Re: [Paddlewise] VHF

From: "Jim" <jfarrelly5_at_home.com>

>     Anyone have experience/opinions concerning handheld VHF radios?  I am
> considering a Standard HX350S. 

While I don't own a marine VHF (still a wish list item) that's the one I'd choose.
Good display and the ability to take conventional AA batteries as a backup
(with the appropriate battery case option).  Both of these criteria are essential
to me.

>  I don't carry a cell phone and thought this
> one might serve double duty as an emergency CB in my truck when I wasn't
> paddling. 

Use of a marine VHF on shore is illegal (except in ship-to-shore use), so it
would have to be a real emergency.  As well, since only another marine VHF 
could pick up your call, it would only work near shore.  If you're far from shore,
no one would be listening anyway.  For your truck you'd be best off with either
a true CB or a cell.  Both are relatively cheap these days.  Your choice would
depend on the services offered in your area.  Where I live, a cell is the way 
to go.  In some areas, cell coverage isn't so good, so you might be better
off with a CB.

Mike

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