To: >internet:paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net >> Regularly pack an Apelco 510 "waterproof" VHF, selling currently at about $260 (US) or less ... In our kayak shop we had very bad luck with the Apelco 510. We sold many of them because the price was good. Within a year all except one came back with leaks. Needless to say, we dropped them like a hot potato. To Raytheon's credit, refunds were no problem; however, having a warranty that works and a radio that works when you really need it are two different things. (And unfortunately, when many folks buy a "waterproof" radio they are reluctant to also buy a dry bag for it, or if they have one they don't use it every time.) Apparently several VHF manufactures figure most users will never get their radios wet, and will replace the small percentage that leak. Inexpensive VHFs that have proven reliable for us (zero returns) are the Uniden HH980 and Icom M1. I particularly like the Uniden because it is one of the few VHFs still in production that has a "large bore" antenna coax fitting (TNC) that will accept a 1/2 wave antenna. While slightly larger than the M1, it has a bigger battery and longer battery life. My apology in advance if speaking from my experience in the business touches some buttons; however, it is experience that is germane to an extensive thread and I think of interest. -- Larry Edwards *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/ ***************************************************************************Received on Thu Apr 30 1998 - 12:49:27 PDT
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