Any Handheld Radio recommendations?

[Macgym1]

Could I get a few recommendations from fellow users about some good raidios. I have owned a Pro-96 for a while now and am very happy with it. I live in St. Maartin now and am looking for another one maybe a few steps up. Like everyone I would like a radio that does it all, but I know thats not realistic or not affordable. I would like a handheld that has a decent frequency range, good battery life (AA) preferability and be nice and sturdy. Having the Ability to Trunk and Tx on Ham bands would a definate plus. Thanks for any help on deciding!

 

[elk2370bruce]

If you're happy with RatShack and don't need digital, the PRO 95 is a cost effective choice. I have both and have not had any problem. If you need digital, there are few choices that you have but your inquiry will get the booms and busts of each.

 

[n4voxgill]

there is nothing that trunks and transmits on ham bands. keep the Pro96 and buy a 2 meter portable ham radio.

 

[airgreek]

Yupiteru MVT-7100 or the BC246T

 

[ka3jjz]

The first manufacturer that comes out with a triband (2, 440 and maybe 6 like the VX5R) ham xcvr and the full capability of the BCD396T is going to be VERY popular. You listening UPMan? :.>> 73s Mike

 

[blinddog50]

Then best handheld scanner with wide coverage is the br330t.

Shortwave, trunking, a wide selection of pre-programs.

 

[mciupa]

Gotta agree with blinddog50, look at the product features listed on this Wiki link;
http://www.radioreference.com/wiki/index.php/BR330T

You could use the 330 in tandem with your Pro-96 and have the best or near best available from both
manufacturers.
Do the casino's/ resorts use trunking systems down there in St. Maarten ?
What sort of radio comm's are you hearing down there ?

 

[eorange]

Then best handheld scanner with wide coverage is the br330t.

Shortwave, trunking, a wide selection of pre-programs.

Only downside: no SSB capability which eliminates a lot of SWL capability.

Erik
KA3FYU