Handheld GPS and hand held VHF

Flounder Dave · 03-03-2007, 08:15 PM

Checking the search and finding dated info and knowing technology has improved what are the Dog's recommendations for handheld backups?

StickFish · 03-04-2007, 06:39 AM

As far as handheld vhf, stick with Icom. If the radio is only going to see emergency use, I'd probably go with the M32 or M34 and get the optional alkaline battery back. Nicad and Nimh batteries will discharge while not being used leaving you having to charge the battery before every trip. Li not as badly, but as far as long term storage use when you need it get a radio that can use alkaline batteries.

If your going to use the radio frerquently get the M88.

After you get the radio, order a new Marine VHF rubber antenna from Smiley Antenna

Flounder Dave · 03-04-2007, 09:34 AM

Stickfish, thanks for the advice.

Anyone have suggestions on a handheld GPS?

pirk fan · 03-04-2007, 10:14 AM

I have a Garmin eTrex Vista Cx....has all the bells and whistles I'll ever use...purchase the right software to go with it from Garmin and you can use it for marine, highway travel, and topo

norms gone fishing too · 03-04-2007, 11:26 AM

garmin map 76 waterproof and it floats

alantani · 03-04-2007, 08:31 PM

four pfd's in my boat have a set of flares, a strobe, light stick and whistle. two more are rigged as above, and also have a waterproof gps and vhf radio. i always wear one of those.

Something Good · 03-05-2007, 04:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alantani

four pfd's in my boat have a set of flares, a strobe, light stick and whistle. two more are rigged as above, and also have a waterproof gps and vhf radio. i always wear one of those.

All you need now is a PLB and a backpack liferaft and you're set.

I use a GPSmap 76. Built in map will get you home in a pinch. Throw it in a ditch bag and use in case of emergency. My handheld VHF is a Uniden Voyager. Submersible and very small so it's easy to keep on you if you like. Came with a belt clip and wrist strap. Li battery was charged over a year ago with minimal use and still says full charge.

Another option is the new VHF/GPS combo units. They look like a good product and can be had for about the same price as going seperate.

BigWaterBigFish · 03-06-2007, 03:00 PM

Magellan Marine with charts uploaded; Uniden handheld (charged); extra batteries for both. Both are waterproof (proven) and float (but the bag they were in was weight down with other safety gear, which is how I know they are waterproof)