Does anyone take a handheld VHF with them?

[TiminYorkshire]

Whilst spearfishing does anyone on here take a handheld VHF with them?

Is it DSC equipped?

What model do you use?

Any to go for or to avoid?

 

[grantl]

I always do if I'm diving off the yak and use it to put a call in to let the coastguard know what I'm doing etc. I occasionally take it if I'm spearing off the shore in a few areas where there's a chance of someone seeing me and calling the coastguard.

Mines am Icom M24 and tbh it's not ideal as the battery contacts rust through and I need to buy a new battery carrier every year which is a pita.

If I was buying a new handset I wouldn't think twice - it would be DSC. standard Horizon seem to get a good name and have been recommended to me by the local coastguard as well.

 

[TiminYorkshire]

I was thinking standard horizon, I was just wondering what else is out there. Good to have some feedback on the Icom M24 too.

 

[Coastie]

I use the Icom M24 a very good set its always on the Yak and always switched on. Waterproof to I think a couple of meters for half an hour but is always attached with a lanyard. Icom do buoyant ones with a power boost drying button that basically sets off a loud humm to vibrate the water off the speaker. never had to try it yet but there if you do.
Nick

 

[TiminYorkshire]

Just ordered a Standard horizon, should hopefully make me a little safer if things get a bit hairy out beyond the scars!

 

[jks]

Just ordered a Standard horizon, should hopefully make me a little safer if things get a bit hairy out beyond the scars!

Will you do a review for us when get it ? Are you using it on a Kak or just on a float/dive broad?.