119!!

  https://www.westmarine.com/buy/standard-horizon--hx100-floating-handheld-vhf-twin-pack--14272983

   My radio had worked well for the 1 1/2 yrs I've had it, hope I haven't jinxed it.  And if I have, I hope the above deal is still valid, I think I paid about that much for one radio.
   My perfect VHS would have  AM/FM bands though I've never seen one, makes me think it might be illegal to make.
   

Years ago (2008) I bought a Uniden MHS550, it did/does everything, VHF, Marine Wthr, AM/FM, even FRS. JIS8 too. Lithium batt, and AA pack (@2.5W). I used to listen to the AM out of boredom while sturgeon fishing. Even used the FRS to join in with the group on an Alaska adventure.....

Since I seldom use it, it still works great, BUT, 3-4 yrs ago I figured this is a great radio and as it ages I should get a new battery, nope, not available, searched high and low, it needs to be an exact replacement,

As I combed thru the inet, I never found mention of a replacement battery, wonder if there ever was one.

In an abundance of caution, I'll probably get a new radio soon.

FYI, some of the new standard horizon models do have fm capability. I have been eyeing one, even though my hx870 is working fine, going on 4yrs.