Recommendations on VHF TRANSCEIVER - Portable radio

[Houman]

Hi,

 

Looking to buy a VHF transceiver portable radio for that once in a lifetime emergency where both radios in the Mooney are not working.

 

I see on Aircraft Spruce many models, but wondering if there are any of them that fellow pilots prefer, my requirements are : Good lasting battery, chargeable from the cigarette lighter or USB and with a jack to connect my headset to it, since the Rocket is pretty noisy.

 

I don't need VOR or GPS on it, I have a 650 on the plane and 2 ipads, unless it is really worth to get the VOR functionality on it, don't remember the last time I used VOR, probably for my PPL couple of years ago...

 

Thanks !!!

[N601RX]

I purchased a Yaesu a couple of years ago.  The model I got had VOR and weather band.  Very well built, no plastic. You can see a picture of it about 1/2 way down the thread below.

http://mooneyspace.com/topic/10048-interesting-mystery/?hl=yaesu#entry115658

[Marauder]

I purchased a Yaesu a couple of years ago. The model I got had VOR and weather band. Very well built, no plastic. You can see a picture of it about 1/2 way down the thread below.

http://mooneyspace.com/topic/10048-interesting-mystery/?hl=yaesu#entry115658

I have one as well and really like it. Spare lithium batteries can be bought from Chinese sources that are 1/2 the price (or less) than buying from pilot shops here.

[Mooneymite]

If you just want a backup, consider an older, used handheld.

[Danb]

I have an Icom 23 for yrs problem free...I received a gift of the Sportys handheld..never use it since the Icom is smaller..my buddy has a yaesu and likes his also...get the one you can get the best deal on..

[DrBill]

I have the Vertex Standard (I think same as Yaesu) with alkaline battery pack.  The shelf life of the alkaline pack is worth the extra $. I chance the batteries about 1/year and it's in my flight bag all the time.  Matter of fact, I have it out right now to change the batteries.  It is a VXA-220. Takes 6 AA bats.

BILL

[neilpilot]

I've used my handheld several times since 1998, including a couple of total electrical failures.  Last time I needed it was on arrival to Panama City Friday for the Mooney Summit.

 

In addition to a ppt/headset cable, I suggest you consider having your radio shop install an outside antenna jack.  It's an inexpensive, standard splitter to one of your com antennas.   Make a world of difference.

[wiguy]

FTA-230 Yaesu.

[Houman]

Thanks, I finally bought a Yaesu FTA 550... it had the best set of options and accessories with decent price...