Generally speaking the "best" starter rig has the fewest bells and whistles and is most user friendly. The short story is since most beginners hang on the local repeaters and active simplex frequencies, an FM only, easily programmable, limited number of memory slots sort of mobile rig won't let you down or frustrate you into asking too many questions. You can always take steps upward as you expand your horizons.
As you can see you're already getting make and model numbers tossed at you, consider them as opinions. Supplement these suggestions with your own homework, check out the on line catalogs, form your own opinions and make your selection accordingly. Remember, what's good for the goose isn't always what's good for the gander, or as they say "your actual mileage may vary".
WARNING: a portable (HT) is the WORST possible starter due to it's inherent and rather severe limitations! More often than not those who make this unfortunate choice find themselves crippled and give up the hobby, don't be one of them with all that Amateur Radio has to offer.
OK, now how do I run a mobile rig at home? Gotcha covered, the cheap and dirty way of course! An old but usable car battery and trickle charger (rapid charging produces flammable gas and acid spatter) make for a good power supply until you take the next step up the ladder to... well, whatever suits your future needs. Yeah, think big and you won't need anything more. You can always cobble together a simple antenna saving a bit more money until you decide to supersize your station.
Like they say, see ya on down the log and I'm sure you'll post more questions and I'll be glad to answer them the best I can. Oh, you can start expanding your horizons right now by joining a few ham related message boards where you'll find more of what you need... hams? (;->) Don't be discouraged by the old curmudgeons you'll find out there (and on the air), if you don't like the neighborhood, move. Here's one you'll find a home on right from the start, like any other, read for a time before posting so you get the feel of the place but I can tell you right now we're pretty cozy in our Island paradise.
The Island of Misfit Hams • Index page
