VHF Model Question

[dave7]

Starting to look at a VHF radio as part of my arsenal of safety equipment on the new boat. Some might consider it overkill for a 15'er - but I want to do a good bit of running around in Apalachee Bay and want to have all my bases covered in case myself or somebody else needs a hand. In addition, I like the idea of communicating with other fisherfolk and havng NOAA Wx on hand.

Here's what I'm looking at now:

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templ ... atcat21276

Any thoughts? They've got a special on a 38" ant. as well. Haven't decided on which ant yet.

Thanks - dave

[KarstRanger]

I found a Lowrance LVR-850 for $84.99 plus $11.99 shipping at:

http://www.anchorexpress.com/lowrance-l ... radio.html

I could not figure out from the Cabelas site if shipping is included or if not, how much it is. Cabelas is a reputable store, but their prices are always too high for me when compared to other internet vendors.

One thing I have heard in this forum and at boat stores, is that your VHF antenna is sooo important to good transmission and reception. I went with a Shakespeare 5225-XT Galaxy 8' VHF, but you may not be able to handle that much height on your boat. If you are interested, cheapest drive-out price (free shipping) was here:
http://www.laptraveler.com/marine-accessories.htm

[eat_mo_crawfish]

Check this one out while you're looking:

http://www.standardhorizon.com/indexVS. ... Archived=0

[mjsigns]

Dave-

Remember you get what you pay for. Look for something that is submersible, and has at least a three year guarantee against water intrusion.
It's part of your safety, and you want it to work when you need it.

thats my .02

[T Smith]

Dave,

I am in the market for a radio also and have been looking around quite a bit. I was also considering the Lowrance 850 since cabelas throws in the antenna for 19$. I know Lowrance makes decent sounders and plotters but the radio only has a one year warranty and that scares me a bit. I have found the Uniden Solara with dsc for $99 somewhere else and have found the standard horizon quest for $117 at this site ...

http://www.marinewholesales.com/

the standard horizon has a three year warranty at no charge the uniden is three year with a flat rate of $49.99. I'm going to go with the Standard Horizon since I've only read good reviews about them and they have been making radios for quite some time. Also, I dont think that merchant marine antenna that cabelas was selling has as much gain as the shakespere 3' ss whip antennas.
hope this helps

[Chalk]

Standard Horizon or ICOM....you can't go wrong with either one of those....Don't skimp on safety equipment, get the best you can...