VHF radio for emergency

[david]

Hello,

I'm thinking of getting a small emergency radio when I'm out on my OC1...

Anybody have any opinions on which one to get?

These two are under $50:

Cobra MR HH125 Compact Waterproof Marine Handheld VHF Radio with 1 or 3 Watts, All Weather Channels, and Weather Alert (Black)
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00126K8BM/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Midland NTVP1 Nautico 12-Mile 88-Channel Water-Resistant VHF Marine Two-Way Radio
http://www.amazon.com/Midland-NTVP1-Nautico-88-Channel-Water-Resistant/dp/B0007TJ9SI/ref=pd_cp_e_1

Thanks,

David

[avalon]

I purchased one that floats. I figured that if I ever was in the situation that I really
needed a radio,  the non-floating ones would probably have ended up at the bottom of the ocean.
 
Of course mine is still in the box sitting on my chest-of-drawers 
so perhaps you shouldn't follow my advice.

Avalon

[cho]

the midland looks pretty good... 5 watts is better than 3.  but either would be good for what you're using it for (unless you're planning mid channel runs).

even if supposedly waterproof, putting it in a waterproof bag would be good, it'll last longer.

This uniden is more expensive, but have better ratings...
http://www.amazon.com/Uniden-MHS75-Waterproof-Two-Way-Marine/dp/B001J5MQ20/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1284596117&sr=1-1

[painteur]

Good idea David.
This is the newest model of the one I have.
"Standard Horizon HX851 6W Floating VHF w/Glow in The Dark"
Google it. It's about $ 168 on amazon. It floats has a built in GPS which can send your location to CC or lifeguards. It's waterproof but to keep it from saltwater exposure I bought a clear dry-bag for extra protection.
If you buy one get the one with GPS.
Peace of mind for you and your family is priceless.

[david]

I ended up buying the following from www.manventureoutpost.com:

ACR WW-3 Survival Whistle (2228)                                  10020CW    1       $2.57 USD      $2.57 USD
Dry Pak VHF Radio Case (DP-512)                                  27234CW    1     $19.69 USD     $19.69 USD
Standard Horizon HX850s Handheld VHF w/GPS (HX850S) 32135CW    1    $139.71 USD    $139.71 USD
Items:    $161.97 USD
Shipping Cost:    $16.64 USD
Total Cost:    $178.61 USD

I basically bought what Christian suggested.  I really like the idea of having a simple emergency button that sends an SOS message to the coastguards with your GPS location.

[painteur]

Now that's cheap life insurance!

[nmarble]

now you can have a manventure!