mobile units. which to go with?

[Fatty]

Hey guys
All this radio chatter is giving me the bug again. Im mostly interested in a bug out/vehicle mobile unit that i can count on receiving statewide with the most versatility in frequency.

With the amount of o/t I've been getting I'm pulling the trigger on something this month. I'm leaving it up to you guys to tell me what to blow my money on. (500.00 max)

I'm still w/o license so the focus is being able to tune in.

[ElevenBravo]

1 radio, will cost a few bux, but will do HF, VHF and UHF...

If you have the money, an Icon 706 MKIIG

If your tight on money, search QTH classifieds, Ebay, QRLid classifieds, etc.. for an Icon 706 "Classic" (Which I had, and I regret letting it go!)

EB

[bacpacker]

For your price range, I would have to agree with EB. I have a Gen one 706. The MKII G is the second gen radio and has the added capability of the UHF band. They are good radios, mine is 10 years old and never had an issue with it.

[Fatty]

Alright. I'll go with that.



Now for the expensive part.... Accessories.

Especially the vehicle/hiking related kind.

[bacpacker]

Main thing is a good antnna. For hiking, the 706 won't work. It's. Mobile/base rig only. Unless you want to tote bunch of weight of. Of course.

[Fatty]

Alright. Then what model would be most versatile for vehicle mount/on foot application?

[Fidel MD]

The -706 is nice. So is the Yaesu 757

[Fatty]

Would a hand held be the only way to go if I wanted a setup that was foot mobile?

[bacpacker]

Fidel, I think you meant the Yeast 857. And yes I MO it is a better radio than the 706, but I havent saw one for less than $600. I was trying to stay within the OP's criteria.

An HT is the easiest to carry, but you are limited in what you can do with it. Range is much less, you are limited to VHF/UHF. One option would be a Yeasu FT817. It covers HF, but only has 5 watts output. They are made for mountain topping. You still need a battery and antenna and would be very impractical to carry and use while walking.

[Fatty]

Alright since everyone prefers the 706, I'll set some more money to the side to acquire one for my pickup.

As for hand helds, gimme some models that are bullet proof.